2. How do I know if my horse can be a parade horse? (back to top)

 Your horse must be able to...

• carry a flag.
• neck rein with ease.
• stop well with one hand.
• must be difficult to spook.
• no biting, kicking, rearing, or bucking.
• ride in close contact with other horses.
• maintain control during loud noises, large crowds, kids running around and people walking close to them.

Click here to learn how to train a parade horse.

3. Does my horse need to be in good shape? (back to top)

Your horse needs to be in good shape since practices are strenuous and drills can last three to four minutes at a lope. We practice for two to three hours each week with a lot of trotting and fast loping.

A drill horse in good condition can lope for 10 minutes at a time.

During the summer, your horse needs to be able to lope in the heat and be able to recover quickly.

4. How do I know if a mounted drill team is for me? (back to top)

We will practice simple maneuvers and introduce you and your horse to drill in a fun and relaxed manner. We will work with you and your horse to desensitize your horse to drill team and parade maneuvers. This will help you decide if you would like to try-out for the drill team.

You are welcome to come ride with us during our weekly practices. Become our fan on facebook to keep up with our events and practice times.

5. Is it expensive to be on the drill team? (back to top)

This team is self-funded and you will be responsible for your travel expenses to practices, rodeos, and parades. You will also be responsible for purchasing all of your uniforms and tack.

6. What kind of commitment will it take? (back to top)

We have two practice arenas located at Wellsville and Paola Kansas. We practice weekly on Sunday afternoons from 2:30 pm to 5 pm. If the arena is muddy, we will still meet and ride together on the roads practicing parade maneuvers.

7. Can I just ride in the parades? (back to top)

Yes, you can only ride in the parades if that's what you choose.  You are still required to wear the team uniform and the matching tack for your horse.