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Horsemanship is not just a skill; it’s a way of life. We are passionate about sharing the vital horsemanship skills that are the backbone of our operation. Join us for an unforgettable experience that will bring you closer to your trusted equine partner and closer to the heart of the 6666 Ranch.
6666 Ranch Horsemanship Clinic
Join us for an unforgettable experience at the 6666 Ranch Horsemanship Clinic. Set against the backdrop of the legendary 6666 Ranch, this three-day clinic promises to be an extraordinary journey to better your horsemanship skills and develop the feel necessary to take your riding to a new level. Led by Four Sixes Ranch General Manager Joe Leathers and assisted by our experienced 6666 Ranch Cowboys, participants will gain invaluable insights into horsemanship and develop a feel, all while immersed in the rich heritage of this iconic ranch.
Please note that participants’ horses must have a minimum of 90 days under saddle, as this clinic is not geared toward colt starting. A sound and willing horse is crucial to your personal growth as a horseman and to fostering a positive learning environment for all participants.
You will be treated to hearty breakfasts and delicious lunches served right at the ranch. RV hookups are available for added convenience, or you can choose from a list of local hotels just a short drive away. With your evenings free, you’ll be able to explore nearby dining options just a short drive from the ranch for dinner. During your stay at the 6666 Ranch, you’ll have the opportunity to stall your horse on-site in the same barns that have stood many of the horse industry’s greats.
Whether you join us with your horse or as an auditor, prepare for full days of riding from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., with a midday break for lunch. Auditors are welcome to participate for the entire clinic or choose daily access, which includes both breakfast and lunch as well.
Come ready to absorb the wisdom of these great horsemen and take in the breathtaking views of the ranch. With countless hours in the saddle, Joe and our 6666 Ranch cowboys are ready to share their unparalleled expertise. Don’t miss this opportunity to enrich your horsemanship skills while enjoying the iconic Four Sixes Ranch.
Handy Horsemanship
Born 1958, Joe Leathers has been horseback working for some of the largest ranches in Texas. Starting and finishing hundreds of horses and working with different cowboys has given Joe a unique perspective of not only horses but horsemen.
Joe believes that a good horseman is someone who has a program, but has the ability to change that program to be able to get into the horse’s mind and not just control his body. The ability to break down and control the different body parts of a horse is imperative to creating a handy horse. This includes “without resistance” the head, neck, shoulders, ribs and hip. A Handy Horse becomes a partner that moves freely and willingly to accomplish any job you wish to perform.
Developing Feel
There are a lot of people who know how to start a horse and put a foundation on that horse, but many do not understand how to take that foundation and build on it to make what Joe calls a “handy horse”. Building on that foundation takes “feel” from the rider, and the message being received creates willing responses from the horse to accomplish the job that is placed before him.
Joe says that it is very hard to teach feel. Feel is something that has to be experienced. Once you experience feel, it creates a “WOW moment” in the rider’s abilities and allows them to accomplish anything imaginable with their horse. No matter what discipline you use your horse in or what job you have to do, once you’re in the horse’s mind and he’s moving freely and willingly then he needs a job to do in order to apply what you both are learning.
What attendees are saying
Participants offer testimonials about their experiences working with Four Sixes’ Ranch Manager Joe Leathers at a recent clinic in Kentucky.