Meet first year Wrangler Chad Shoulders. Although it is his first year up at Black Mountain Ranch, it is definitly not his first year in the saddle. He started to ride when he was four years old and has spent previous summers as horse pack guide and hunting guide in Durango, CO.
Chad grew up in Vail, Colorado and started to ski when he was two. He has been skiing ever since and is the Coach of the Ft. Lewis Ski Team and Ski Instructor at Beaver Creek. Years of teaching and coaching have given him the patience and encouragement to make even the greenest of riders feel comfortable in the saddle.
Chad also has a Culinary Arts Degree from Colorado Mountain College and throughly enjoys to cook. On our pack camp trips, you will find Chad waiting at the top with a mean margarita in hand and heads the cooking for some of the best burritos you will ever have. His favorite meal at the ranch is Chef Bob's Prime Rib dinner, which we all agree are pretty darn tasty.
Chad is always willing to head to the arena with guests, take them out for a ride on Rock Creek Trail, and is always happy to make some "country" popcorn for you in the saloon. Chad has made such a great addition to our team and we are so excited to have him here with us at Black Mountain Ranch!
I had the chance to ask Chad a few questions, and he was happy to oblige.
Which horse is the best kept secret and why?
Jack, because people underestimate him.
What is the best part of your job?
Giving the guests an experience of a lifetime.
What are a few things that people might not know about you?
I was Russel Crowe's stunt double and (Ask him for the story) and my uncle, Jim Shoulders, is known as the "Babe Ruth of Rodeo".
Drink of Choice?
Coaches Approved Whiskey Coke