If you’re ready for a challenge and lots of fun, this event is for you. Put on your cowboy hat and and join in. This fast-growing, fun-filled western event provides an opportunity for riders from different disciplines, skill sets, ages, breeds and levels of experience.

Barnes Ranch has a program designed to introduce you to VRH in a step-by-step manner.

In VRH, the same rider and horse compete in either four or five classes – depending upon the VRH association. Some things in common are an emphasis on good horsemanship, preserving the western traditions and culture, and classes that highlight the versatility of the ranch horse.

• NVRHA & AQHA: Ranch Riding, Ranch Trail, Ranch Cutting, Working Ranch Horse, and Conformation.
• ASHA and its Colorado affiliate, CoWN Stock Horse Association: Ranch Pleasure, Ranch Trail, Reining, Working Ranch Horse

What if I’ve never worked with cattle or roped before. . . and neither has my horse? Not a problem. NVRHA, ASHA, and AQHA all have Novice Divisions that modify the rules for riders new to this event. The “Boxing ONLY” Working Ranch Horse class does not require you to rope or go down the fence to turn the cow. Once you have moved up to the Intermediate or Amateur Divisions, you will be more confident and ready to rope and go down the fence. Whatever skill you’d like to add to your existing skills, our VRH Skill-Building Program provides small-group, inexpensive clinics and practices with a focus on safety and step-by-step learning.

How long does it take to learn this event?

For most participants the learning curve is straight up, since there can be quite a few skills to add. Depending upon how the event is learned and how adaptive the rider and horse are, two years are commonly spent putting all the pieces together to perform adequately.

What is the best way to learn this event?

Barnes Ranch has developed a sequential, skill-building program for entry-level riders interested in participating in the Versatility Ranch Horse event – starting with the Introduction to VRH 3-day Clinic. This introductory clinic can assist you in forming your own “Lesson Plan” for approaching this multi-skilled event.

Following the introductory clinic, you arrange for private, semi-private, or small group lessons that help you progress faster toward your own VRH goals.

Barnes Ranch provides the information and instruction in a safe, professional, supportive environment.

If you are an intermediate or advanced rider, we can help you improve and refine your VRH skills with customized lessons. You decide whether you’d like to bring along a friend or small group, or have the entire time and focus on you and your horse.

You may also wish to watch and listen to a 2009 in-depth interview with Versatility Ranch Horse experts, Jeff and Gerrie Barnes.

"The Barnes Ranch VRH Skill-Building program instills confidence and the desire to succeed. You and your horse are never asked to do anything with which you may be uncomfortable. And, it's always fun!" -- Birgit Berry

"When I purchased my horse last year, I was told that he would make a good VRH horse. Being new to the sport, and just getting back into riding, I thought it would be fun but wasn't sure how much it would take. That's when I met Gerrie and Jeff. They not only made the clinics fun, but I came away with something new learned each time." -- Ann Dennis

"I did not think my horse could be a 'cow' horse. You both helped me to understand the VRH classes. I had so much fun with my horse, and I look forward to coming back to practice."--Jackie R.