Max Meadows: Part II.

This past weekend, I went with Ashley to one of her barrel races. She took along her two-year-old horse, Dash. He and Lexus got quite attached to each other, but he did alright for going to a show for the first time. We also found his tickle spot. Most horses have a tickle spot, commonly below their neck, but Dash has one on his rump; a less common area. And he throws a fit when you scratch it. 

This show was smaller than previous ones because there was only one association at the show. All in all, there were about 50 riders. Ashley placed 2nd in the 3rd Division. Right now, she stands 3rd in the 3rd Division overall for the season. If she keeps this up, she might make it to World's in October. Let's hope she does. 

Pony with Dash.

   Dash needed some training for patience, so Ashley decided to pony with him. Ponying is when you have a horse follow you while you ride and hold the lead rope. Dash is young and still has spunk, so his patience wore thin fast. He tried to bite Lexus' tail and tossed his head a bit, but he calmed down soon enough.

Rodeo: Max Meadows, VA.

Lowgap, NC.

   The first rodeo of the 2013 National Barrel Horse Association season was held in North Carolina. It was a sunny day (my nose got sunburned). It was a combined rodeo, so a local North Carolina district was also running. In all, there were 96 riders in the Open Division. This class is open to everyone, any age.  Ashley, the rider I'm following this season, placed 3rd in the 3rd Division.

New Project: Practice.

  I've been wanting to work on a larger project for a while. These are a few images of a new project I sort of stumbled upon. The rodeo scene is something I've been familiar with since high school. I think it's fascinating; the amount of work that goes into training, and the community that is unique to the sport. It's still in the process; any feedback is welcome, and there's more to come!