Kaua‘i’s own cutting horse enthusiasts showed their versatility as they competed at the 23rd Annual Hawai‘i State Cowhorse Championships held at the Waimanalo New Town & Country Stables on O‘ahu on Nov. 7-8. Kalihiwai Ridge horse ranchers Uli and Sascha
Kaua‘i’s own cutting horse enthusiasts showed their versatility as they competed at the 23rd Annual Hawai‘i State Cowhorse Championships held at the Waimanalo New Town & Country Stables on O‘ahu on Nov. 7-8.
Kalihiwai Ridge horse ranchers Uli and Sascha Rachner of Silver Falls Ranch, a father/son team, captured wins in multiple events demonstrating that the family who plays together can win together.
Uli captured first place in three classes, the Cutting-Non Pro, Open Amateur, and the Amateur divisions, defending his title from the previous year’s competition.
Uli’s steed Luminosa Dunny was credited for making the job of blocking the steer look effortless.
Sascha Rancher, 16, secured a third place, riding a Silver Fall Ranch mount Eye of the Storm in the Amateur and Non-Pro cutting competitions.
Both men agree that it is important for the riders to allow the horse to do its job with the least amount of interference from the rider.
Being an accomplished rider is paramount to success as a cutting horse moves quickly.
Silver Falls Ranch offers daily guided scenic trail rides to visitors on Kaua‘i, and is home to several of the top cutting horses in the state.
The Rachners encourage residents who are interested in cutting, a world championship event since its inception in 1970 at the Sacramento, Calif. Expo which attracts competitors and spectators from around the world.
Anyone interested in more information on the ranch’s riding programs can call the stables at (808) 828-6718.
