Whether you are competing at a Cinch RSNC event or practicing at home, there are five important rules that every ranch sorter should follow.
Rule 1: Have Fun
Ranch sorting is meant to be enjoyable—for you, your horse, and your team. It’s not just about competing, but also about riding with like-minded people who share a love for cattle, horses, and the western lifestyle. When riders are too tense, they tend to make mistakes. Staying relaxed and having fun improves your timing, keeps your horse loose, and ensures clear decision-making throughout the run.
Rule 2: Put Your Cow on the Wall
When isolating your cow, the fence should be your best friend. The wall is a reliable boundary that never quits, drifts, or makes mistakes. Keeping your cow on the fence allows the gate person to direct trash cattle to the inside, creating a clear path for the correct cow to exit. If your cow drifts in the middle, the gate person has to work harder and waste valuable time.
Rule 3: Make Sure Your Cow Is the Last Cow
Avoid bringing “sandwiches” (bad cow, good cow, bad cow) to the gate. If another cow is following your target cow, the gate person cannot safely let the good one out. Cattle tend to follow each other, so it’s crucial to cut off the followers and ensure your cow arrives alone. Having zero trash cattle at the gate makes the process smoother and faster.
Rule 4: Stay Out of the No-Go Zone
Avoid riding in the top corners of the sorting pen, known as the no-go zone. Chasing cows in that area means you are not in control. By staying towards the center of the pen and maintaining distance, you can have better control over the cattle.
Rule 5: Keep Your Horse’s Hips in the Hole
For the gate person, it is essential to keep your horse’s hips facing the gate. This position allows for efficient and controlled movements, preventing bad cattle from entering. Focus on making tight turns to maintain better position and react faster during the sorting process.