Freddie Vasquez, Jr is a champion horse trainer at a successful boutique concierge barn. In the following article, Freddie Vasquez, Jr discusses his passion for equestrian horses, explains what makes certain breeds better performers, and discusses their diets, training regimens, care plans, and more.
The life of an equestrian horse may seem pampered but it’s not all fun and games learning to jump, prance, and perform on a competitive level. Just like a professional athlete, equestrian horses spend hours training to build endurance, speed, and agility. But, when they’re not training, these horses are then cared for like true champions in the lead-up to events and tournaments explains Freddie Vasquez, Jr.
Considering that only a select few breeds are chosen for their stature and physical abilities, not all horses will make the cut as equestrians. Freddie Vasquez, Jr takes a moment to discuss more about these magnificent animals’ lives.
Which Breeds are Selected
Freddie Vasquez, Jr says that under current regulations set by the United States Equestrian Federation (USEF), only 11 horse breeds qualify to become equestrian horses. These animals were specifically bred and selected for their agility, endurance, strength, beauty, discipline, and ability to capture the essence of everything equine. The 11 breeds include:
- Andalusian/Lusitano
- Welsh Pony/Cob
- Arabian
- Connemara
- American Saddlebred
- Shetland
- Friesian
- Hackney
- Morgan
- National Show Horse
- Paso Fino
Each breed excels in different ways, with some naturally performing better in certain disciplines than others. For example, Andalusian horses are naturally built for the light speed of riding and driving, whereas the American Saddlebred’s naturally slow gait makes it a wonderful competitor in dressage says Freddie Vasquez, Jr.
Training
The exact training a horse goes through to become an equestrian depends entirely on the discipline for which it is practicing. The USEF currently recognizes 8 international and 10 national disciplines, with the understanding that a single horse or rider could perform in any discipline throughout an event. This means that both horse and rider must be prepared for:
- Dressage – From French, meaning “training”, dressage is essentially ballet on horseback. Freddie Vasquez, Jr says that the rider guides their horse around as it displays natural grace, balance, and athleticism. The movements are designed to test the horse’s obedience, strength, and flexibility, as well as the rider’s ability to control their animal.
- Eventing – A timed, multi-disciplinary event, eventing is the ultimate test of horse and rider. It consists of dressage, cross-country, and show jumping, with the horse and rider receiving a score for each phase. The horse and rider with the lowest overall score are declared the winners.
- Jumping – Another timed event, jumping tests both horse and rider’s ability to navigate an obstacle course. Freddie Vasquez, Jr says here, the horse must be able to clear each jump, while the rider must maintain control and balance.
- Reining – Reining tests a horse’s ability to perform a set of specific ranching maneuvers, such as spins, circles, and stops, in response to the rider’s commands.
Driving – Driving tests a horse’s ability to pull a carriage or sulky (a two-wheeled cart) around a set course. The horse must be able to navigate the course quickly and smoothly, while the driver must maintain control and balance.
To prepare, riders will work one-on-one with their horses to perfect these skills. They may use a series of hurdles, obstacle courses, or other training tools to help their animals become stronger, calmer, and more agile.
Nutrition and Care for Equestrian Horses
As with any athlete, an equestrian horse’s diet and care plan are essential to their success explains Freddie Vasquez, Jr. These animals require a diet high in protein and fiber to maintain their energy levels and muscle mass. They also need a regular grooming routine to keep their coat and hooves healthy.
Equestrian horses typically live in stables, where they have access to a paddock or pasture for exercise and grazing. They are fed a diet of hay, grain, and pellets, as well as given regular doses of vitamins and minerals. Their water needs are also monitored to ensure they are staying hydrated says Freddie Vasquez, Jr.
To keep their coat and hooves healthy, horses are groomed daily. This involves brushing their coat, cleaning their hooves, and checking for any injuries. Horses are also given regular baths and have their manes and tails trimmed or braided.
When it comes time to compete, Freddie Vasquez, Jr says that horses are then transported to the event site in trailers or horse vans. They are then given a warm-up period to stretch their muscles and get used to the arena. Once they are ready, they are led into the ring and the event begins. After, they are bathed, fed, and cared for in preparation for their journey back to the stables.
Final Thoughts
The life of an equestrian horse is one of hard work and dedication according to Freddie Vasquez, Jr. These animals are carefully bred, trained, and cared for in order to be the best athletes possible. While their lives may seem glamorous, they still require a lot of effort and care to compete at the highest levels.
