Ian Francis stands as a preeminent figure in the world of horsemanship and horse education. With a competitive career spanning over three decades, Francis has achieved significant success in a variety of disciplines including AQHA events, Working Cowhorse, Reining, Cutting, and Stockman’s Challenge. For the past six years, he has dedicated himself to sharing his extensive knowledge through clinics, focusing on horsemanship, reining, and cattle-related events such as Campdrafting.
A Legendary Career in Equine Sports
Recognized as a legend among Australian horsemen, Ian Francis is frequently lauded as one of the best horsemen globally. His career is distinguished by an unparalleled record of training horses and accumulating awards across numerous events. This extensive experience forms the bedrock of his unique approach to horse training.
Francis offers a comprehensive range of instructional DVDs designed to guide horse owners through various stages of training. His Foundation Training DVD is essential for those starting a new horse or looking to build a solid foundation on an older one. Building upon this, his Reining Training DVD delves into the specific techniques required for reining disciplines. Further enhancing this educational suite are his DVDs on Stockman’s Challenge, Campdraft Fundamentals, and Cowhorse Training.
The Philosophy of Foundation Training
Ian Francis’s philosophy on training young horses is rooted in a positive and encouraging approach. He advises, “Make the assumption he’ll be nice – make training easy for him – there is plenty of time to find out how hard it is later.” This mindset underscores his belief that a trainer’s primary goal should be to create a positive learning environment for the horse.
Central to Ian’s foundation training is the development of a horse that is soft, supple, and responsive. This level of responsiveness allows the horse to achieve the correct form or shape necessary to execute maneuvers efficiently. Achieving this ideal shape is a key objective of his training methods, ensuring the horse is physically and mentally prepared for advanced work. His approach emphasizes developing a deep understanding of horsemanship, including feel, timing, and balance, enabling riders to better communicate with their horses.
Global Clinics and Educational Outreach
Ian Francis’s expertise extends beyond his DVDs, as he regularly conducts clinics across Australia, New Zealand, and the USA. These clinics cover a wide array of disciplines, including Horsemanship, Reining, Campdrafting, Reined Cowhorse, Stockman’s Challenge, and cattle working. Through these interactive sessions, he empowers riders to deepen their awareness of their own horsemanship skills. Participants learn to refine their feel, timing, and balance, while also gaining a thorough education on the correct form a horse needs to perform maneuvers effectively.
Francis’s commitment to education is evident in his structured approach, which guides both horse and rider toward a harmonious partnership. His methods are designed to foster mutual understanding and respect, leading to improved performance and a more enjoyable equestrian experience for all involved. For those seeking to elevate their horsemanship skills, Ian Francis offers a wealth of knowledge and practical guidance.
Conclusion: A Legacy of Excellence in Horsemanship
Ian Francis’s contributions to the world of horsemanship are undeniable. His extensive experience, combined with a compassionate and effective training philosophy, has established him as a leading educator and a respected figure in the equine community. Whether through his DVDs or his highly sought-after clinics, Francis continues to inspire and equip horse owners with the skills and knowledge needed to build strong, responsive partnerships with their horses. His dedication to the art of horsemanship ensures that his legacy will continue to influence generations of riders and trainers.
