Issue link: https://www.e-digitaleditions.com/i/1507551
48 | SIGNATURE MONTANA Approximately 40 vaulters are involved in the program, ranging in age from four to young adults. Classes vary from peewee, being the youngest, to three recreational vaulters classes and two competitive teams. e time commitment differs with each vaulting level. Peewees typically practice 45 minutes a week while the competitive teams work out for several hours weekly. Sometimes, the level of participation changes as young people age. Kyra Stoltztus did recreational vaulting for two years but switched to the competitive team as her skills developed, saying, "I'm excited to be competing with my friends." e vaulting horse's size, gait, and temperament are crucial to the sport. Gypsy and Scout are used for recreational vaulting. Competitive teams use Oakley, a dependable vaulting steed who loves her job, and soon, Jon, a Haflinger horse, will join the team. Various equipment is required for the sport, including a vaulting surcingle -a wide leather strap that sits behind the horse's withers on a vaulting pad. The surcingle has two handles, called grips, two leather straps, called cossacks, and several metal D-rings around the outside. The vaulter uses the grips and cossacks while performing gymnastic moves. Emily Fiedler practices with the Hope Falls Vaulting Club in Vaughn, Mont. James Fiedler demonstrates the physical demands of vaulting. The sport encourages the development of strength, flexibility, and confidence. surcingle vaulting pad