On The Cover
Jody Counts of Cracker Swamp Cattle Company, riding home-bred and -raised Quarter Horse, “Sonny” (CSC Ol Son), in front of registered purebred Brahman, oak trees and Spanish moss in Palatka, Florida. Photography by Fast Horse Photography
Features
STEERING THE HERD
Florida’s Cracker Swamp Cattle Company thrives with brothers Jody and Jett Counts at the helm, ready to steer the ranch through the next era of ranching. BY KATE BRADLEY BYARS, Page 58
PONY PENNING WEEK
Explore two islands, spy wild ponies and witness the biggest wild west show of the East. BY SUSAN FRIEDLAND, Page 70
WHERE THE TRAIL LEADS: SEVEN RIDES WORTH THE HAUL
From mountain passes to desert canyons, these handpicked spots offer some of the best terrain, views and experiences for riders looking to explore the country on horseback. BY ANDREA THORP, Page 77
Ride West
Living The Dream Horses have been a driving force in Dylan Sponseller’s life. Page 18
Cowboy Skills Learn to spot early signs of illness using a common tool from home. Page 22
Women of the West Discover more about Canadian cowgirl Keily Riata Stewart. Page 24
Management Mule prices may surprise horsemen, but outfitters know their worth. Page 27
Horsemanship Miles Baker shares tips to keep any horse out of a rut. Page 30
Partners Known for competing bareback, Liberty Corderman brings out the best in a string of quirky horses. Page 34
Training Johnny Jerviss debunks three common myths about a horse’s first ride. Page 39
Arena All-Stars Dun Waltzin, a 17-year-old gelding, has a long résumé of championship wins. Page 43
Real Life Ranch Wife Cutting up and patching old jeans is a full-time job. Page 46
Health Unraveling the mysteries of a complex neurologic disease. Page 49
Rodeo Brody Wells uses the mental game to succeed as a saddle bronc rider. Page 52
Homestead Meghan Gates explores modern homesteading, sustainable beef and the value of ancestral farm and ranch traditions. Page 54
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