Horse Training Services
Craig Schmersal is one of the premier figures in the reining industry, recognized as an NRHA Five-Million-Dollar Rider, an NRHA Professional of the Year, and a co-champion of the prestigious Run for a Million.
Alongside his wife, Ginger, he operates Schmersal Reining Horses, translating decades of elite-level competition into a comprehensive training and business philosophy.
Craig Schmersal's Training Philosophy
Schmersal’s approach to training focuses heavily on the longevity of the horse, individualization, and a humble acknowledgment of the animal's needs.
Individualized Training Plans
Rather than forcing every horse into a rigid, one-size-fits-all training program, Schmersal treats every horse as an individual. His philosophy centers on identifying and maximizing each horse's unique natural strengths while carefully managing and minimizing its weaknesses.
Welfare and Longevity Over Winning
While a fierce competitor, Schmersal actively emphasizes that a horse’s welfare must always come before a paycheck or a trophy. His rule of thumb is to show a horse to the absolute top of its natural potential but never push it past what it is physically or mentally capable of doing. This strict boundary ensures his horses stay healthy, honest, and mentally "fresh" throughout long careers.
A Continuous Learning Curve
Despite his immense success, Schmersal maintains a deeply grounded perspective on horsemanship. He often notes that the unpredictability of horses' personalities and abilities means a good trainer must remain a lifelong student, embracing the daily mental stimulation and challenges the sport brings.
Meticulous Health & Nutrition
For Schmersal, proper equine care and nutrition are the foundation of performance. He treats his reining horses like elite human athletes, refusing to compromise on high-quality feed, specialized supplements, and stable management.
What Craig Offers Clients
Operating on a global scale with clients from across the United States and Europe, Schmersal Reining Horses provides a full-service experience that spans the entire lifecycle of a performance horse:
Futurity & Derby Prospect Training
The core of his business involves starting young horses that have never been ridden and meticulously preparing them for high-stakes aged events like the NRHA Futurity and Derby.
Non-Pro Coaching & Amateur Development
Schmersal welcomes dedicated "Non-Pro" (amateur) riders into his program. He works closely with riders of varying skill levels, helping them develop their techniques, better understand finished horses, and reach their full competitive potential in the show pen.
Elite Breeding & Stallion Promotion
The Schmersal's operate a top-tier breeding program, standing and promoting prominent reining stallions like NRHA Multi-Million Dollar Sire Pale Face Dunnit. Craig and Ginger will assist clients in breeding decisions to maximize best crosses on their mares.
Sales and Logistics
Beyond standard training, the business handles the buying, selling, and complex logistics of matching riders with the right equine partners.
Whether an amateur is looking to improve their show-pen performance or an owner is wanting to give a talented young prospect a shot at a world championship, Schmersal offers a proven track record backed by a family-run, integrity-first operation.
