Our trainer

Our Trainer: Rhett Fincher

Rhett Fincher grew up in the heart of racing, with his father a jockey and his mother a trainer. His early years were spent in and around the barns, watching and learning as he helped exercise horses. While Rhett loved the thrill of riding, it wasn’t long before he began questioning the traditional methods used to train racehorses. The intense pressure, the quick fixes, and the reliance on drugs to push horses beyond their limits never felt right.

Before immersing himself in natural horsemanship, Rhett Fincher had a diverse career in the equine industry. He held multiple roles, including trainer, assistant trainer, jockey, and exercise rider. Additionally, Rhett competed in rodeo events, participating in bull riding, saddle bronc, and bareback riding competitions. These varied experiences gave him a comprehensive understanding of different equine disciplines, shaping his philosophy on horse training and fostering his commitment to more ethical practices.

Rhett’s search for something better led him to the world of natural horsemanship. He explored different styles, read extensively, and eventually found a path with the Parelli Natural Horsemanship program. Parelli’s focus on understanding the horse’s psychology and establishing a deep connection with each animal resonated with Rhett, but he didn’t stop there. He went to the Parelli Ranch in Ocala, FL, to immerse himself further, ultimately becoming a senior horse development protégé of Pat Parelli.

While Parelli’s techniques provided a foundation, Rhett developed his own approach that combined natural horsemanship principles with the specific demands of Thoroughbred racing. His philosophy is about creating a balance between respecting a horse’s instincts and training them to perform at the highest level. He doesn’t believe in shortcuts. Instead, Rhett works to develop each horse’s confidence and physical strength in a way that emphasizes trust over force. In contrast to standard racing practices, which often focus solely on results, Rhett takes the time to connect with each horse, creating a unique bond that encourages them to thrive, both on and off the track.