Apply by March 1, 2025

Watch Sept 26-28, 2025

The Youngs Guns Colt Starting Challenge is a partnership between Horse Expo Canada and Rocking Heart Ranch. It is an opportunity being offered for the next generation of horse trainers to compete in a 3-day Colt Starting Event to build experience and their profile. The winner of the challenge will be invited to move up the ranks and be a trainer at the 2026 Horse Expo Trainer’s Challenge.

Where & When?

The challenge will take place on September 26-28th, 2025 at Rocking Heart Ranch which is located by Waterton Lakes National Park.

Who can apply?

Trainers who are building their business are invited to apply. We are not looking for the big names, but those that have started their business and are ready to move up to the next level. A maximum of five (5) trainers will be accepted for the challenge.

Applicants:

must be 18 years of age or older.
have prior colt starting experience with multiple starts under their belt and a business established
provide videos and refences.
have an online footprint and be dedicated to growing it.

Trainers will be accepted into the challenge after the Garner family has reviewed all applications. Application can be found at www.RockingHeartRanchLtd.com and will be accepted until March 1, 2025. The lucky competitors who are chosen will be invited to the 2025 Horse Expo to be introduced prior to the Trainer’s Challenge Finale, so you must be available to attend.

Why enter?

You can compete in the challenge to promote your talents while securing a chance to compete in the Trainer’s Challenge at Horse Expo 2026. Each trainer will be given a chance to promote their horse training business to the people attending as well as be connected through social media. We are also offering a cash prize for the top 3 winners. Grand Champion ($1,000), Reserve Champion ($750) and Runner up ($500). A prize for People’s Choice will also be given and will be tack.

What type of Horses?

The horses that will be used in the challenge are long two-year-old registered American Quarter Horses from Rocking Heart Ranch. Their bloodlines include some of the great foundational quarter horse breeding like Blue Valentine, Two Eyed Jack, Play Gun, and Peppy San. All horses have been halter broke and through our weanling challenge so they have been handled since they were young and are mentally and physically ready for their next level in training. Horses will be randomly drawn by the contestants.

How do I apply?

If you are interested in being a part of this great event, please fill out an application form online at www.RockingHeartRanchLtd.com and send in a video with footage showing you training and telling us a bit about your methods. The video can be emailed to rhrcoltstartingchallenge@gmail.com. The deadline for entry is by March 1, 2025 at midnight.

Challenge Format

The challenge will consist of several round pen sessions for each trainer and wrap up on Sunday with a course of required elements. Two independent judges will judge the event and declare the winner. More details on timing of sessions will be released closer to the date.

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About Rocking Heart Ranch

Rocking Heart Ranch is located in the Southwest corner of Alberta adjacent to Waterton Lakes National Park. Started generations ago in Saskatchewan, the ranch has evolved over the years from having a team of horses to deliver rural mail and some horses to round up cattle on the mixed operation to the ranch of today that focuses on raising and breeding all around versatile American Quarter Horses. We breed the type of horses that we used regularly out on the cattle ranch that could also be fun on a trail ride or head to the arena for some extra action.

In addition to raising foundational bloodlines like Blue Valentine, the ranch is an equine center that hosts clinicians from all avenues of horsemanship as well as a “Ride N’ Relax” where you can dry camp and explore Waterton Lakes National Park with your horse. We have also branched into providing an outdoor venue for weddings with Rocking Heart Romance where you can say your vows overlooking the Rocky Mountains. Please stop by our booth and talk to us about how we can have you and your partner (equine or human) out for a grand adventure.

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