Ring horses are generally irritated when the rider first stands upon
their backs. Probably the action of the foot pulls the short hair; but
the irritation ceases in a short time. Riders are first trained to do
their tricks on the ground. When complete masters of themselves on the
ground they are put upon the back of a horse having an even gait and a
reliable disposition. To the performer's belt, at the back, is attached
a stout rope which runs to the end of a strong arm or beam running out
from a post set in the center of the ring. This arm is swung around by
a helper, who keeps the loose end of the rope in his hand in order to
regulate the slack and prevent the young performer from having a heavy
fall should he lose his footing. Again and again the rider is pulled up
just in time to prevent him from falling under the hoofs of his horse.
He is swung forward, dangling from the arm of the derrick, until he
regains his balance and his footing upon the back of his horse.
To describe in detail how every feat and specialty is taught would
require a volume, but on general principles it may be said that all
tricks are first learned on the ground, or at a safe and minimum
elevation. Then when the performer has attained absolute
self-confidence and is wholly without fear he is allowed to swing
higher, until he finally reaches the height required in the public
performance.