what we do

Honest horsemanship

Our goal at Sonny Martin Cutting Horses is to use the common sense approach. Keeping everything simple for both the rider and the horse. We try not to over complicate things so both the horse and the rider can give it their all with clear and focused minds. We don’t sell hype or hide flaws; we develop real, honest performance horses that are trained correctly and prepared to last.

When you choose Martin, you’re choosing transparency, no short cuts, and earned results.

FUNDAMENTALS

STAMINA

Cow work

show readiness

the fundamentals

Every great performance horse starts broke and confident.


At this stage, we focus on:

  • Softness in the face and body
  • Correct stops, turns, and rate
  • A calm, willing mind

Before a horse ever cuts a cow, they must understand their job under saddle.  A solid handle allows the rider to stay out of the way when it’s time to let the horse work.

Stamina &

Body Control

Once the foundation is there, you build the athlete.


This stage develops:

  • Core strength and hind-end engagement
  • Lateral movement and body control
  • Correct posture and self-carriage
  • Ability to stay balanced under pressure


Cow Work &

Natural Ability

This is where instinct meets training.

Here we develop:

  • Reading cattle and holding the line
  • Proper position and timing
  • Control without restriction
  • Confidence working a cow

The goal isn’t to force a move—it’s to develop the horse’s natural cow sense while keeping them honest, correct, and willing.


Show Readiness

This is where winners are made.

Here we focus on:

  • Handling pressure and unfamiliar cattle
  • Staying focused in the herd and the pen
  • Consistency from run to run
  • Trusting their training when it counts

A finished cutting horse is confident, honest, and dependable—able to walk into any pen and do their job.


We will get back to you as soon as we're done in the barn!

We would love to hear from you and answer any questions you may have!

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