by Mike Major with Fran Devereux Smith
Western Horseman has released Ranch-Horse Versatility: A Winner’s Guide to Successful Rides by Mike Major with Fran Devereux Smith. A Colorado rancher, Major has claimed numerous world and national championships on his stallion Smart Whiskey Doc and continues his winning ways with a “Whiskey” daughter, Black Hope Stik. Smith, former managing editor for Western Horseman magazine, currently serves as book publishing director.
Major has developed the horsemanship expertise to be a successful rancher and competitor primarily because he draws little distinction between his show horses and ranch horses. He simply trains Major Cattle Company horses to be responsive, matter-of-fact riding partners, no matter what the job might be.
Ranch-Horse Versatility explains how successful groundwork leads to pleasant rides and a strong presentation in the versatility conformation class. Major relates a number of ways to develop a responsive, rather than a reactive, riding horse, and basic gaits and transitions are covered along with the ranch-riding class. Other chapters cover advanced maneuvers, from spins to lead changes, and how best to use these maneuvers in ranch trail, ranch cutting and working ranch-horse competition. Additional chapters discuss roping and cattle-handling basics, equipment, headgear, the ideal ranch-versatility prospect, and more.
Ranch-Horse Versatility: 8 ½ by 11 inches, 224-page paperback with full-color photographs, and sells for $23.95. To purchase a book online visit www.westernhorseman.com.
Published December 2011 Issue
The Colorado Horse Source is an independently owned and operated print and online magazine for horse owners and enthusiasts of all breeds and disciplines in Colorado and surrounding area. Our contemporary editorial columns are predominantly written by experts in the region, covering the care, training, keeping and enjoyment of horses, with an eye to the specific concerns in our region.