Deciding on the right horsemanship class can be a crucial step in your journey with your equine partner. As horsemanship education evolves, understanding the distinct focus of each class offered is key to making an informed choice that benefits both horse and rider. This guide breaks down the available classes to help you determine the best fit for your needs and your horse’s current stage of development.
Colt Starting
The Colt Starting class is designed for young horses, whether they have had minimal handling or are completely new to human interaction. The curriculum emphasizes groundwork and preparation for the horse’s initial rides. Key focuses include halter work, gentling techniques, and stress-free saddling for both horse and handler. The objective of this four-day course is for the rider to be safely mounted and beginning basic work in a snaffle bit by the end of the session.
Foundation Horsemanship
This class caters to novice riders or those with less experienced horses who may benefit from additional groundwork before mounting. Each three-day session dedicates half of the time to ground exercises, preparing the horse for riding, with the remainder of the class spent in the saddle. This foundational approach ensures a solid understanding of groundwork principles before progressing to ridden exercises.
Horsemanship 1
Horsemanship 1 is suitable for green horses and riders who are already comfortable with the snaffle bit, as well as older horses requiring continued refinement. This class marks the initial stage of transitioning to the bridle, introducing all fundamental movements. Riders of all disciplines will find value in this course, which exclusively features dry work without cattle. All maneuvers are taught in the vaquero style and are appropriate for horses ranging from first-level snaffle use to experienced bridle horses. Hackamore horses are also welcome.
Horsemanship 2
This class represents the next step in developing a versatile bridle horse, focusing on working the horse in a hackamore and progressing further. Horsemanship 1 is a prerequisite for enrollment in Horsemanship 2, unless specific approval is granted by Buck. The curriculum includes working with cattle and ranch roping, addressing all facets of preparing a developing bridle horse. This class is crucial for advancing a horse’s skills in a practical ranch setting.
Cow Working
Limited to twelve riders, the Cow Working class is ideal for experienced riders looking to introduce a green horse to cattle work or to further develop the skills of horses already accustomed to cattle. The focus is on tracking, sorting, and cutting, with the aim of introducing or refining stock work for ranch purposes. Calmness and precision are paramount, as these classes are structured with the working stockman’s needs in mind. For those interested in advanced training, consider exploring resources like clint davis horse trainer.
Ranch Roping
As the name suggests, this class is dedicated to refining and enhancing roping skills for both horse and rider in the context of ranch-related activities with livestock. Unlike timed event roping, this course emphasizes mastering a variety of roping shots and perfecting the horse’s positioning. Participants will practice aspects of both arena roping and working cattle in open spaces, with the ultimate goal of fostering a calm and skilled approach to handling stock with a rope. While prior experience with a rope is beneficial, it is not a mandatory requirement.
Spectating a Clinic
For those attending a clinic as observers, please be prepared for an outdoor experience, as some venues may lack extensive amenities. It is recommended to bring your own chair, water, food, sunscreen, hat, and appropriate outerwear to ensure comfort and allow you to fully focus on the horsemanship demonstrations. Being comfortable will enhance your ability to learn from the instruction provided.
