137. A Spin in the Ranch Pen with Brooke Dixon

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In this engaging episode of the On The Rail Podcast, Brooke Dixon shares her journey into the world of ranch horse training. Join us as we explore Brooke's roots, her training philosophy, and the evolution of her business with Clint Thomas at DG Ranch in Gunner, Texas.

Brooke's Beginnings in Horses

Raised in Delaware, Brooke was immersed in the horse world at a young age. With a father who is a self-taught horse trainer, Brooke's early experiences were steeped in the traditions of horse training, allowing her to develop a keen understanding of horses. This background helped cultivate her dedication and passion for the industry, leading her to embrace a unique approach to training and coaching.

Influences and Training Philosophy

Brooke's approach to training horses emphasizes understanding the individuality of each horse. Her father's influence taught her the importance of patience and true training. Brooke discusses how her focus on horses' mental processes allows her to tailor her methods, leading to confident, well-rounded horses. She believes in slowing down and meeting horses where they are, a strategy that ensures thorough understanding and consistency.

The Journey with Clint and DG Ranch

After moving to Texas in 2022, Brooke and Clint Thomas merged their operations at the impressive DG Ranch, focusing on building a robust program around Ranch Riding. Situated on 5,000 acres with state-of-the-art facilities, their business is crafted to not only train top-tier show horses but also offer a versatile ranch experience.

Client Relationships and Communication

Brooke places significant emphasis on communication with clients. Her firsthand experience of being on the client side gave her valuable insights. Brooke highlights the importance of updates, be it a picture or a message, to keep clients in the loop, ultimately improving the client-trainer relationship.

The Evolution of Ranch

Ranch has evolved, becoming a highly specialized discipline. Brooke shares her excitement about its versatility, appreciating how it crafts well-rounded horses that are functional both in the arena and on the trail. With the ranch trail showcasing creativity, these events continue to push the boundaries, challenging both horse and trainer.

Challenges and Takeaways

Addressing the challenges faced in her training career, Brooke acknowledges that not all horses fit every program. Recognizing this early can prevent unnecessary frustration. Her advice to aspiring trainers and equestrians is to manage expectations and embrace the journey without overwhelming pressure.

Looking Forward

As Brooke and Clint continue to build their brand, their focus remains on hitting major shows like the Paint World and expanding into Cow Work events. With a solid foundation and a conducive environment at DG Ranch, Clint + Brooke Performance Horses sees the future looks promising for their growing team.

Conclusion

From her early days in Delaware to her thriving business in Texas, Brooke Dixon’s journey exemplifies a commitment to excellence and adaptability. Her story is a testament to the evolving world of ranch horse training, and it inspires others in the industry to approach each day with curiosity, patience, and a willingness to learn. For those interested in following Brooke and Clint's journey, visit their Facebook page, Clint + Brook Performance Horses, or reach out to Brooke Dixon personally. Their next chapter promises further growth and innovation in the ever-expanding realm of ranch horses.

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