Block · one region of the page, as the scanner read it. It may hold a whole story, part of one, several, or an advertisement; stitching blocks into articles is the next step. Text is supplied OCR.
Page 3 · column 3 of 6 · from the scan, no model involved
The riders sit, kneel, stand, turn around, scissor, mount, dismount and more, all while the horse is circling at a trot and canter.
But there’s more to vaulting than vaulting competition. As an adjunct to other equestrian sports, it can be invaluable. “The horse is under the lounger’s control at all times, so it’s a very safe way to teach,” Mrs. AppelBucierka said.
"Kids can learn a good, basic riding seat without being concerned about controlling the horse. When the horse is just a platform that’s moving, they learn incredibly fast,” she said.
It’s equally helpful for more experienced riders. “Vaulting improves rhythm and timing, balance, coordination and strength,” says the Topaz Vaulters’ coach. “It’s a real confidence builder.”
But whenever Chris Appel-Bucierka talks about the benefits of vaulting, it’s the safety factor that she stresses above the improvement in riding skills, the fun of competition or anything else.
“You learn an emergency dismount that gets you off the horse and out of harm’s way, and you never lose that skill,” said the coach. ^ Mrs. Appel-Bucierka and the Topaz Vaulters will be at Mountain Springs Stables, Sperryville, from noon to 4 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 17. Participation in the clinic is open to adults and children six and older. Cost is $20 for riders; free for spectators. To register, call 987-9545. Registration requested by Friday.
82.2%