Brad Barkemeyer Reining Horses

Brad Barkemeyer: Professional Reining Horse Trainer in Scottdale, Arizona, 30+ Years of Excellence

Brad Barkemeyer: Professional Reining Horse Trainer in Scottdale, Arizona, 30+ Years of Excellence

Experience a comprehensive approach to Western performance with Brad Barkemeyer, a highly respected Professional Horseman known for his mastery across multiple disciplines. Based in Scottsdale, Arizona, Brad brings over 30 years of professional experience to his program, specializing in Reined Cow Horse, Roping, and Cutting. He is celebrated for his "cowboy common sense" approach, developing horses that are as mentally prepared for the ranch as they are for the high-pressure show pen.

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Trainer Experience

In the world of performance horses, versatility is a rare asset. Brad Barkemeyer’s journey began on a family ranch in Montana, where he was starting colts by age 12. This early exposure to "real world" horsemanship—grounded in the theories of Ray Hunt—formed the backbone of his philosophy.

After moving to Arizona, Brad refined his competitive edge under some of the industry’s most legendary figures:

  • Al Dunning: NRHA, NRCHA, and NCHA Hall of Fame inductee.
  • David Avery: A foundational mentor who helped shape Brad’s technical precision in the cow horse arena.

Today, Brad and his wife, Mindy, operate Barkemeyer Performance Horses in Scottsdale. Brad is recognized not only as a top-tier competitor but also as an elite educator; he is a founding expert for Horse&Rider OnDemand, teaching riders to "be a leader, not a passenger" in the saddle.

 

Brad Barkemeyer’s Impressive Achievements

  • 2023 Run For A Million Qualifier: One of only eight riders to qualify for the prestigious $170,000 Cow Horse Challenge in Las Vegas.
  • NRCHA Limited Open Derby Champion: Winning on the standout horse Dulce Smart Boomer.
  • AQHA World Championship Coach: Regularly prepares and coaches World Champions in both Open and Amateur divisions.
  • American Rope Horse Futurity & Derby Champion: Showcasing elite skills in performance roping.
  • NRCHA Hackamore Classic Champion: A testament to his skill in the traditional stages of cow horse development.

 

Barkemeyer Performance Horse Training Program

When you train with Brad, the focus is on creating a "user-friendly" horse that is technically advanced but mentally relaxed.

  • Reined Cow Horse Mastery: A rigorous program focusing on the "triathlon" of reining, herd work, and fence work.
  • Elite Roping Development: Specialized training for head, heel, and steer stopping horses.
  • Confidence & Leadership: Brad’s philosophy centers on the rider being a clear leader, eliminating resistance by ensuring the horse understands the "why" behind every cue.

Ready to Elevate Your Horsemanship? Contact Brad Barkemeyer Today!

Phone: (480) 620-4759

Email: bbarkemeyer@hotmail.com

Last Updated: Jan 27, 2026