Don't smooth your edges to fit the mold.
Fitting in is Overrated.
Our team is different than most. We aren't afraid to stand out. We have all breeds of horses, all ages of riders. All body types, all experience levels, and all working towards one goal: Having the most fun we can have with our horses while working together in the dirt to put on a hell of a show. Most of our riders feel like they don't fit in in other facets of the horse world. If you've been looking for your "people", maybe you're meant to be an Outlaw.
While we love winning as much as anybody else, competitive riding is not our end goal. Our mission is for this team to be a place where riders have a kickass group of people they can learn, grow and have fun with. That we can put on engaging performances with while riding safely, effectively and with great horsemanship. So if you value grit over gloss, humility over ego, and cultivating happy, confident horses and riders, and you aren't afraid of a little rock n roll - keep reading!
How Do I Join the Team?
We host try-outs once per year, in the fall at the end of the season. This is the most ideal time for a new rider to join us. If you want to jump in mid-season, you can, but you will likely not be included in events and performances until the start of the new season.
If you are interested in joining, message or email us, and we will send you our team handbook and invite you to try out. Try-outs are a laid back opportunity for us to meet you, meet your horse, and see you ride. At the end of try-outs we have a short informational meeting where we explain how the team functions and answer questions. From there, you may be accepted as a parade team rider or a performance team rider.
For the most part, we do not turn away any individual who is willing to put in the hard work to be part of this team, even if you or your horse are green. We have had many beginners come to us over the years, and unlike many teams we don't turn you away, but we give you an opportunity to work your way up the ranks.
Less experienced horses and riders start out on the parade team, you still ride and practice with everyone else, but you are not guaranteed to perform in competitions and paid events. This gives you and your horse the opportunity to learn this sport at your pace. These riders attend parades and unpaid performances to 'get their feet wet' as opportunities allow.
Performance team riders are experienced horse and rider pairs that can walk, trot and canter with good control and horsemanship. They are our primary riders for paid events and open competitions. New team members may earn a spot on the performance team if they are experienced and their horse takes quickly to drill. Parade team riders earn their way onto the performance team.
Team Member Expectations
- Your own horse (or a lease horse with a signed contract)
- Transportation to practices & events
- Practice once per week (currently Thursday evenings)
- Monthly dues (covers our arena fees and insurance)
- Attend 3 competitions, 2 parades, and 3 performance weekends during the season (approximately)
- Be willing to show up, be respectful and encouraging :)
From there, we get into equipment, which changes a little each season. When you receive your team handbook, it will include an equipment list for what you need to supply to ride on the team. Our most basic uniform is a button down shirt, black jeans, dark boots, and a black cowboy hat.
We can work with you if you need to wait to purchase things like tack sets or chinks, and may have limited items for borrowing, don't let equipment costs keep you from joining us! Some of our items are high-quality and expensive, and we understand not everyone can commit to that cost in the beginning.
Want to become an Outlaw?
Send us an email: info@theoutlawcowgirls.org