In this episode of The Money Barrel, Canadian standout Taylor Cherry breaks down the foundation behind her horse program and how she’s built consistent success across futurities and rodeos
Cherry shares how growing up on ranch horses shaped her approach to training, forcing her to learn how to make horses instead of relying on high-end prospects. That background still influences how she evaluates horses today, prioritizing athleticism, movement, and feel over pedigree alone.
She walks through her young horse program in detail, including why she introduces pressure early, how she teaches speed control before ever adding barrels, and the role groundwork and round pen work play in developing responsive, confident horses. Cherry also explains how she approaches common training setbacks, emphasizing that confusion—not attitude—is often the root of problems, and how stepping back can help move a horse forward.
The conversation also covers her strategy for exhibitions, transitioning futurity horses into the rodeo environment, and how she keeps finished horses sharp through a mix of slow work and high-intensity training. She discusses the importance of preventative vet care and maintaining horses as athletes to extend their longevity.
On the competition side, Cherry shares her mindset approach, staying level and avoiding overthinking, along with how preparation at home translates to consistency in high-pressure situations.
The episode also touches on the growth of futurities and incentives in Canada, how that’s impacting breeders and competitors, and how Cherry balances those opportunities with her long-term goal of building solid, lasting horses.
Presented by A Cut Above Buckles
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