About Jim Hicks

Jim Hicks is an accomplished professional Horseman. He uniquely blends the principles of horsemanship with the movements of dressage to bring out the best in himself and his equine partners. 

Over 30 years ago, Hicks and his Wife sought out Ray Hunt, with a desire to learn more about the horse, and Hunt remains one of the greatest influences on the Hicks’ careers.

Hicks has become a noted clinician worldwide, specializing in bringing dressage principles to horsemen of any discipline. 

In Jim’s clinics, it is common to have large-bodied warmbloods side-by-side with quarter horses fresh off the ranch.

“What appears beautiful and effortless, is in fact an achievement in art, feel and athleticism, requiring years of quality development for both horse and rider.” - Jim Hicks

Hicks refuses to attribute the value of a horse to its price tag and believes that the horse is the mirror to the human soul. He is a committed student of the horse and takes pride in helping others relate to their horses in a way that leaves both horse and rider successful in their partnership.

“The rider must adjust his feel and timing to the sensitivity of the horse.” - Jim Hicks

Hicks participated as a mentor in the 2011 and 2012 Ray Hunt Memorial Legacy of Legends scholarship program.

Awards & Accolades:
- Trains and Teaches through Grand Prix
- SB&R-M&S Working Equitation Over All High Point Champion
- Coach of NAJYRC Region 5 and RMDS Champions
- Five World Titles (NPHA and IFSHA)
- Re-schooled and returned to the FEI level, 14 dressage competition horses
- United States Dressage Federation (USDF) Bronze and Silver Medalist
- American Paint Horse Association (APHA) World Champion in Dressage
- USDF Horse of the Year Award
- Utah Dressage Society Fourth Level Highpoint Award
- UDS Freestyle High Point Champion (2015)
- Started 1,000's of colts, including Paloma Playboy and Shorty Starlight, that have become high-earning horses in the National Cutting Horse Association (NCHA)
- Rehabilitated show jumper, Dutch Luck, to return to jumping with a gain of 8” of jumping height
- Stuntman and Wrangler for BBC America and Reel Wranglers
- Movie Industry Equine Consultant

A life experience Hicks holds as an honor:
- Equine Organizer, Wrangler and Rider in the Opening Ceremonies of the 2002 Salt Lake City Winter Olympic Games

Hicks was the first Horseman to walk out under puppets larger than buildings, fireworks, skaters, lights and music. He was on a Quarter Horse in training, named T-Bone. Together, they were the example of trust and partnership, between horse and human, that can overcome intense unnatural exposure.

The Olympics had a record network audience watching in the billions. The stadium's live audience of 60 thousand included the current standing President of the United States of America.

Jim's 2024 Presentations

Groundwork
Groundwork in a thoughtful manner connecting the dots to how it transfers to the saddle.

Half - Pass
The half pass simplified! Simple building blocks to break down this complex movement.

Confirming Lead Changes
It is in the little things, understand the proper preparation and presentation of lead changes.

Where You Can Find Jim Hicks