- February 7, 2025
- ⎯ Devin Conley
Ranch sorting is exploding in popularity across the country, and it’s designed for all levels of riders to enjoy. Join Cinch RSNC Event Director, Logan Wolfe, as he teaches his top five rules for ranch sorting.
Wolfe, a Ride TV coach, will demonstrate the basics that will help you learn the sport and set yourself up for success.
1. Have Fun!
One of the most important things you should know about ranch sorting, is that it’s supposed to be fun! Wolfe encourages contestants to come to an event and see the atmosphere, and how the competition, although stiff, is friendly and welcoming. Ranch sorting is for everyone, no matter your background or skill level!
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Watch the full video lesson.
2. Put Your Cow on the Wall
Use the wall to your advantage. “The fence is never going to let you down. It’s your most reliable partner. And if it does let you down, most of the time you get a re-ride. You want to isolate your cow on the fence, this will make it easy for the gate person to roll the trash cattle away, and let the good cow come out.”
Watch the full video lesson.
3. Make Sure Your Cow is the Last Cow
Be aware of what’s behind the cow you’re sorting. “If you’re sorting off #7, you don’t want a bad cow trailing the #7 cow that you’re bringing out. You don’t want to bring a sandwich of “good cow, bad cow” to the gate. This makes it difficult for the gate person to stop them and work the gate effectively.”
Watch the full video lesson.
4. Stay Out of the No-Go Zone
“Stay out of the top corner of the sorting pen. There is an area at the back of the pen where you don’t want to be if you’re trying to control your cow. If you’re chasing the cow, and in the no-go zone, you aren’t controlling your cow. You’re chasing it. Stay out of this area to make sure you are controlling your cow.” “To stay out of this area, counter-arc away to maintain distance between you and the cow. Distance equals control, the further away you are, the more control you have.”
Watch the full video lesson.
5. Keep Your Horse’s Hips Facing the Gate
When you’re working the gate, stay alert and aware. “You always want to stay facing the cattle. This helps you move your horse in the most effective way to stop all the cattle. Many times people move their horse in a way that gets them out position in the gate.” “Fix this by keeping your hips in the hole.”
Watch the full video lesson.
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