Chris Vinson equine program developer and head trainer at 3S-Ranch.

Chris is a fierce competitor and passionate trainer.  Her leadership, riding ability and understanding of horse psychology gives her confidence to address difficult horses – giving them what they need to become all that they can be.  She understands the difference between a horse that is scared and a horse that needs to be reprimanded.  Frank her current personal horse stands as an example of that. 

We all want to ride horses like Frank, who will do what they're told and go where they're asked.  Chris understands how to do this, while bringing her enthusiasm and passion to the process.  She believes in having fun and wants others to have fun too. 

Chris’ honesty as a trainer and teacher adds clarity and support to her clients.   Ellen Waukon

Chris Vinson trainer/program developer and Ellen Waukon business partner/adult learning program developer are unique in their approach to horse and rider education. Their combined styles, strengths and skills give their clients a thoughtful, goal oriented program resulting in success. Chris and Ellen are very serious about their riding, training and the 3S© program they encourage others to come to the ranch with the same attitude.

Chris' talent with horses brings a fresh, honest approach to starting colts as well as rehabilitating emotionally and physically damaged horses. Her training teaches others to respect the horse for who he is. She discourages riders from allowing their human emotions to mentally abuse the horse setting him up for failure. Safety, Sanity and Success© understands what a horse needs and respects his horseness. Chris has mastered the concept of horse and human interaction and willingly shares her skills with others.

Ellen brings not only riding experience but more importantly years of coaching individuals, goal setting skills and planning that guide you to the level of riding you aspire to. Her no nonsense, supportive and honest style allows clients to learn their strengths and weaknesses in a constructive environment. Ellen's partnership with 3S-Ranch and Chris has given the farm an advantage not many other facilities have. Not only are the horses challenged to become all they can be so are their owners/riders.

Here is a real life lesson                  


An old man, a boy & a donkey were going to town.  

The boy rode on the donkey & the old man walked.   

As they went along they passed some people 

Who remarked it was a shame the old man 

Was walking and the boy was riding. 



The man and boy thought maybe the critics were right,

So they changed positions. 



Then, later, they passed some people who remarked, 

"What a shame.... he makes that little boy walk." 



So they then decided they'd both walk!  

Soon they passed some more people who thought 

They were stupid to walk when they had a 

Decent donkey to ride.  

So, they both rode the donkey. 


Now they passed some people  

Who shamed them by saying how awful to 

Put such a load on a poor donkey. 



The boy and man figured they were probably right,

So they decide to carry the donke y.   

As they crossed the bridge, 

They lost their grip on the animal 

And he fell into the river and drowned. 



The moral of the story? 



If you try to please everyone, 

You might as well... 


Kiss your ass goodbye!