[Expressa]

I have been training my own barrel horses for 16yrs now (since I was 5) but I've never trained for anyone else. I just didn't have the time and people thought I was too young to trust me w/ the responsibility of their horse, etc... Well, all of the sudden in the last week that has changed. Some people that are good friends of the family just bought their 12yr old son a nice big roping horse that was also lightly started on barrels. Their son is too afraid of the horse (not the horse's fault... he's a great horse but is 16hh and thats huge to a little boy) to actually let it run and what not, so they feel the horse has more talent then what their son is allowing it to show. They have asked me to help them finish out training the horse and have offered to pay my entry fees if I will run it for them in local shows and jackpots and whatever I win (if I do) I get to keep. I also had a man approach me at a show last Thurs night and said he was looking for a barrel trainer and someone sent him my way (I have no clue who). Well, he is wanting me to help him out on starting to train his 3yr old On The Money Red stud horse. And last, my mother ran into a long time friend of the family who just bought another horse who ended up being a little too spirited for he and his wife and asked if I would mind if he sent the horse to stay w/ me so I could ride him and work on his reining and start him on barrels. He also said if I ended up liking the horse I could compete on him if I wanted. Plus, my gelding off the track is coming along great and should be completely finished by next spring.
I am so excited about all these new doors that are opening in my life and just thought I'd share my joys w/ yall. Along w/ this and starting Dental Hygiene school my life is truely being blessed.

[Blistering Winds]

Awesome!!! Just remember, set your "business" up so you are legal, and make sure you don't take too many on at once. Just a few this year, then as you get better at running the training, then go for the whole shebang!!

Also, if you take money, even entry fee's, you are considered a professional!! And cannot run Amature in any association. So be careful and ready.

[Expressa]

BW thanks for the tips. I'm not as worried about all the little stuff as much right now b/c everyone so far are long time friends of the family (my mother barrel raced w/ them back in the 60s and 70s). My mother also use to get payed to train barrel horses so she's giving me tips and advice. I will not do more than 2 maybe 3 for the time being though b/c my off the track gelding is getting most of my attention at the moment.

I do appreciate all your tips and advice and will listen to any you have to give. Thanks for the support and help.

[cowgurly02]

Wow that's awesome Expressa!! I think you'll do great with them, good luck!