JAMES PAYNE

$6 Million Dollar Cutting Horse Rider

From Overbrook, Oklahoma, James Payne has been operating his own facility and training for the public since 2008. After years spent training reining horses under Dick Piper, it was the Pipers—and one remarkable horse named Playgun—that introduced him to the cutting pen and ignited a lifelong passion.

James has since earned over $5 million in the show pen, with a career marked by consistency, grit, and a relentless work ethic. Known as one of cutting’s rising stars, he’s a regular finalist at major aged events and has built a respected program at Payne Ranch alongside his wife, Nadine.

“No one rides more horses every day than James,” is a common sentiment among peers—and for good reason. His training philosophy is simple but effective: “Be there every day and grind, with a lot of repetition.” That persistent attitude is the backbone of his success.

James has been a multi-time NCHA Futurity finalist and earned numerous titles, including:

• 2012 NCHA Super Stakes Reserve Champion

• 2012 & 2014 NCHA Summer Spectacular Classic Champion

• 2018 NCHA Summer Spectacular Open Classic Champion on PG Heavily Armed

• 2018 NCHA Open World Finals Aggregate Champion on PG Heavily Armed

Among the standout horses that helped shape his career are Once In A Blu Boon, HR Playing Legend, Sarenadual—his most memorable ride—and the powerful PG Heavily Armed.

James remains humble and grounded about his journey: “The biggest myth about cutting? Don’t think that once you’ve had success in the show pen you’re going to stay there—you have to keep grinding and working at it.”

With over $5 million in lifetime earnings and more still to come, James Payne continues to prove that dedication, humility, and hard work never go out of style.