Well, this is one of those questions that can be debated for days. I personally believe that a person can have the finest horse money can buy, but if the rider has limited horsemanship skills trouble will surface before long. I think a person needs to try to find the horse that best suits them - not me, your wife, brother or Team Penning partner. Your satisfaction will allow you the confidence needed to succeed. The things I look for in a horse is toleration.
Speed is nice, but the handle is the key.
Always make sure a horse is willing to stop. If the horse is driving through the bit it is leading you, not allowing you the opportuity to control him. I think there are several people who have a good idea of what a Team Penning horse is. Shelly Fitzegerald is another. Shelly has a eye for a good horse and can make one also.