---
title: Trainer Applications Now Open for the 2025 Dakota Showdown!
description: Apply for the Dakota Showdown Horse Trainer Challenge 2025 and transform a rescue horse in 100 days. Submit your application by March 15, 2025!
---

[News & Updates ](https://www.dakotashowdown.com/news)

# [Trainer Applications Now Open for the 2025 Dakota Showdown!](https://www.dakotashowdown.com/news/trainer-applications-now-open-for-the-2025-dakota-showdown)

 Written by [Gentle Spirit Horses Rescue](https://www.dakotashowdown.com/news/author/gentle-spirit-horses-rescue) | Feb 16, 2025 5:48:02 AM

Are you ready to take on the challenge of transforming a rescue horse in **100 days**? The **Dakota Showdown Horse Trainer Challenge** is back for 2025, and we are officially accepting trainer applications! This is your chance to showcase your skills, make a lasting impact on a horse’s future, and be part of an exciting competition and adoption event.

#### **How to Apply**

If you're interested in becoming a trainer, submit your application **by March 15, 2025**. Our selection team will review applications, conduct Zoom interviews for selected candidates, and notify trainers of their acceptance. If you’re not chosen for a competitive division, you may still have the opportunity to participate in our new **Highlight Division**—a flexible, non-competitive way to work with adoptable horses.

#### **Divisions Available**

Trainers can apply for one or more of the following divisions:

🔹 **Showcase Division** – Horses ages **4-14**, ready for **saddle training**. These horses typically have a solid foundation and may need fine-tuning to become dependable riding partners.

🔹 **Foundation Division** – This year features **3-year-old BLM Mustang geldings** who are a **blank slate**. Trainers will focus on gentling and groundwork, with the possibility of starting under saddle if the core foundation is in place.

🔹 **Rising Star Division** – A **non-competitive** division for **1-2-year-old horses** focused on **socialization and basic groundwork**. Open to trainers as young as **12 years old**. Trainers can work from home or at our facility.

🔹 **Highlight Division** (New for 2025!) – A **non-competitive** program for volunteers who commit to working with **up to 4 adoptable horses** at our facility. Great for those with limited time who still want to make a difference!

If selected, trainers will pick up their horse(s) in **May**, work with them for **100 days**, and then compete in an **exciting in-person event** featuring trail obstacles and a freestyle showcase. Trainers receive an adoption fee split for horses successfully placed in homes.

Ready to take on the challenge? [**Apply today!**](https://www.dakotashowdown.com/trainers)

[View full post](https://www.dakotashowdown.com/news/trainer-applications-now-open-for-the-2025-dakota-showdown)

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