Patricia wins KSC colt-starting challenge

Patricia Ruff of Ruff’s Ranch in Poulsbo wins the 1^stannual KSC horse starting challenge in Port Orchard, held on August 4^th & 5^{th  2007}

3 horse trainers were challenged to work with offspring of the stallion “American Commander” in round pens, side by side, using humane techniques of training to educate and start a young horse under saddle in only 4 hours total; 2 hours on Saturday and 2 hours on Sunday, where after each trainer had to demonstrate riding the assigned horse through an obstacle course in a full size arena. The event is similar to nationally acclaimed competitions like ”road to the horse” or “mane event”

 “I first thought “what do I get myself into” when asked for this event, because starting young horses generally takes at least a month or two under ‘normal’ circumstances and colt starting is not really my specialty. I felt honored for being asked and trusted that being a student of the horse for so long, I would be able to do it, although this could put my credibility and reputation as a horse trainer on the line.” “I got along great with my 3 year old paint gelding ‘Danny’. At first he was very worried, but the bonding happened quickly between us by using Natural Horsemanship techniques. As we went along I was able to slowly expose this young horse to all kinds of stimula. The obstacle course which was held secret the first day, included  trotting the horse over wood poles on the ground and a small jump, crossing over a plastic tarp and a bridge, backing the horse,  turn on the forehand and haunches, and pick up and carry along a rain slicker.Any equestrian will agree that this is a big task, if not impossible, in such a small time frame under this amount pressure in an unfamiliar environment.The key is to stay safe and not force or harm the horse, but get the horse to trust you as his partner and leader and follow your directions with confidence.” 

Patricia Ruff scored  most points assigned by a judge for the obstacle course and also got most votes from the audience for her skills and gentle horse handling techniques. 

“I was very pleased with my results on both days and after the obstacle course. I planted some really good seeds in this horses mind so he never failed me, and that was the biggest reward for me. It was a great experience, pushing myself beyond the limits. I’m proud to wear the trophy belt buckle I was awarded. I would like to take the opportunity to thank the organization and all the volunteers that made it a success. I have decided to donate my proceeds from the event to Kitsap Saddle Club as my appreciation for all they’ve done.” 

 The Kitsap Saddle Club and volunteers, including the host of this event Rena of Cedar Crest Stables have worked hard for months to provide a new and educational event for the horse community, so they need your support. Spectators had a great time, there was a lot of food for thought and a lot of good food for the tummy,  a variety of vendors, and all tree trainers donated over a total $ 500 in door prizes and each gave a complimentary riding demonstration. Patricia demonstrated reining, a discipline she’s passionate about. The audience was very involved as they had a vote in who was to win the competition and could see a variety of side by side horse training and take home a lot of ideas. If you couldn’t make it this year, you don’t want to miss it again next year!