Flag Work on Ranch Sorting Horses
Sorting Smart with Kody Ward
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12m
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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Warm Up Session on a 4-Year-Old
This talented mare, who earned money as a 3-year-old in cutting, is now transitioning into a ranch sorting career. Kody Ward demonstrates how he warms her up, focusing on responsiveness, body control, and setting the foundation for success in the sorting pen.
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Teaching Your Horse to Work a Cow
After flag work, Kody Ward takes the next step by working a horse on a live cow. He focuses on shadowing the cow—just like on the flag—before moving into the sorting pen. This exercise helps the horse build confidence, improve timing, and make a smooth transition from dry work to real cattle.
