The aim of the competition is to cut a beast from a small mob in the camp, moving their horse among the cattle quietly and bring the chosen beast to a gate at the other end (front) of the (camp) yard, for a short time blocking the beast two or three times preventing it from returning to the mob.
When the competitor feels that control of the beast has been demonstrated to the judge, they call for the gate to be opened.
Once on the arena, the competitor is working against the clock (forty seconds) to guide the beast around two pegs in a figure of eight pattern, and then drive the beast between a final two pegs known as the gate.
The best combination of control of the beast, riding skills, speed and completing the course scores the highest points. It is not unusual to see a beast gated in under twenty five seconds, demonstrating the speed and agility of the specially trained horses
The ability of the horses, combined with breathtaking horsemanship, makes campdrafting a sport for both competitors and spectators.
I can’t get over how far into the turns the horses are leaning in these shots. This one looks like it’s about to fall, but I’ll bet it doesn’t. Very good action photography in this set Gwynne. These seem to be small horses, do they all use a particular breed. Love the relaxed way the riders sit. Well captured.
They are predominantly Australian Stock Horses. Stock Horses are renowned for their toughness and endurance as well as cat-like agility. Good stock horses will lean into the steer to guide it and push it around – they are fearless and so exhilarating to watch.
Comments
I can’t get over how far into the turns the horses are leaning in these shots. This one looks like it’s about to fall, but I’ll bet it doesn’t. Very good action photography in this set Gwynne. These seem to be small horses, do they all use a particular breed. Love the relaxed way the riders sit. Well captured.
They are predominantly Australian Stock Horses. Stock Horses are renowned for their toughness and endurance as well as cat-like agility. Good stock horses will lean into the steer to guide it and push it around – they are fearless and so exhilarating to watch.
– Gwynne Brennan
Gosh! That pony looks as if it’s about to eat the cows head!!
What a great action shot Gwynne!! :-)))
The campdrafting was just incredible, the horses are so well trained the rider just needs to stay on!
– Gwynne Brennan