WATSONVILLE—The annual Summer Fun in Watsonville Outback Cutting competition is unfolding at the Santa Cruz County Fairgrounds.
Around 280 horses arrived mid-week for the five-day event that drew folks from around California, Arizona, Colorado and Texas.
Cutting is a western-style equestrian competition where a horse and rider work together to demonstrate the horse’s athleticism and ability to handle cattle, mainly by separating a chosen cow from a herd before a panel of judges.
Melissa Corcoran of Alamo, Calif., competed Friday atop her quarter horse, Mama Don No.
“It’s so exhilarating,” she said. “Cutting horses is phenomenal, the way the horse can read you—the rider—and the see just how I can read a cow. You can’t take your eye off the cow for a moment or you’ll end up on the ground. There are no verbal commands. All the controls are done with your feet and prayers. This is a very refined sport.”
Alex Jaeschke of Scottsdale, Ariz. said the event marked her fourth time coming to Watsonville to compete.
“It’s a great family of people,” she said. “Many of us grew up in the industry. There is nothing better than being with these folks and refining your skills: It’s just a lot of fun.”
The event is free and open to the public. It runs through Sunday.
