From Futurity to Forever: Choosing Horses That Last
- afenner
- Jun 28
- 2 min read
Fast is flashy. Futurity wins make headlines. But at Rad Rodeo, we’ve learned to look beyond the instant gratification when picking and producing horses.
Because the horses that last — the ones who stay sound, stay sane, and keep showing up season after season — those are the real champions in our book.
In a world that chases instant results, we’ve built our program around longevity. Around sound minds, strong bodies, and the kind of heart you can’t train into one. We’re not just picking winners. We’re building legacies.
Longevity Starts with Good Bone and Better Brains
We love pretty. We love fast. But none of that matters if a horse can’t hold up or stay focused.
When we evaluate a prospect or pick a cross for breeding, we ask:
Will this horse still be sound at 10, 15, 20?
Does it have a mind that can handle hauling, pressure, and travel?
Can we count on this one for the long haul?
We’ve learned that bone, structure, and disposition will outlast talent if that talent burns out in three years.
We Pick for the Long Game
In futurities, the pressure is to get a horse ready now. But just because they can run doesn’t mean they should.
We let our horses tell us when they’re ready. And sometimes, the best ones are the slow starters who come into themselves at 6,7 or even 8 — and stay solid into their late teens or twenties.
A strong foundation means we’re not patching holes later. It means confidence, consistency, and a horse who loves the job.
Versatility Matters
We value horses that can do more than one job:
A barrel horse that also runs poles or you can swing a rope off of.
A rope horse that "babysits" the kids.
A broodmare that’s earned her keep in the arena.
Versatile horses tend to be happier horses. And that mental variety keeps them fresh and more balanced long-term.
The Right Horse Grows with You
Our favorite horses aren’t the ones who won the most early. They’re the ones who grew with us — who adapted as our goals changed.
Whether it’s stepping down for a younger rider, becoming a buddy, or simply joining our broodmare herd — the horses we love most are the ones that stick.
That’s not just breeding. It’s a legacy.
Final Thoughts
At Rad Rodeo, we don’t build for the next six months — we build for the next six years.
Because flashy is fun, but consistency wins in the long run.
So when we choose a horse, we’re not just asking, “Can it win?”
We’re asking, “Will it stay?”
Because the greatest gift a horse can give us isn’t just a fast time — it’s a lifetime.
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Ann-Marie Fenner
Ranch Manager, Breeder, Rodeo Mom
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