About Richard “Opey” Hlavnicka
A long-time resident of Lander, Wyoming, Opey Hlavnicka is the proud owner and operator of Opey Construction, a small, hardworking business built on integrity and grit. Outside the job site, Opey is deeply immersed in his passion for gaited horses—a journey that began years ago and continues to thrive.
Opey specializes in training young, registered Tennessee Walking Horses sourced from western Missouri. These horses arrive in Wyoming and, under Opey’s steady hand, transform into true mountain horses from their early years. His training process is rugged and rooted in experience: the horses learn to ride, pack, hobble, highline, and navigate some of the most treacherous and grizzly-populated terrain in the United States.
Most of Opey’s work takes place in the breathtaking Bridger-Teton and Shoshone Wilderness areas, where his horses face real mountain challenges—river crossings, steep trails, hunting camps, bridges, and encounters with elk, moose, grizzlies, deer, antelope, and dogs. These horses don’t just get trained—they get forged by the wild.
If you’re curious about his work or want to see these incredible horses in action, don’t hesitate to reach out to Opey directly. His story is as much about dedication and craftsmanship as it is about the raw, beautiful spirit of the American West.
