How did I find this place you ask? I had first met Mark Lundy through our fraternity Alpha Gamma Rho at Oregon State during my senior year. Back in June I sent a message to him to see if he'd be interested in a mini documentary of a day in the life of pice. When Mark left he went to work at the ZX ranch in Paisley, Oregon for a couple years. After working there Mark made his way east to cowboy at the Littlehorn Horn Ranch in Wyola, Mt. Eventually every cowboy wants to see something new so he called up some buddies that were working here to see about an opening. Luckily there was.
With the ranch being in the middle of nowhere it can be a little tricky as to when you can get free time to stock up on food and everything else. From what I was told it’s best to plan ahead. For Mark, he prefers to go in twice a month to Wendover on the border of Utah and Nevada. About an hour one way. Other times he’ll make the drive to Elko or Twin Falls. Once winter hits though it can be a whole other story. There always that good chance of being snowed in. So they definitely have to stock up and plan accordingly.
Looking out east on the back porch of Mark Lundy's home.
Western Skies.
Corralling the horses towards the ropes.
Mark providing overwatch as the horses head to the ropes.
Vade watches as the horses line up along the ropes. The horses will run in and put their chests against it and line up side by side.
Normally there would be 60 or more horses along the ropes but at the moment they aren’t working with a full crew. It can get quite dangerous at times working with that many all at once.
The cowboys call out the horses name they want for the next day. Mark will then rope the horse and lead it to the cowboys to take away.
Jake and his pick of the day.
After Mark exits the horse will follow suit and head back out to the field.
Occasionally things happen where you need to be on your guard.
Vade finishing up for the day.
Vade and Jake look on as Tristan cleans up the barn.
John trying out his whip.
Tristan modifying horseshoes for proper fit.
John has been working at the Winecup Gamble Ranch for two years now. Some people may see this life as not for them. Like the military cowboying can be especially hard on relationships as well. These men do it for more for the love of horses, and freedom in the field.
Originally from SE Montana, John grew up horse training. He comes from family where he's currently a 6th generation cowboy.
When he was younger, John rode colt’s and Rodeoed all weekend. He preferred team roping and bronc riding.
Moo.