Congratulations to Our Newly Certified Colt Starters

1021_01

Each year, our Method Ambassadors have the opportunity to take their horsemanship to the next level through our annual Colt Starting Certification Clinic. This year’s group rose to the challenge!

The 2025 Colt Starting Clinic, taught by Professional Clinician Jeff Davis, brought together a group of horsemen committed to refining their skills and continuing their growth under the Downunder Horsemanship Method. Over 10 days of hands-on instruction, the Ambassadors worked through every stage of starting a young horse—from gaining a colt’s trust on the ground to confidently putting the first rides on under saddle.

Colt starting is one of the truest tests of a horseman’s ability, requiring feel, timing, patience and an unshakable understanding of the horse’s mindset. Jeff guided the participants through the process with his signature clarity and experience, helping each ambassador deepen their understanding of how to build a solid foundation in every colt they work with.

We’re incredibly proud of our ambassadors for stepping up to this challenge. Their passion for learning and their drive to become the best horsemen they can be are at the heart of what Downunder Horsemanship stands for. This certification is more than just a milestone—it’s a reflection of their commitment to the Method and to improving the lives of the horses they work with.

Earning Five Stars
Method Ambassador Jim Anderson – Ozark, AR Earning Four Stars

Earning Four Stars
Method Ambassador Ken Trahan – Springfield, MO

Earning Three Stars
Method Ambassador Lindsay Merritt – Minto, ND
Method Ambassador Serena Bowman – Farmington, AR

Earning Two Stars
Method Ambassador Anjellica Katzing – Sedalia, MO
Method Ambassador Kaylee Rice – Vaiden, MS

Earning Their First Star
Method Ambassador Trent Burch – Louisburg, KS
Method Ambassador Maddison Burkhart – Farmington, AR
Method Ambassador Morgan Foster – Farmington, AR
Method Ambassador Rachel Johnk – Iva, SC
Method Ambassador Jessica Shepherd – Mountainburg, AR
Method Ambassador Mindy Vance – Hayden, ID

Learn more about all of our Method Ambassadors and see their upcoming schedule of events on our website.

More News

Back to all news

See All
1209_Tip

4 months ago

Training Tip: Getting a Lazy Horse to Move

Naturally laid-back horses make great partners, especially for beginner riders. However, those horses tend to be on the lazy side…

Read More
0205_Tip

7 years ago

Ask Clinton: Building Trust With a Horse After a Riding Accident

Q: Since I fell off him, my horse and I have been having trust issues. He has become really spooky….

Read More
FILES2f20162f052f0503_08.jpg.jpg

10 years ago

The Danger of Ascarids in Foals

By Merck Animal Health While all intestinal parasites are concerning, one of the most lethal threatens horses during their first…

Read More
0725_01

9 years ago

Colt Starters: Get a Free Hackamore

If you missed the television show “An Overview of Starting a Colt” that aired on RFD-TV in July, the hour-long…

Read More