The Arabian Ranch and Versatility Ranch Horse Divisions are exploding. Why? Here are a few reasons. It is something new, all types of horses and riders are able to compete and the equipment and attire is affordable.

The Ranch divisions are based on the simplicity of ranch life. Although permitted, silver equipment, attire bling, hoof polish, and excessive horse hair trimming are discouraged. For many riders, the traditional gear is affordable, and all your equipment and attire from 1975 is back in style! “It’s Fun!” & “My horse likes it!” are the two most common explanations I hear from folks describing why they enjoy the Ranch divisions. 

What defines a ranch horse?

An ideal ranch horse should be a pleasure to ride while being used as a means of conveyance from performing one ranch task to another.

The gaits required for this class are the walk, trot, extended trot, lope and extended lope. The extended walk and back were just recently added as optional gaits. As of this writing, Walk/Trot 10 & under Ranch Rail cannot be asked to do extended gaits, but those gaits will be optional as of December 1, 2024. When evaluating gaits for this class, it is important to remember extended gaits are about the lengthening of stride and not the addition of speed. Extended trots that are excessive in speed will lose cadence, rythym and balance. Extended lopes should not be a hand gallop or look like a run down in Reining. The horse should maintain the softness and ease needed for going long distances on uneven ground. A forward working gait that is not excessive is imperative. Ranch gaits should exhibit correctness, quality of movement and then degree of difficulty. Extremes are never ideal in either direction. In addition, smooth, responsive transitions and overall good manners are a priority.

The ideal ranch horse should carry themselves in a balanced position. The head carriage should align naturally with the horse’s conformation, they are not to be behind vertical and should respond appropriately to rein contact. It is important to highlight that excessively loose reins are subject to penalties. A ranch horse should be well-trained, have a willing attitude, and be relaxed and happy doing their job.

I personally love to judge these classes. I am fortunate to be carded in multiple breeds in this division, so I have had lots of opportunity to continue to develop my judging skills. The Ranch Trail has real obstacles that you would see out in ‘everyday’ ranch life. The Ranch Rail puts emphasis on the gaits needed for authentic ranch work. The use of cattle brings to life the reason these skills are needed. I see a promising future and continued growth for this division.