2026 marks our fifth year of the Dakota Showdown Horse Trainer Challenge — and with it comes a milestone we’ve been working toward since the very beginning.
When we first launched the Showdown, we set a five-year goal to one day bring the event closer to the Sioux Falls area. At the time, we imagined an indoor evening finale with a cocktail-hour style celebration.
What we’ve learned along the way is something even more meaningful.
The Showdown is at its best when it’s relaxed.
When it’s outdoors.
When people can gather, visit, laugh, and stay awhile.
Because of that, we are thrilled to announce that the 2026 Dakota Showdown Finale will be held at the Lincoln County 4-H Arena in Lennox, South Dakota.
August 22–23, 2026Same heart.
Same mission.
A setting that better reflects who we’ve grown into.
Applications close March 15.
We can’t wait to see who joins us for this milestone year — and to continue building something special together.
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