Cocoa’s Comeback – From Uncertain to Unstoppable

Cocoa is a 10–12-year-old gelding, possibly a Quarter Horse/Arabian cross, in training with Rachel Lund for the 2025 Dakota Showdown Horse Trainer Challenge.

When he arrived, Cocoa was anxious and unsure of himself, with poor hoof condition and signs he’d been out of consistent work for quite some time. West River’s hard ground left him a little tender after his first weeks of riding, but front shoes have made a big difference. With continued good nutrition, regular farrier care, and time for his hooves to grow out, his comfort is expected to keep improving.

Over the past few months, Cocoa has transformed into a friendly, confident partner who genuinely enjoys his time with people. He’s gone from working through sensitivity and insecurity to carrying himself with balance, softness, and willingness.

Check out all the skills Cocoa brings to the table:

Walks, trots, and canters under saddle

Practicing extensions and bend, currently going bitless

Rides out alone with confidence

Has successfully carried a very inexperienced rider

Leads, lunges, and loads well

Stands quietly for grooming, fly spray, and tacking in cross ties

Now in front shoes to help with tenderness – expected to improve as his hooves grow out

Cocoa is a solid riding horse for an intermediate rider and could also be enjoyed by less experienced riders with supervision. With continued riding, he shows every sign of becoming a reliable, all-around partner for just about any level of rider.

Available at the 2025 Dakota Showdown Finale – August 23–24 in Yankton, SD