O-Mok-See or Omoksee is the most common term used in the Western United States for events in the sport of pattern horse racing. The origin of the term "O-Mok-See" is thought to specifically originate with the Blackfeet Indian Tribe where they described a particular style of riding as " oh-mak-see pass-kan" meaning "riding big dance." This event was principally a war ceremony. Before setting out on a mounted expedition against the enemy, the warriors of the camp performed this dance as a part of the prelude of stirring up courage and enthusiasm for battle. The warriors put on their finest dress costumes, decorated and painted their best horses, carrying their war bundles, shields, lances and bonnets. They mounted and gathered at some distance out of sight of the camp. They turned and rode together at full speed into the great camp circle, circled around it once and then rode to the center of the camp. In the center were a number of old men and women who sang special songs and beat drums for the horsemen. The horsemen then rode their trained horses to the rhythm of the singers and drummers. From time to time the riders dismounted and danced about on foot beside their horses, shooting in the air and shouting to one another to be brave when the battle came. If anyone fell from his horse during the ceremony it was considered an omen of bad luck.
Read more about this topic: Gymkhana (equestrian)