SigMT

SIGNATURE MONTANA | 47 Beyond gymnastics, beyond riding, is equestrian vaulting. Vaulting is gymnastics with the grace of dance on a moving horse. While vaulting is an international sport with 141 clubs in the USA, Montana's only vaulting venue is Vaughn's Hope Falls Vaulting Club, run by Gina Fiedler. "e kids were introduced to vaulting by accomplished vaulter Todd Griffiths when he visited Montana," says Gina. "I began instructing because they wanted to continue vaulting." Vaulting requires balance, coordination, and grace. Instead of a saddle, the sport uses a thick back pad and a vaulting surcingle with special handles and loops called Cossack stirrups—no need for reins since the horse acts as a mobile vaulting platform controlled by a lunger. Shoes are so vaulting or gymnastics slippers, and clothes are unitards or other stretchy materials that allow vaulting moves like stands, flags, and lis possible. Vaulting doesn't allow helmets or hats as they are dangerous and restrict vision. e moves vaulters perform are limited not just by what they would like to do but by what they can do safely. Vaulters don't start out on top of a cantering horse. ey begin by training on stationary barrels and mats before aempting those same routines on horseback. For example, vaulters must learn to leap onto their steed lightly so their landing doesn't hurt the horse. at's why the Hope Falls Vaulting Club has five levels of participation based on age, interest, and vaulting ability. Hope Falls Vaulting Club is a member of the Equestrian Vaulting USA and the first club registered in Montana. Kade Fiedler kneels on Opal while displaying balance, coordination, and spatial awareness. Jecholia Stoltzfus performs on Opal, who is on a long line and works in a minimum of a 15-meter (50-foot) circle. Alexis Fiedler and Emily Fiedler compete in the pair's competition.

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