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Megan Larson and ‘Izzy’ at the 2023 New Salem High School Rodeo. [Photo: 4-C Photography]
Although pole bending is a common event in youth rodeo, it is an event that is often misunderstood.
Poles has always been a favorite event of mine. Throughout my time in youth rodeo, I spent considerable time defending the event. I often hear questions such as “Why do we do poles in high school rodeo, if it’s not an event in college and professional rodeo?” or “What do poles have to do with the origins of rodeo? It has no practical uses outside of competition.” These questions and comments often come from those who have never done poles and do not understand the event.
To be good at poles, it requires a high level of horsemanship. This is where I think pole bending has a place in youth rodeos. Developing good horsemanship as kids grow up lays the foundation for them to excel in the other rodeo events.
The pole pattern makes it difficult to do them well without good horsemanship. [Source: NHSRA Rulebook]
Aside from the rider’s horsemanship, the partnership and understanding between horse and rider is very important in pole bending. The saying ‘smooth is fast, fast is smooth’ holds true in poles. For my horse, Izzy, and me, I understand that my horse knows what she is doing, and to be smooth, I need to stay out of her way as much as possible. My horse understands that I am going to be there as a guiding hand to set her up for success. To further one’s test of horsemanship, they can broaden their ability to riding multiple horses.
Megan Larson and ‘Donald’ at the 2022 Mandan (in New Salem) High School Rodeo. ‘Donald’ is owned by Kristen Larson of Hoople, N.D. [Photo: Craig Maley Photography]
Every horse and rider will have a different style and technique. When these come together with horsemanship, partnership, and understanding, pole bending is so fun to watch and compete in.
Megan Larson and ‘Shooter’ at the 2022 NDHSRA State Finals. ‘Shooter’ is owned by Allie Ness of Thompson, N.D. [Photo: 4-C Photography]
Over the last four summers, I have enjoyed teaching the next generation of horseman through riding lessons, but I am now looking to branch out on this by teaching pole bending clinics. The first clinic is scheduled for July 30th at the Aggie Arena in Park River, N.D. See my Facebook page for more details and message me on Facebook or text me at (701) 331-9963 to reserve a spot or to schedule a clinic at your arena.
Megan Larson is a recent high school graduate who has spent the last seven years in Junior High and High School Rodeo. Now, she will continue her education at North Dakota State University in the fall studying equine science with plans to utilize her schooling by building an equine conditioning and rehabilitation facility. Megan not only enjoys competing at jackpots and rodeos, but also training horses and giving riding lessons.