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Huck showing a client horse at a show in Verona, Mississippi. Photo courtesy of K&D Photographers

Huck McCullar grew up on a 160-acre farm in the Thatch community of Walker County and that is where his fascination with horses began on an obstinate Shetland stallion he rode with his five brothers. As an adult, his passion for horses continued with the purchase of 20 acres from his parents and he embarked on a 30-year horse training career. Initially horses were an after-work and weekend activity as Huck worked a full time sales position.

Showing Appaloosas at the Dixie Nationals for a man in Walker County, brought McCullar in contact with the equine event that would become the focal point of his training-cutting. He was hooked by the excitement and the athletic ability of the horses in the event, and was sure he could do it himself. Back home he pursued this action-filled event starting with young horses and some calves, Huck relates that he made every mistake that could be made. About this time he was hired to ride horses for Mr. Grady

In 1997, McCullar moved to his current location, Charlie Creek Ranch, which has become home to a diversified training program. Cutting is still a large part of the journey that began thirty years ago. However, he also starts young horses, works with problem horses and does some basic horsemanship clinics. The training program is not breed specific and has involved a lot of different breeds including Paso Finos, Arabians, running Quarters, as well as others.

What are the basics of cutting and what advice would McCullar give to a person wanting to get into cutting?

"Cutting is a mental game, a challenge and a constant learning process that consists of three basic components. The first of these is learning to rate cattle, stopping straight and making good turns. My advice to someone wanting to learn about cutting is to first seek professional help from a trainer in your area and then watch, listen and

Huck does most of his round pen work horseback on Spot.

ask questions. It is best to start with an older finished horse because you can concentrate on your riding and learn from the horse. I love to see and help people getting involved in cutting and then watch them progress and grow in the sport. Cutting horse enthusiasts with the proper start add to the viability and growth of the industry."

Which part of training do you enjoy most?

"I enjoy starting colts because you can see them change and learn as the training process continues. I like to keep a young horse for at least 60 days to give them the foundation they need for whatever discipline they are destined. If after two weeks a young horse doesn’t show potential, the owner is contacted and can pick up the horse at no charge. A client shouldn’t waste money on an animal that is not going to work for them."

What is your goal when doing a clinic?

"I really enjoy doing clinics because it gives me the chance to give back to the industry what has been so good to me. My clinics are a basic horsemanship class that involves everything from haltering to mounting.

"The equipment used and what every part means to you and the horse is covered as well as the proper way to move around and handle the horse. My goal is for people, whether a novice rider or a veteran horse owner, to leave my clinic with a better understanding of their equipment and their horse, and to give them the basis for a positive experience with their horse."

What do you think of the equine industry as a whole?

"The equine industry, as a whole, is still strong although certain events have taken place that have depressed the market to a certain extent. The good ones are still in demand in any discipline. A horse with the breeding and ability to do a particular job or event will always be in demand. Prospects also are sought to maybe be the next great one."

McCullar has traded with Walker Farmers Cooperative for years and relies on manager Ricky Aldridge, for information and the products he needs to keep his operation going. McCullar feeds 12% Champions Choice and is very happy with the results. He is always ready to recommend it because it’s an economical, quality horse feed for anyone. If you are interested in cutting horses, need a young horse started, have a problem horse, would like to schedule a clinic or just want to talk horses, McCullar can be reached at 205-471-3476 or by e-mail at huckmccullar@gmail.com. You can also visit his website at www.charliecreek.com for more information.

Always remember your local Quality Co-op is ready and willing to help you with all your equine, pet or other livestock needs. If we do not have what you need, we will be happy to find it for you.

Don Linker is an outside salesman for AFC.