Jason Perry, horse trainer & fourth-generation rancher from Leoti, Kansas, recently won the $10,000 Legendary Stakes Ranch Horse bonus. With a deep-rooted connection to horses and ranching, showing in Ranch Horse just makes sense to Jason – it’s a natural extension of his everyday life.
Jason’s passion for exceptional ranch horses started early – it is always easier to get the job done on a well-trained, cooperative horse, so educating them to be that way just made sense. Influenced by a lifetime of ranch work and showing in other disciplines, such as roping, Ranch Horse, was a natural transition. “Ranch horse versatility hit me, and I had a lot of good trainers that helped me get to where I’m at.”
Preparation and training are integral parts of Jason’s routine, blending his ranch duties with focused practice. “I have my routines, using my show horses out on the ranch and then bringing them back to the arena to work on specific disciplines,” Jason explained. This disciplined approach ensures that both he and his horses are always ready for competition.
"It's all [the horses]; we just help develop and guide them."
Jason’s horse, Cats Like Butter, is a three-year-old mare bred and raised on his family’s ranch. “My horse plays a crucial role in my success. It’s all about them; we just help develop and guide them,” Jason said. Cats Like Butter is by Legendary stallion, Cats Royal Boon, a horse Jason also trained and showed. A legacy in his breeding program that he is very proud of.
"Live the dream. Never tell yourself that you can't do it. There are always trainers and people willing to help."
Jason’s advice for aspiring competitors is straightforward: “Live the dream. Never tell yourself that you can’t do it. There are always trainers and people willing to help.” This supportive community is one of the many reasons he values the ranch horse discipline.
Winning the $10,000 Bonus has practical benefits for Jason, allowing him to continue competing and improving his skills. “There’s always something to do with the money, but it’ll keep me showing and going down the road,” he noted.
"I look at events differently now. With the extra money, you're going to go for it."
When asked how Legendary Stakes has influenced his approach to events, Jason highlighted the importance of incentives. “I look at events differently now. With the extra money, you’re going to go for it,” he said. This pragmatic approach to selecting events ensures that he maximizes his opportunities and continues to thrive in the competitive world of ranch horse performance.