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WESTERN DRILL TEAM
WHAT IS WESTERN DRILL?
Western Drill in SSO is a bit different to the real life form of Western Drill, however, we try to get it as close to reality as we possibly can. Western Drill mainly consist of a team of riders performing different Western Drill inspired patterns in unison. This might seem easy enough, but it takes a lot of practice and teamwork to make this look good.
We were members of the SSO Starshine Drill community but they have sadly closed down. We teach moves as outlined in the Drill Dictionary - see link below.
ISN'T WESTERN DRILL JUST FAST DRESSAGE?
Western Drill in SSO looks some what similar to SSO Dressage. One of the main differences between the two are; SSO Dressage is usually performed at a trot with some moves performed at a walk and canter while OUR Western Drill is performed mainly in medium gallop, what we refer to as "canter 4" (4 clicks of forward button) with some moves performed at a canter, trot and walk.
It seems that many other Western Drill teams are using canter as their main gait. Using canter 4, being much faster, adds to the thrill and spectacle of the pattern and makes it much more intense and interesting to watch. From a rider/player perspective it requires much more precision and faster thinking.
I personally believe Western Drill needs that element of thrill and speed to define it, so that it is not just considered "dressage in a canter!"
HOW DO I JOIN WILD HEARTS UNITED WESTERN DRILL TEAM?
To join Wild Hearts United Western Drill Team, first you need to become a member of WHU (Wild Hearts United). See the Join link above.
If you are a member of WHU, you are welcome to join the team.
DO I NEED TO BE EXPERIENCED IN WESTERN DRILL TO BE ON THE TEAM?
In short - No.
We cater for all levels from beginner to advanced. Training lessons will be labelled according to their rider experience level so you will know which class will suit you.
WHAT DO I NEED?
While we never place pressure on anyone to buy horses or outfits to take part initially, we do like to see a desire to slowly obtain the correct uniforms etc.
Eventually you will require a generation 3 American Quarter Horse - colour of your choosing and the Western Drill Uniform as listed on the Uniforms page.
Video Credit Tyra Mistfall
"Wild Hearts United - First Drill practice short pattern."
Photos Credit Avery Coyotefall
WHAT ARE THE GOALS OF THE WHU WESTERN DRILL TEAM?
The main purpose of the Western Drill team is to master the Western Drill moves as outlined in the Drill Dictionary, create our own unique Western Drill moves and then put these moves into a pattern.
Ultimately we wish to compete in some competitions and produce western drill routine videos for our Youtube channel.
Riders who wish to compete in these competitions will be placed on the competition team.
We also aim to host Western Drill displays and promote Western Drill through the SSO community.
Photo Credit Morgan Riverford
"Wild Hearts United Beginner Lesson (Knab Day) = Performing Company Front."
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Photo Credit Morgan Riverford