2018 SDP Buffalo Ranch Open Futurity Final Winner ‘Duplicity’ ridden by Todd Graham.
© Liz Speed Photography
The National Cutting Horse Association (NCHA) returns to AELEC in Tamworth for the 46th Annual SDP Buffalo Ranch Futurity this week. With the annual event attracting more than 500 competitors and paying out over $700,000 in cash and prizes throughout the duration of the event, it remains the largest and richest indoor sporting horse event in the Southern Hemisphere.
The sport of cutting originated in 1898 in Haskell, Texas. Today, in twenty-two nations worldwide some $42million is paid out annually as prizemoney with the majority in Australia and the United States.
The mechanics of cutting are simple: In two and half minutes, a horse and rider are challenged with separating two to three cattle from a herd. They are judged (out of 80) on their ability to do so correctly and present with a high degree of eye appeal.
Control of the horse is largely limited to use of a riders feet once a beast has been ‘cut’ from the herd. Horse and rider must work together to prevent its return and showcase their inherent skill whilst doing so.
The competition will be fierce with the Open Futurity showcasing over 100 of Australia’s best 3 year old horses vying to take home a $75,000 winners cheque. Additionally, the famed celebrity cutting event returns with equine legends Brett Parbery and racing extraordinaire, Hugh Bowman taking to the arena amongst special guests to experience the action first hand.
Watch last year’s winners, Todd Graham and Duplicity.
Equestrian Life will be at the NCHA Futurity from Friday 7th – Sunday 9th June to catch all the action from the finals weekend. Stay tuned now for our coverage.
For more information on the NCHA Futurity & program, visit www.ncha.com.au
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