Oldman73 wrote:
Oh the memories.. I was a professional all breed farrier for 35 years in NY then VA, 1970-2005. It would appear that this is an in the field school. In PIC 7 with the young man kneeling down watching, he is in a great position to be "cow kicked" Wife and I raised and showed Clydesdales for years. Wife was also into hunters and jumpers with her Thoroughbred. Enjoy them while you can!
You are quite right. Many farriers start out with one of the various specialty schools in the state and then apprentice with a journeyman farrier.
The danger of being "cow kicked" was minimal for two reasons: he really wasn't close enough (the camera angle is deceptive), and this horse is not likely to kick. I think he had an accurate "read" on this horse. As you know, it's hard for a horse to kick when another foot is off the ground.
I bet your time with Clydesdales was gratifying. One of my favorite farriers did quite a bit of work on the draft breeds and had great stories including some related to shoeing competitions.