Presenter
Tom Curtin
Tom Curtin’s journey in horsemanship is deeply rooted in the rugged terrain of the Big Sky State. Growing up in Montana, Tom was immersed in the world of horses from day one, working within his father’s outfitting and packing business. This early exposure provided a foundation of practical, hard-earned knowledge. While Tom has sought out the masters of the craft, his father—an exceptional and accomplished horseman—remains a constant, guiding figure in his life and style.
Tom’s resume reads like a map of Western ranching history. He was extremely fortunate to refine his skills on some of the most prestigious operations in the United States, including the King Ranch, the Four 6’s (6666), the Johnson Ranch, and the 7D Ranch. These vast landscapes served as more than just a workplace; they were the ultimate proving grounds. In these settings, the relationship between horse and rider wasn't just about sport—it was a necessity for daily survival and success.
Throughout his career, Tom has been a student of the greats. Buster Welch had a significant influence on how Tom views the training process, instilling a deep appreciation for the horse’s natural abilities. Perhaps most transformational was the time spent with Ray and Carolyn Hunt. Ray challenged Tom to shift his perspective entirely, teaching him to look at every interaction from the horse’s point of view. This philosophy of empathy, feel, and mental connection is the cornerstone of Tom’s teaching today.
When they aren’t traveling the country conducting clinics, Tom and his wife, Trina, divide their time between Wilson, Oklahoma, and Buffalo, Wyoming. Whether he is working with a seasoned professional or a beginner, Tom’s goal remains the same: to honor the horse. By blending the traditions of the vaquero with the insights of modern horsemanship, Tom Curtin continues to help riders across the globe achieve a true, soft, and lasting partnership with their horses.
Because of the Horse...
2026 Presentations
Tom Curtin
DAY 1
★ Softening Through the Sides: Building True Collection
In this thoughtful and practical session, Tom Curtin demonstrates what it means to soften a horse through their sides rather than pulling on the reins. Drawing inspiration from Tom Dorrance and Ray Hunt, he explains how true softness and collection begin with the rider’s leg, seat, and feel — not the hand.
☆ how to ask a horse to give to pressure through the body
☆ why softness must be offered before it can be received
☆ the difference between true collection and false flexion at the poll
☆ how to engage the hindquarters without pulling the nose down
☆ how “softening back” creates harmony instead of abrupt release
DAY 2
★ The Figure Eight and Fence Work: Preparing Your Horse to Pick You Up
In this practical groundwork session, Tom Curtin demonstrates how to prepare a horse to confidently pick you up from the fence. Beginning with a flowing figure-eight exercise on the lead rope, he builds responsiveness, straightness, and a clear understanding of following a feel.
☆ how to create a balanced figure eight that develops flow and direction
☆ why straightness and clarity matter before approaching the fence
☆ how to move the front end and hindquarters independently on the lead
☆ how groundwork transfers directly to mounted fence work
☆ how preparation makes mounting from the fence calm and precise
Get to know
Tom Curtin
