What makes a champion a champion? Which breeds are excelling in which disciplines?
In this week's podcast, Dr. Chris Mortensen, an equine science researcher and educator, discusses the key elements that make a horse a champion in Western disciplines like barrel racing, cutting, and reining. Special focus is given to the 'DM Sissy Hey Day' horse which set a world record in barrel racing, emphasizing the indispensable role of breed, conformation, and heart in horse championship.
 Dr. Mortensen additionally highlights other successful racehorses and elaborates on desirable traits for respective disciplines. The podcast concludes with the unique characteristics of polo horses from different breeds such as thoroughbred, Argentinian polo ponies, appendix quarter horses, and the Manapuri Pony.
 
Podcast Timeline
00:01 Introduction to the Podcast
00:09 Imagining the World from a Horse's Perspective
00:55 The Thrill of Barrel Racing
01:09 The Role of the Rider in Guiding the Horse
01:30 The Intense Experience of Barrel Racing
02:53 The Excitement of Setting a New World Record
04:25 Introduction to the Host and the Podcast's Focus
05:00 The Incredible Athleticism of Horses
06:08 Champions in Different Disciplines
07:58 The Unique Characteristics of Different Horse Breeds
09:41 The Importance of Confirmation in Horse Breeds
10:20 The Differences Between Western and English Disciplines
13:06 The Characteristics of Barrel Racing Horses
17:05 The Characteristics of Reining Horses
26:00 The Importance of Pre-Purchase Exams
27:33 The Characteristics of Cutting Horses
36:29 The Characteristics of Polo Horses
44:41 What Makes a Horse a Champion?
45:45 Conclusion and Invitation to Subscribe

Visit https://madbarn.com/mad-about-horses/ to learn more about the Mad About Horses podcast.
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