Kody Ward works “Old Yeller” on the flag, teaching him to frame up and follow the cow’s movements. Ward explains that a ranch sorting horse almost needs to be a cutting horse first, and he demonstrates how flag work helps prepare a horse to “do what the cow does.” This session highlights the importance of timing, positioning, and responsiveness before stepping into live cattle work.
Up Next in Sorting Smart with Kody Ward
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Drill For Stiffness
Kody Ward explains the bit he’s using to address stiffness in this horse and why it suits her needs. He then demonstrates a drill designed to improve her overall body shape, encouraging softness, balance, and better responsiveness to the rider’s hands.
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Dry Work on a Dull Gelding
Kody Ward demonstrates a simple yet effective drill for a dull gelding, focusing on getting him to move his feet and stay responsive. By encouraging more energy and reaction, Ward shows how to sharpen a horse’s attentiveness and prepare him for better performance in the sorting pen.
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Flag Work on a 4-Year-Old
Kody Ward demonstrates how to use the flag to simulate movements in the sorting pen with a more seasoned 4-year-old horse. Before working live cattle, Ward shows how incorporating flag work helps sharpen timing, control, and responsiveness—building a horse’s confidence and preparing them for real...
