The Californios Ranch Roping & Stock Horse Contest
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The clinic was one of the most enjoyable educational experiences I have had. Learning all the different roping shots and the situations in which to use them would have been well worth attending the clinic for, however, the horsemanship and cattle handling aspects were in my opinion, some of the most valuable information. It is rare to find someone who is willing to share knowledge and expereince that they have had to invest a lifetime aquiring, expecially in a culture where knowledge is earned, not freely passed along. Then to be able to communicate that knowledge to a group of people varying in skill and background is even more amazing. I benefited, my employees benefited, our horses benefited and our cattle benefited. Our branding this past spring went smoother and was easier on the cattle than ever before. I am looking forward to the next clinic and learning more. My only regret is that I didn't have this opportunity twenty years ago.
Sincerely,
Mike L. Prescott
Manager, Shamrock Ranch LLC Willits, Calif.

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Gwynn and Dave,
So it’s been almost three weeks since the Laytonville clinic and I am proud to say that Chance, the worried paint horse, can now step into the rope and just stand. It’s not quite worry free yet but what an amazing difference. His entire personality has changed. From blanketing to shoeing he has turned around and I’m eternally grateful to you both. Rody and I had a fantastic time at the clinic. His mare is coming along very well. I started with horses about ten years ago. I was working on a ranch doing everything else and started lessons with the local dressage/natural horsemanship trainer... I have done several colt starting and horsemanship clinics since then and have learned quite a bit from all of them. However, never have I come away from a clinic or other learning experience with as much as I did from your clinic. The roping was great but the cattle handling and horsemanship tips along the way were more than I could have expected. I just can’t tell you how your clinic has changed my relationship with all of my horses. Chance as you know is leaps and bounds ahead of where he was, my mustang colt is rock solid and doesn’t blink at a rope, and my “heartbreak” mare, my first horse who up and decided she was not interested in the whole riding thing, is back and headed in the right direction... In summary, thank you for putting on these clinics. You are giving away knowledge that’s not available anywhere else and your compassion for the horse makes it an experience that no one should miss. I’m looking forward to another clinic with Chance and I have no doubt you will be meeting the colt as soon as he’s ready...
Thank you sincerely, Adam Selvin

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Hi Gwynn and Dave,
Just wanted to say that we are all still talking about all of the learning that happened at your clinic.  You and Dave are like two college professors who can also teach kindergartners -- successfully!  How rare is that?  Both of my parents were teachers and this I know!  Thanks for all of your excellent instruction and coaching.  I know I was teasing Dave about hassling me when I had difficulty with my left lead and also with letting go of my reins, but he got me thru some tough spots outside of my comfort level and with such enthusiasm and positive energy.  He made me feel like I could accomplish anything with Missy when he was riding next to me!  ...You both are so enthusiastic and positive, yet also kindly honest at the same time. Gwynn, you made a huge difference with us.   We all think you two have so much to offer the Western Horse world.  Our dream would be for you to have your own TV show on RFDTV.  Have you thought of doing that?  Your message is so important and your teaching so excellent.  Plus you are both so adorable and you work so well together – “hand in glove.”  Thanks for giving up your Valentine’s Day and putting up with us hobbyists.   
Many thanks from Krista, Dan, Liz, Mary, Bonnie and Gretchen

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Dear Gwynn and Dave,
I just wanted to again say thank you for your time at the clinic in Fossil.  My experience at the clinic has inspired me to take my horsemanship to a new level.  I hope to see you next year at a clinic with a relaxed horse and a less "abrupt" rider.  I came to the clinic with the goal of learning roping shots and rodear style branding.  I left with a new goal where the roping shot is only a small piece and the last element required to achieve this broader objective......I cannot thank the two of you enough for the opportunity to learn some of the traditions of the buckaroo but most importantly the influence I have on my horse and willingness and ability to do his job and enjoy it.
Regards, Steve Marandas

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I'm writing to let you both know how much I enjoyed the clinic at Cottonwood.  Not only are you so accomplished in your art, but you have the gift of knowing how to teach, tailoring what you say, and how you say it, to the needs of each student.  Four of us did a mini post-clinic review today while we had lunch at our barn and each person came away from the clinic with something very personal and meaningful.  We will be encouraging each other to follow through and use the skills we learned from you.  Thank you very, very much.
Mary

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I have ridden with Gwynn and Dave Weaver over the past four years and in this time both my horsemanship and roping have improved dramatically.  Throughout everything they do the theme of respect runs through it – respect for the horse, the cattle, the participants and each other.  I have especially appreciated the individual attention we receive and how each lesson meets us where we are and brings us forward. They take the time to stay with you until you get it. The Weavers provide a safe environment for you and your horse in which to learn and improve roping skills. The relaxed, nonjudgmental atmosphere makes it easier in which to learn.  I appreciate so much that I have had the opportunity to ride with Gwynn and Dave and I am thankful for their willingness to pass on what they have learned to others.
Thank you again!
Sheila