Doma Vaquera is one of the styles of equitation in Spain,
another being Doma Clasica (classical equitation).
Doma Vaquera is a style of horse riding which
enables the rider to carry out daily duties on horseback on a
working cattle ranch. It was especially developed out of the use
of the horse for handling the fighting bulls of Spain and grew
out of decades of daily work with them in the open countryside.
The style of riding, tack, dress and
discipline of the working horses evolved into what we see today.
It is still being used on working ranches, in Doma Vaquera
competition and more recently, Doma de Trabajo (working
equitation).
Modern Doma Vaquera competitions provide a challenging test
for both the horse and rider. Practicality and precision are
married together as the rider must be aware of the true nature
of these tests which are performed in a 60m x 20m arena. At
advanced level the requirements include all the maneuvers a
horse would need to make when facing a fighting bull such as
explosive gallops from a standing start, skid stops, lateral
yielding and canter pirouettes.
Winner
of Regional Finals 2010
Siroco
John Saint Ryan came to
the USA 14 yrs ago with an English background of Classical Riding,
he subsequently immersed himself in the western style of working
with horses studying under the tutelage of the Masters of this work
Tom Dorrance and Ray Hunt.
His passion and interest in Doma Vaquera stems from a visit to Spain
almost 20 yrs ago.
He has concentrated on the discipline of Doma Vaquera with great
success.
Here is a list of recent titles awarded:
PRE 1st Place Bull Fighters Class
2007
PRE National Champion Alta 2006
IALHA National Champion 2004 Basico
PRE National Champion Intermedio 2005
IALHA National Champion 2005 Alta
The Art of the Garrocha DVD
For the first time, the
traditional Art of the Garrocha is completely explained and
demonstrated by John Saint Ryan in a step by step process. Now
you can work in your own time with the traditional method John
teaches at his Clinics. This DVD will teach you how to develop
the skills necessary to practice this wonderful art of horsemanship
as originally taught to John by such experts as Jose Manuel Martin
de Leon. This DVD, for Beginner to Intermediate, includes:
Exhibition Highlights
from the National Championships
A brief history of the
Garrocha
Exercises on Horseback
with and without the Garrocha.
How to introduce the
Garrocha to your horse safely.
The Basic exercises at
the walk and trot.
The Intermediate
exercises at a gallop.
AND MUCH MORE
reviews:
One realizes while watching this DVD that working with the Garrocha is not just
for one discipline of riding. The principles and exercises presented here can help
with improving balance, refining the aids, and achieving better communication with
your horse no matter what style of riding you do. John Saint Ryan thoughtfully
includes different breeds and training levels to emphasis this point.
Katy Sommers DVM
DVD ONLY: $39.95
includes S/H *CA residents add tax
The Art
of the Garrocha
* Sales tax charged only on items shipped to California
addresses (8.25%).
