Define a Cowboy !

HOW DO YOU DEFINE A COWBOY?

by Susan "Sam" Madden

These days, "cowboy" has come to mean anyone with a hat, boots, and a pickup truck. Cynics might add an ex-wife to this list. But there are still idealists out there for whom cowboys depict legendary romanticism. They are the knights in shining armor of the old west, virtuous do-gooders on horseback who can leap tall buildings in a single bound.

There is a modern day group of charming and charismatic individuals typifying this skewed and romantic idea of a superhero from days gone by. They are members of the Cowboy Mounted Shooting Association; and if they don't wear white hats just to show they're the good guys, they ought to.

Cowboy mounted shooting first became a recognized sport in 1992 in Arizona and has grown to include competitions in 21 states. It is a multifaceted equestrian sport in which contestants compete in timed events using two single-action revolvers loaded with blank ammunition to burst balloons while negotiating a specified course on horseback. It is a combination of wild west show exhibition shooting, cavalry drills, reining competition, barrel racing, and historical reenactment. A truly unique aspect of the sport is the emphasis placed on period clothing, firearms, and other equipment typical of that available in the American west during the late 19th Century.

But, in the words of a popular Neal McCoy song, "Looks aren't that important, just icing on the cake." The Cowboy Mounted Shooters show neighborly concern, true community spirit, and gentlemanly manners reminiscent of those of Roy Rogers and Gene Autry. Don't be surprised if a kindly stranger offers you his chair at a match, if a cowboy in chaps and spurs takes time to answer questions from newcomers, or if a cowgirl in a special split skirt introduces her horse to you and explains the anatomical challenges of female shooters.

Contestants are competitive yet supportive of each other. One cowboy, whose mount was inclined toward a career as a saddle bronc, was helped out by a more experienced competitor who led the way through the course at an informal match. It didn't seem half as scary to the previously reluctant horse while playing "follow the leader," and the rough stock candidate made a smooth transition into timed events.

Safety is of primary concern at CMSA matches. All firearms must remain unloaded until the contestant is called to the loading area. Contestants are not permitted to have live ammunition, and they must meet a certain shooting and horsemanship skill level before qualifying to compete. There are stringent rules prohibiting competitors from ingesting alcohol or any other substance which may affect their ability to participate in a completely safe manner. Mounted shooting is good, clean fun that the whole family can enjoy.

Your first time at a match you'll learn who's on deck and who's in the hole; the different parts of the stage, including the random course and the run down; and what to expect when the announcer declares, "Ride at will!" and fast-paced old time music accompanies the riders out the gate. Informative commentary will provide colorful details about Tricia McMaster on her Quarter Horse Rowdy, Frank Turben on his Arabian Tez, and Robert Dawson on his show-stealing Pinto, Promise.

Membership in the CMSA is open not only to tough, gun-slinging outlaws. A tenderfoot who has never laid hand on a pistol is welcome to support the sport by joining as an associate (nonshooting) member. Women are encouraged to follow in the footsteps of Annie Oakley and show the men a thing or two about shooting. Competitors span all walks of life, from real estate brokers and computer consultants to saddle makers and former rodeo clowns. And supporters range in age from the very young (target setters are typically young buckaroos) to senior citizens. Anyone who loves the lure of old west mystique, with its rich sense of heritage and western tradition, is eligible to become a member and bolster the romanticist's definition of a cowboy.

So mosey on down to see the Cowboy Mounted Shooters, good guys and gals from a bygone era with halos on their hats. Guests are encouraged to dress western to add to the festive and informal atmosphere at matches. And don't be surprised to see a horse who courteously takes a bow while accepting an award, mirroring the manners of his owner.

For more information check out www.cowboymountedshooting.com.

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