Lil Pepto Pistol
Some Points on Showing and
Judging the Cutting Horse
The following questions and answers are included in the Rule Book as an aid to a clearer understanding of the Rules for Judging Cutting Horses.The opinions expressed are based on surveys and judging clinics conducted by the NCHA, and have the endorsement of the CCHA Executive Committee.
1. What is the desired number of cattle to work?
The preferred number of cattle to cut in the two and one-half minute time limit is two or three head. If a person can do as much and show sustained control on two head as another can do on three, the person working the two head should have the higher score because he/she has not spent as much time in the herd.
2. Approaching the Herd.
A horse should never be set down hard approaching the herd. Walking or trotting to the herd is acceptable provided the horse is taken up very easily before getting close enough to disturb the cattle. The horse should display no hesitation, weaving or reluctance to approach and enter the herd.
3. Entering and working the herd.
The true cutting horse enters the herd with ease, concentrating on the job to be done. Not looking over the back fence or biting. Alert, but quiet, making no unnecessary movements that might disturb the cattle.
Here are some specific points on herd work:
Q. How far should a horse go into the herd to cut a cow?
A. He should go deep enough to show his ability to one out.
Q. Is it all right to enter the middle of the herd on either side and go to the middle or back side to get one out?
A. Yes.
Q. Is it all right to go behind the herd and bring out the one wanted?
A. Yes.
4. When should a horse be turned loose?
A rider entering the herd may have a light-rein contact with his horse, and maintain this contact while he is in the herd and while he is in the process of cutting the animal free from the remaining cattle. When the animal has been cut, he should let his horse alone, and the horse should be given enough slack so that it is obvious to the judge that the horse was on his own.
5. Bringing the cow from the herd.
The cutting horse should stay a reasonable distance from the cow if possible, showing a great deal of expression but no illness toward the animal being cut. He should be on his toes making counter movements to the cow regardless of the distance separating them. The horse should not rush or push cattle excessively in bringing one from the herd unless the cow turns around and tries to get back at the edge of the herd. The horse should bring the cow a sufficient distance from the herd toward the centre of the arena, so the herd will not be disturbed while working and setting the cow up.