Discover the Thrill of Competitive Trail Riding with John Zeliff, President of NATRC If you're an avid rider or just love spending time outdoors, try competitive trail riding. It's an exciting equestrian sport that combines horseback riding with endurance and navigation skills, and John Zeliff, the president of the North American Trail Riding Conference (NATRC), wants to introduce you to it. As a young man, John discovered his passion for horseback riding while exploring the countryside with his horse and dog. He later joined NATRC, a national organization that promotes and regulates competitive trail riding, but his career and family responsibilities kept him from participating actively. After retiring from teaching and with his children grown up, John returned to competitive trail riding with renewed enthusiasm. He enjoys the camaraderie, the challenge, and the opportunity to explore new trails and landscapes while building a bond with his horse. Today, John is the president of NATRC, and he wants to invite anyone who loves horses and the outdoors to discover the thrill of competitive trail riding. In this podcast episode, John shares his experience and insights into this unique sport. What is Competitive Riding Competitive trail riding involves navigating through a marked trail, covering a distance of 25 to 100 miles over two to three days, and passing checkpoints where the horse's condition and the rider's equipment are evaluated. It requires both physical and mental stamina, as well as the ability to work as a team with your horse. John explains how NATRC promotes sportsmanship, horse welfare, and education about trail riding and the environment. The organization offers clinics, seminars, and competitions for riders of all levels, from beginners to experts. He also shares tips on how to prepare for a competitive trail ride, from training your horse to packing the right gear and supplies. He highlights the importance of building a bond of trust and communication with your horse, as well as the joy of sharing the experience with fellow riders and volunteers. Whether you're looking for a new challenge or a way to connect with nature and horses, competitive trail riding is a rewarding and fulfilling sport. Listen to John Zeliff's inspiring story and join the NATRC community to start your adventure today! Links Heard on the Show NATRC on Facebook NATRC Website Join the NATRC Top Trail Virtual Online Trail Riding Challenges and Competition Join the Journey Whether you're a seasoned horse owner or just starting out, we invite you to join us on this journey. Share your challenges, triumphs, and everyday experiences with others. We believe these stories can help others in their horse journey. If you have a story, you would like to share, you can reach out to us through our Facebook or Instagram page. Alternatively, you can email [email protected] to be a part of the show. Thanks for listening. John & Ranae Episode #213 Support the Whoa Podcast with this Amazon Link. Checkout My YouTube Channel John Harrer & Horses

Mastering the Art of Colt Starting with Shawn Dunn

As a seasoned colt-starter with over three decades of experience working with horses across the country, Shawn Dunn has a unique insight into the art of colt starting. From the basics of training to the finer details of horse behavior, Shawn has seen it all and is eager to share his knowledge with others.

In this episode, we delve into the world of colt starting and learn about Shawn's approach to horse training. We also explore the importance of starting a horse off on the right foot and the long-term impact it can have on the horse's life.

The Art of Colt Starting

Colt starting is often considered an art form, requiring a special set of skills and a deep understanding of horse behavior. It is the process of taking a young horse and teaching it the basics of life under saddle.

According to Shawn, the key to successful colt starting is understanding that each horse is unique and requires a tailored approach. He believes that the earlier you start training a horse, the better off they will be in the long run.

"The best dog I ever had was the one I began training at 7 weeks old," says Shawn. "The start kids get in pre-school is so important to how they will grow up. So, why should it be any different with horses?"

Training Techniques

Shawn's approach to colt starting centers around building a strong foundation of trust and respect between horse and handler. He believes that creating a safe and secure environment for the horse is crucial for their growth and development.

One of Shawn's favorite training techniques is the use of groundwork, which he describes as "teaching the horse to understand the language of the handler." This can include simple exercises like leading, lunging, and ground driving.

By working with the horse on the ground, Shawn can establish a clear communication line and build trust with the horse before getting on its back. He believes that this approach results in a smoother and more positive riding experience for both horse and rider.

Links Heard on the Show

Shawn Dunn Facebook Shawn Dunn Instagram

Join the Journey

Whether you're a seasoned horse owner or just starting out, we invite you to join us on this journey. Share your challenges, triumphs, and everyday experiences with others. We believe these stories can help others in their horse journey.

If you have a story you would like to share, you can reach out to us through our Facebook or Instagram page. Alternatively, you can email [email protected] to be a part of the show.

Conclusion

In conclusion, colt starting is an art that requires patience, understanding, and a deep knowledge of horse behavior. Shawn Dunn is a true master of this art, and his approach to horse training has helped countless horses and riders along the way. We hope this episode has provided you with a better understanding of the world of colt starting and how Shawn approaches this important process.

Thanks for listening.

John & Ranae Episode #211 Support the Whoa Podcast with this Amazon Link. Checkout My YouTube Channel John Harrer & Horses

Josh Lyons Horsemanship

Josh Lyons grew up learning horsemanship from his dad. John Lyons was one of the first trainers I remember seeing on back in the early 2000s. I was new to horses and really did not know what I was doing. The TV show showed me there was a whole style of horsemanship that was effective and, with work and study, easy for anyone to learn.

Back in 2017, I was lucky enough to catch up and interview Josh's sister, Brandi, about her Lyons's No Limit Clinic. This year, I was working on some basic exercises, and I remembered watching John Lyons TV program, and that got me thinking about the Lyons' Horsemanship Philosophy. A little research, and email to Josh's office, and I connected with Josh.

Josh Lyons Legacy Training

As part of the Lyons legacy program, Josh is educating horse trainers in every discipline. Education is important to Josh. He wants his trainers to succeed. The Legacy program gives people the right tools to train horses. The Colorado Department of Higher Education, Private Occupational School Board, approve and regulates the Lyons Legacy Program. And, because Josh wants to give back to veterans, his Legacy program went through the stringent qualifications to qualify students for VA benefits.

Links For Josh Lyons Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/LyonsLegacy Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/joshlyonslegacy/   YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@JoshLyons Website - https://www.joshlyons.com/ Events - https://www.joshlyons.com/events/   Leave a review - https://g.page/r/CWO3YYANdMf4EBM/review Contact - [email protected]; 615-379-1056 Join Us on this Journey

We want you to be a part of the show. Tell us about your horse. Share your challenges, triumphs, or just everyday items that make horse ownership unique. Create an audio file using the memo app on your phone. Or contact me and we'll set up a time to talk on Skype or phone. Perhaps what you have to share can help someone in THEIR horse journey.

You are an enormous part of why we do a podcast. We really love getting your feedback. Please let us know your thoughts, ideas, and suggestions for the show. Email us at [email protected]

Thanks for listening.

John & Ranae Episode #210 Support the Whoa Podcast with this Amazon Link. Checkout My YouTube Channel John Harrer & Horses

 

Breakaway From Cancer

Today we are doing something a little different. Often, I get requests from someone to be on the show. They have a good book, a new piece of tack, or a good cause. There's not enough content for an entire show, but it's worthwhile information I think you's like to know. Since I'm producing a long version every other week, I thought I'd experiment with a short podcast in between. Let me know what you think.

Beth Papopnik's friend and breakaway roper, Emily, contracted cancer. It was pretty serious and, as you can imagine, stressful. Beth and her friends wanted to help. They formed a charitable foundation, Breakaway From Cancer, to help with Emily's mounting bills. After many months, Emily is on the mend and Beth and her friends saw there was a need for their charity in the equine world. They want to grow the charity and help more people.

Beth tells the story of how Breakaway From Cancer got started and what it hopes to accomplish in the future. I hope you will check it out.

Links for Breakaway From Cancer

Facebook: Breakaway From Cancer

Instagram: Breakawayfromcancer

Direct Donation link: bit.ly/3v26xzm

Website: www.breakawayfromcancer.org   Whoa Podcast Shorts

We hope to bring you these abbreviated episodes on a bi-weekly basis. They will arrive through the same feed as the regular episodes. I'd love to hear what you think of them.

Email us at [email protected]

Thanks for listening.

John & Ranae Short Episode #1 Support the Whoa Podcast with this Amazon Link. Checkout My YouTube Channel John Harrer & Horses

 

 

Horseman Jeremy Dunn

Jeremy Dunn is a horseman and rancher living south of Bakersfield. Jeremy is a horse trainer and clinician, but I don't think he likes that label much. From what I've seen, Jeremy is more of an artist than a technician as he works with horses. As part of their Horsemanship series, Johnny Flores Horsemanship is hosting a clinic with Jeremy done at their ranch, March 11, 2023, in Acton, California. On today's show, we talk about his philosophy and what you can expect from the clinic.

I met Jeremy in 2014 and the following year he encouraged me to enter The Vaquero Heritage Trainers Challenge. Little did I realize how much the trajectory of my horsemanship career would change when I started my first horse at age 60. There were more than a few challenges, and Jeremy was always available to offer advice and suggestions. But, just like he said in this interview, Jeremy wanted me and my horse to find the answers on our own. I've been to several of Jeremy's clinics and have enjoyed every one. He has a laid-back teaching style and I always leave with more than a few ideas on how to improve my horsemanship. 

Links Heard on the Show

Jeremy Dunn-Vaqueroisms Facebook

Jeremy Dunn Training and JB Cattle Company Website

Johnny Flores Horsemanship - Facebook

Johnny Flores Horsemanship

 

 

Join Us on this Journey

We want you to be a part of the show. Tell us about your horse. Share your challenges, triumphs, or just everyday items that make horse ownership unique. Create an audio file using the memo app on your phone. Or contact me and we'll set up a time to talk on Skype or phone. Perhaps what you have to share can help someone in THEIR horse journey.

You are an enormous part of why we do a podcast. We really love getting your feedback. Please let us know your thoughts, ideas, and suggestions for the show. Email us at [email protected]

Thanks for listening.

John & Ranae Episode #209 Support the Whoa Podcast with this Amazon Link. Checkout My YouTube Channel John Harrer & Horses

 

Michael Canfield Lucky Star Horsemanship

I met Michael Canfield while learning Clinton Anderson's Downunder Horsemanship Method. Before the podcast, when I was studying videos from Downunder Horsemanship, I joined the No Worries Club in 2007. Back then, the Club had various groups of NWC members around the country. We would get together and practice our horsemanship skills. Michael Canfield formed the NorCal Brumbies and we held several events practicing together. We had a few grand adventures at the Bar SZ Ranch working our horses together. Michael and I stayed friends although we lost contact when he moved to the east coast.

We still connect on social media and I noticed Michael re-activated his Lucky Star Horsemanship (New York) company. Michael holds clinics, gives demonstrations at horse expos like Equine Affaire, and even hosts his own horse expo.

It's fun and inspirational to see Michael Canfield pursue his passion for horses and teaching people. We talked about his history with horses and his horsemanship philosophy. along the way we hear stories that formed Michael's approach to horses.

Links Heard on the Show

Lucky Star Horsemanship NY Website

Lucky Star Horsemanship on Facebook

Lucky Star Horsemanship on Instagram

Lucky Star Horsemanship on YouTube

Join Us on this Journey

We want you to be a part of the show. Tell us about your horse. Share your challenges, triumphs, or just everyday items that make horse ownership unique. Create an audio file using the memo app on your phone. Or contact me and we'll set up a time to talk on Skype or phone. Perhaps what you have to share can help someone in THEIR horse journey.

You are an enormous part of why we do a podcast. We really love getting your feedback. Please let us know your thoughts, ideas, and suggestions for the show. Email us at [email protected]

Thanks for listening.

John & Ranae Episode #208 Support the Whoa Podcast with this Amazon Link. Checkout My YouTube Channel John Harrer & Horses