Young Guns 2026

After a great inaugural event, Horse Expo Canada and Rocking Heart Ranch are excited to announce that this event is a go for 2026! If you are an aspiring trainer or know someone who is, please encourage them to apply!

​What is the challenge? The Young Guns Colt Starting Challenge is a partnership between Horse Expo Canada and Rocking Heart Ranch. It is an opportunity for the next generation of horse trainers to compete in a 3-day Colt Starting Event to build experience and their profile. The winner of the challenge will be invited to move up the ranks and be a trainer at the 2026 Horse Expo Trainer’s Challenge.

Where and when is the challenge? The challenge will take place on September 11-13th at Rocking Heart Ranch which is located by Waterton Lakes National Park. Tickets on sale on June 1st, 2026 via HorseExpo.ca

What type of Horses? The horses that will be used in the challenge are long two-year-old registered American Quarter Horses from Rocking Heart Ranch. Their bloodlines include some of the great foundational quarter horse breeding like Blue Valentine, Two Eyed Jack, Play Gun, and Peppy San. All horses have been halter broke and through our weanling challenge so they have been handled since they were young and are mentally and physically ready for their next level in training. Horses will be randomly drawn by the contestants.

Challenge Format: The challenge will consist of several round pen sessions for each trainer and wrap up on Sunday with a course of required elements. Two independent judges will judge the event and declare the winner.

Trainer Application Requirements: Though the competition is called Young Guns, it is open to any adult (regardless of age) who has been training for a minimum of 3-5 years and has started at least 10+ horses. The winning trainer will be awarded a spot to compete in the Trainer’s Challenge at Horse Expo, 2027. View our 2025 Catalogue for full event information

Want in on an unforgettable weekend at Rocking Heart Ranch?

General Admission

Our General Admission ticket is your pass to three full days of excitement, inspiration, and incredible horsemanship — all with guaranteed seating so you won’t miss a moment!

Here’s what your General Admission ticket includes:

✅ Guaranteed Seating – Your spot is saved for all three days, so you can relax and enjoy every demonstration, clinic, and special moment without the stress of searching for a seat.

🌾 Access to the Full Event Experience – Take in the sights, sounds, and energy of the ranch while watching top trainers in action, connecting with fellow horse lovers, and soaking up the atmosphere.

Ready to elevate your weekend at Rocking Heart Ranch?

VIP Experience

Our VIP Tickets are your all-access pass to the best experience we have to offer — and trust us, you don’t want to miss this.

Here’s what you get as a VIP:

🌟 Preferred Seating – Enjoy unobstructed views of all the action from the best seats in the house.

☕ Refreshments & Snacks – Stay fueled with complimentary coffee, water, and light snacks throughout the event.

🐴 Private Herd Tour – On Saturday night, go behind the scenes with an exclusive tour of the Rocking Heart Ranch Herd — a rare and unforgettable experience.

🤝 Trainer Meet & Greet – Kick off your weekend on Friday night with a private meet and greet with the Trainers. Ask questions, snap a few photos, and hear their stories firsthand. These VIP perks are designed to make your weekend extra special — personal, comfortable, and unforgettable. Tickets are limited, and this VIP experience will sell out fast.

🎟️ Grab yours now and make the most of your time at the ranch!

Accommodation Options

Come stay with us for the weekend to watch the trainers take on this challenge at the Rocking Heart Ranch!

Bring your trailer and enjoy onsite camping for $40/night. Camping is unserviced, but guests do have access to the barn, including bathrooms, showers, and a 24-hour loo.

Want to bring your horse too? Horses are welcome to stay as part of our Ride and Relax experience.

To reserve your spot, please email rockingheartranch@gmail.com to register.

NOTICE: PHOTOGRAPHY & FILMING At Young Guns Colt Starting

By entering the event, you understand that photography, audio, and video recording may occur.

By attending, you give Horse Expo Canada and its partners the right to record, use, and publish your image, likeness, and voice in any format (photo, video, digital) for promotional, commercial, and editorial purposes, without compensation.

This includes use in social media, advertising, broadcasts, and future event promotions.

If you are accompanying a minor, you are deemed to provide consent on their behalf.

By entering, you waive any rights to inspect or approve the use of these materials and release the organizers from any related liability.

If you do not consent, please speak with an event staff member before entering.