Bubba Matlock, a distinguished figure in the National Cutting Horse Association (NCHA) circuit, has carved a remarkable career as a rider and trainer, recognized as a “$1 Million Dollar Rider.” Cutting, an equestrian sport, demands a seamless partnership between horse and rider to showcase the horse’s agility and skill in managing cattle. Cutting horses are meticulously trained to control and isolate a cow, preventing its return to the herd.
Matlock’s journey into the specialized world of cutting began unexpectedly. “I roped and rodeoed; my whole life was really just roping,” he shared. This singular focus shifted in 1995 when he relocated to Crockett and encountered Gerald Alexander, a performance horse starter renowned for his work with two-year-old horses. Intrigued by Alexander’s expertise, Bubba sought employment. “I knew he had started a bunch of colts,” Bubba recalled. “I never knew anything about cutting, but I went to his place and asked him for a job.”
Alexander offered Bubba a position as a starter, a role that initially involved living in a trailer and earning a modest $150 per week. During his first year, his responsibilities were limited to saddling and unsaddling horses. However, by 1999, when he departed Alexander’s tutelage, his salary had more than doubled, and he managed his own barn, initiating the training for 120 colts annually. He credits Alexander with imparting invaluable foundational knowledge. “That’s where I really got my start in cutting,” Bubba stated. “He probably taught me more than anybody could ever have taught me, just working with him.”
Bubba Matlock, a seasoned rider and trainer in the NCHA.
Following his tenure with Alexander, Bubba moved to Weatherford to commence training colts for Tim McCloud. It was here he first experienced the NCHA Futurity, witnessing Shannon Hall’s winning performance on Shania Cee at the Will Rogers Coliseum. This event profoundly impacted him, solidifying his career aspirations. “That’s when I made my mind up that’s what I wanted to do, after watching that run. It really hit me pretty good,” Bubba reflected.
Under McCloud’s guidance, Bubba served as an assistant trainer, undertaking the specialized training of his first horse. This horse, initially acquired for $3,500, was later sold for $35,000 after its completion. “You have to let the horse tell you how they need to be trained. Not one is the same. Kinda like kids,” Bubba wisely observed.
The precision and athleticism required in cutting competitions.
Gaining recognition as a promising trainer, Bubba accepted a head trainer position in Tennessee before venturing out independently. This period marked the zenith of his achievements, earning him numerous accolades. His expertise extended internationally, with training clinics held in the United States, France, and Italy. An anticipated clinic in Australia was unfortunately canceled due to COVID-19 restrictions.
Bubba’s dedication and affinity for horses have garnered him significant awards, including NCHA Futurity Reserve Champion and ACHA Super Stakes Classic Reserve Champion. His remarkable career earnings led to his induction into the ACHA Open Rider Hall of Fame, an honor bestowed upon those who surpass one million dollars in lifetime earnings.
A testament to the bond between a trainer and a high-caliber cutting horse.
Currently, Bubba has returned to Crockett, the place where his cutting career began. He remains actively involved in the sport, judging cutting competitions, conducting clinics, and professionally showing performance cutting horses. His ultimate ambition remains the NCHA Futurity Championship, which he aptly describes as “the Super Bowl of cutting competitions.”
Bubba offers sage advice to aspiring trainers and riders: “Find a good trainer, beg for a job, then work your tail off.”
For further information about Bubba Matlock’s career and services, please visit bubbamatlock.com.
