Thoughts from Clinton Anderson’s Walkabout Tour in Puyallup, WA June 6 & 7

by Karen Pickering

After an invitation from Tony Lang of Cashel Company, I decided to make my way to the Puyallup Wahl Walkabout Tour last weekend. We arrived a couple of hours after the event had started, but the grounds were still quiet. I was greeted by Amy, a well-dressed and smiling individual, who guided me to a table already prepared for the magazines I’d brought. I really felt welcome and looked after. People in brown shirts sporting a dazzling green kangaroo logo were scurrying around making sure everything was in place for the next break.

As I walked into the entrance of the horse arena, I could see why it was so quiet. A spellbound crowd was listening intently to every word Clinton Anderson was saying about training and working with your horse. The stands were full of equine enthusiasts just waiting for some nugget of truth that could help them solve the issues with their beloved horses.

He was talking about suppling a horse and being able to move all the body parts. Most of the things he was saying were not original; however, the presentation made it easy to understand and clearly the crowd was hanging on every word. His demonstration with Mindy, his Quarter Horse mare was good - his lead changes, spins, rollbacks and maneuvers were smooth and well-executed. I think everyone in the crowd was wishing they could accomplish these maneuvers on their own horses. He just made it look easy.

One of the statements Clinton made about the importance of being safe on the trail was interesting. He said we think it’s more of an accomplishment to be able to ride our horses in an arena, but when trail riding it is of utmost importance to have control of our horses – out there, we don’t have the safety of four walls. The theme of safety really ran throughout his entire tour.

The staff was friendly, well organized, extremely helpful and willing to share what they liked about working with Clinton and the rest of the team. I spoke with Kandace Underwood, who obviously enjoyed her work and being a part of a team that helps people with their horses. The remaining staff was made up of all different kinds of riders: rodeo riders, ropers, reiners, cutters, gamers and more.

Kandace pointed out that it’s really the culture of the company that keeps her interest. She said in order to work for Clinton Anderson you must be hard working, ambitious, loyal and

personable. He spends a great deal of time building his team though activities such as “teaminars” and exploring the teachings of Patrick Lencioni, author of The Five Dysfunctions of a Team, including workshops with Lencioni himself. Truly this group is a family and looks out for each other and their leader.

The goal of Clinton Anderson and his team is to encourage the dreams of horsemen through innovation, inspiration and instruction.

During the breaks in the event, people would flock to the “No Worries” club booth and eagerly sign up for one of three plans (see www.noworriesclub.com for details). These plans allow you a wealth of information on a regular basis, which helps keep you motivated, connected and safe. Clinton answers club member questions on a weekly basis, and other membership benefits include: A subscription to the “No Worries Journal” (published quarterly), 8 informational DVDs, free access to Clinton’s TV shows (through the website), 25% off clinics and spectator tickets, up to 5 free tickets for any or all of the Wahl Walkabout Tours, access to user chat forums, and more discounts on DVDs and tack.

It takes a team of 20 people at each of these events to keep things running smoothly, 8 of which are volunteers. They have signups online for those interested in volunteering at one of the Wahl Walkabout events. As a reward for their hard work, volunteers are given over $200 worth of DVDs.

The products that Clinton has at these events are top notch, and the selection is great! From saddles, tack and equipment to grooming products, there was more than enough shopping for all.

Clinton personally greets everyone who is at the gate first thing in the morning and stays after the event until every person that has a question can personally spend a moment with him. It was truly impressive to see his commitment to his attendees.

I would highly recommend this event to our readers in the Northwest. Clinton Anderson has a great product, fantastic support, and a super group of people to help him bring these tours to you.