Fairland Ferguson is a stunt and Roman rider with Cavalia – a spectacular equestrian theatrical experience. Fairland learned Roman riding (one foot on each horse’s back) and shares with Equine VIP how she learned to do it. Meet Fairland – a beautiful and talented Dare Devil!
As a little girl, did you grow up wanting to ride horses?
Yes – I was one of those little girls that just wanted to ride horses. I think all little girls want to ride horses! I was a completely “normal” horse-back rider all the way through my college life. I didn’t even know Roman and trick riding existed until I learned about it and knew it was something I wanted to learn how to do. I took my athleticism and knowledge of horses and put them together. I have a friend who worked at Cavalia, so after college, I auditioned and it was the right fit for me. I’ve been with Cavalia three years.
How do you learn the basics of Roman and trick riding?
There are certain basic tricks you learn in the beginning. You get a stable foundation at the walk, and once you get that, you keep going. You’ll fall off, get hurt but you have to keep trying until you get it right. However, a trick at the walk is totally different than at a run! It takes determination and a lot of practice.
How do you pick the right horse for Roman and trick riding?
There are many different breeds of horses that can do it. Temperament is really important – with Roman riding you need to make sure the horses get along. They have to have the same mentality. The most important aspect is that they need to be about the same height. You can’t pick a Percheron and a mini and hope they will make a good Roman riding team!
As a professional with Cavalia, how often do you practice?
We perform 6,7 shows a week, and the horses typically get 2 days off. We don’t ever practice what we are performing that night, so the horses won’t get tired or bored. We exercise them and make sure they get playtime every day.
Tell us about your trick horse? Does he get excited to perform?
Yes! He is a Thoroughbred and Paint cross – and if you know anything about this kind of breed – you know they are always “on”! He is a very hot, energetic horse that loves to run so this is the perfect life for him. When the music comes on and he hears his cue, he is a ball of fire! You can just tell he is where he wants to be.
For more about Fairland Ferguson and Cavalia www.cavalia.net
