As both an exhibitor and a judge for AQHA, APHA, and NSBA, Steve Meadows knows exactly what makes a ranch riding run stand out. Whether you’re stepping into the pen for the first time or polishing for the next big show, these insights from Meadows can help you catch the judge’s eye. 

If you want to catch a judge’s attention in the ranch riding pen, keep these key points in mind: 

Purposeful Movement 

“Your horse needs to look like he’s got a job to do. Every step has purpose.” 
Don’t just go through the motions—ride forward with intent, like you’re working on a real ranch. 

Cadence and Flow 

“I’m looking for a horse that’s consistent in its cadence, that can flow through a pattern without looking choppy or hesitant.”  
Smooth transitions and a steady rhythm show polish and preparation. 

Correctness First, Style Second 

“If it’s not correct, it doesn’t matter how fancy it looks. Correctness is always the first priority when I’m judging.”  
Straight lines, accurate transitions, and clean maneuvers form the foundation before style or flair can shine. 

Willing, Relaxed Expression 

“I want to see a horse that looks like it enjoys its job—ears forward, soft in the bridle, not resentful.”  
Judges reward a horse that looks confident and willing, not tense or over-schooled. 

Authenticity to the Ranch Horse Purpose 

“These maneuvers are based on what a ranch horse really does—ground-covering walks, extended trots, a lope you can ride all day.”  
Keep movements functional and natural, reflecting what’s useful in ranch work, not just show pen flash. 

For more tips from Steve Meadows, listen to his episode of The Ride Podcast