TESTIMONIALS / See What People Say About Us
Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Sed vitae diam metus. Donec cursus magna eget sem convallis facilisis. Vestibulum dictum nibh at ullamcorper tincidunt. Phasellus scelerisque nisl non ullamcorper pellentesque. Nunc sagittis, felis in feugiat mollis, libero eros
by FThemes
Showcase Division
The Showcase Division is for horses aged 4-14 who have a solid foundation and are ready to take the next step in their training. These horses typically have good temperaments and may have some prior handling or groundwork experience. While some may have minor challenges to work through, they are generally prepared to begin saddle training within the first few weeks of the competition. This division is ideal for trainers looking to refine a horse’s skills, build confidence, and prepare them for a successful future as a riding partner.
Trainers in the Showcase Division receive a 50% adoption fee split if the horse is adopted at the Showdown or within 30 days afterwards, and 25% if adopted within a year of the Showdown date.
Foundation Division
The Foundation Division is designed for trainers ready to take on the challenge of starting a horse from the ground up. This division includes horses aged 3-14, who have had little to no prior handling, and may include BLM mustangs. Trainers will focus on building trust, teaching essential groundwork, and preparing these mustangs for a successful future as adoptable partners. While starting under saddle is allowed, the primary goal is to establish a strong foundation in handling, groundwork, and essential skills to set them up for long-term success.
Trainers in the Foundation Division receive a 50% adoption fee split if the horse is adopted at the Showdown or within 30 days afterwards, and 25% if adopted within a year of the Showdown date.
Rising Star Division
The Rising Star Division is a non-competitive division designed for 1-2-year-old horses and trainers of all ages and experience levels, including youth as young as 12 years old. This division is a mentored division. Competitors will work with horses at the Gentle Spirit Horses Rescue location, and will be required to attend a weekly group mentoring session in addition to at least one other independent session per week.
This division focuses on socialization, basic groundwork, and confidence-building, giving young horses the skills they need to succeed in future training. Trainers will work on handling, leading, picking up feet, and exposure to new experiences in a positive and supportive environment. Rising Star is a great opportunity for those looking to develop their horsemanship skills while helping a young horse build a strong foundation for life.
Rising Star Trainers will receive a 25% adoption fee split if the horse is adopted at any point within a year of the Showdown.
Highlight Division
The Highlight Division is a non-competitive division designed for volunteers who are committed to helping adoptable horses that don’t qualify for the main Showdown competition. Volunteers in this division will work with horses at our facility at least two times a week, and can be assigned up to four horses to work with. This is a great opportunity for those who want to make a meaningful impact on horses ready for adoption but aren’t part of the competitive divisions. Volunteers will receive a 25% adoption fee split if their horses are adopted between May 1 and October 1, 2025. Horses in the Highlight Division can be adopted at any time and do not have to wait until the Finale.