Book Review: Cutting for Non-Pros

If you’re considering cutting as a horse sport, and are looking for some fundamentals, Cutting: A Guide for the Non-Pro Competitor is the building block to start your foundation. Written by Sally Harrison, author of several cutting books and articles, this comprehensive guide combines the sport’s grass roots with the perspectives of top cutting pros on selecting, training, and preparing a horse for the event.

After a brief historical outlook from cutting legend Buster Welch, Sally introduces you to the sport’s range-land heritage, some of its most influential sires, and the National Cutting Horse Association Futurity. Next, she guides you through the complete prospect selection process, from breeds, conformation, and disposition to cost.

The following section focuses on basic cutting maneuvers, featuring how-to training and trouble-shooting techniques from non-pros and such top pros as Mike Kelly, Mance Stark, and Buster Welch . Photos featuring top cutting coach Punk Carter and his students are a great supplement to the training do’s and don’ts.

The final sections include tips on show preparation and campaigning, and features profiles on cutting enthusiasts.

Cutting: A Guide for the Non-Pro Competitor is published by Howell Book House.

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