The seemingly effortless grace of actors portraying expert horseback riders on screen often belies the intensive training that goes into mastering this skill. This article delves into the rigorous process of transforming actors, often with little to no prior experience, into convincing equestrian performers.
From Novice to Expert: The Wrangler’s Role
The journey from complete beginner to confident rider often begins with a skilled wrangler. Richard Lundin, a veteran wrangler, recounts his experience preparing the cast of the ABC series “The Young Riders.” Faced with a group of actors who had exaggerated their riding abilities on their resumes, Lundin implemented a comprehensive training program. Starting with the fundamentals of mounting and staying in the saddle, he gradually progressed to more complex maneuvers. Long hours were spent practicing riding in various positions, leading to inevitable falls and eventual mastery.
Building a Partnership: Rider and Horse
The relationship between horse and rider is crucial for a convincing performance. Actor Ty Miller, despite having prior riding experience, emphasizes the importance of learning to connect with the horse. He highlights the wranglers’ role in teaching him how to maintain balance and control through proper leg positioning.
Stephen Baldwin describes the process of finding the right horse. His initial encounter with a horse named “White Lash” resulted in an immediate buck-off. However, after six hours of trying different horses, he discovered a surprising connection with the very horse that had initially rejected him, demonstrating the importance of compatibility between horse and rider.
Learning Beyond the Basics: The Demands of On-Screen Riding
For Travis Fine, who had falsely claimed “expert rider” status on his resume, the training process was a humbling experience. He credits the wranglers’ expertise for his rapid progress, emphasizing the significance of effective instruction. Fine’s anecdote about his horse, “Bud,” a seasoned on-screen veteran with more credits than himself, underscores the long-standing tradition of using trained horses in the film industry.
Mastering Control and Precision: More Than Just Riding
Yvonne Suhor, who played Lou in “The Young Riders,” recounts the challenges of re-learning to ride after a long hiatus. She emphasizes that on-screen riding demands more than just basic skills. Actors must learn to hit marks precisely, control their horses within the confines of the camera frame, and execute complex maneuvers while maintaining alignment with other riders. This requires mastering techniques like downchecking to prevent runaway horses and coordinating movements with fellow actors.
Suhor details the physical demands of the training, recalling the intense muscle soreness after the first day. She also shares an amusing anecdote about being “dumped” by a trick horse during filming, highlighting the inherent risks of horseback riding, even for experienced riders.
Conclusion: Dedication and Expertise Behind the Scenes
The ability of actors to convincingly portray skilled horseback riders is a testament to the dedication and expertise of both the actors and the wranglers who train them. The process involves not only learning to ride but also developing a deep understanding of horse behavior and mastering the technical demands of on-screen performance. From mastering the basics to executing complex maneuvers, the journey from novice to expert equestrian actor requires patience, perseverance, and a strong partnership with the horse.
