A Guide to Fall Round Up Horse Sales and Events

An Introduction to Fall Round Up Horse Sales

Fall is an exciting time for those involved in the horse industry, as it marks the season for fall round up horse sales across the country. These annual sales provide an opportunity for breeders and trainers to sell young, promising horses as well as older, experienced riding and competition horses to new owners. For buyers, fall horse sales are a chance to add new equine partners to their barns and programs prior to the upcoming show season. In this article, we'll introduce you to the world of fall round up horse sales and cover what makes them a unique livestock auction experience.

What is a Fall Round Up Horse Sale?

A fall round up horse sale is an auction held annually in the fall months where numerous horses of different breeds, ages, training levels and purposes are gathered to be sold to the highest bidder. These sales are hosted by a wide variety of organizations, breed associations, farms, and ranches. The horses offered for sale are presented to buyers through demonstrations and previews, allowing potential buyers to evaluate prospects before entering the auction ring. Most fall round up sales specialize in certain types of horses, such as barrel racers, roping horses, ranch horses, or hunters/jumpers. However, all types of riding and competition horses can be found.

Notable Fall Round Up Horse Sales

Some of the largest and most prestigious fall horse sales take place annually in states like Oklahoma, Texas, and Montana. These sales often last two to three days and feature hundreds of horses. Notable examples include:

• Fall Highlight Horse Sale (Oklahoma) - Over 500 horses sold
• National Reined Cow Horse Association Snaffle Bit Futurity Sales (Texas) - Top reining and cow horses
• Montana Horses Fall Roundup (Montana) - Ranch and using horses

These flagship fall sales attract sellers, buyers, and spectators from across North America. Local breed associations also host smaller regional fall sales that cater to the popular riding disciplines and horse uses in that area.

Reasons to Buy or Sell at Fall Sales

Fall round up horse sales offer advantages for both buyers and sellers within the equine industry. Here are some of the key benefits of participating in fall round up sales:

• For Sellers: Fall sales timed to align with end of competition season. Allows sellers to market horses before off-season. Higher prices than local auctions.
• For Buyers: One location to evaluate many prospects. Competitive atmosphere drives prices. Well-timed purchases ready for next show season.
• For Both: Draws wide attendance of serious buyers and sellers. Fun social events and networking.Educational demos and veterinary talks.

Elements of a Fall Round Up Horse Sale

From preview events to auction day, fall horse sales have a specific schedule and structure to facilitate the buying and selling of horses. Here are some key elements you'll encounter while attending a fall round up sale:

• Catalog Sale Previews - Horses are assigned a number and buyers preview sale prospects days ahead of the sale.
• Sale Demonstrations - Horses are demonstrated in a sale arena to showcase training and abilities.
• Vet Checks - Horses undergo examination by sale veterinarians, with x-rays provided.
• Sale Day - Auction occurs in sale arena with assigned auctioneer conducting bidding.
• Post-Sale Trial - Prospects can be tested by new owners before completing purchase.

Spotlight on Cody Blue: A Top Seller

To highlight the exciting horses and bidding action that characterize fall sales, let's look at Cody Blue, a standout horse in last year's Fall Round Up Horse Sale. Cody Blue is a 2018 Friesian Sport Horse who created a lot of buzz leading up to the sale thanks to his impressive trick training featured on social media.

Cody Blue's Background

Bred from Friesian and Morgan bloodlines, Cody Blue was started under saddle as a three-year-old in 2021. His breeder put 90 days of solid foundation training on him before sending him to a professional trick trainer, Susie, for additional exposure and experience. Susie made Cody Blue the star pupil of her popular TikTok account, capturing footage of him mastering tricks like lying down, bowing, dancing, and even "counting" by pawing on command.

Pre-Sale Interest and Bidding

Cody Blue's social media following and personality helped generate interest leading up to the sale. His tricks, combined with his suitable conformation for a variety of disciplines, made him a horse to watch. On sale day, a bidding war erupted in the stands and online. The gavel finally dropped at $15,000, going to a teen owner who plans to continue Cody's trick training while also starting him in hunter/jumpers. Cody Blue's story illustrates the bidding action and excitement that make fall horse sales such premier events!

Attending Your First Fall Round Up Horse Sale

From major national sales to smaller regional ones, fall round up horse sales are worthwhile events for those looking to buy or sell quality horses. If you plan to attend your first fall sale this season, here are some tips to make the most of the experience:

• Review the sale catalog and highlights ahead of time to identify prospects.
• Attend preview days to evaluate horses and watch demonstration rides.
• Check online for full sale schedule, hotel deals, and driving directions.
• Bring your veterinarian if possible or review sales vet checks.
• Set a budget and be prepared to act quickly on bids.
• Enjoy shopping for your next equine partner!

Fall round up horse sales capture the excitement of the auction experience while connecting sellers to motivated buyers. As a major event on the equine calendar, these sales are rich in tradition and opportunity. Whether you're looking to buy or sell, attending a fall horse sale is an unforgettable experience in the world of horses.

FAQs

What are the benefits of buying a horse at a fall sale?

Fall sales allow buyers to evaluate many prospects in one place. The competitive atmosphere drives prices that may be lower than purchasing locally. Fall sales are timed well for buying a horse ready for the upcoming show season.

What is the schedule of a typical fall horse sale?

A fall sale often spans 2-3 days. Prospects are assigned numbers and previewed ahead of time. Demonstrations showcase the horses prior to the auction. Vet checks are performed before the big sale day. Trials may occur afterwards.

How can I get started attending fall horse sales?

Review the sale catalog and identify horses of interest. Attend preview days to evaluate prospects in person. Bring a vet or review exam reports. Set your budget and be prepared to bid quickly. Enjoy shopping for your next horse!