Kody Ward highlights the importance of gate work in the ranch sorting pen, explaining how much “draw” exists within the gate. He demonstrates how to work it like a “V” in the middle, showing how to position and guide the horse effectively. This lesson gives riders the tools to handle one of the most critical areas of the sorting pen with confidence and control.
Up Next in Sorting Smart with Kody Ward
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Working on Transitions on a 4-Year-Old
Kody Ward works with a 4-year-old horse on improving transitions during dry work. Ward wants the horse to trot or lope off, stop, back-up and then have a smooth turnaraound which is a big move in the ranch sorting pen. He focuses on keeping the horse collected and responsive while breaking down s...
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Flag Work on Ranch Sorting Horses
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 impo...
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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.
