180 Ranch instructors are committed to providing safe, fun, and effective horseback riding lessons in Northwest Arkansas. We can teach you on our property or yours. Read on to learn more.
Christy Murry
Certifications: CHA Instructor Level 2 English & Level 3 Western, CPR/First Aid certified
Christy never outgrew her childhood passion for horses. In her youth she read everything she could about horses and volunteered as a wrangler at a Girl Scout camp. She worked as a wrangler at Pine Cove Camps in Tyler, TX from 2004 to 2011 where she cared for a herd of 15 horses, taught arena classes, guided trail rides, and met her husband, Trent, in 2010. While at Pine Cove, Christy began taking dressage lessons which vastly improved her seat and technique. After marrying Trent and moving to Nebraska in 2013, she “stole” his ranch horse and showed him in halter, western pleasure, and reining classes, earning a number of ribbons. Christy loves both English and Western riding and is so excited to share her passion with her students.
In her free time, Christy enjoys photography, caring for her chickens, and spending time with Trent and their dogs, Jed and Boot.
Get in touch with Christy: christy@180ranchnwa.com
Sallie Bennett
Certifications: CHA Instructor Level 2 English & Level 3 Western
Sallie is an exceptional horsewoman who comes from a long line of cowboys and cowgirls. Her grandfather raised quarter horses, her uncle breaks and trains horses, and her mother is an accomplished barrel racer. When Sallie was thirteen, her mare gave birth to a colt, Razor, that Sallie broke and trained herself. Now Sallie and Razor compete in barrel races and have ridden with Rodeo of the Ozarks Rounders for a number of years.
Sallie loves to train both horses and people. Naturally patient and a gifted teacher, she has a keen eye for safety and takes great care of her students while building their confidence.
When she’s not riding or teaching, Sallie is likely to be found out dancing with friends or spending time with her husband.
Get in touch with Sallie: sallie@180ranchnwa.com, (479) 466-7574
Trent Murry (Part Time)
Certifications: CHA Instructor Level 3 Western & Level 1 English
Specialties: Cutting, ranch riding, colt starting
Originally from Oklahoma, Trent worked as a horse wrangler at Pine Cove Camps where he taught arena classes, guided trail rides, and met his wife, Christy. After Pine Cove, Trent apprenticed for Joe Heim, legendary cutting horse trainer and NCHA Triple Crown Champion, where he learned how to start colts and really put a handle on a horse. From 2013 to 2018, Trent worked on cattle ranches in the sandhills of Nebraska and added roping to his equestrian skillset. Trent and Christy moved to Northwest Arkansas in May 2018 to be closer to family. He enjoys teaching riders how to get the best out of their horses and is eager to share his knowledge with NWA. His relaxed and gentle teaching style helps his students feel at ease in the saddle.
When he’s not working with horses, Trent can be found fly fishing or duck hunting with friends.
Trent teaches lessons on a very selective basis. Get in touch with Trent to learn about his availability: trent@180ranchnwa.com, (402) 322-0210
