Garracha/Garotcha and the Doma Vaquera

In the mid 14th century a highly skilled Spanish Cavalry originated to combat the moors. Their tactic was to hover around their opponent and annoy them until they broke formation or gave ground. And when they saw a break or weakness in the line they charged.

A fresco painting of the Battle of La Higueruela in 1431 shows the Jinetes fighting the Moors.

From this evolved the Doma Vaquera (spanish cowboy dressage). They use a garracha (long pole).

After time it evolved into an art form.





With the Garrocha



Also I have seen Doma Vaquera used a lot in bullfighting on horseback but I didn't post it because i didn't want to offend or upset anyone. I know it can be upsetting. From a horsemanship point of view though it was really something.

I worked in a stable in Spain one summer and i used to see the vaquero saddle a lot. Never tried riding with one though.

Here is a woman using a Garrocha WITH NO BRIDLE




In spain they give performances with Doma Vaquera and flamenco a lot.