Build a Solid Foundation in Sorting Horses with Big Gate Rollbacks
This tried-and-true tip from half-million-dollar ranch sorter Joel Lesh proves that doing the right work at home can make all the difference on show day.
Whether your new ranch sorting horse is coming from the cutting pen or reined cow horse world, the right introduction to the gate can set the tone for long term success. Cinch RSNC half-million-dollar rider, trainer and producer Joel Lesh shares his go-to drill for building power, precision and cow-readiness—right from the start.
Purpose: To teach young or new-to-sorting horses how to move with power and control across the gate, while reinforcing responsiveness and confidence in the pen.
You’ll Need:
Two panels (or poles) to simulate a sorting gate
A flat dirt area with safe footing
A helper if available, to reset panels or observe position
Step 1: Set the Stage
Don’t just mimic a 12-foot gate at home. Joel recommends going bigger. Set your panels 16 feet apart to teach your horse to make a longer move across the gate and build up his rollback strength.
“Teach your horse to make those bigger jumps across there, and it’ll make you more successful whenever you come to a show,” Lesh said.
Step 2: Build Muscle Memory
After walking your horse through the setup a few times, begin working rollbacks across the gate. Look for a clean stop, a tight rollback and a strong, collected push across to the other side. Vary directions to build balance and strength on both sides.
Step 3: Develop the Handle
Coming from cutting or cow horse disciplines, your horse may have cow sense but not the kind of handle sorting demands. Use this drill to build a more refined connection with your hands and legs.
Step 4: Match the Horse’s Talent with Rider Growth
Today, it’s more common to see novice riders mounted on open-caliber horses—a positive shift in the industry that can accelerate progress, as long as you’re putting in the right kind of work.
That means lessons, clinics and time studying video—anything that helps refine your timing and accuracy to match the talent under you.
“We’re a hands-on sport,” Lesh explained. “I believe that we’ve evolved a lot. We’ve upped horsepower in this industry, and it’s nice to see.”
Final Thoughts
The gate is where sorting runs are won or lost. By training at home with this expanded rollback drill, you’re preparing your horse for real success in competition, and creating a more focused, connected partner.
