In the Saddle and In Sync: Building a Connection That Shows Up in the Arena
- afenner
- Jul 2
- 2 min read
We’ve all seen it — that one team who seems to flow together. The horse that moves like it’s reading the rider’s mind. The rider who hardly has to move, just rides, and it all clicks.
That kind of connection doesn’t happen by accident. At Rad Rodeo, we believe it’s built — quietly, daily, intentionally. And when it shows up in the arena? It’s pure magic.
Because winning runs aren’t just made of speed. They’re made of trust.
It Starts on the Ground
Before you ever swing a leg over, you’re teaching the horse something:
How you approach them sets the tone.
How you handle pressure, frustration, or fear sets an example.
Your energy becomes their expectation.
We take time bonding, leading, and talking to our horses — yes, talking — because relationships are built before results.
Training Is a Conversation
We don’t believe in domination or breaking. We believe in partnership.
That means every ride is a dialogue:
Are they listening? Are we?
Are we building confidence or just drilling mechanics?
Do they understand the ask before we correct?
We’ve learned that when we ride with feel — not just force — our horses learn faster and stay happier.
Consistency Creates Connection
Our horses know what to expect from us. We keep things consistent:
Routines for saddling, warming up, and cooling down.
Language they understand
Corrections that are fair and timely.
That consistency builds security. And a secure horse will give you everything it has.
Moments That Matter Most
Connection shows up in the little things:
When your horse enters the alley without fear.
When they feel a slight shift and respond before you even ask.
When a hard day doesn’t break the bond.
We’ve had runs where the clock didn’t impress, but the teamwork gave us chills. Those are the ones we never forget.
Final Thoughts
In sync isn’t something you chase — it’s something you build.
At Rad Rodeo, we ride for more than speed. We ride for partnership. For trust. For that quiet click when everything lines up.
Because when you and your horse are truly connected, you’re not just competing — you’re living.
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Ann-Marie Fenner
Ranch Manager, Breeder, Rodeo Mom
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