2025 Young Guns Challenge
3 day Colt Starting Challenge
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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.
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.
Event Info
Want in on an unforgettable weekend at Rocking Heart Ranch?
General Admission – $50 + $1.95 Booking Fee + GST
Our General Admission ticket is your pass to three full days of excitement, inspiration, and incredible horsemanship — all with guaranteed seating so you won’t miss a moment!
Here’s what your General Admission ticket includes:
✅ Guaranteed Seating – Your spot is saved for all three days, so you can relax and enjoy every demonstration, clinic, and special moment without the stress of searching for a seat.
🌾 Access to the Full Event Experience – Take in the sights, sounds, and energy of the ranch while watching top trainers in action, connecting with fellow horse lovers, and soaking up the atmosphere.
Ready to elevate your weekend at Rocking Heart Ranch?
VIP Experience – $150 + $1.95 Booking Fee + GST
Our VIP Tickets are your all-access pass to the best experience we have to offer — and trust us, you don’t want to miss this.
Here’s what you get as a VIP:
🌟 Preferred Seating – Enjoy unobstructed views of all the action from the best seats in the house.
☕ Refreshments & Snacks – Stay fueled with complimentary coffee, water, and light snacks throughout the event.
🐴 Private Herd Tour – On Saturday night, go behind the scenes with an exclusive tour of the Rocking Heart Ranch Herd — a rare and unforgettable experience.
🤝 Trainer Meet & Greet – Kick off your weekend on Friday night with a private meet and greet with the Trainers. Ask questions, snap a few photos, and hear their stories firsthand. These VIP perks are designed to make your weekend extra special — personal, comfortable, and unforgettable. Tickets are limited, and this VIP experience will sell out fast.
🎟️ Grab yours now and make the most of your time at the ranch!
Accommodation Options
Rocking Heart Ranch is located adjacent to Waterton Lakes National Park and only 40 minutes South East of Pincher Creek. To help guests arriving for Young Guns there are several options for where you can lay your head at night. They range from “roughing it” to “luxury” so see below and pick the best one for you!
Roughing It!
- Bring your rig and park it at the ranch. We will have spots in our pasture for you to be able to park your camper, trailer, living quarters or pitch a tent. Just be advised that all of the camping is un-serviced, may not be 100% level, but you will be right here for all the action. On site we have a shower, washroom, and there will be several portable toilets as well for you to access. To book your spot, register through our Ride N Relax. We do have some spots for horses as well if you want to come a day early or stay a day later and ride the Rockies.
Level Up!
- Aspen Village Inn is located in Waterton Lakes National Park and is only 15 minutes away. It is a cozy place to stay and close to restaurants and the amenities that Waterton is known for.
- Double Queen Rooms for $212 per night
- Deluxe King Rooms with Fireplace $212 per night
- To book your room visit https://www.aspenvillageinn.com/ and input the group code RHRYGC first before you click “Check Dates” or call 403-859-2150
- Ramada Pincher Creek is located approximately 40 minutes away but has a waterslide and is close to Walmart in Pincher Creek as well as Boston Pizza and other restaurants.
- Two Queen Bedrooms for $179 per night
- To book your room call 403-627-3777
Luxury
- Bayshore Inn and Spa- this is the premier hotel in Waterton and the views and amenities will not disappoint! There is a dining room, coffee shop, and the iconic Thirsty Bear Social House for you to dine at.
- Marina View Rooms are $309/night.
- To book your luxurious accommodations call 1-888-527-9555
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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