OUR STORY

Smokin' M Performance Training was started when we noticed a gap in many riders' knowledge of how the use of their muscles and their training can affect their performance in the arena. We also noticed common missing areas of horses' training and tack fitting that negatively impact their ability to improve and perform to their full extent.

Our goal is to teach all of our clients the "how" as well as the "why" behind training methods and drills in order to create athletes that can continue to grow independently and encourage others.

Our Trainers

ASHLEY LAWSON

Owner; Barrel Racing Trainer, Horse Trainer

Ashley is from Etown and moved to Lexington for 5 years to get her BS and MS in speech therapy after living in texas for a year. She holds or has held IPRA, NCA & NIRA memberships. She’s been riding for almost 20 years, and in that time has served as the UK Rodeo Team's president and Assistant Head coach, rodeoed professionally across the southeast & has broken, started and trained both her mares independently. She has experience teaching all ages, and loves to barrel race at rodeos when she’s not working! She looks forward to being able to work with her hometown clients again!

EVAN MCNERLIN

Owner; Bull Riding Trainer, Horse Trainer

Evan is originally from Richlands, VA and moved to Lexington to attend UK. While in Lexington, he began to bull ride with the UK Rodeo Team and other local trainers. After leaving school, he perused bull riding at a higher level and holds or has held IPRA and NCA memberships. Evan has traveled extensively to rodeos in the southeast and has experience with many different stock companies. He looks forward to being able to share his passion for rodeo and riding with new Etown clients.

ADISON HOOK

COMING SOON

CUSTOMIZED TRAINING APPROACH

Our training programs are tailored to the unique needs of each rider and/or their horse. Our training methods focus heavily on improving the rider's (and horse's) body and muscle control, their understanding of how their role as an athlete will improve their performance, functional training exercises, and low-impact drills for both horse and rider to improve endurance.