The Road to the Horse Retreat, held May 8–10 at The Ranch at NRS in Decatur, Texas, proved to be an outstanding success, bringing together passionate riders for an immersive weekend of horsemanship, confidence-building, and hands-on learning. Participants had the rare opportunity to ride alongside Road to the Horse 2006 World Champion Stacy Westfall and Road to the Horse 2026 Championship Competitor Ryan Rose, gaining invaluable insight from two of the industry’s most respected equestrians.
Throughout the weekend, riders focused on obstacle work and practical challenges designed to strengthen communication, improve responsiveness, and build lasting trust between horse and rider. From foundational skills to advanced problem-solving, the retreat emphasized both the mental and physical aspects of horsemanship. Attendees left with greater confidence, stronger partnerships, and practical tools they can carry forward in their everyday riding.
“The level of dedication and growth we saw over the retreat was incredible,” said Tammy Sronce, Road to the Horse Director of Operations. “Seeing Stacy and Ryan working side by side was a unique and powerful experience, and it truly embodies what Road to the Horse is all about—inspiring riders to reach a higher level of horsemanship.”
A highlight of the weekend was the Road to the Horse Retreat Obstacle Challenge, where participants tested their skills on the medieval-inspired 2026 World Championship obstacle course featured in Lexington, Kentucky.
Congratulations to all retreat participants for an outstanding showing in Sunday’s Road to the Horse Retreat Obstacle Challenge.
Top 5 Finishers:
1. Michelle Brook – 485.5 Points
2. Gina Simmonds – 473 Points
3. Murilo Barbosa – 419 Points
4. JB Bermeo – 399.5 Points
5. Kaye Harris – 394.5 Points
Hosted at The Ranch at NRS, the retreat provided an ideal setting for learning, connection, and horsemanship at its highest level. With limited spots available, the intimate format ensured each participant received meaningful, hands-on instruction.
For more information about upcoming Road to the Horse events and retreats, visitroadtothehorse.com.
About Road to the Horse
Founded in 2003, Road to the Horse strives to inspire people to reach a higher level of horsemanship and develop unity with a horse based on trust and not fear. We believe that through education and entertainment, we can change people’s ideas and create a better world for the horse. Road to the Horse competitions identify the superior colt starter who accumulates the highest score. Judging focuses on the competitor and the effectiveness of their horsemanship methodology to communicate, educate, and build a partnership with their colt based on trust. Fans witness the entire journey, from colt selection to the final obstacle challenge. Event schedule and tickets available at RoadtotheHorse.com.
About Morris Equine Group
Morris Equine Group consists of some of the industry’s most recognized brands, including Western Horseman, Quarter Horse News and Barrel Horse News. The group also includes The Ranch at NRS, formerly known as NRS Event Center, and EquiStat, a statistical service offering detailed information and earnings for the performance horse industry. Morris Equine Group is also home to the National Barrel Horse Association, the West Coast Barrel Racing Association, the first-ever PBR Team Series Champions Nashville Stampede and the World Championship of Colt Starting, Road to the Horse.
