This past weekend we headed west for mid-training check-ins near Rapid City—and had an amazing time catching up with Cocoa and his trainer, Rachel Lund!
Cocoa is approximately 10–12 years old and is absolutely thriving in training. He’s had a serious glow-up and is looking fantastic! Rachel has been focused on building his confidence and refining his skills—and it’s paying off.
Currently working at the walk, trot, and canter Practicing extensions, bend, and softness—all bitless, since Cocoa is still working through some bit-related sensitivity Stands quietly for grooming, tacking, fly spray, and cross ties Leads, lunges, and loads like a proWith over 6 weeks to go before the Dakota Showdown Finale, this team is one to watch! 
Cocoa will be available for adoption to approved adopters through a bidding process on August 24, 2025, at the Dakota Showdown Horse Trainer Challenge Finale in Yankton, SD.
Apply to adopt at: https://www.dakotashowdown.com/adopt
