"There is a lot of opportunity for people to participate," Steve Jones, Extension Horse Specialist and Associate Professor at the University of Arkansas said of the University’s Horsemanship School held May 14-16, 2009. The school is trying to serve people wanting to learn how to start their colts under a saddle for the first time or those with some riding experience wanting to develop their skills further. Steve said he realized to handle that many colts at the same time; he would have to have several round pens and individual instructors. Steve limits the class to between 12 and 14 riders and unlimited non-riders each year.
"Basically, we have one group where we need to train the rider. Another group we will train the horse,” Steve said. Class members fill out a survey at the beginning of the class. Steve and the other instructors put the riders through some riding exercises after performing a tack check. Steve and the other instructors then evaluate the class based on the surveys and individual riders' level of performance. They then plan the framework of riding exercises and specific subjects they want to address for the rest of the class. “Every class takes on a different personality depending upon the horse, rider combinations,” Steve said. Steve has had several people take the class multiple times. “I hope that means something we said was right,” Steve said.
Ellen May of Winslow, Ark., is trying to be more involved with horse activities. She also wanted guidance and more confidence with her horses. Participant Arnold Harp of Highfill, Ark., has a new horse to train. Arnold said, “There is just a whole lot to it you just don’t know.”
Josey Humbert-Sabo of Fayetteville, Ark., wanted to learn about different approaches to training.
Steve brings in three instructors each year. “We each may work in different ways but, we tend to have the same philosophies. We aren’t trying to teach in two different ways,” Steve said. “We know we can get along.”
Each instructor has his own unique abilities. Jonathan Carpenter, Jimmy Atwell and Carl Pepper joined Steve again to help with this year’s class.
“Jonathan Carpenter from Circle C Ranch in Blackwell, Ark., shows horses. They start two-year-olds every day. Jonathan is an excellent choice for someone to be on my team,” Steve said.
“Jimmy Atwell is a certified farrier, has a training business, specializes in problem horses, starts show horses and does a lot of work with mules. He can teach horses to drive.”
Earl Pepper is the Livestock Director for the Arkansas Department of Corrections. “The Arkansas Department of Corrections is the largest cattle farming operation in the state of Arkansas. They have the largest horse farm in the state of Arkansas with 750 head of horses. They mount 150 to 175 riders a day for security,” Steve said.
"I’m trying to teach the new rider to handle the horse and that if the horse is comfortable and happy he will take care of you," Steve said.
For more information on the University of Arkansas Horsemanship programs call your local extension office.
