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Cover Photographer
Cathrin Schütt of Germany has been passionate about photography, especially horse photography, since 2007. The picture of Pedro Torres, above, and his legendary Lusitano stallion Oxidado was taken at a Lusitano World photo workshop in Portugal in 2018. Together with Filipa Jácome of Lusitano World, Cathrin is committed to promoting the Lusitano breed because she whole-heartedly believes there is hardly a breed that is so versatile and nerve-strong.
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competitions. That variety can take the form of different show environments – from the most classically groomed indoor coliseums with extravagantly creative obstacles (check out the photos from the Andalusian World Cup for a taste of some of the fanciest) to outdoor settings where the weather offers its own level of challenge (as a “working” discipline, competitions can be held outdoors on turf or arenas where springtime squalls can turn the entire course into a giant water obstacle).
The variety in setting and course design help keep both horses and riders fresh, as every competition offers new perspectives and such variety provides ongoing opportunities to build better communication between horse and rider. Regardless of the setting or appearance of the obstacles, however, the focus is on performing with quality bend and straightness, good rhythm, and smooth transitions. In the Ease of Handling phase of working equitation, the emphasis is on doing the obstacles with finesse rather than on “making it through” obstacles designed to intimidate less confident mounts.
Variety is also found in the types of horses and riders who participate. At the same show, it’s common to see Mustangs competing alongside Warmbloods, Quarter Horses, Arabians, Haflingers, Friesians, Andalusians, Lusitanos, Gypsies, Canadians, Paints, Rocky Mountain Horses, Appaloosas, ponies, Icelandics, Santa Cruz Island horses, Mules, Draft crosses, and grade horses of every shape and size. Riders from western disciplines, dressage courts and eventing fields flock to WE competitions, as do more casual weekend trail riders.
Above all else, though, people cite the simple fun they have at working equitation events and the supportive atmosphere where camaraderie and laughter are the norm.
Christine Righeimer, a rider from the Midwest who competes at the Novice A level, shared her thoughts about the sport after a recent competition:
“Having just competed in a working equitation show this weekend...now my 4th summer showing in this awesome new sport, I can't help but ponder why there aren't more horse people catching on yet. This sport is truly for EVERYONE of every breed, who does any style of riding! There were Andalusians, Quarter Horses, Spotted Saddle Horses, Gaited horses and even an adorable Gypsy Vanner. I've seen Thoroughbreds, Haflingers, warmbloods, Arabians...you name it!! You can ride Western, English, saddle seat. You can choose your attire by discipline - I've even seen some really cool Portugese and Spanish riders!!!
The bond that I have created with my horse Whisper over these years is like nothing I've ever done. I'm even a pararider who rides with two whips to replace the cues my legs can't give. The riders, judges, volunteers and officials are always so welcoming (unlike many other disciplines I have ridden in over the years). Not only that, it is extremely affordable. You seriously just need to take a leap of faith and try it. DO NOT be intimidated!! Seriously everyone there will help and support you!”
If you find the challenge of improving your horsemanship and your partnership with your horse intriguing, and enjoy getting to know other supportive and positive horse people, I encourage you to give working equitation a try. You can find a calendar of WE events across North America on our website at WEUnited.us/Events. Come join in the fun!
Pedro Torres and his legendary Lusitano stallion Oxidado
Photo by Cathrin Schütt
straightness, good rhythm, and
smooth transitions. In the Ease of
Handling phase of working
equitation, the emphasis is on
doing the obstacles with finesse
rather than on “making it through”
obstacles designed to intimidate
less confident mounts.
Variety is also found in the types of
horses and riders who participate.
At the same show, it’s common to
see Mustangs competing alongside
Warmbloods, Quarter Horses,
Arabians, Haflingers, Friesians,
Andalusians, Lusitanos, Gypsies,
Canadians, Paints, Rocky Mountain