The Vaquero method of horse training is a time-honored tradition, emphasizing harmony and partnership between horse and rider. This approach, rooted in centuries-old practices, guides a horse through distinct stages—from hackamore to spade bit—cultivating a finely tuned equine athlete. The core philosophy prioritizes the quality of the finished horse over the speed of the training process, fostering a deep bond and mutual respect. As Sheila Varian, a trainer with over 50 years of experience, explains, “The end result is like choosing between driving a Model A Ford or a Rolls Royce.” This analogy highlights the profound difference in the riding experience when comparing a typically trained horse to one that has undergone the extensive Vaquero training. The spade bit, in particular, is a tool for highly trained horses ridden by experts, enabling communication through nearly imperceptible cues. The years dedicated to this training result in a horse that is truly “something special,” creating an incredible feeling of unity between horse and rider.
The Spade Bit: Design and Philosophy
The spade bit itself is often misunderstood, with some considering it a cruel implement. However, Sheila Varian asserts that like any bit, its cruelty depends on the hands that wield it. A horse that is afraid of its mouth simply will not accept a spade bit. Key elements of a well-crafted spade bit include a spoon that lays slightly over, allowing the horse to maintain a natural head position without the spade touching the roof of its mouth. Varian prefers loose jaws, shorter shanks, and bits made of sweet iron, noting that many modern stainless steel spade bits are too heavy and severe. The “cricket” within the bit is designed to freshen the horse’s mouth and encourage salivation, producing a soothing sound. Rein chains are also a functional component, keeping rawhide reins out of water and providing a subtle signal to the horse before rein contact is made. Different styles of spade bits, such as the Santa Barbara, Santa Ana, Santa Ynez, and Las Cruces cheek styles, are historically named after the regions where they were first used.
The Vaquero Tradition
Originating in Mexico, the Vaqueros brought their distinct horsemanship traditions to the expansive cattle ranches of California in the late 1700s. They prided themselves on dedicating the necessary time to train ranch horses that were light in the bridle, responsive to minute rein signals, and agile, intelligent, and responsible. The spade bit ranch horses of both past and present are expected to perform their duties effectively and ensure their riders’ safety in rugged terrain.
Modernizing the Vaquero Way
Sheila Varian, a distinguished Arabian breeder and trainer, learned the intricacies of spade bit training from a young age. Over the years, she has adapted her methods for today’s horses, finding that gentler approaches are more productive. Varian advocates for “taking things easily,” focusing on the horse’s mental and physical well-being, which she finds leads to quicker training in the long run. Harsh methods, such as “doubling” a horse or tying its head to its tail, are now largely abandoned, thanks in part to natural horseman Tom Dorrance, who influenced a softer approach to training. Dorrance’s philosophy emphasized kindness and a deep understanding of horses, leading to more effective and humane training practices.
The Importance of Outdoor Training
A crucial aspect of Vaquero training is conducting it outdoors over varied terrain. Varian emphasizes that arenas and conventional trails are insufficient for developing these horses. Instead, she utilizes natural obstacles like bushes, trees, ledges, and creeks to train her horses.
Phases of Vaquero Training
The Vaquero method involves several distinct phases, each requiring patience and developed feel. While this article outlines the basic steps, the true mastery of this method is a lifelong journey focused on “feel” and “unity.”
Early Work and Groundwork
Incorporating cattle early in a horse’s training is beneficial. Varian begins starting her horses under saddle at age 3, believing they are not yet physically ready for strenuous work at younger ages. Ample time spent in pastures is crucial for their physical and mental development. Gentle groundwork, including desensitization exercises and teaching basic turning, bending, and stopping cues, precedes riding. Hobble breaking is also a part of the method, though Varian introduces it later to avoid frightening the horse.
The Snaffle
While traditional Vaquero training starts with a hackamore, Varian prefers beginning with a snaffle bit. This approach avoids “skinning a horse’s jaw,” which can occur with stiff or rough hackamores or when excessive pressure is applied. Varian believes snaffle cues are clearer for young horses, as a snaffle provides a direct pull, whereas a hackamore’s indirect pressure can be confusing.
The Hackamore
Once a horse is comfortable in the snaffle, Varian transitions to a hackamore, often switching between different hackamores and the snaffle to ensure the horse understands the cues. This process can take a year or two, depending on the frequency of outside riding. The key is to use lighter equipment if the horse shows signs of fear or running through the hackamore, embodying the principle that “less is more.”
The Two Rein
When a horse is consistent in the hackamore, the two rein phase begins. This involves using a smaller bosal under a bridle with a half-breed or low-port bit, with reins attached to both. Varian initially uses only the bosal reins, waiting for the horse to become quiet with the bit before introducing the bridle reins. This gradual introduction prepares the horse to be soft and supple in the bridle, building on the foundation laid with the hackamore. The horse spends another year or more in the two rein, with a slow, gentle transition to relying more on the bit rein as the horse learns to balance.
The Spade Bit
Around age 7 or 8, once the horse is comfortable and working well in the two rein, it’s time to introduce the spade bit. This final stage refines the horse’s training, adding an extra degree of polish. The process mirrors the two rein introduction, with the horse gradually becoming comfortable with the spade bit. In the hands of a competent rider, the spade bit is a delicate communication tool, not an instrument of force. The horse must trust its rider to avoid pain or harshness. By this stage, the horse has typically been ridden for four to five years, developing a natural headset and a refined way of going.
However, not all horses are conformationally suited for a spade bit, regardless of their training. A horse needs a natural neck curvature and a neck that isn’t set too low. Once a horse is fully finished and comfortable in the spade bit, Varian generally keeps it there, occasionally dropping back to a half-breed if a particularly demanding task is anticipated.
The Enduring Legacy of the Vaquero Method
The Vaquero method is a testament to the value of time and dedication in horse training. The joy lies in the process and the partnership, free from artificial deadlines. The journey to mastering the spade bit is significant, fostering immense mutual trust and commitment between horse and rider.
Expert Profile: Sheila Varian
Sheila Varian’s expertise with spade bit horses spans decades. She began her training in the 1950s, achieving notable success with her Arabian mare Farlotta and later with Ronteza, whom she rode to win the Open Stock Horse class at the Cow Palace in 1961. This victory was remarkable, as she was the first amateur and first female to win this title against seasoned professional male competitors, riding an Arabian mare among stock breeds. Varian Arabians, located in central California, continues to breed and train athletic, well-dispositioned Arabians. Varian was inducted into the Cowgirl Hall of Fame in 2003, recognizing her significant contributions to horsemanship.
For more information, visit www.varianarabians.com.
This article first appeared in the December 2004 issue of Horse Illustrated.
