Travis Wigen Reining Horses

Travis Wigen: Professional Reining Horse Trainer in Joseph, Oregon, 25+ Years of Excellence

Travis Wigen: Professional Reining Horse Trainer in Joseph, Oregon, 25+ Years of Excellence

Experience the precision of Travis Wigen, a World Champion NRHA Professional and the highest-earning reining trainer in the state of Utah. With over 25 years of professional experience, Travis is renowned for his meticulous attention to detail and his ability to develop top-tier athletes for both Open and Non-Pro competition. Based in Joseph, Oregon (with deep roots in the Utah reining community), Travis has built a program centered on quality, longevity, and a shared family passion for the sport.

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Trainer Experience

Travis Wigen’s career is a testament to the power of a strong work ethic and elite mentorship. He refined his skills under industry legends such as Bob Avila, Mark DeForest, and Cliff Kellmer. These experiences provided him with a comprehensive understanding of the equine athlete, leading to the establishment of Travis Wigen Performance Horses in 2000.

Travis is a true "family man" of the horse industry; his wife, Melissa, and their daughters are all accomplished riders who compete alongside him at the national level. His training philosophy emphasizes:

  • Meticulous Detail: Travis is known for a "no-stone-unturned" approach to training and horse care.
  • Non-Pro Advocacy: He has a substantial and highly successful clientele of Non-Pro, Amateur, and Youth riders who consistently earn top honors.
  • Physical Longevity: A strong proponent of advanced equine health, Travis works closely with veterinary solutions to ensure his horses maintain a "happy and willing" attitude throughout their long careers.

 

Travis Wigen’s Impressive Achievements

Travis has consistently proven himself in the most competitive aged events and world-class show pens:

  • Utah’s Highest Earning NRHA Professional: A long-held title reflecting his dominance in the Intermountain region.
  • NRHA Lifetime Earnings: Over $245,000 (as of early 2026).
  • 2017 Best Little Derby in the West Champion: Marked a massive 223.5 on Holly Maq Gun to win the Level 4, 3, and 2 Open Championships.
  • High Roller Reining Classic Finalist: A regular contender at one of the world's most prestigious reining events.
  • AQHA World Championship Finalist: Notably finishing as a finalist in Senior Reining with the standout gelding Dreamy Little Sailor.
  • Multiple Level 2 & 3 Open Champion: Across major events like the NRBC and the High Roller Reining Classic.

 

Travis Wigen Performance Horses Training Program

At Travis Wigen Performance Horses, the goal is to produce a horse that is technically advanced but remains mentally fresh for its owner.

  • Elite Prospect Development: Travis specializes in starting and finishing young horses, ensuring they have the strength and confidence to handle high-level maneuvers.
  • The "User-Friendly" Reiner: His program is designed so that the techniques he uses in the Open arena translate directly to his Non-Pro and Youth riders.
  • Comprehensive Equine Health: His program is famous for its integration of high-end supplements and topical relief, focusing on muscle recovery and digestive health.
  • Versatility in Coaching: From short stirrups to elite Non-Pro competition, Travis provides a structured path for riders to improve their leadership in the saddle.

 

Ready to Start Your Reining Journey? Contact Travis Wigen Today!

Phone: (503) 704-4529

Email: traviswigenperformancehorses@yahoo.com

Last Updated: Jan 27, 2026