Show Jumping Takes Off in the Desert
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THERMAL- You can watch some of the best show jumpers in the world compete at the HITS horse park in Thermal. Video by kmir6.com
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THERMAL- You can watch some of the best show jumpers in the world compete at the HITS horse park in Thermal.
It's the biggest show on the West Coast, and it's where riders and their horse take a huge leap of faith.
As the horse jumps, its range of vision prevents it from actually seeing the obstacle. That's why in show jumping communication is key.
"The whole idea of jumping is that you go around the course as fast as you can without knocking anything down," said Tony Hitchcock, Senior VP of HITS.
A jumper gets four points for every obstacle knocked over. The goal in show jumping is to get zero points.
Both men and women can enjoy on the sport on an equal footing. They compete together.
"It is really about developing the connection and communication with your horse and it doesn't come down to age, strength or size or gender, and that really unique," said rider Tiffany Sullivan.
On March 17th about 40 jumpers will compete for a one million dollar prize. The public is invited to watch it all. Most days admittance is free. It is $5 to watch the million dollar competition.
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