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Trick riding
Trick riding
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The Cossack Drag or Death Drag.
Trick riding by Mr. Price in the 18th Century
Roman riding
Stunt riding at the King of the Ranges competition day, Murrurundi, NSW

Trick riding refers to the act of performing stunts while horseback riding, such as the rider standing upright on the back of a galloping horse, using a specially designed saddle with a reinforced steel horn, and specialized kossak loops for hands and feet. The horse is likewise galloping free. Trick riding is not to be confused with equestrian vaulting, which is an internationally recognized competitive sport governed by the Federation Equestre Internationale (FEI).

Horse riding stunts have been performed in many films, such as Roman racing in the 1925 Hollywood silent movie The Calgary Stampede where cowboy actor Hoot Gibson rides to the championship in the Roman race, and the film Ben Hur, as well as in equestrian events such as Equitana and the official opening of the Australian Equine and Livestock Events Centre, rodeos, and much more.[1]

Albert SEATON - The Cossacks published in 1972.

Trick riding as a popular entertainment was practiced in Europe in the 18th century. The 18th century trick rider and memoirist Thomas Hammond describes performances in several European countries, including by himself and by James Wolton, the master who taught him. Some of their stunts, and those of their only competitor, the more famous Mr. Price, are illustrated in the old engraving shown here.[2] The captions of the depicted stunts, clockwise from top left, read:

  • On full speed between 2 Horses, riding only on his Arms.
  • Leaping a Bar standing upon 2 Horses with one foot on each Saddle on full speed.
  • Jumping as He rides 2 Horses on full speed.
  • Riding upon His Head and fireing a Pistol on full speed.
  • Riding backwards standing on the Saddle on full speed.
  • Laying across 3 Horses on full speed.
  • Standing with one Leg on the Saddle on full speed.
  • Takes his Whip from the Ground on full speed.[3]

Hammond's memoir included 14 hand-colored plates of Mr. Price's stunts, purchased by Wolton and Hammond from Mr. Price. These are reproduced in the 2017 edition, with the original French captions.[2]

Trick riding has been called the most daredevil of horsemanship, where gymnastic skills of strength and balance are needed. Using a special stunt saddle, the rider performs physically demanding stunts such as the classic standing hippodrome, the shoulder stand, the tail drag, and the suicide drag, and other stunts all while hanging to the side of the saddle, or standing on the saddle, or twirling on the saddle horn or swinging under the belly of the galloping horse from one side to another.

Up to the mid 1930s, trick riding was a popular rodeo contest, with prize money and world champions declared. World titles were declared at the biggest rodeos in Winnipeg, Chicago, New York and London, England.

Champions had to have the best balance, poise and style, plus the most difficult stunts.

"Suicide" Ted Elder, who was called "Suicide" because of his daring stunts such as the "suicide drag," was one of the best of these early day performers winning seven world championships during his career.

Vera Mcginnis, Florence LaDue, and Tad Lucas are some famous female trick riders.

Dick Griffith, Earl Bascom and Weldon Bascom were famous rodeo bull riders, as well as accomplished trick riders.

Trick riders such as Shirley Lucas and Sharon Lucas became famous horse stunt women doubling for many movie stars such as Marilyn Monroe, Lauren Bacall, Betty Grable, Lana Turner, and many more. In films, stunt riders have included Hank Durnew and Ken Maynard (1895–1973).[4]

Trick riding is still prevalent today, both in the film world and in rodeo. Tad Griffith,[5] who is a third generation trick rider and at his prime was considered the greatest trick rider in the world,[by whom?] has taught actors how to trick ride for films such as John Wick 3, Alden Ehrenreich in Hail, Caesar!, and has performed trick riding in films including The Mask of Zorro. His sons, Gattlin Griffith, Callder Griffith, Arrden Griffith, and Garrison Griffith, have all continued trick riding, on-screen and in the arena.

One type of trick riding is known as "Roman riding", and is usually performed as entertainment in rodeos, circuses and horse shows. In Roman riding, the rider stands atop a pair of horses, tethered together, with one foot on each horse.[6][7]

"Roman standing racing" has been popular since the early days of rodeo, as a contest with prize money, where riders and horsemen race around a dirt track for the championship.

"Roman running jump" is a specialty act, where the rider and horses jump, at full gallop, over a convertible automobile or other barrier. Ted Elder used this act only adding to the excitement by adding flames which the horse and rider jumped through.

The Canadian Trick Riding Hall of Fame was established to honor and preserve the history of Canadian trick riding.

References

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Trick riding

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Trick riding, also known as jigitovka, is the equestrian discipline of performing acrobatic stunts and gymnastic maneuvers on a galloping , such as standing upright on the animal's back, hanging off the side, or executing vaults and flips, often at high speeds in arenas. This practice originated in the Turkic cultures of the and , where it developed as jigitovka—a term denoting skillful and brave horsemanship—before being adopted by Russian Cossack warriors in the 15th and 16th centuries for battlefield tactics, including evading enemies, retrieving objects from the ground, and firing weapons while inverted. Cossacks formalized these skills through mandatory training, as outlined in 1899 service regulations, and continued their use in units into the 1920s, though the tradition waned after mechanized warfare ended horse in the . Introduced to the in the by Georgian and Cossack immigrants performing in and circuses, trick riding evolved into a staple of American entertainment by the early , with Cossack refugees in the further popularizing it through touring acts. It briefly became a scored competitive event in rodeos during the but shifted to a non-competitive specialty act due to safety risks, now hired by organizations like the (PRCA) to entertain audiences between main events. Modern trick riding demands exceptional trust between rider and horse, with performers using specialized equipment like suicide straps, hippodrome harnesses, and crouppers to secure grips during maneuvers such as the hippodrome (circling the horse while holding the saddle) or the death drag (dragging alongside the horse). Horses are trained for calm, predictable patterns without rider control, emphasizing horsemanship and showmanship over speed alone, and riders often have backgrounds in gymnastics or dance to master the physical demands. Today, it thrives in PRCA-sanctioned rodeos, international competitions, and shows like those by the Trixie Chicks, blending athleticism with cultural heritage while prioritizing safety protocols.

Overview

Definition and Principles

Trick riding is an equestrian discipline defined as the performance of acrobatic stunts and gymnastic maneuvers executed while mounted on a moving , requiring precise balance, timing, and between the rider and the equine partner. The foundational principles of trick riding center on the horse's steady , typically a canter or gallop, which provides a rhythmic base for the rider's movements, while the rider relies on core strength to maintain stability amid dynamic forces. is achieved through temporal harmony, where the rider's actions align with the horse's stride phases, leveraging physics such as during and in turns to execute feats without disrupting the horse's balance. A trust-based is essential, fostering the horse's calm responsiveness and the rider's confidence in unpredictable motions. The primary objectives of trick riding are to entertain audiences in settings like rodeos, circuses, and exhibitions, emphasizing the demonstration of skill, agility, and human-animal coordination over competitive speed or timing. Basic prerequisites include a horse trained for steady, predictable gaits and unphased reactions to the rider's shifts in position, alongside the rider possessing foundational equestrian skills such as maintaining balance at a posting trot and overall body awareness. Trick riding distinguishes itself from primarily through its emphasis on high-speed execution and rider autonomy. While combines and on a moving at a walk or canter, typically controlled by a lunger using a specialized roller with handles for support, trick riding involves acrobatic stunts performed on a galloping under the rider's direct control, often utilizing a adapted or . This setup in prioritizes artistic and athletic scoring in a competitive format recognized by the Fédération Equestre Internationale (FEI), whereas trick riding focuses on and daring maneuvers without such external guidance or slower pacing. In contrast to Roman riding, which is often categorized as a subset of trick riding but centers on balancing atop multiple horses—typically standing with one foot on each of a pair or more—trick riding highlights individual on a single , such as hanging upside down or executing flips while maintaining momentum. Roman riding emphasizes stability and synchronization across the team of horses, commonly featured in rodeos and circuses for its visual spectacle of multi-equine coordination, rather than the solo, dynamic contortions that define broader trick riding performances. Unlike precision-oriented disciplines like or , which evaluate harmony, collection, and patterned movements through scored tests of control and suppleness, trick riding prioritizes performative artistry and inherent risk over technical accuracy or rider-directed finesse. In , riders maintain constant contact via and seat to execute intricate figures at varied gaits, fostering equine athleticism through subtle aids; similarly demands explosive yet controlled and slides in Western style. Trick riding, however, involves dropping the to allow the horse to gallop freely in a pre-taught pattern, enabling the rider to focus on stunts like shoulder stands or hock stands without interrupting the horse's autonomous speed. Trick riding also sets itself apart from horse stunt work in , where sequences are choreographed, often slowed, edited, or augmented with safety rigs for cinematic effect, as opposed to the unedited, real-time execution required in live trick riding shows. What uniquely characterizes trick riding among these arts is its integration of high-speed gallops—reaching up to 25-30 mph—with rider-initiated , such as the or full flips, demanding profound trust and timing not typically emphasized in therapeutic vaulting, competitive , or controlled pattern sports.

History

Ancient and Early Origins

The roots of trick riding trace back to the nomadic warrior cultures of the Eurasian steppes, where advanced equestrian skills were essential for survival and combat effectiveness. Among the earliest documented practitioners were horsemen, nomadic tribes active from the 9th to 3rd centuries BCE, renowned for their mastery of and that emphasized mobility over direct confrontation. These warriors, operating around 500 BCE, utilized recurve bows to fire arrows while riding at speed, often employing evasive maneuvers to outflank heavier formations, as described in ancient accounts of their guerrilla-style warfare. Such techniques contributed to the development of skilled horsemanship in nomadic traditions. Nomadic influences further shaped these practices through the traditions of Mongolian and Cossack riders, who emphasized mobility in battle. Mongolian horsemen, during the 13th-century expansions under , excelled in from horseback, incorporating fluid positional shifts to maintain cover while advancing or retreating, which allowed them to sustain prolonged engagements across vast terrains. Similarly, Cossack warriors from the onward developed jigitovka, a system of daring equestrian feats including vaulting, hanging maneuvers, and upside-down riding, originally honed for reconnaissance and surprise assaults in against larger forces. These skills not only boosted individual agility but also fostered unit cohesion in fluid, steppe-based conflicts. The practice of jigitovka originated among of the and before adoption by . The spread of these techniques occurred along ancient routes, with Persian and Roman cavalry adopting elements of nomadic horsemanship to counter similar threats. Achaemenid Persian in the 6th to 5th centuries BCE, influenced by nomads, employed bow-and-javelin tactics for rapid strikes and feigned retreats. Roman forces, facing Parthian and Scythian-style riders, integrated and evasive riding by the CE, with historical texts documenting agile repositioning during sieges to evade projectiles. These adaptations transformed raw nomadic prowess into structured military doctrines, emphasizing speed and deception in operations. By the medieval period in , these warfare-derived skills began transitioning into performative displays, evolving from military drills into public entertainment. Knightly tournaments from the , initially training exercises mimicking battle maneuvers such as group charges, gradually incorporated theatrical elements to showcase equestrian virtuosity before audiences. By the , these had formalized into courtly spectacles and early games, blending martial heritage with Renaissance-era pageantry for noble amusement through equestrian displays on adorned horses. This shift marked the nascent commercialization of advanced horsemanship, distancing it from pure combat utility while preserving its core emphasis on rider-horse harmony.

Development in Circuses and Wild West Shows

The development of trick riding as formalized entertainment began in the late with Philip Astley, a former who established the world's first modern circus in around January 9, 1768. Astley performed equestrian feats in a circular ring, utilizing to execute tricks such as standing with one foot on the saddle and the other on the horse's head while brandishing a , which filled transitions between displays and captivated audiences. By 1770, he had constructed Astley's Amphitheatre with a roofed ring, integrating these trick riding acts as core elements of the program alongside other performers, marking the shift from military horsemanship to commercial spectacle. In the , trick riding gained prominence in American , starting with Cody's troupe launched in , in 1883, which featured Native American performers demonstrating agile maneuvers like vaulting and hanging from galloping horses to evoke frontier authenticity. These acts blended indigenous equestrian traditions with theatrical elements, drawing crowds across the and . Georgian horsemen from the region, billed as Russian Cossacks, joined the show in 1892 during its run, introducing advanced tricks such as headstands and multi-horse control, further enriching the cultural fusion with their dzhigitovka style of riding. Key innovations emerged during this era, including Roman riding, where performers stood with one foot on each of a pair of cantering horses, first prominently showcased by equestrian Richard Sands in 1842 with the Great American Circus Company in , , often on up to four horses for dramatic effect. Drags, such as the Cossack drag involving riders hanging low alongside the horse to simulate evasion tactics, were incorporated from Georgian and Native American influences in Wild West productions, evolving into show staples like the fender drag by the late 1800s. Women's participation advanced through figures like the Georgian riders Kristine Tsintsadze, Barbara and Maro Zakareishvili, and Frida Mgaloblishvili, recruited in 1892, who executed complex stunts including flag-waving atop galloping mounts, challenging gender norms in equestrian entertainment. The global dissemination of these feats accelerated through major European and American circuses, with and James Bailey's combined show, formed in 1881, adopting trick riding as a central attraction by the late 1880s, featuring feats like horse vaulting and synchronized riding acts during its 1889 European tour. This integration led to the standardization of routines, such as coordinated group maneuvers, by the 1890s, as circuses like Barnum & Bailey expanded internationally with over 1,200 personnel and hundreds of horses, influencing performances worldwide and solidifying trick riding's place in popular entertainment.

Evolution in Rodeo and Modern Performances

Trick riding emerged as a competitive element in rodeos during the early 1900s, transitioning from its roots in Wild West shows to structured events at major gatherings like Cheyenne Frontier Days, which began incorporating such performances around 1915. Harry Walters claimed the trick riding prize at Cheyenne in 1915 and 1919, while William Leonard Stroud won the 1918 championship, establishing it as a scored competition with formal judging criteria based on execution and difficulty. This period marked trick riding's solidification within the rodeo circuit, where it served as both a display of skill and a crowd-pleasing spectacle alongside bronc riding and roping contests. Post-World War II, the decline of traditional circuses—driven by the advent of television and shifting public tastes—shifted trick riding's focus toward professional , where it gained prominence as an entertainment segment rather than a standalone contest. Women had competed in trick riding and related events since the in mixed , but the establishment of dedicated divisions accelerated in the late 1940s with the formation of the Girls Rodeo Association (now the Women's Professional Rodeo Association) in 1948, which sanctioned all-women competitions including trick riding to ensure fair opportunities and prize money. This era saw professionalize under organizations like the Rodeo Cowboys Association (predecessor to the PRCA, founded in 1936), elevating trick riding's role in sanctioned events across the . In contemporary performances, trick riding integrates into (PRCA) events as high-energy intermissions, with acts like the Trixie Chicks delivering synchronized stunts at rodeos and expos. Equine theater productions, such as Cavalia's Odysseo since 2012, blend trick riding with , live music, and in touring shows that have reached international audiences in , , and Asia. International festivals, including equine arts gatherings in and , further highlight the discipline, often featuring Roman riding variants derived from traditional trick techniques. Since the 2000s, digital platforms like have amplified visibility, with viral videos of professional routines accumulating millions of views and inspiring global interest. As of 2025, trick riding sustains a dedicated cadre of professionals worldwide, many from multi-generational family traditions such as the Trixie Chicks, who emphasize passing skills through youth clinics and programs at events like the Western States Horse Expo. These initiatives, including workshops for , foster the art's continuation amid rodeo's evolution toward diversified entertainment.

Techniques

Basic Maneuvers

Basic maneuvers in trick riding form the foundation for beginners, emphasizing balance, core strength, and coordination while building trust between rider and . These entry-level stunts are typically performed at slower gaits to develop fundamental skills without excessive risk. The lay-up is one of the simplest introductory tricks, where the rider lies flat across the 's back with arms extended for balance. This position teaches and body control, often practiced initially at a walk or to allow the rider to acclimate to the 's movement. The hippodrome stand involves the rider standing upright in the stirrups or specialized straps attached to the , with hands placed on the hips for posture while the moves forward. It focuses on building leg strength, balance, and proper alignment, starting at a standstill or slow walk to ensure stability before progressing. This maneuver is distinct from circus-style circling acts and emphasizes upright posture on the galloping . In the one-foot drag, the rider stands on one while allowing the other foot to drag along the ground, introducing asymmetry in and enhancing grip with the supporting leg. This maneuver develops unilateral strength and quick adjustments to maintain position during motion. The back drag requires the rider to lean backward off the side of , often holding onto the mane or a for support, while arching the body to skim close to the ground. It emphasizes trust in the horse's steady pace and the ability to recover balance swiftly, fostering resilience in off-balance scenarios. Execution of these basic maneuvers begins at slow gaits such as the walk, gradually advancing to the and eventually the canter as proficiency increases, to minimize risk and build . Horses must be trained for an even, predictable stride to support the rider's positioning reliably.

Advanced Stunts

Advanced stunts in trick riding represent the pinnacle of equestrian , demanding exceptional between rider and horse, often executed at high speeds to amplify difficulty and visual impact. These maneuvers build upon foundational techniques but introduce elements of inversion, , and prolonged exposure to centrifugal forces, requiring years of conditioning for both participant and equine partner. Performed in arenas or exhibitions, they emphasize precision, strength, and creativity to captivate audiences while pushing physical limits. The Cossack drag, also known as the death drag or suicide drag, involves the rider hanging fully off one side of the galloping with their head positioned near the ground, typically gripping the or for support. This stunt originates from Cossack battle tactics and requires precise timing to prevent entanglement with the legs, relying on and trust in the animal's steady . In the shoulder stand, the rider vaults onto the shoulders while facing backward, maintaining an upright or inverted balance with legs extended and body aligned vertically. Execution demands exceptional and leg control, as the rider supports their weight on the narrow surface amid the motion, often scored highly for technical form in competitive settings. The layout fender, alternatively called the Indian hideaway or Apache hideaway, features the rider extending their full body parallel to the ground off the horse's side, lying flat against the flank or under the belly during a run. Derived from Native American evasion techniques, it tests against wind resistance and gravitational pull, necessitating flexible positioning and rapid adjustments to the horse's stride. The spritz stand requires the rider to achieve an upright stance on the cantle—the rear part of the saddle—while the horse moves, highlighting lower-body power and equilibrium. Combinations elevate advanced trick riding by sequencing three or more stunts, such as transitioning from a drag into a stand or vault, evaluated in competitions based on seamless flow, innovative linking, and overall execution difficulty. These routines amplify risk through sustained momentum but reward performers for demonstrating mastery and artistic flair. Additionally, vaulting maneuvers, involving jumping on or off the moving , and Roman riding, where the rider stands across two horses, are common advanced techniques that showcase and timing.

Equipment and Attire

Horse Tack and Training Aids

In trick riding, the serves as a primary piece of , functioning as a padded girth equipped with multiple handles or rings to provide riders with secure grip points during acrobatic maneuvers, often used in place of a traditional to enhance flexibility and mobility. These surcingles are typically constructed from durable or synthetic materials, allowing performers to execute vaulting, , and other stunts without the restriction of a full saddle tree. Specialized saddles for trick riding are lightweight Western-style designs, frequently featuring a high cantle for back support and reinforced fenders to accommodate varied foot placements during dynamic stunts, while some models incorporate a hornless structure or adjustable rigging to minimize interference. These saddles prioritize balance and quick release mechanisms. Other essential tack includes suicide straps, also known as pick-up straps, which are nylon or leather loops attached to the surcingle or saddle for riders to grip while hanging off the side of the horse during maneuvers like the death drag. Hippodrome harnesses or straps, often padded and adjustable, allow performers to circle the horse while holding onto the saddle or surcingle for tricks such as the hippodrome stand. Crouppers, attached to the saddle and passing under the horse's tail, prevent the tack from slipping forward during high-speed runs and weight shifts. Training aids play a crucial role in preparing for the demands of trick riding, with the lunging cavesson being a key tool for groundwork that secures the head without a bit, promoting steady circles and balance at varying gaits. Side , attached from the bit to the , help teach consistent contact and straightness, essential for the even strides required in maneuvers like the "drag" or "back bend," by encouraging muscle development without rider weight. Horse selection for trick riding favors breeds like the , prized for their agility, quick acceleration, and calm temperament, which allow precise control during fast-paced stunts. These horses exhibit strong hindquarter power and a level topline, ideal for supporting rider shifts in weight, with examples including registered Quarter Horses used in professional acts for their endurance in repeated performances. Mustangs also prove suitable due to their hardiness and adaptability, often conditioned similarly for the explosive bursts of speed and sustained trots central to the discipline. Maintenance of trick riding horses emphasizes regular veterinary examinations to monitor joint health, as the unbalanced loads from stunts can the hocks and stifles, potentially leading to issues like if unaddressed. Conditioning programs typically involve progressive , starting with long slow distance work three to four times weekly to build and muscle , gradually incorporating hill work and trotting sessions to prepare for the physical toll of performances.

Rider Gear and Protective Equipment

Trick riders rely on specialized to maintain secure footing during dynamic maneuvers, such as standing on the or performing vaults at speed. Wrestling shoes or high-top lightweight tennis shoes are commonly used, featuring rubber soles for enhanced grip on the horse's and reinforced toes to withstand impacts and repeated stress from stunts. These designs provide ankle support and flexibility, contrasting with traditional , which are too rigid for the acrobatic demands of trick riding. Attire in trick riding prioritizes form-fitting garments to minimize aerodynamic drag and ensure unrestricted movement. or , often made from supple or synthetic materials, hug the legs closely to reduce wind resistance during high-speed runs and hangs, while also protecting against abrasions from the horse's or tack. Gloves with padded palms are essential for secure holds on the horse's mane or , offering cushioning to prevent blisters and slips under tension without compromising dexterity. Head protection is paramount given the risk of falls from elevated positions on a galloping . Helmets certified to ASTM/SEI standards are required, engineered with expanded liners to absorb impacts from heights up to several feet, distributing force to mitigate concussions and skull fractures. These helmets must fit snugly, with adjustable harnesses to remain secure during inversions or dismounts. Body armor focuses on and spine safeguarding against rotational falls and collisions. Padded jackets or vests constructed from high-density layers provide baseline impact absorption for ribs, back, and organs, suitable for routine training. Accessories emphasize hazard prevention in close-contact stunts. Hair nets secure long hair under the , avoiding snags on mane, , or edges that could cause entanglement during hangs or flips. Secure fasteners, such as reinforced snaps or on and gloves, ensure items remain intact without loose elements that might catch and disrupt balance.

Safety and Training

Inherent Risks

Trick riding, involving high-speed acrobatics on horseback, exposes participants to significant fall hazards, primarily from ejections during maneuvers that can result in concussions, fractures, and other severe traumas. Falls account for approximately 68% of all equestrian injuries, with comprising 32.6% of reported cases and often stemming from high-velocity impacts. In rodeo contexts similar to trick riding, ground impacts from such falls represent 25-41% of injury causes, frequently leading to orthopedic like fractures in the extremities or spine. Horse-related risks further compound these dangers, as sudden spooks, stumbles, or unexpected movements can cause riders to be dragged or entangled in tack, amplifying the potential for abrasions, lacerations, and dislocations. In equestrian activities, being kicked or struck by the horse contributes to 16.5% of major injuries, while stumbles during dynamic performances heighten the likelihood of uncontrolled falls. Equipment entanglements, such as straps or catching during tricks, have been noted as a factor in traumas, potentially prolonging exposure to the moving animal. Overuse injuries are prevalent due to the repetitive nature of vaults and mounts, often manifesting as strains in the back, knees, and lower extremities from prolonged asymmetric loading and impact absorption. Studies on equestrian athletes indicate that and strains are common overuse complaints, exacerbated by the physical demands of maintaining balance during galloping . These injuries typically arise from cumulative microtrauma without adequate recovery. Environmental factors, including uneven arena surfaces and adverse weather conditions, can impair grip and stability, increasing the of slips or loss of control during performances. Slippery or irregular footing contributes to falls in settings, while weather elements like dust or rain reduce visibility and traction on saddles and stirrups. In equestrian activities, head trauma has historically accounted for a substantial portion of fatalities. The widespread adoption of modern standards has reduced the of severe by approximately 50%, significantly lowering overall mortality in the sport. Mitigating gear, such as ASTM/SEI-certified helmets, plays a key role in addressing these risks, though it does not eliminate them entirely. Trick riding-specific risks include potential entanglements with specialized like suicide straps during falls, which can lead to dragging injuries if not properly managed (see Equipment and Attire section for details).

Preparation and Safety Protocols

Trick riding preparation emphasizes progressive training to build foundational skills while minimizing injury risks. Riders typically begin with ground-based exercises, such as practicing vaults and balances on a stationary vaulting barrel to develop core strength, flexibility, and coordination without the added complexity of a moving . Once proficient, training advances to mounted maneuvers at a standstill or slow walk, incorporating assisted techniques like using handles on a specialized for support, before progressing to trots, canters, and full-speed stunts under close supervision. This structured approach, often spanning several months of consistent practice, ensures riders master balance and timing essential for safe execution. Spotter systems play a crucial role in early stages, where experienced handlers position themselves to provide physical support, such as catching riders during vaults or dismounts, to prevent falls and build . In programs, spotters or supervisors are mandatory, with organizations requiring certified instructors to oversee sessions and enforce guidelines like controlled environments and proper spacing. This hands-on assistance is gradually reduced as riders demonstrate competence, transitioning to independent practice only after thorough . Certification standards in equestrian disciplines, such as those from the Certified Horsemanship Association (CHA), require riders to demonstrate proficiency in protocols and skills before advanced training or events. These requirements include knowledge of , equipment checks, and emergency responses, often validated through practical evaluations and instructor endorsements. Emergency protocols are integral to trick riding events and training, featuring on-site medics and paramedics stationed at arenas, along with dedicated first-aid kits containing essentials like antiseptics, bandages, and splints for both human and equine injuries. Horse-specific kits include items for wound care and vital sign monitoring, while post-incident procedures mandate immediate reporting, medical assessments (including protocols), and debrief sessions to analyze causes and refine future safeguards. These measures address common risks like falls, which account for a significant portion of equestrian mishaps. In rodeo settings, the (PRCA) mandates oversight for specialty acts like trick riding, including arena inspections and medical readiness. Mental preparation focuses on techniques like visualization, where riders mentally rehearse stunts to foster confidence, reduce hesitation, and enhance focus during high-pressure performances. By imagining successful executions and calm responses to potential disruptions, practitioners can mitigate fear-induced errors, such as delayed reactions that contribute to accidents, integrating this alongside physical drills for holistic readiness.

Notable Performers

Pioneering Figures

Yakima Canutt (1895–1986) was a prominent rodeo champion who transitioned into Hollywood, where he adapted rodeo techniques into innovative film stunts, including the running mount, a dynamic leap onto a galloping horse that became a staple in Western cinema. As an all-around cowboy winner in 1917, 1919–1920, and 1923, Canutt's expertise in horsemanship influenced early stunt coordination, emphasizing safety and realism in action sequences drawn from rodeo skills. His work on films like Stagecoach (1939) showcased transfers between moving horses, bridging rodeo traditions with broader entertainment. Florence Hughes Randolph (1898–1971), known early as "Princess Mohawk," emerged as a trailblazing female competitor, becoming the first woman to claim world championships in trick riding, , and Roman racing during the . She secured ten world trick riding titles and over 500 appearances, excelling in acrobatic maneuvers like the hock stand and back drag while competing against men in major events. Randolph's victories at venues such as the 1926 Philadelphia Sesquicentennial , where she won both bronc and trick riding, highlighted women's prowess in multi-discipline before shifting industry dynamics. William Leonard Stroud (1893–1961) earned the 1918 world trick riding championship through daring innovations, particularly his signature drag stunts performed in and rodeos. Originating the "Stroud Stand Out" and the first under-the-belly ride on a running , Stroud dominated from 1915 to 1925, captivating audiences with feats like the Roman stand and slick saddle transfers. His performances at events like the Cheyenne Frontier Days solidified trick riding's appeal as a showcase of athleticism and showmanship in early 20th-century spectacles. Curly Griffith, active in the early , distinguished himself as a multi-event performer encompassing trick riding, Roman riding, and , while also serving as a and producer who incorporated family acts into professional rodeos. As a champion contestant, Griffith's versatility helped popularize integrated performances, blending competitive elements with entertainment in Wild West gatherings across the U.S. These pioneers collectively advanced trick riding by contributing to standardized scoring systems that evaluated difficulty, execution, and form, evolving the discipline from novelty acts into judged competitions by the . Their efforts also fostered greater inclusion for women, with figures like Randolph competing equally until the formation of the Rodeo Association of America in , which briefly sustained mixed-gender events before later shifts.

Contemporary and Legacy Riders

In the realm of trick riding, legacy performers have shaped the discipline through innovation, endurance, and trailblazing performances that elevated its status in culture. Barbara Inez "Tad" Lucas (1902–1990), often called "," mastered intricate stunts such as the under-the-belly crawl and incorporated Indigenous and Cossack techniques into her routines, performing internationally for nearly four decades after joining Frank's Wild West Show in 1921. The Bascom family, including brothers and Weldon, pioneered trick riding in the 1930s and 1940s as multi-event champions; invented key equipment and arenas, while Weldon co-produced the first in 1935 and is credited as the "Father of Brahma Bull Riding," earning the family the 2016 Ken Stemler Pioneer Award from the . The Griffith family exemplifies a multi-generational legacy, with roots in early 20th-century ; Curley Griffith served as a champion trick rider, , and producer, passing skills to son Dick, a world champion from age nine who retired in 1954, and grandson Tad, a Hollywood stuntman who innovated high-velocity routines and trained his sons—Gattlin, Callder, Arrden, and Garrison—in performances for films like : Chapter 3 and . Vicki Adams, trained on the , built a five-decade career as a professional trick and Roman rider, earning PRCA Specialty Act of the Year honors in 1984, 1987, and 1997 (often with husband Leon), presenting the flag at 14 National Finals , and performing internationally in countries like and before retiring in 2006; she and Leon were inducted into the in 2008. Contemporary trick riders continue this heritage, blending tradition with modern flair at major events. Jerri Duce, inducted into the Canadian Pro Rodeo Hall of Fame in 1997, began performing as "The Flying Duces" with her sister Joy at age nine and has competed internationally—from Expo 1967 in to Japan in 1991—while still captivating audiences at 72 with a viral performance at the 2024 Canadian Finals . Karen Vold, who started at age 10 and turned professional by 14, co-founded the Flying Cimarron and Fireballs teams under trainer Dick Griffith; now in her later years, she runs a 37-year-old trick riding school with a year-round waiting list, training students nationwide and preserving protocols through behind-the-scenes roles. Carradine, who joined the Riata Ranch Cowboy Girls at 11 and later featured in Cavalia's Roman riding acts with four horses, hosts clinics through her Circus Cowgirl program in , emphasizing horsemanship and self-awareness; in 2024, she completed the grueling 310-mile Gaucho Derby in Patagonia, selected from 100 applicants for her equestrian expertise. Groups like the Trixie Chicks represent the collaborative spirit of modern trick riding, with a team of cowgirls executing high-speed stunts on Quarter Horses and Paints at rodeos and clinics across the U.S., renowned for their balance, , and crowd-engaging routines that draw widespread applause. These riders not only sustain trick riding's athletic demands but also adapt it for , , and global endurance challenges, ensuring its evolution while honoring foundational legacies.

References

  1. https://www.silverspursrodeo.com/blog/what-to-know-about-trick-riders-and-the-magic-behind-trick-riding
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