COLT STARTING

A Colt Starting 3-Day Clinic was held at the Stovall Ranch in Wilton, California, October 10 - 12, 2006, with 6 colts and their owners. The following is typical of this type of clinic:

DAY 1:

	Class room started 9:00 AM to plan the next 3 days. We developed a class outline, based on requests and insight from the horse owners. We discussed each student's goals.
	We started with round pen. Movement, Direction and Connection.
	Colts were introduced to ropes and flag work.
	Next went halter work. The six steps of a correct circle were practiced.
	Also intro to saddles.
	More ground work and flag work. Also taught them to come to the fence and worked above them. Day 2
	Repeat Day One exercises, adding on to that foundation and going deeper with the skills and understanding.
	We also worked on hobbling skills.
	Hoof trimming was also done on a couple of youngsters.
	These owners wanted to do all. This group had a lot to bring to this class and had a good start from home.
	All were mounted and rode in halters. Day 3
	Started in round pen
	Quickly moved to an outside pasture. This provided a great lesson on separation and outside control. All handlers did outstanding.
	Back to the round pen
	All colts were ridden and did good. Bridles were used and snaffle bits were used. One student got bucked off the last part of day 3. Over all everything went well with no injuries. It was a great class.