More Than Just a Cowboy: Adan Banuelos

We are honored to partner with Teton Ridge on “Horse Sense”, a documentary that follows our friend and horse-trainer, Adan Banuelos. The world can finally hear a portion of Adan’s incredible story. Adan is our cutting horse-trainer and his accomplishments speak for itself. As the documentary captures, he is so much more than just a competitor.

Our relationship with Adan Banuelos has been a transformative journey, defined not only by his exceptional skills as a cutting horse trainer but also by the deep friendship and shared values that have grown between us. Adan is not just someone who works with our horses; he has become an integral part of Brumbaugh Ranches, embodying the spirit and lifestyle we hold dear. His influence reaches far beyond the arena, making him not just a cowboy, but a true ambassador for the equestrian world.

From the first day Adan became a part of our program, it was clear that he was someone special. His calm demeanor, deep knowledge of horses, and passion for the craft immediately stood out. There’s a certain magic in the way he connects with our horses, understanding their needs, moods, and capabilities in a way that few others can. This isn’t just a job for Adan; it’s a calling. He treats every horse with the utmost respect and care, ensuring that they not only perform at their best but also thrive under his guidance.

Watching Adan work with our horses is nothing short of awe-inspiring. He has an uncanny ability to bring out the best in them, whether it’s a young horse just starting its training or a seasoned competitor refining its skills. His patience and precision in the training pen are matched only by his enthusiasm and energy. Adan doesn’t just train horses; he builds partnerships with them, creating a bond that is evident in every competition.

But Adan’s impact goes far beyond the show pen. He has become a cherished friend and mentor, not only to us but to everyone who comes into contact with him. His humility and willingness to share his knowledge make him a treasured figure in the equestrian community. Whether he’s giving a novice rider a few pointers or discussing strategy with seasoned competitors, Adan’s advice is always thoughtful and insightful. To see him take time for the youth of our industry is incredible. Personally, to see him work with our son and his riding and see him teach him the basics was simply the best! He is a shining example of what it means to live the cowboy lifestyle, not just in terms of his work with horses, but in the way he carries himself every day. His commitment to the traditions and values of this way of life is evident in everything he does. Adan is not only a representative of our Brumbaugh Ranches but also a representative of the entire cutting horse community. He is deeply respected by his peers, not just for his skill but for his character.

It’s not just in the arena that Adan shines, though his achievements are numerous and impressive. He has a natural charisma and a way of engaging with people that draws them in. Whether he’s talking to someone who has never been on a horse or an experienced rider, Adan’s passion for what he does is infectious. He has a way of making everyone feel included, respected, and valued, which is a rare and precious gift. One of my favorite stories of Adan, is not a win in the arena, but when he took the time for a young-man and helped fulfill a dream of him riding a horse. Adan made that dream come true.

Adan’s work with our horses has brought us not only success but also a deeper understanding of the animals we care so much about. He has taught us to see our horses not just as competitors but as partners, each with its own personality, strengths, and needs. This perspective has enriched our experience as ranch owners and deepened our appreciation for the art and science of cutting horse training. Adan has helped us to build a program that we are incredibly proud of, one that reflects our commitment to excellence and the well-being of our horses.

In Adan Banuelos, we have found not just a cutting horse trainer, but a kindred spirit. His dedication, skill, and integrity are matched by his warmth, generosity, and humility. He is a true horseman in every sense of the word, and we are privileged to have him represent our ranch and our horses. As we look to the future, we are excited to continue this journey with Adan by our side, knowing that whatever challenges and opportunities come our way, we have a trusted friend and partner in him.

Thank you for allowing myself the opportunity to describe my trainer, my mentor and my friend, Adan Banuelos.

Written By: Elizabeth Brumbaugh Quirk