Ranch sorting in France: clinics and competitions at the ranch
At Thomas’ Ranch, ranch sorting is done with our own herd: taster clinics, open practice sessions and competitions. Novice or experienced, you work as a team, on horseback, among the cattle.
What is ranch sorting?
In Contigné (Les Hauts-d’Anjou), 30 km north of Angers, the ranch runs ranch sorting clinics, practice sessions and competitions.
Ranch sorting, known in French as “tri de bétail”, is a western riding discipline that grew out of ranch work, where cattle are separated from a herd on horseback. The idea fits in one sentence:
“Two riders, a herd of numbered cattle, a time limit… The aim: sort the right numbers, in order, as fast as possible.”
It takes quick reactions, a good understanding with your horse and with your teammate, speed and a bit of strategy. It is a discipline you discover in a relaxed atmosphere, among keen riders and curious newcomers: novice or experienced, everyone gets something out of it.
You don’t need years of western riding behind you to give it a try: our western riding lessons and clinics will give you the basics.
What cattle do you work with?
The ranch has its own herd of cattle, which lives on the estate. This is the herd used for the clinics, the practice sessions and the sorting competitions.
For sorting, each animal wears a number: teams have to sort the cattle in the order of those numbers. Runs take place in the ranch’s outdoor arena or in its indoor arena.
When are the ranch sorting competitions held?
The ranch hosts ranch sorting competitions, open to the public, in a western atmosphere.
- In springat the end of March, a weekend of nothing but ranch sorting, with an evening event on the Saturday (28 and 29 March in 2026)
- In autumnin October, a second competition at the ranch (October 2025)
Entry is free for spectators all weekend. The Saturday evening event is booked through the HelloAsso ticket page of the Thomas Ranchers association.
The 2027 dates have not been set yet: the next dates will be announced on the events calendar and on our social media, Facebook and Instagram.
How much does a ranch sorting clinic cost?
The western taster clinic with cattle is a half-day introduction to ranch sorting: horse care, working with the cattle and a short ride around the ranch. In 2026, it took place on Sundays, in the morning (starting at 9am) or in the afternoon (starting at 3pm).
| Option | Price |
|---|---|
| Western taster clinic with cattle3 hours including horse care and a short ride, 4 to 8 people | €95 |
| Hire of a ranch horse3 horses available, on top of the clinic | €30 |
| Overnight stay for your horse at the ranchPer horse, per night | €20 |
2026 price list for taster clinics, prices per person (overnight stay: per horse). Clinics may be cancelled if there are fewer than 4 participants.
The clinics are taught by Valentin Rey, 2024 French reining champion in the limited open class, who also offers sessions to improve your ranch sorting. Booking on +33 6 47 62 92 51.
And to take it further?
Specialised clinics
To go further after the taster: preparing for ranch sorting, improving your western riding.
Open practice sessions
The ranch also holds open cattle practice sessions, booking required: ask us for the next dates.
All year round
Thanks to the indoor arena, lessons and clinics go on whatever the weather.
Ranch sorting at the Thomas’ Ranch Festival
Ranch sorting is on the programme of the ranch’s festival, three days of western celebration at the end of June. In 2026, teams rode three rounds on the Saturday (10am, 3pm and the final at 6pm) and three on the Sunday (10am, 2pm and the final at 5pm), in the ranch’s outdoor arena.
Visitors discover ranch sorting there, at the pace of western riding: teams sorting cattle together, to watch from the rail.
Thomas Ranch Festival 2025
Frequently asked questions
Do I need to ride western to try sorting?
No. Taster clinics are open to all levels and to everyone. To learn the basics first, western riding lessons run all year round at the ranch.
Can I bring my own horse?
Yes, and you even get priority: places go first to riders who bring their own horse. Otherwise, 3 ranch horses are available for hire at €30.
How much does a ranch sorting clinic cost?
The western taster clinic with cattle costs €95 per person for 3 hours, including horse care and a short ride, in groups of 4 to 8 (2026 prices).
Can I watch the competitions without riding?
Yes. Entry is free for spectators all weekend. Only the Saturday evening event needs booking, on HelloAsso.
When is the next competition?
The 2027 dates have not been set yet. They will be announced on the events calendar on this website and on our social media.
Can I stay on site with my horse?
Yes. You can stay in one of our gîtes, and your horse spends the night at the ranch for €20 per night.
Fancy trying ranch sorting?
Tell us your level and if you are bringing your own horse: we will suggest the next clinic date.
