2025 Young Guns Challenge
3 day Colt Starting Challenge

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The Young 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

Amy Nelson

Merry Legs Equine

Originally raised on a cattle farm in Central Alberta, I now reside Canmore, Alberta, where there are plenty of opportunities to raise and train the perfect mountain horse. With a focus on horsemanship and relationship with the horse, I has been successful in helping people get back on track with their young horses. I love to travel throughout North America and Europe to expand my knowledge by seeking out other like minded trainers; swapping ideas and training tips, then meshing them into my own program. I am an active member of the Bow Valley Riding Association and Trail Riding Alberta Conference.

Jason Skoog

Foundations Professional Equine

Jay Skoog is a horse trainer, farrier, and CHA-certified coach based east of Warner, Alberta, where he lives with his wife Amber and their two children, Ty and Alora. Raised on the very farm they now call home, his early years were full of speed, adventure, and a love for riding—though his true journey into horsemanship began after meeting Amber and her horse-savvy family. Since starting his first horse in 2004, he’s developed a deep passion for thoughtful training, specializing in restarts, problem-solving, and helping horses grow into trusted partners. In 2019, he and Amber began offering equine-assisted learning and coaching, blending horsemanship, riding skills, and personal growth.

Craig Block

Silver Ridge Horses

I grew up in southwest Saskatchewan and was raised around horses. At 15, I broke my first horse and from that moment, I realized that horse training was my life’s passion. The reason I train horse’s, is because of my desire for giving horses a purpose and opportunities for a great life. I love taking a horse that needs a second chance, and bringing them into a relationship of mutual trust and respect. My wife and I started our business, “Silver Ridge Horses” two years ago. Our goal is to train horses with a firm foundation of trust and to give them experiences that set them up for success in any discipline. I strive to meet each horse where they’re at, learn their language, as well as form an amazing bond between horse and rider.

Shelby Tosh

Sonium Horsemanship

Growing up in BC, Shelby discovered her passion for horses at age 9, and riding quickly became a central part of her life. Fueled by a commitment to continuous learning she dedicates herself to being a life-long student of the horse, regularly refining her riding, horsemanship, and training skills. She approaches horsemanship and training with a well-rounded philosophy, focusing not only on the technical aspects of riding but on building relationships. Based on her South Okanagan farm, she runs a program emphasizing the importance of understanding the horse's psychology and biomechanics. Her journey is a testament to the power of dreams, perseverance, and true partnership between horse and rider.

Braden Bernier

Bernier Equine Services

Braden and his wife Kelsie own a ranch in Saskatchewan, where he trains horses and provides various equine services. He took a job starting colts for a well-respected trainer at 15, he then started riding outside horses. Braden rode community pasture, started colts, attended horseshoeing school and achieved his Bachelor of Education. Having horses interwoven into his life instilled an unwavering passion to help horses find their greatest success. His focus when working with horses is to ensure horses can take on any task at their best. Getting one confident and willing to demonstrate “try” is Braden’s main goal with the horse. He believes the horse needs to be allowed to search to find the right answer in their own way and find their release in the effort. Braden takes pride in giving horses a skill set for a productive future no matter their discipline.

Matt Kitchen

Rocking K Ranch -Alternate

In Beaverdell, BC, Matt and his wife raise their two children while ranching and offering custom cattle services. Matt's keen interest in holistic management guides his approach for the land and animals. His horsemanship, influenced by mentors, clinicians, and a commitment to lifelong learning, has organically expanded his horse business through word-of-mouth, driven by his ability to establish a strong foundation in horses by moving them beyond the arena into a practical working situations. He has begun breeding his good ranch mares on popular cow horse studs and is looking forward to growing them alongside his business.

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). The People's Choice winner will also receive an award.

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

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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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2025 Young Guns Challenge3 day Colt Starting Challenge