2024 Colt Starting Workshops

Colt starting is my passion - there is nothing more rewarding than seeing the confidence and knowledge of a colt grow, while building a solid relationship with that horse.

I want to share that with you!

This 4 month workshop is designed for YOU to start your own colt so that you can create that valuable relationship with your horse, and save thousands by not sending your horse off to a trainer for this process.

Each of the 4 workshops are structured so that you and your colt learn the process and practice onsite with Abbie.

You’ll then continue what you’ve practiced with homework in between workshops. Don’t worry, everything will be written down and you’ll go home with easy to follow homework and check lists.

In the last workshop, Abbie will assist you with the first rides on your colt!

Abbie will also check in weekly to see how things are progressing with your colt, and make sure you have any questions answered.

Week One : June 27 : 3-7 PM

This first workshop we will cover:

  • handling of your colt’s feet and being comfortable with touch

  • leading equally well on both sides and in new environments

  • addressing any existing dangerous behaviors and what tools to use to keep you and your colt safe

  • identifying stress signals for your horse and how to help him through them during the starting process

  • beginning stages of obstacle work

  • in hand transitions

  • basic yields (HQ, FQ, backing, and lowering the head)

  • starting the sending and longing process

Week 2 : July 18 : 4-8 PM

The second workshop with you and your colt will cover:

  • acceptance of tack including bit, surcingle, saddle, and long lines

  • additional obstacle work

  • learning to pony from an older horse (you may bring an additional seasoned horse if you have one, otherwise, we will use my horses)

  • we will utilize our trails and get your colt into the forest for some of the session

  • teaching the “come to the mounting block” trick for mounting

  • teaching beginning bit cues from the ground

Week 3 : August 15 : 4-8 PM

The third workshop with you and your colt will cover:

  • ground driving

  • additional obstacle work

  • ground driving through obstacles and on trails

  • working through transitions, and changes of direction on the long lines

  • teaching a “ground tie” trick

  • for colts that are ready - we will start to introduce weight

Week 4 : September 26 : 4-8 PM

The final week of the colt starting workshop we will assist you in making the first “rides'“ on your colt!

  • We will also work on additional obstacle work and finessing any cues that you would like help with.

  • If your colt isn’t old enough for a rider, we will continue to work on long lines, obstacle work, and you can watch how we work through the first rides with others in the group. You are welcome to come back when your colt is ready to carry a rider and I will assist in the first rides at that time.

  • After the completion of the program, Abbie will continue to check in through October as you continue your colt’s progress.

Cost of Program: $800

  • $200 deposit holds your spot

  • Additional payments of $200 on June 27, July 18, and August 15