Ranch Sorting

Ranch Sorting

Ranch sorting is a competitive sport that tests teamwork, horsemanship, and cattle-handling skills in a fast-paced, fun environment. The game involves two riders working together to sort a group of numbered cattle into a designated pen in numerical order, all within a set time limit. Typically held in an arena divided into two pens, ranch sorting requires precision, communication, and quick decision-making as riders guide the cattle through a gate without disrupting the sequence or allowing any cattle to escape. The sport celebrates traditional ranching techniques while providing a challenging yet accessible activity for riders of all skill levels.

The Ranch Sorting National Championships (RSNC) is an organization dedicated to promoting the sport of ranch sorting, a fun and family-friendly Western equine activity that combines horsemanship, teamwork, and competitive spirit. RSNC provides opportunities for riders of all skill levels, from beginners to professionals, to participate in events that celebrate ranching traditions and the Western lifestyle. With a focus on creating a welcoming and inclusive community, RSNC hosts competitions nationwide, fostering connections among riders and preserving the heritage of ranch sorting.

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Ranch Sorting
  • The 9-Week Sorting Drill Guide Workbook

    2.8 MB

    Level up your ranch sorting game with this focused 9-week program designed to sharpen your skills, boost your confidence, and prepare you for any pen or cattle challenge. From beginner basics to situational drills and mental prep, this guide breaks down each step with expert-backed drills to keep...

  • Mental Game Q&A

    Logan Wolfe answers mental toughness questions that will help you in the ranch sorting pen.

  • Handling Tough Cattle

    Logan Wolfe walks through another scenario with challenging cattle in the pen. His key advice? Don’t hesitate. In ranch sorting, hesitation leads to mistakes—staying decisive and reading the herd quickly is what keeps runs smooth.

  • Situational Sorting

    Preparation is key before entering the pen. Logan Wolfe shares how “situational sorting” can help you anticipate cattle behavior—whether you're first out or watching others go before you. Knowing how the herd reacts gives you an advantage before you sort.

  • Drill for Confidence in the Gate

    Also known as the “V” Drill with cattle, this exercise is all about building confidence. Logan focuses on clear, intentional communication with his horse to help them stay calm this high-pressure spot in the sorting pen.

  • Ranch Sorting Drills With Cattle

    Logan Wolfe brings it all together—demonstrating previous drills in the ranch sorting pen with cattle. Watch as he explains how each drill translates to real competition scenarios and walks through his personal approach to preparing for a run.

  • The "V" Drill

    This drill is also called the rollback drill. This drill helps keep your horse's shoulder up and help your horse make big moves in the ranch sorting gate.

  • Rate Down Drill & Shadow Sorting

    Speed control is essential in the ranch sorting pen—and this drill makes it simple. Logan Wolfe walks you through an easy, effective exercise you can practice at home to help you gain control of your horse’s speed.

  • Ranch Sorting Drills Without Cattle

    Logan Wolfe demonstrates essential drills to help you gain complete control of your horse—from head to hips—while maintaining full collection. Perfect for ranch sorters, these exercises can be done at home without cattle, helping you and your horse stay sharp and connected in the saddle.

  • The Ultimate Ranch Sorting Series Workbook

    10.9 MB

    Welcome to The Ultimate Ranch Sorting Series Workbook, led by RSNC director, Logan Wolfe. Learn from one of the best in the business in this step-by-step guide to ranch sorting.

  • Introduction to RSNC Membership

    Logan Wolfe and Tanner Sperle of the Cinch Ranch Sorting National Championships sit down to explain the different levels of membership offered by the RSNC. Membership with RSNC connects riders to one of the fastest-growing equine sports, where both beginners and seasoned riders can compete, learn...

  • Introduction to Ranch Sorting

    Ranch Sorting National Championships Executive Director Logan Wolfe goes over the basics of the RSNC. In this video you'll learn more about the association, how you can get involved, what the rules are of ranch sorting, and how a rider is ranked.

  • The 5 Basic Rules of Ranch Sorting

    Logan Wolfe goes over the five basics of ranch sorting to help prepare first-time competitors for a ranch sorting competition.

  • The Rules of Ranch Sorting

    Logan Wolfe breaks down the rules of ranch sorting and does a quick demonstration of the event with a rider who is newer to the sport.

  • Ranch Sorting Tack and Gear Recommendations

    While ranch sorting does not have certain tack and gear requirements to participate, Logan Wolfe tells you what he recommends having to allow your horse to have the best time possible at his first ranch sorting.

  • Working the Gate

    Logan Wolfe demonstrates how to work the gate during a ranch sorting and explains why it is the hardest part of a ranch sorting event.

  • Ranch Sorting Warm Up

    In this warm-up we show you a few different drills you can do before working cattle to ensure your horse is tuned up and ready to work cattle.

  • Learning How to Read Cattle

    Understanding how to read a cow can be the difference between winning a ranch sorting event and being a participant. Logan Wolfe breaks down the basics of understanding a cow and how you can practice reading a cow at home.

  • What Are Ranch Hand Classes?

    Learn more about ranch hand classes and how they are beneficial for riders who are new to the sport of ranch sorting.

  • Introducing a Green Horse to Ranch Sorting

    Logan Wolfe works with a rider who has a horse that's new to cattle and ranch sorting. Learn how you can safely introduce your horse to the sport.

  • Beginner Ranch Sorting Run

    Logan Wolfe coaches two beginner ranch sorters in a timed ranch sorting run and shows you what a beginner ranch sorting class might look like.

  • Ranch Sorting Western Heritage Class

    The Western Heritage class is an event designed for riders who like to compete at a slower rate of speed. Logan Wolfe demonstrates what that event might look like.

  • Introducing Your Horse to Cattle and Ranch Sorting

    Logan Wolfe goes over the basics of introducing a horse to cattle so that your horse is comfortable being around them and working them in a timed event.

  • Ranch Sorting Timed Runs

    Logan Wolfe has different teams practice ranch sorting runs to showcase the different events and what top performances look like.