Build Your Foundation.
Choose Your Path.
Become a Well-Rounded Horseman.
Red Horse Training offers structured, levels-based Western riding education for riders ages 8+ and adults. From your first ride to the show pen, we focus on measured success through proven fundamentals and specialized training tracks.
About Red Horse Training
At Red Horse Training, we believe great riders are built on solid foundations—not shortcuts.
Located in Waddy, Kentucky, our year-round facility features an attached indoor arena, outdoor sand arena, and roundpen designed for serious skill development. Founded by Caitlin, former Miss Rodeo Kentucky 2018 and University of Kentucky graduate with over 15 years of coaching experience, Red Horse Training has evolved from rodeo-focused programming to comprehensive Western horsemanship education.
Our Philosophy
We don't just teach you to ride—we teach you to become a well-rounded horseman. Every rider progresses through our structured levels program, mastering core Western riding fundamentals before specializing in advanced disciplines.
Our Levels Program
Foundation First
How It Works
Red Horse Training's signature Levels Program ensures every rider builds the skills, confidence, and horsemanship knowledge needed for long-term success. Available for Academy riders (ages 8+) and adults, our comprehensive progression system tracks both unmounted horsemanship and mounted skills at every stage.
Riders advance through six progressive levels—from foundational lunge line work to advanced all-around horsemanship. Each level includes specific benchmarks in safety, horse care, tack management, riding position, gait control, pattern work, and independence. You'll know exactly what you've mastered and what's next.
Unmounted Horsemanship
Learn proper grooming, tacking, equipment care, arena etiquette, and horse health awareness. We believe great riders understand their equine partners from the ground up.
Mounted Skills
Progress from balanced position and basic steering to lope proficiency, lead changes, advanced patterns, and the ability to adapt to different horses with confidence and control.
Specialized Tracks
Once you reach Level 3-4, you'll choose from seven specialized training tracks to pursue your personal goals—whether that's precision horsemanship, speed events, cow work, or roping.
Our Levels Program isn't just about riding—it's about becoming a complete horseman with the knowledge, skills, and confidence to succeed in any Western discipline.
Specialized Training Tracks
Once riders reach Level 3-4, they choose from seven specialized tracks to develop advanced skills and pursue personal goals
Western Horsemanship Pattern Work
Precision, position, and partnership through technical patterns that showcase rider skill and horse responsiveness.
Western Showmanship (In-Hand)
Master ground work, presentation, and communication with your equine partner from the ground.
Ranch Riding
Develop practical, working ranch horse skills with an emphasis on versatility, responsiveness, and smooth transitions.
Reining
Learn the artistry of sliding stops, spins, and precise circles in this exciting, athletic discipline.
Barrel Racing & Speed Events
Build speed, agility, and control while developing competitive edge in timed events.
Cow & Flag Work
Hone instinct, timing, and precision working cattle or flag obstacles.
Roping
Develop coordination, timing, and horsemanship through foundational roping skills.
Programs & Services
Multiple pathways to meet you where you are
Academy Lessons (Ages 8+ and Adults)
Structured lessons on our quality lesson horses. Progress through our Levels Program at your own pace with personalized instruction. No horse ownership required—we provide everything you need to learn and compete.
Pee Wee Program (Ages 2-7)
Gentle introduction to horses for our youngest riders. Age-appropriate curriculum focused on safety, confidence, and fun.
YEDA Catch-Ride Show Team
Compete without owning a horse! Our YEDA Catch-Ride Team is open to riders at any level (typically once group-lesson ready) and showcases true riding ability on our trained lesson horses. Perfect for students who want competitive experience in a supportive team environment.
Full Training Program
For riders who board their horses at Red Horse Training, we offer comprehensive training and showing with AQHA, ARHA, and NRHA in Kentucky, Ohio, Illinois, and Tennessee. Develop your partnership and compete at regional and national levels with expert coaching and full-service care.
Haul-In Training
Bring your own horse for focused training sessions. Choose from 1-hour private lessons or 2-hour style clinics tailored to your goals—whether you're preparing for a show, refining a skill, or working through a challenge.
Monthly Unmounted Horsemanship Clinics
Offered once per month for two hours, these clinics focus on essential unmounted skills including grooming, tacking, horse care, safety, and horsemanship knowledge. Open to Academy riders and adults in our Levels Program.
Why Red Horse Training?
What sets us apart
Structured Progression
Our Levels Program ensures you build skills in the right order, creating confident, capable riders who understand the 'why' behind every cue.
Lesson Horses Provided
Quality, well-trained horses available for lessons and competition. No need to own a horse to learn or show.
Personalized Instruction
Small group lessons and private sessions tailored to your goals, whether recreational or competitive.
Year-Round Facility
Attached indoor arena, outdoor sand arena, and roundpen mean consistent training in every season.
Experienced Coaching
Over 15 years of coaching experience with a proven track record from local to national competition.
Multiple Pathways
From catch-ride showing to full training programs, we meet you where you are and support your unique horsemanship journey.
What Our Riders Say
Real stories from our Red Horse family
"I've tried out numerous riding instructors over the past several years and my experience at Red Horse has been well above and beyond the others. The impact Caitlin has had on my horsemanship ability and my comfort level in the last six months has been more than I could've possibly hoped for. Caitlin cares about her horses and her students. If you really want to learn and be better, this is the place."
— Sydney C.
"I found Red Horse Training looking for Western lessons for adults so I could get more comfortable around horses. While taking my lessons I noticed Caitlin would slowly add responsibilities for her students—care and grooming of the horses, helping other students get their horses ready. The confidence and knowledge that her students had was really impressive. This is definitely not a show up, jump on, ride then leave program. After a month of me riding, I signed my daughter up. She's now on the Red Horse Training Rodeo team competing in Little Britches and the IEA team for Horsemanship and Ranch Riding. Highly recommend!"
— Justin O.
"An amazing riding camp! You made a forever Western Rider! I appreciate all your safety measures and the welcoming environment. We will definitely be back!"
— Dina E.
Ready to Start Your Journey?
Whether you're brand new to horses or ready to refine advanced skills, Red Horse Training has a program for you.
Location
1995 Hickory Ridge Road
Waddy, Kentucky 40076
Minutes from Louisville, Lexington & Harrodsburg
Hours
SundayClosed
MondayClosed
Tuesday2:00 PM – 6:00 PM
Wednesday2:00 PM – 6:00 PM
Thursday2:00 PM – 6:00 PM
Friday1:00 PM – 6:00 PM
Saturday10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Book Your Evaluation Lesson
Ready to get started? Book your first lesson online through our scheduling system.
Book Online NowHave Questions?
Not sure which program is right for you? Send us a message and we'll help you find the perfect fit.