Cowboy Andy Hubbard becomes known as a "yellow back" because of his fear of horses, and is fired by rancher Bruce Condon. Andy soon finds work with neighbor John Pendleton, and love with Anne, the boss's daughter. When Anne urges Andy to ride, he hides his phobia, leading Pendleton to assume that he is a good rider. Pendleton refuses his neighbor's request to marry Anne, so Condon gets his revenge by fencing off a spring used by both ranches. Learning of an impending horse race, Anne suggests entering her horse and using the prize money to pay for their own well. Andy is chosen to ride, but plans to hide the horse until after the race. However, when he learns that the ranch will be lost by default, he reveals his cowardice to Anne, whose love and encouragement inspire to win the race.