Michael Cooper’s journey to becoming a National Cutting Horse Association $6 million rider is a testament to perseverance, faith, and hard work. Growing up in southern Missouri without access to traditional resources or mentors, Cooper forged his path in the cutting horse world through sheer determination. Learning from his experiences and constantly striving to improve, he defied the odds to become one of the top trainers in the sport.
In this episode of The Ride, Cooper sits down with host Emily Carey to discuss his unconventional path to success. From his humble beginnings riding cutting horses as a teenager to his current status as a top trainer, Cooper reflects on the challenges that shaped him and the lessons he learned along the way. He shares insights into his training philosophy, emphasizing the importance of individualized approaches and the role of a trainer as a guide.
Cooper also delves into the mental aspect of competition, drawing on his experiences with key horses that have influenced his career. He shares the mindset that has propelled him to major victories, including his recent triumph at the 2026 NCHA Super Stakes.
