A month ago, I had the privilege of judging the Heart of the Horse competition, created by Niki and Dustin Flundra. These trainer challenges often carry a certain stigma, as opinions can be quite polarized. The main reason I accepted Niki’s invitation was simple: she is not interested in mainstream horsemanship. She is in it for the horses, deeply committed to representing the authentic lifestyle of working cowboys. That is a value we share, and it made saying yes an easy decision.
I wanted to share this experience to offer a perspective from “the other side of the fence.” My hope is that these reflections bring clarity and appreciation for both the horses and the trainers.
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How the Judging Works
Competitors are scored across 10 components for each training session, with marks ranging from 10 to 15 points per element. Each of the three judges works independently to avoid bias, there is no discussion of scores during sessions. This structure is designed to keep judging fair and objective.
One of the most challenging aspects as a judge is that we score each element, not just the final picture spectators see. A horse-and-rider team might shine on the final obstacle but lose significant points earlier in the process. Even an outstanding finish cannot erase deductions from previous rounds. To win, a trainer must demonstrate consistency across every stage, not just in the finale.
My Observations of the Competitors
Bruce Christie
Bruce is a skilled horseman I know personally, and I respect both his horsemanship and his integrity. His horse started out worried and reluctant, but Bruce showed patience and professionalism. Day two brought challenges with forward motion, which cost valuable points despite his thoughtful approach. By day three, Bruce and his horse made a remarkable comeback, completing all requirements and excelling on the final course. If results were based solely on the last round, Bruce would have won outright. Unfortunately, the deficit from day two held him back. Still, his horsemanship left a lasting impression, and his little mare walked away with more confidence than she began with, that is a true win.
Mitch Zeller
I hadn’t met Mitch before but knew of his background and expected him to be a fine hand. He chose a striking Palomino mare, sensitive, intelligent, and looking for clarity. Mitch started strong, leading after day one. On day two, he again led the standings and showed great consideration as his mare grew tired, choosing patience over pushing. His final round was thoughtful, though he was unable to complete one obstacle, which cost nearly 30 points total across the judges. Mitch’s willingness to put his horse’s well-being first earned my respect, and I would trust him with any young horse.
Pat Parelli
Pat brought both experience in sharing his knowledge and a deep respect for the traditions he carries forward. His horse tended to retreat inward rather than overreact, and Pat worked steadily each day, making progress through small challenges. His final round was consistent, with points earned across the board. Pat showed a great ability to set up a clear system that guided his horse to the finish line. In the end, his steady accumulation of points secured him the win, though just by a hair.
Results and Takeaways
Final standings placed Pat first, Mitch a close second, and Bruce in third. Yet from where I sat, all three men demonstrated true horsemanship. None of them sacrificed their horses for the sake of a ribbon, and all showed integrity.
The real victory lies in how each trainer chose to honor their horse in the moment. That is what builds trust, longevity, and true partnership.
Suggestions for the Future
One area I believe could be refined is how we weight the scoring. At present, trainers are evaluated on 10 elements for each round, with an additional 25 discretionary points for how well they set their horse up for the future. This part of the scoring is meant to capture not just competency in the moment, but the quality of horsemanship that ensures a horse leaves the process more confident and prepared.
Going forward, I would like to see this element carry even greater weight. To me, how a horse finishes, especially if they come through a struggle with more confidence, is every bit as important as how they move through obstacles. It’s not just about getting through the course; it’s about building a horse for the long term.
I don’t see this as a failure in the system, but rather part of an ongoing process of refinement. Each year gives us the chance to learn, to adjust, and to make the scoring reflect more fully the values we all want to see: authentic horsemanship and setting horses up for success.
Closing Thoughts
Heart of the Horse is unique because it celebrates more than performance, it honors the lifestyle, the values, and the integrity that horses deserve. Judging it was a privilege, and I am grateful to Niki and Dustin for inviting me. I am equally grateful to Bruce, Mitch, and Pat for the example they set in the arena.
At the end of the day, ribbons fade, but true horsemanship leaves a mark that lasts far longer.
All photos were taken by Wild M Photos
This piece was written by renowned horseman Josh Nichol, whose relational horsemanship philosophy has helped riders worldwide build deeper partnerships with their horses. He also shares a collection of in-depth courses on NF+, where riders can explore his approach through groundwork, riding, and problem-solving lessons. Learn more about Josh by visiting his website: https://joshnichol.com/
