Lassies not lassos

A new member's story of rediscovering a 20-year-old western saddle, entering the WES Scottish National Show with her cob Ziggy, and finding the most relaxed competition in 50 years with horses.

This article first appeared in the December 2022 edition of WES News.

Like so many others, I had an image of western riding as all yeehaw, lassos, barrels and skidding stops, and loads and loads of bling. I am pleased to say how wrong I was.

Here's my story

A few months ago I found that my western saddle, bought for a birthday over 20 years ago, fitted my lovely gypsy "turbo-cob" Ziggy. That was the start.

With encouragement from some friends who are members of WES, Ziggy and I played around with the feel of the new tack and the different way of going. We then joined a couple of local western play days. Ziggy loved this new game, and was immediately relaxed, content and responsive: less turbo-cob, more pinto pony.

So, why not? Grabbing the bull by the horns, I entered the Western Equestrian Society Scottish National Show at the end of September, and booked the training clinic the day before.

It was Ziggy's and my first ever pony party, and the whole weekend was fantastic. On the clinic day everyone was so friendly and encouraging, and ready with genuinely helpful guidance when I needed it. The horses were all laid back and settled, which gave Ziggy the "herd cue" to relax and be at peace. In turn, I could soak up the jolly atmosphere and concentrate on learning.

The show itself was incredible. Not one jot of stress, no dramas and no over-excitement: just like-minded people enjoying a gentle competitive day with their horses. There were plenty of classes, even for beginners and non-members, and the day was packed with joy, new experiences, laughter and fun, with a subtle touch of bling here and there.

After over 50 years with horses, I have never been to such a relaxed competition. The organisers deserve a huge thank you and a resounding "well done". I have also never met such a delightful, generous-spirited judge: Scherie's enthusiasm and love of the sport were infectious and inspiring.

To my fellow competitors: watching you ride with such easy flow, grace and dignity gave me something to aim for. You have a new member, and I'll see you next year. Remember that bull I mentioned? He's well tamed now, and not a lasso in sight.

Emma Thompson and Ziggy