Our Combined Training Program is individualized for each horse and each owner and is based on trust, confidence and good communication between the trainer/coach, the horse and the owner. Through our Combined Training Program you have the opportunity to acquire all of the skills necessary to have your horse perform as well for you as he does for us. We encourage active participation by the owner in all aspects of their horse's training.

"Spook Proofing Clinic for TTPA Members"
Hank, Jack Kickirillo & Dakota

Your horse will learn to stand quietly in cross ties for clipping, tacking up, bathing and farrier work, load, haul and unload easily and tie to the trailer. They will be comfortable and confident on the trail, crossing mud, creeks and bridges, and meeting bicycles, motorized vehicles and dogs. Through training in the company of experienced horses they gain confidence in leading, following and passing on the trail. We strongly believe in cross-training, i.e. our trail and endurance horses are trained in the basics for either reining or dressage and horses being started for the show ring receive time on the trail. Correct arena work is invaluable for promoting balance and correct carriage necessary for long-term soundness in endurance competition. Whether your horse enters the show ring or is ridden on the trail, they need to be responsive and exhibit trust and confidence in their rider.

The first time horse owner will learn horsemanship from the ground up, including nutrition, grooming, lunging, tacking up and caring for their horse on overnight camping trips. You will learn simple, gentle methods for establishing yourself as a dominant, trusted leader in your equine partnership. Your confidence will increase as you gain a balanced, centered seat perfect for the trail, how to post the correct diagonal and the proper cues for canter leads and lateral movements. You will also learn how to handle a refusal or major spook with confidence.

Our endurance students learn how to pace their horses, save time in vet checks and strategize during a ride. But most importantly, to read and listen to their horse, to know when he is tired, dehydrated, or just not feeling his best. You need to acquire a good feel for your horse's gaits so that you can detect a minor lameness, before it becomes serious and before you arrive at the vet check. We will also help you plan a good nutrition and conditioning program, unique for your horse, to help the two of you realize your potential while keeping your horse healthy and sound for many years.

TRAINERS

Hank and BA Bearcat  
Photo by Ardell

Hank and Selena Copeland have each worked with horses for over 30 years. Hank grew up on a cattle ranch in Alabama riding Morgan horses. In later years his passion turned to Arabians and showing Country English Pleasure. After training and showing Country English Pleasure horses on the Class A circuit for 15 years, he refocused on endurance riding. Endurance riding offers the opportunity to not only compete in a timed rather than a judged event, but to see miles and miles of beautiful scenery in our National and State Parks. Hanks career as an Army Officer and 10 years coaching children's sports has given him a strong base of skills to instill confidence in both his horses and his students to help them overcome their fears and become the best they can be. He also never loses sight of the fact that having fun, being safe and always learning are the cornerstones of his program. Hank also believes in building athletic horses that last - his personal horse, American Xpress was still winning 50-mile AERC competitions at the age of 18.

Selena & Warrior
Blue Bonnet Endurance Ride 2002 IAHA Region IX Championship Top 5

Photo by Ardell

Selena Copeland has an Animal Science degree with advanced courses in Equine Nutrition, Genetics, and Reproduction. She is also a trail advocate. She was instrumental in establishing Trinity Trail Preservation Association, the non-profit association that built and maintains the 9-mile Lake Lavon Equestrian Trail, serving on the Board of Directors for 6 years in various positions, including President and Trail Steward. She enjoys riding the trails on a fast horse and the training it takes to get there. Selena is very proud of her first endurance horse, Sioux Warrior who placed Top Five in the 50-mile Region IX Championship and was 8th Lightweight at the AERC 50-mile National Championship in 2002.

Selena Copeland riding DA Propane,
her current endurance horse.

FACILITY

A small facility with 14 stalls, where each horse receives special attention.

Daily pasture turn-out, weather permitting.

Indoor 60' diameter round pen.

100' x 200' lighted outdoor arena

We also train at equestrian trails on Lake Lavon, Lake Ray Roberts, and the LBJ National Grasslands.