Colt Starting School
Exploring Partnership
Our comprehensive 6 week program is designed as a realistic deep dive into the world of starting young horses.
Safety and Quality are the guiding principles of our Multi-disciplinary approach.
Safety
The main threat to our
safety can be summarized
by the following.
We Don't Know
What We Don't Know!
It's the main reason we developed our program.
Colt Starting will have safety risks. However, we believe the majority of accidents in colt starting can be avoided.
Quality
Our program is supplemented with theory manuals, exercise booklets and checklists. We have allotted times for questions and discussions.
We believe learning is an individual process for both humans and horses.
That's why we've designed our program to be weeks longer than most.
The first 6 weeks in a young horses education are critical for the rest of their career.
We believe in setting a horse up with skills for life regardless of their sport.
A confident and responsive horse is foundational for most riding disciplines.
Multi-Discipline
Sawatzky Equine

Once a year we transform our training barn into an education center for those learning the art of Colt Starting.
Located only 45min Northwest of Edmonton. Our barn has welcomed equines from Ontario and Yukon and participants from all over North America for training, clinics and courses.
Standard Program Schedule 2020
* Please note these dates are from 2020 but are reflective of
the 2021 program. Dates will change but will be similar in format.
What You Need to Participate
Participant requirements
-
Complete application including a video submission.
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Access to a young horse that meets the young horse requirements OR have one provided for an additional fee.
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Be a confident rider.
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Able to commit to all the dates.
Horse Requirements
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Between the ages of 2-4.
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No previous starting or backing.
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Halter broke.
Choose Your Ride
* Please note these dates and prices are from 2020 and will change, but are reflective of the 2021 program.
Not Sure Which Program is a Fit?
If you're unsure hop on the phone with Cindy. She will lead you to a decision that works best for your circumstances and your goals.
Common Questions
Is there on-site accommodation?
Camping at Sawatzky Equine
Free Camping for self-contained campers with no power hook up.
Night Rate of $10 per night if power plug in and/or services* are needed. (Limited plug ins available)
*Services include Shower/Kitchenette/Large Fridge/Laundry
On Site Accommodation
We have a limited amount of on site accommodation.
Hostel style rooms with access to kitchenette/shower/laundry/fridge-freezer.
Available full time for 6 Week Intensive: $900 + Gst
Weekend Use: $35 per night
*Students participating in the Intensive Program get first option to utilize on site accommodation.
Are there overnight stabling options if I haul-in?
There is no extra cost for stabling overnight or hauling in for Standard program participants. Please bring your own hay and concentrates.
What if I don't have a horse that fits the requirements?
If you cannot buy or borrow a young horse we can provide a young horse at an additional charge.
Additional charge for a young horse to use* for the duration of the program is $1250.00 + Gst. This includes board at Sawatzky Equine for the duration of the program.
Payment Due: August 1, 2020
*Horse will be owned by Sawatzky Equine or be a Joint Venture Lease generated by Sawatzky Equine.
Can I board my horse(s) for the duration of the program?
Discount Price for 6 week on site boarding for participant horses that are in the program is $450.00 + Gst / per horse.
*This gives you access to working with your colt on site 7 days a week (unless the facility is booked for other events)
We have outdoor pens with shelters and auto water.
We feed grass hay and a daily mineral mixture.
Access to indoor arena with a barn attached as well as an outdoor arena.
Payment Due : On Arrival September 4, 2020