Horsemanship

Johnny is a horseman -- whatever the discipline, i.e., reining, dressage, cutting, -- it does not matter; he can watch the horse, what it reacts to, how it responds and figure out why.  Johnny's primary interest is in teaching -- both the rider and the horse.  A "Clinician", a "teacher of teachers", seems to be a term used quite loosely now-a-days and has all but lost its true meaning.  Johnny prefers the term horseman.

Johnny has helped hundreds of people and horses through his horsemanship instruction and training and is truly one of the great horseman of his time.  He will help you learn, cause you to think and adjust to fit the situation.

Colt Starting

Johnny loves to start new colts.  His experience is vast and he excels at teaching a young colt the basic fundamentals without "rushing through kindergarten and trying to graduate high school" as he puts it.  Colt starting is a passion Johnny loves to accomplish and is available at the ranch anytime between May and October.  "In the old days the term, horse breaker, is exactly what happened.  Unknowingly ranchers broke the horses spirit from the get go -- we're lucky to have learned from their mistakes and be able to help these youngsters evolve into a willing and trusting partner."

Johnny typically does not start a colt until they are three yeas old, when he considers them more mentally and physically developed and ready to accept being ridden. He works with all his young horses from day one, and has there trust on the ground before he evers puts a saddle on any of them.  However, the best age at which to start a colt varies among breeds and beliefs.  Johnny always says that a colt's impression of his first ride can set the tone for the rest of his life so you want them in a relaxed state of mind so they don't want to flee. 

Horsemanship

You will learn the basic fundamentals of horsemanship from Johnny through attending one of his clinics, arranging a Weekend Workshop or private instruction.  Johnny uses a "hand-on" approach stressing a foundation of communication, understanding and respect with your horse with an emphasis on safety for both horse and rider. Johnny also uses some natural horsemanship training and riding principals.  These methods are considered non-confrontational, starting with realtionship-building exercises on the ground.  The horse is gradually accustomed to the application and release of pressure.  This philosophy and method permeates every aspect of training as the horse ages.

"No hour of life is wasted that is spent in the saddle."  Winston Churchill