While the Old West may be a thing of the past, its legacy lives on. People have romanticized this period in American history and have made great strides to preserve it. One very exciting area where this is done is with Cowboy Mounted Shooting.
Cowboy Mounted Shooting
Cowboy-mounted shooting is one of the fastest-growing equestrian sports in the United States. It combines horsemanship, speed, and precision shooting in a high-energy competition. Rooted in the traditions of the Old West, the sport challenges riders to navigate intricate courses on horseback. At the same time they are shooting at balloon targets with single-action revolvers loaded with specially designed blank ammunition. A thrilling spectacle for participants and spectators alike, cowboy-mounted shooting tests the synergy between rider and horse and the shooter’s accuracy and quick reflexes.
The sport traces its origins to the traditions of cowboys and lawmen of the 19th-century American West, who prided themselves on their ability to ride and shoot. While modern cowboy-mounted shooting has its roots in historical reenactments and rodeo trick shooting, it was formally developed as a competitive sport in the early 1990s. The Cowboy Mounted Shooting Association (CMSA), founded in 1994, serves as the governing body and has been instrumental in standardizing rules and promoting the sport across the U.S. and internationally.
Ride and Shoot
Cowboy-mounted shooting involves riding through a pre-determined course marked with ten balloon targets arranged in two sets: five white balloons for the first five shots and five colored balloons for the last five shots. Riders must use two single-action revolvers, each loaded with five rounds of blank ammunition. The courses are designed with varying difficulty levels, requiring riders to execute sharp turns, weave through obstacles, and shoot accurately—all at full gallop.
Blank ammunition is specially designed for safety. It uses black powder to create a burst of hot gas that pops balloons within a specific range, usually 10-15 feet. Unlike live ammunition, blanks eliminate the risk of injury to the rider, horse, or spectators. Competitions are scored based on speed and accuracy. Riders aim to complete the course as quickly as possible, with penalties incurred for missing balloons, dropping firearms, or deviating from the course. Penalties typically add five seconds per infraction, making precision as important as speed.
High Speed Sport
The unique partnership between horse and rider is at the heart of cowboy-mounted shooting. A good mounted shooting horse is agile, fast, and responsive to subtle cues from the rider. Many riders train their horses specifically for the sport, focusing on desensitization to loud noises and rapid movements. Training involves developing physical skills and building trust and confidence, as the horse must remain calm amid the excitement of the competition.
On the other hand, riders need to master the art of shooting while maintaining balance and control of their horse. This requires exceptional hand-eye coordination, physical fitness, and a thorough understanding of firearm safety and handling. While the sport is demanding, it is also inclusive. Riders of all ages and skill levels can participate, with divisions ranging from novice to expert. Some organizations even have youth categories, making it a family-friendly activity.
The Old West Lives On
Cowboy-mounted shooting is more than just a sport. It celebrates Western heritage, a test of skill and precision, and a thrilling show that brings people together. So, saddle up, draw your revolver, and get ready to ride into the heart-pounding world of cowboy-mounted shooting.
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