rachael rowden of fulton, mo

It Takes Time & Training To Perfect Horse Cutting Tricks & Techniques, Rachael Rowden Says

Farmers in need of space for their horses to stretch their legs require a ranch. That’s because a ranch provides the sprawling footprint for equestrian activities such as longeing, ground driving, bitting and more. Few know this better than Rachael Rowden, whose Bella Star Ranch has been the proving ground for cutting horses. When we talk about training for horses, those raised for the sport of cutting require intensive lessons that will teach the animals how to work a herd. In this article, we’ll shed some more light on cutting, how a ranch is the perfect place for these lessons to be taught and how Rachael Rowden has seen award-winning recognition in this sector. 

Rachael Rowden standing by stables at Bella Star Ranch

According to HorseAndRider.com, the best way to find out if horse cutting is for you is watch local entry-level events. “It’s important to note the differences between the big dogs and the novice riders. Only watching world-show competitors will likely leave you feeling overwhelmed and discouraged,” the article states. Finding a “qualified” trainer who knows the ropes of the sport would be a wise next step, as these individuals are often well-versed in National Cutting Horse Association (NCHA) rules and regulations. Also near the top of the list is obtaining a horse that’s fit for cutting. According to the article, it’s best to buy a horse that “suits your riding abilities — don’t buy a high-energy horse if you’re rusty on your skills or are a green or timid rider.” This rings true to Rachael Rowden, who won the 2010 Grand National Lim-Flex Heifer, in Denver. She has also bred and raised cutting horses and seed stock is all over the country. 

The next question is about where these cutting lessons can – and should – be taught. As the article points out, the fine-tuned movements that take place during a cutting competition cannot be taught “backyard pasture or on hard ground.” Thus, the right arena will very likely be found on a ranch and Rachael Rowden has long advocated for pairing up with professional facilities. Bella Star Ranch, in Fulton, Missouri, was established in 2005. In the decade-plus since, beautiful stables and pens that are perfect for cutting training have taken hold. If you’re not in the Missouri area and still want to work with individuals like Rachael Rowden for cutting, we’ll point back to the first tip: Watch beginner events. This is a sport that’s athletic, exciting and helps to form a deep bond with the horses themselves.