At Barnes Ranch, we want you and your horse to learn in a relaxed, supportive, positive environment. Riding students in the western discipline can choose to participate in the CHA lesson format that provides information and skills in a sequential manner within four skill levels. This learning approach is beneficial to riders who want a strong foundation on which to build increasing skills. A 4-level composite manual is available. When the rider shows a proficiency of each skill that comprises a level, the rider receives a certificate of completion.

Skill-specific and general lessons are also provided. The rider has the choice of bringing his/her own horse or using a school horse at no extra cost. Sometimes it is helpful to ride a school horse and be able to concentrate on the rider's skills. Then, the rider can introduce the new skill(s) to his/her horse in a more confident, competent manner.

A Riding Evaluation lesson is available with a written checklist. The completed checklist can form a "customized lesson plan" for skill-building and improvement.

Lessons can include: Balance Control Use of Natural Aids Application of Appropriate Cues Safety Maneuvers

For entry-level riders, the lessons begin with an understanding of how to safely control the horse from the ground, how to groom and tack the horse correctly, how to mount/dismount, seat position, use of natural aids (voice, balance, legs, hands) and quality use of cues for the walk, trot, lope, turns and stops.

For riders with confidence issues and/or fears, Gerrie holds an MA in Counseling and can assist you in regaining your confidence and overcoming your fears. Her process involves an understanding of your personal experiences, establishing goals within your comfort zone and safely helping you meet those goals.

Specialty Lessons Include:

• Performance Riding
• Foundation Maneuvers
• Private & Group Cattle Lessons: Basic and advanced cattle control
• Working Cow Horse, Reined Cow Horse & Ranch Cutting
• Beginning & Advanced Roping Lessons

Our Versatility Ranch Horse - Skill-Building Programs are designed with small-group, inexpensive clinics covering the range of VRH skills needed for the AQHA, NVRHA, and ASHA VRH classes: Ranch Riding, Ranch Pleasure, Ranch Trail, Reining, Working Ranch Horse, Ranch Cutting, and Conformation classes.

The Rookie VRH Skill Building Program assists riders from different disciplines and events to transition to the multi-skilled event of Versatility Ranch Horse. Rules, maneuvers and skills, and specific ranch horse association patterns are discussed and practiced. Questions are encouraged. The instructors understand that many riders and horses have not ridden with the type of lateral movement that is used in cattle work. . . and that many horses (and riders) are unfamiliar with roping and speed. Safety is a primary focus along with small steps and big smiles.

The Intermediate-Plus VRH Skill Building Program is different from the rookie program in that the riders and horses are now comfortable with the rules, patterns, and general information relating to VRH. The riders and horses should have an average level of competency with performance riding and the foundation maneuvers. Fewer questions and more work. Safety is still a primary focus.

Private VRH lessons can be arranged for more focused, individual work for rider and horse.

Fees Private lessons are encouraged to allow complete focus on the rider. However, semi-private and group lessons are available. Private Lessons (with or without a school horse) = $50 per hour Semiprivate and Group Lessons = number of riders split the hourly rate Lessons including cattle= additional $25 cattle charge per head used