One cowboy, whose mount was inclined toward a career as a saddle bronc, was helped out by a more experienced competitor who led the way through the course at an informal match. Safety is of primary concern at CMSA matches. All firearms must remain unloaded until the contestant is called to the loading area. Contestants are not permitted to have live ammunition, and they must meet a certain shooting and horsemanship skill level before qualifying to compete. There are stringent rules prohibiting competitors from ingesting alcohol or any other substance which may affect their ability to participate in a completely safe manner.
Mounted shooting is good, clean fun that the whole family can enjoy.
Informative commentary will provide colorful details about Tricia McMaster on her Quarter Horse Rowdy, Frank Turben on his Arabian Tez, and Robert Dawson on his show- stealing Pinto, Promise. Membership in the CMSA is open not only to tough, gun-slinging outlaws. Women are encouraged to follow in the footsteps of Annie Oakley and show the men a thing or two about shooting. Competitors span all walks of life, from real estate brokers and computer consultants to saddle makers and former rodeo clowns. Anyone who loves the lure of old west mystique, with its rich sense of heritage and western tradition, is eligible to become a member and bolster the romanticist's definition of a cowboy.