The event begins with the arena setting the stage. The performers share a common bond, each mounted horseback. Each dressed in full western attire and each carrying a set of period correct pistols ready to do damage in the competition called "Cowboy Mounted Shooting". This is more than entertainment as it is the nations fastest growing competition.

Riders come from many different backgrounds. All across the nation. Each at the ready mounted on their horse as they prepare to ride a course shooting ten targets using two pistols. The rules are established through the Cowboy Mounted Shooting Association. The Targets are aired balloons mounted on poles. The fired rounds are CMSA approved blanks where time and accuracy denotes the scorecard.

As the rider begins the course, reining skills come to play. The horse released racing against the clock while the rider draws their handgun firing upon the first set of targets. After shooting the fifth target, holstering the handgun and drawing the second pistol to finish off the last set of targets.
Revolvers are used only one at a time and the stage is design so the competition includes maneuvering turns and twist. Holsters may be belted, pommel, cantle, shoulder or combined as the rundown is standardized in CMSA World Qualifying Matches.

The event is broken into groups, males, females, senior males who are at least 55 years of age or older, senior females who are 48 years of age or older, Junior over the age of 11 and under 16, Wrangler are competitors age 12 or under, and Wrangler are competitors age 12 or under. There is no minimum age.

With each event penalties are given by the range master if rider misses a target: 5 seconds is added to the clock, Knocked over barrel: 5 seconds added, failure to follow course of fire: 10 seconds, dropped gun: 5 seconds, failure to holster first gun: 5 seconds, Non Qualified run: 60 seconds, gun twirling: 5 seconds, and loss of hat prior to engaging the course of fire: 10 seconds. The clock begins much like barrel racing using modern electronic laser beam to begin and end the clock.

The CMSA also has rifle competitions where rules are similar to those using pistol. They also do a Calvary class for reenactments.

In this exciting sport of mounted shooting, the CMSA does require individuals to be safe. The only modern attire is they must wear eye and hearing protection. If you enjoy shooting and love to ride horseback, you might consider becoming part of the competition as a Cowboy Mounted Shooter. Read http://www.cmsaevents.com/ For more information.