2010
TOP OWNER. TOP BREEDER.

Slate River Ranch is pleased to have earned the
distinction of the only ranch in cutting horse history
to have received the prestigious title of Top Owner
and Top Breeder in the same year, first in 2008
and now again in 2010. The ranch extends their sincere
thanks to all who have contributed to their success.

Slate River Ranch mares in the field

The Slate River Ranch story began in the mid-1970s when Glade Knight purchased land in Buckingham, Virginia. The scenic Slate River that follows along the perimeter of the property became the ranch's namesake. Graced with lush green pastures, rolling hills and exquisite views, today the ranch encompasses 500 acres, a state of the art equine training facility and a top-notch Angus cow calf operation.

Slate River Virginia sparked a passion for competitive cutting horse breeding and training, which in 1997 led Glade to the heart of the industry in Weatherford, Texas, where he acquired approximately 245 acres of land. Under the direction of John Mitchell, Head Trainer from 1997 until 2010, Slate River Weatherford became one of the top cutting horse breeding and training facilities in the industry, garnering the distinction of "Top Owner and Top Breeder, All Ages, All Divisions" in 2008 and consistently achieving high honors at numerous competitive events. Currently home to the award winning stallions, That Sly Cat, by High Brow Cat and out of That Smarts, and Mr Boonsmal to You, by Peptoboonsmal and out of Quick Playgirl, the ranch utilizes the latest breeding technology and consistently provides the best possible facilities and training expertise. in the fall of 2010, Darren Simpkins joined Slate River Ranch as Horse Operations General Manager and Trainer, witha strong focus on two-year-olds.

Work boots at the Slate River RanchWith black type broodmares such as Playin N Fancy Peppy, Bobs Smart Chance, Play Miss, Playin N Fancy Smart, Peptos Stylish Miss, and Sarahs Super Cat to name a few; Slate River Ranch has assembled some of the strongest mares in the cutting industry that currently represent more than $1.5 million in combined earnings. Glade is dedicated to improving the genetics through breeding of these top-performing mares and has seen great success in the ranch foals since the Ranch's inception.

Today, the Slate River Ranches are home to a beautiful collection of well-bred and trained cutting horses and together encompass more than 2,800 acres. Guided by a competitive spirit, ranch operations at both locations reflect the longstanding Western ethic of hard work and honor. With an unyielding passion for the cutting horse industry, the Slate River story of growth and progress is sure to continue for many years to come.