I brought a mare we've owned for 13 years to this retreat. She's not soft and a little stubborn. Even though I have worked with other horses in the MG program, I learned more and more bringing a new to the program horse to this retreat. I have definite goals now to achieve with her. Michael and Kelsey both helped me, and I feel certain I'll make the progress I'm expecting for myself and Ginger.

I loved the cattle retreat. Great information on how to balance and control your horse so you are able to execute the quick maneuvers needed in cattle work but can be applied to other activities as welll. Great food and fun in a relaxing supportive environment to learn.

I've been to a few retreats but this one is different. Instead of focusing on how to "fix" your horse, you learn how to "fix" you! By setting your horse up for success, you gain better control. We learned a little about all the cow related sports and dabbled in each. It was loads of fun and now I'm ready for the "advanced" cattle retreat!

I am so happy that my husband Ned and I attended the Cattle Challenge Retreat. It was my 9th retreat with Michael Gascon and by far the best. Now, I have said this about a few other retreats, but as my skills grow under Michael Gascon’s instruction and guidance, this retreat takes the cake.
I have met many of the other Cattle Challenge participants at past retreats and have made life long friends and supporters in my quest to be a better all around equestrian. This combination of people familiar with Michael's methods, Michael’s vast experience and uncanny intuition to read a horse and rider, along with his ability to instruct clearly in a positive, encouraging way was Pure Magic. I had a blast and learned new skills that will excel my horsemanship to levels I had not believed I could achieve under other trainers' tutelage.
I confidently and strongly recommend Michael Gascon, the Horse Guru, to my fellow equestrians whatever your passion or discipline may be. Whether you choose to participate in a retreat, the Horse Help Challenge, the Horse Help Club, attend an Expo or a clinic, you and your horse will be so happy you did.
I know I am absolutely happy with my whole experience with Michael Gascon, his family, and his knowable staff at Horse Haven in sweet little Poplarville, MS.
The icing on the cake is that my Non Horsey husband, Ned, now feels confident around horses and wants to learn more from Michael Gascon. Pure magic!

I had so much fun at the last retreat. For the first time ever, we won the soccer tournament. What a blast. Of course the food is always great. I got to catch up with old friends and make new friends. The support, not just from the Gascon family, but also from all the other riders, is phenomenal. I've made so many friends who have become like family to me.