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Fort Worth, Texas, July 6, 2010 - Youth in Dallas, Fort Worth and the surrounding area are set to experience an exciting summer as members of Camp Wildfire, August 13-14, at the National Cowgirl Museum and Hall of Fame. Funded through a grant from the Mustang Heritage Foundation (MHF) in cooperation with the Bureau of Land Management, youth ages 9 and older are invited to take part in two days of activities that center around the stewardship of the land and protection of the wild horse. The program will focus on National Cowgirl Hall of Fame inductee Velma "Wild Horse Annie" Johnston and will feature an opportunity to learn from professional horse trainers involved in the $100,000 Supreme Extreme Mustang Makeover at the Will Rogers Memorial Equestrian Center. Each camp participant will receive a souvenir t-shirt, backpack and camera, as well as tickets to a Supreme Extreme evening performance. Cost for the program is an affordable $10 for both days to include lunch. Scholarships are available. Activities will begin at 1 p.m. on Friday and 10 a.m. on Saturday, with both days ending at 4 p.m. Register online or go to cowgirl.net. For more information, please contact the National Cowgirl Museum and Hall of Fame at 817.509.8967 or go to cowgirl.net. About the National Cowgirl Museum The National Cowgirl Museum and Hall of Fame honors and celebrates women, past and present, whose lives exemplify the courage, resilience, and independence that helped shape the American West, and fosters an appreciation of the ideals and spirit of self-reliance they inspire. EXTREME MUSTANG MAKEOVER FAN BASE REACHES 10,000 Georgetown, Tex., June 29, -The Extreme Mustang Makeover Facebook page reached a milestone today with the accumulation of 10,000 people indicating they "like the effort to place wild horses in Bureau of Land Management (BLM) short-term holding facilities for adoption through a training competition. "This is the largest Facebook group focused on the adoption of or concerns about wild horses, ‘said Mustang Heritage Foundation (MHF) Executive Director Patti Colbert. "Along with our sister pages, National Wild Horse Adoption Awareness and the Mustang Heritage Foundation, the outreach to educate the public about the adoptability and trainability of America's wild horse is reaching more than 12,000 people on a regular basis. The growth of the Makeover's Facebook page mirrors that of the social networking phenomenon whose growth has increased by 145% in the past year. More than 80% of the Makeover fans are female, with the majority of those fans being between the ages of 35-55. Fans are not only found in the U.S., but in Canada, Denmark, the United Kingdom, Australia, Sweden and Italy, as well as a number of other countries. Colbert attributes the growth to the appeal the wild horse has across a broad spectrum of the public. "The American public realizes that this horse is truly ‘ours' and that perception has been evident in the reception the Makeover receives from basic animal lovers to people with deep roots in the mainstream horse industry, she said. "Makeover events typically draw an average of 2,500 spectators to its finals performances, with thousands more visiting events during go rounds and down times to meet trainers and see the horses. Colbert said national media attention on outlets such as Fox News and CNN, as well as in large market areas like Los Angeles, Denver and Dallas, have spurred the attention people are placing on the possibility of adopting a mustang in training and continuing that journey with that horse as an adopter. The Makeover Facebook page features photographs and videos of events, as well as constant updates regarding adoption opportunities, training programs and other information. EXTREME MUTT MAKEOVER RETURNS TO FORT WORTH Download: Rules & Regulations | Application Georgetown, Texas, May 4 - Dogs destined to live, or more likely, die in a North Texas animal shelter will now receive a new "leash" on life as the Mustang Heritage Foundation (MHF) and the North Texas Humane Society team up again in 2010 to host the Extreme Mutt Makeover. Applications for trainers are now being accepted through June 1. The Extreme Mutt Makeover will be held August 13-14 in Fort Worth, Tex., during the Supreme Extreme Mustang Makeover that will feature more than 100 formerly wild horses competing for a purse of $100,000. "Since 2007, the Extreme Mustang Makeover has placed nearly 2,000 of America's iconic wild horses for adoption and the Foundation is using the same philosophy when it comes to placing America's favorite companion animal for adoption," said MHF Executive Director Patti Colbert. "This is taking rescue to an extreme by including accomplished dog trainers in the lives of these abandoned and unwanted animals, proving that they can be truly valuable to the lives of their adopters." In 2009, the Extreme Mutt Makeover placed 10 dogs in North Texas homes and stories of their impact on the lives of their adopters abound, from the trainer who paid an adopter to get her trained animal back to the retiree who adopted a beautiful black lab after the death of his wife. Selected trainers will be assigned a shelter dog through random draw, train it for eight weeks and return to compete for prizes during the Supreme Extreme Mustang Makeover. Trainers will be asked to complete basic obedience training, and demonstrate during exhibition any special talents or relationship development with the dog. Trainers will be competing for prize money, amount to be determined via sponsorship. Extreme Mutt Makeover candidates will be assessed and selected by the HSNT, using recognized temperament testing guidelines and scoring system, and diagnostic veterinary testing to determine health. The dogs will be 9 months or older and may be defined as more difficult to adopt due to their age, size or physical characteristics. All dogs will be vaccinated, heartworm negative, micro-chipped and altered, and have no history of biting or mental challenges. Dogs will be selected from HSNT, as well as other area animal shelters. No less than 10 trainers and no more than 20 will be selected through an application process. As much as possible, trainer candidates should be active in the canine rescue community, or express a sincere interest to become involved as a volunteer on behalf of homeless canines. Trainer candidates may be amateurs or professionals. All trainer candidates must complete trainer application and submit by FAX or mail by June 1st, 2010 to the Mustang Heritage Foundation, P. O. Box 979, Georgetown Texas, 78626 or FAX 512-869-3229. About the Mustang Heritage Foundation The Mustang Heritage Foundation is a 501 (c)(3) public, charitable, nonprofit organization dedicated to facilitating successful adoptions for America's excess mustangs. Founded in 2001, its mission is to provide dynamic competitions showcasing the adoptability and trainability of the American Mustang in short term holding facilities under the care of the Bureau of Land Management. About Humane Society of North Texas HSNT is passionate about helping animals in need. Its mission is to act as an advocate on behalf of all animals and to ensure their legal, moral and ethical consideration and protection. HSNT provides for the well-being of animals that are abandoned, injured, mistreated or otherwise in need. We promote an appreciation of animals and seek to instill respect for all living creatures. For more information go to www.hsnt.org. A SUPERIOR ADOPTION BEGINS $100,000 JOURNEY Georgetown, Texas, April 24 - An historic adoption ended Saturday April 24 when the Mustang Heritage Foundation (MHF) placed 108 six-year-old mustangs for more than $70,000, averaging $650 per head. Drew Olsen of Georgia claimed the high-adopting mustang, a bay gelding, for $3,700. Cindy Branham of Kansas came in close behind taking a striking buckskin gelding for $3,500. The adoption was carried live on RFD TV through Superior Livestock Productions in Fort Worth and the bidder lines were smoking. Adopters for the event were pre-approved for their chance to clam one of the wild horses for their chance to enter the $100,000 Supreme Extreme Mustang Makeover August 13-14 in Fort Worth, Texas, where $50,000 is guaranteed to the winner. Current plans include competition similar to that of the Extreme Mustang Makeover, which consists of body condition scoring, which measures the overall health and condition of the animal; an in hand course, which requires the trainer to demonstrate their ability to handle the Mustang on foot, including moving through an obstacle course, picking up the horse's feet and loading it into a trailer; and a "horse course," which requires the trainer to ride the horse through a series of obstacles and complete basic maneuvers, such as a walk, trot and lope, stop and back. Twenty finalists will compete in a freestyle competition to determine the winner and are encouraged to use props, music and other theatrical methods to demonstrate the skills they have taught their Mustangs since pickup. Trainers will have approximately 120 days to get their new charges in shape for the competition. "This was nothing short of amazing," said MHF Executive Director Patti Colbert. "We had barely welcomed viewers to the show before bidders were calling in to place their bids. Incredible. Just incredible." Colbert said the adoption barely went past the two-hour broadcast window available on RFD, with seven horses adopted via the Internet at superiorlive.com. "The Foundation is so grateful to everyone who hung in there with us and supported this adoption," she said. "This adoption was truly an act of faith and belief that Extreme Mustang Makeover fans would want an event like this to happen." At six years old, the mustangs were likely headed to a long-term holding facility, but with this adoption, they have not only found a home, but a purpose. The $100,000 Supreme Extreme Mustang Makeover competition will be the richest wild horse competition in history. Tickets are available through www.extrememustangmakeover.com. DEADLINE APPROACHING FOR $100,000 MUSTANG COMPETITION Adopt. Train. Compete. Georgetown, Texas - The buzz is on for the first ever $100,000 guaranteed Supreme Extreme Mustang Makeover, produced by the Mustang Heritage Foundation. Requiring the adoption of a mustang prior to the event, the deadline to submit adoption applications is March 15. Only 100 horses will be available for adoption with a minimum bid of $125. "Fans of the Extreme Mustang Makeover already know that the Foundation has been very successful in placing nearly 2,000 yearling, three and four-year-old mustangs for adoption after a training competition," said Executive Director Patti Colbert. "However, there is a large population of older horses being managed by the Bureau of Land Management that need adoption. So, now we are bumping it to another level by providing a competition for trainers who adopt a five or six-year-old wild horse, train the animal and then compete for $100,000." Unlike the current Extreme Mustang Makeover, where horses are randomly assigned to trainers, the Supreme Extreme will allow trainers to choose their horses and adopt them prior to the competition. Up to four horses can be adopted at one time and current BLM adoption requirements will apply. In order to adopt, applicants must be at least 18 years old, have no prior conviction for inhumane treatment of animals or violations of the Wild Free-Roaming Horses and Burros Act and be able to demonstrate that adequate housing, food, water and facilities will be available to humanely care for the animal. Specific facility requirements also apply that pertain to type and height of corral as well as shelter from the elements. For complete adoption requirements go to www.wildhorseandburro.blm.gov or call 866-4Mustangs. A special Superior Livestock Auction will be televised on RFD TV April 25 at 11 a.m. CST. Trainers will be able to view the horses available for adoption on the Web prior to bidding in the studio or by telephone for the horse of their choice. The minimum bid will be $125. Horses will then be shipped to BLM holding facilities in different parts of the country in order to allow trainers to pick the horse up at a location nearest them. The $100,000 Supreme Extreme Mustang Challenge will be held August 12-15 in Fort Worth, Tex. There will be no entry fee, however, trainers will be required to provide a stall fee and cattle fee, if necessary, for each horse entered. Trainers can enter one to four horses. Competition will be similar to that of the Extreme Mustang Makeover and will consist of body condition scoring, which measures the overall health and condition of the animal; an in hand course, which requires the trainer to demonstrate their ability to handle the Mustang on foot, including moving through an obstacle course, picking up the horse's feet and loading it into a trailer; and a "horse course," which requires the trainer to ride the horse through a series of obstacles and complete basic maneuvers, such as a walk, trot and lope, stop and back. Ten finalists will compete in a freestyle competition to determine the winner and are encouraged to use props, music and other theatrical methods to demonstrate the skills they have taught their Mustangs since pickup. "We've very excited about this new competition and believe it will be one of the most true tests of horsemanship in the industry," Colbert said. "Just 100 horses will be available to choose from, which means this will be a relatively narrow field competing for the $100,000 guaranteed purse." To learn more, go to extrememustangmakeover.com or call 512.869.3225.
Northeast Alabama Community College in Rainesville, Ala., now has a new official mascot, according to college officials: Trouper, a mustang owned by Amber Rain Mathewson, a horse trainer from Henagar. Mathewson obtained Trouper through this program, but only after she had trained him and competed in the Extreme Mustang Makeover in Murfreesboro last October. Mathewson operates Whispering Rain Farms near Henagar and her husband, Jamie. " I am so excited and thrilled," Mathewson told the Foundation. "I'm in awe of what all has come out of the Extreme Mustang Makeover for me. What started off as something that I probably should not have done because of my health has turned into a complete life changing experience. Because of the BLM, MHF, EMM, the Dawn Lappin Fund and of course, Trouper, I am now going to be able to go back to college and finish my degree How wonderful is that!" Trouper is now a part of the Mathewson family, with even the Mathewson's young daughter Montana to peting him and with support sitting astride him. Mathewson continues to own Trouper and will keep him at her family farm, but will bring to the college or other locations for special Northeast events.
A graduate of the Extreme Mustang Makeover is snatching admiration from college students in the Intercollegiate Dressage Association. A show was hosted by Florida State University January 23rd and 24th where the mustang, Onyx, was a true star. Schools present included Florida State University, University of Florida, University or Central Florida, and Central Florida Community College. The Coach of FSU is Marsha Hartford Sapp, who trained Onyx for the Mustang Makeover, and also was a top 10 finisher for the Eastern Stampede Extreme Mustang Makeover. BOOTS MADE FOR WINNING AT EXTREME MUSTANG MAKEOVER EASTERN STAMPEDE
Murfreesboro, TN, October 25, 2009 - Boots Burro's life was probably on the losing track as he stood in a Bureau of Land Management (BLM) holding facility in June, but that all changed when trainer Gary Stanfill drew him as his mount for the Extreme Mustang Makeover Eastern Stampede and the pair took the win October 24 in the $15,000 Legends division. The four-year-old sorrel gelding didn't even have a name, just a number that identified him as one of 30,000 wild horses under the care of the BLM, who provides wild horses to the Mustang Heritage Foundation for adoption through its Extreme Mustang Makeover competitions around the country. Stanfill, of Lexington, Tenn., said the gelding surprised him. "I was very surprised at how athletic he turned out to be and how quickly he came around," said the trainer, who has been involved with American Quarter Horses most of his life. "This has been a great experience for me; a fun experience." Stanfill's win didn't come easy, though, as he bested a field of 28 in the Legends division. In a rare tie for first place, Stanfill had to go up against Dillinger and Hank Hepperly of Walland, Tenn., in a "mustang smackdown" to determine the winner after both had performed and received the same score for their freestyle performance. With music selections by management and two minutes to perform, Boots Burro repeated his ease of movement and lead changes, not to mention his clear connection to the rider, to take the win over Dillinger, whose sliding stops were a crowd favorite. Stanfill earned $5,000 for the win, which he plans to donate along with funding raised through Lexington businesses to a local hippotherapy program. Boots had a strong following at the show, having already raised a fan base in Lexington when Stanfill made front page news for riding Boots into the mayor's office, as well into a local bank lobby to make a deposit. The more than 90 horses in the competition were scored on body condition, which measures the overall health and condition of the animal; an in hand course, which requires the trainer to demonstrate their ability to handle the Mustang on foot, including moving through an obstacle course, picking up the horse's feet and loading it into a trailer; and a "horse course," which requires the trainer to ride the horse through a series of obstacles and complete basic maneuvers, such as walk, trot and lope, stop and back. Three levels of competition were presented during the Extreme Mustang Makeover, including Idols and Legends, featuring three and four year old geldings, as well as Mission 008, featuring yearlings with trainers age 18 and under. Idol and Legend levels are determined by the trainers own assessment of the horse's progress and level of ability. A total of $30,000 was offered in the competition, with a $5,000 prize going to the Legends champion, while the Idol champion will take home $3,000 and the youth champion taking home $1,500. After 100 days of work, on October 23, Jessica Davis and her four-year-old American Mustang Rock'n Red traveled from Janesville, WI to Murfreesboro, Tenn. to compete in the Extreme Mustang Makeover Eastern Stampede where they were named the champions in the Idols Division. Performing to the tune "Puttin' on the Ritz," it was hard to imagine the sorrel gelding as a wild horse with moves that included great extension at the trot and a classical frame worthy of any dressage arena. The pair bested a field of 34 contenders and earned $3,000 of the $10,000 purse and a championship Gist Silversmith buckle for the win. A total of 22 youth returned to Murfreesboro with their young charges and inspired the audience with their dedication and effort. Taking the Mission 008 championship was 18-year-old Diane Ward of Brandon, Miss. Bringing her dance experience to the arena, Diane and her palomino gelding Docs Golden Allegro wowed the crowd with a performance the incorporated flame and finesse. The pair earned $1,500 of the $5,000 purse. The MHF on cooperation with the Bureau of Land Management created the Extreme Mustang Makeover event to highlight the recognized value of mustangs through a national training competition. The event will give the public a unique opportunity to see the results of wild horses becoming trained mounts and then participate in a competitive bidding process to adopt one of these treasured animals. The purpose of the competition is to showcase the beauty, versatility, and trainability of these rugged horses that roam freely on public lands throughout the West, where the Bureau of Land Management protects them under Federal law. The BLM periodically removes excess animals from the range to ensure heard health and protect rangeland resources. Thousands of removed animals are then made available each year to the public for adoption. MARINE COLOR GUARD FEATURED AT EXTREME MUSTANG MAKEOVER EASTERN STAMPEDE
The Marine Corps Mounted Color Guard was formed aboard Marine Corps Logistics Base Barstow, Calif., in 1967 and designated an official Mounted Color Guard by Headquarters Marine Corps in 1968. This is the only remaining Mounted Color Guard in the Marine Corps today. This elite military unit has performed throughout the Western United States, traveling as far as Memphis, Tenn. The Mounted Color Guard has received numerous national awards including Overall High Point Champion and Class Champion from the California National Association of Paraders from 1980 to 1985, 1989 and 1991 to 1997, and Overall Outstanding Equestrian Group from 1987 to 1989. The Mounted Color Guard no longer competes due to military regulations. In January 1985, the Mounted Color Guard made its first appearance in the Tournament of Roses Parade. Since January 1990, the Mounted Color Guard has participated in the Tournament of Roses. The Mounted Color Guard has been given the extreme honor of the first military unit to lead the parade 1990, 1995, 1998, 2001 and 2002. The Mounted Color Guard has also participated in events such as the Fiesta Bowl, Super Bowl Parades and Military Finals Rodeos. This unit is active with public schools and participates with the DARE Program and Good Citizenship Programs. This unit also sponsors and provides training for the Marine Corps Junior Reserve Officer Training Corps Mounted Color Guard in Sturgis, S.D. In what would seem a nod to history with mustangs having derived in part from released cavalry horses, the Mounted Color Guard rides wild mustangs of Palomino color adopted from the Bureau of Land Management's Adopt a Horse and Burro Program. The mounts are gentled and trained by inmates from the Warm Springs Correctional Center in Carson City, Nevada, under the supervision of Hank Curry. The Bureau of Land Management honored this unit by portraying it on the first edition of the BLM's "Wild Horse" trading cards. The Mounted Color Guard members are active-duty Marines who volunteer their time evening, weekends, and holidays and perform these duties in addition to their regular duties. The Extreme Mustang Makeover Eastern Stampede will feature nearly 100 formerly wild horses and the trainers competing for a purse of $25,000. Tickets for the Extreme Mustang Makeover Eastern Stampede October 24 finals are available at extrememustangmakeover.com. All other events are free.
Georgetown, Texas, Sept. 30, 2009 - Madeleine and T. Boone Pickens of Dallas, Tex., adopters of two Extreme Mustang Makeover equine contenders, El Compadre and Felio, today announced that they will present the mustangs to Southern Methodist University during its contest against Navy October 17 in Dallas. The announcement was made during a press conference highlighting the coming halftime activities at Gerald Ford Stadium on the SMU campus. At the game, Madeleine and T. Boone Pickens will present SMU President Dr. Gerald Turner, SMU Head Football Coach June Jones and Southern Methodist University with the beautiful and trained Nevada Mustangs as a gift to the school. "This is a great opportunity for our program and we were honored that the Pickens' approached the Foundation to assist them in identifying appropriate horses," said Patti Colbert, Executive Director of the Mustang Heritage Foundation (MHF). "The Foundation certainly supports Madeleine in her goal to protect the wild horse population and appreciates her bringing attention to the value of the human-animal bond created through the mustangs, their trainers and adopters." El Compadre, a three-year-old bay gelding gathered from the Maverick Medicine herd management area, will be under the hand of trainer Jesus Jaruegui of Bailey's Harbor, Wis. El Compadre and Jaruegui were among the top 10 in the Legends division at the recent Extreme Mustang Makeover Western Stampede competition in Fort Worth September 18-20. The black gelding, Felio, also a three-year-old, will have trainer Scott Stinemetz of Great Bend, Kan., in the saddle. Felio, who was among the top 20 in Legends competition, was gathered from the Owyee region of Nevada. Currently, the mustangs are under the care of SMU Equestrian Team Head Coach Haley Schoolfield. "These mustangs are certainly not what we expected and don't fit the stereotype," she said. "They are truly good looking horses and we're amazed with how far they've come in their training under Jesus and Scott." Ms. Pickens said the connection with the SMU Mustangs and her goal to protect wild horses through her National Wild Horse Foundation was "divine intervention." "I'm sure there are people wondering why we are doing all of this," said Madeleine Pickens. "One of my life's passions is to protect and save America's Wild Horses -- a living symbol of our American heritage and freedom. What better place to get the word out about protecting and saving wild horses than Dallas, Texas, and a football game at the home of the SMU Mustangs. We thought the perfect game would be against Navy, as we can not only salute the American Mustang, but we also can salute the men and women of our Armed Forces." Ms Pickens was joined at the news conference by her husband, as well as Dr. Turner, Coach Jones, and former Dallas Cowboy quarterback and NFL Hall of Famer Roger Staubach, a member of the National Wild Horse Foundation advisory board, which is chaired by Coach Jones. The Extreme Mustang Makeover, the nation's most unique equine competition, will offer an estimated $300,000 in prize money as it enters its third year of competition after two years of what industry observers are calling nothing short of amazing events across the United States. Working in cooperation with the Bureau of Land Management, nearly 2,000 mustangs have been placed for adoption through MHF programs and events. About the Mustang Heritage Foundation REMBRANDT'S PICTURE PERFECT PERFORMANCE WINS THE 2009 EXTREME MUSTANG MAKEOVER LEGENDS CHAMPIONSHIP
"It's still so surreal that we won, she's okay and she got to see it," said Wilson. "I didn't even have a routine planned, but I wanted to bring that element of horsemanship to my performance; so, I just went out there and rode." While Rembrandt and Wilson will hold the champion title as Legend champions, Surplus and Careen Hammock of College Station, Texas, took home the Idol championship and $3,000. And, yearling mustang Sweet Sugar Jack and trainer Jake Lundahl, 17, of Wakefield, Neb., were the Mission :008 Youth champions and won $1,500 in prize money. Wylene and all of the mustang trainers at this year's event are helping paint a new picture of the American mustang-one in which horsemen and women nationwide can see the versatility and trainability of these American icons. Additionally, as a new edition to the Extreme Mustang Makeover, the crowd in the Will Rogers Coliseum saw the first ever champion named in the Extreme Mutt Makeover-Tess, a black lab mix, and her trainer Karen Deeds. As she accepted her award and $500 prize, a tearful Deeds told the story of who would be taking the big hearted Tess home.
All 92 horses participating in the competition were placed for adoption with the high-adopting horse adopting for a fee of $9,000 to well-known mustang advocates T. Boone and Madeleine Pickens of Dallas, Tex., who phoned in their bid. The couple adopted top-ten finisher El Compadre, trained by Jesus Jauregui of Bailey's Harbor, Wis., along with another mustang. Known for its ability to transform wild horses into willing partners, the Extreme Mustang Makeover collaborated with the Humane Society of North Texas (HSNT) to bring this new dimension to the animal adoption world to highlight the time-honored partnership of man with dogs and horses. All of the dogs from the Humane Society of North Texas that participated in the event were adopted, following their performances. Complete scores and results to be posted soon. RESULTS * Idols Tabulation
Coca-Cola Bottling Company Consolidated (CCBCC), the nation's second largest Coca-Cola® bottler has joined the corporate partnership roster for the $25,000 Fort Dodge Extreme Mustang Makeover Eastern Stampede in Murfreesboro, Tenn., October 23-25. The company joins other top industry leaders Fort Dodge, Western Horseman, Martin Saddlery, Smith Brothers, Daily 72, Roper Apparel, Vetericyn and Equestrian Singles in supporting the nation's most unique equine competition. ESTIMATED $300,000 AVAILABLE IN 2010 EXTREME MUSTANG MAKEOVER Bertram, Texas, Sept. 1, 2009 - The Extreme Mustang Makeover, the nation's most unique equine competition, will offer an estimated $300,000 in prize money as it enters its third year of competition after two years of what industry observers are calling nothing short of amazing events across the United States.
The nation's most unique equine competition, the Extreme Mustang Makeover, will return to Fort Worth's Will Rogers Memorial Center for a third year but with an added twist; the Extreme Mutt Makeover. TIE BRINGS WESTERN STATES MUSTANG MAKEOVER BATTLE OF THE SEXES Adoption Finds Homes for 22 American Mustangs 
It all boiled down to the dashing cowboy and the dazzling cowgirl. After two days of go-rounds and stiff competition from 20 other trainers looking for their share of the $7,500 purse, Californians Katherine Cumberland of Santa Maria, riding Wendy, and Joel Sheridan of Acton, riding Lilly Bet, grabbed the attention of the judges in very different ways at the Western States Mustang Makeover in Sacramento, June 12-13. In a finals competition featuring 11 formerly wild horses, Sheridan managed to grab the attention of nearly 5,000 spectators and judges Ken McNabb, Donna Synder-Smith, Tootie Bland and Tommy Garland with an original routine that featured a battle of the blades between Zorro Sheridan and an evil foe. Lilly Bet took the swordplay, as well as the noise of the crowd, along with small jumps and standing on a platform, all in stride. Cumberland, though, a recent graduate of Cal-Poly with a degree in Animal Science, gave the crowd a lesson in horsemanship with Wendy, having perhaps the most correct routine of the evening when it came to lead changes, spins and variation in speed in her circles. Wendy worked quietly throughout the routine with a headset that would be the envy of a veteran horse, let alone one with only 90 days training. John Lyons, commentating from the arena along with two-time World Greatest Horseman Russell Dilday, complemented Cumberland on her riding style, saying she had the best conformation he'd seen for a rider. Scores for technical merit and artistic merit are offered during the finals competition, and it was clear that Sheridan had won over the judges with his theatrics while Cumberland had them with style. The result was a mustang smackdown like none ever seen in prior Extreme Mustang Makeover history. With 90 seconds to perform and music selection management's choice, Cumberland won the coin toss to perform first. The petite blonde urged Wendy along to the strains of the theme song to "The Sons of Katie Elder," working the four-year-old bay through rhythmic movement and showing the judges that the mare was hardly flustered at having to perform again. Sheridan followed to the rock beat of "The Great Adventure," by Stephen Curtis Chapman, moving Lilly Bet into her circles right away, while removing his jacket and spinning it around her head, followed by some solid stops and spins. But it was technical merit and grace that took the win for Cumberland and a first-place prize of $2,000. "This mare has been the sweetest horse since the day I got her," said Cumberland. "I was able to get on her after only three days and from then on she was just so willing to learn what I had to teach her."
The Mustang Heritage Foundation (MHF), in partnership with the U.S. Bureau of Land Management (BLM), created the Extreme Mustang Makeover events to highlight the recognized value of American Mustangs through a national training competition. The event gives the public a unique opportunity to see the results of wild horses becoming trained mounts and then participate in a competitive bidding process to adopt one of these treasured animals. The purpose of the competition is to showcase the beauty, versatility, and trainability of these rugged horses that roam freely on public lands throughout the West, where they are protected by the BLM under Federal law. Nearly 29,000 Mustangs roam federal and privately held contracted lands across the country. In order to manage the herds and maintain both land and herd health, the BLM oversees the adoption of wild horses and burros through public adoptions held throughout the United States. Since 1973, more than 219,000 wild horses and burros have been adopted. Results: Other Adoption Results
NORCO EXTREME MUSTANG TRAIL CHALLENGE RAISES THE BAR
There has likely never been anything like it. A test of horses with only 90 days training in the controlled environment of an arena competition, with the added challenge of a rural and urban trail course. It was, however, something that Extreme Mustang Makeover visionary Patti Colbert had in mind when the Norco Extreme Mustang Trail Challenge kicked off on May 15 in Norco, Calif. What she didn't know was how strongly the city of Norco would respond to the event, and respond it did, to the grace of one rider and the hard charging skill of another. All other trainers were elevated one spot as a result of the co-championship decision and received the allocated compensation for that placing. Click here to watch Windy and Buzz Riebschlager. Results: 1. Buzz Riebschlager, Norco, CA, showing Windy, earning $3,000, adopting for $3,750 FIFTH TIME'S THE CHARM FOR TENNESSEE TRAINER
In a performance that judge Ken McNabb said "brought tears to my eyes," Dodd took the black mare through a routine that showed softness, flexibility and a maturity of movement that belied the only 90 days training the mare had received from the Tennessee farrier. This was Dodd's fifth try at an Extreme Mustang Makeover win. He competed in the 2007 and 2008 Extreme Mustang Makeovers in Fort Worth, Texas, as well as in the 2008 Midwest Mustang Challenge and was invited to be a contestant in Mustang Magic, a special event produced for the Fort Worth Stock Show and Rodeo. Each time, the 26-year-old trainer would make the final round, but had never been able to capture the top spot. He was known for being able to gentle mustangs for mounted shooting and other spectacular tricks, but not this time. This time, Dodd went for beauty and finesse. "That was an absolutely fantastic performance," said judge Diane Eppers. "You were soft, beautiful, elegant and accurate. Outstanding." Judged on technical skills, Dodd and Pat Summit received two 9's and one 10 from the judges, and for artistic and athletic ability the duo scored two 10's and one 9.5 to best a total field of 28 horses competing for an $11,000 purse. Dodd and Pat Summit took home first prize earnings of $3,500. (Watch the championship ride at http://www.youtube.com/xtrememustang) Crowd favorite from the 2008 Midwest event, Lalo Govea of Kenosha, Wis., took the second place prize of $2,000 riding Skys The Limit in a routine that almost equaled Dodd's for finesse and softness, but also mixed in cattle work with Govea throwing a spectacular loop to catch a steer while Skys The Limit faced the animal. The Midwest Extreme Mustang Makeover is one among nine events to be held in 2009. Events included the invitational Mustang Magic competition at the famed Fort Worth Stock Show and Rodeo January 23 and 24, as well as the Northwest Extreme Mustang Makeover in Albany, Ore. March 20-22 and the Gatorland Extreme Mustang Makeover held in conjunction with Lynn Palm's Women Love Horses in Ocala, Fla., April 3-5. It continues with the Norco Extreme Mustang Trail Challenge May 15-17 in Norco, Calif., the Western States Extreme Mustang Makeover June 12-14 in Sacramento, the Wyoming Extreme Mustang Makeover August 14-16 in Douglas and the Mountain Valley Extreme Mustang Makeover November 7 in Heber City, Utah. Two "national" competitions will be held in Fall 2009, with a return engagement in Fort Worth September 18-20 and a new competition in Murfreesboro, Tenn., October 23-25. Trained mustangs are judged on conditioning, groundwork, and a "Horse Course" that requires maneuvers and includes obstacles found in trail and recreational riding situations. Each trainer also has an opportunity to showcase their animal's unique talents in a two-minute freestyle before qualifying for the final top 10 round. All mustangs in competition will be made available for adoption the final day of each show. The Mustang Heritage Foundation (MHF), in partnership with the U.S. Bureau of Land Management (BLM), created the Extreme Mustang Makeover events to highlight the recognized value of American Mustangs through a national training competition. The purpose of the competition is to showcase the beauty, versatility, and trainability of these rugged horses that roam freely on public lands throughout the West, where they are protected by the BLM under Federal law. Nearly 29,500 Mustangs roam federal and privately held contracted lands across the country. In order to manage the herds and maintain both land and herd health, the BLM oversees the adoption of wild horses and burros through public adoptions held throughout the United States. Since 1973, more than 220,000 wild horses and burros have been adopted.
THE WOMEN LOVED THEM AND A MAN TAKES THE GATORLAND EXTREME MUSTANG MAKEOVER WIN Bertram, Texas, April 7, 2009 - It was the first foray for the Mustang Heritage Foundation into the Southeast, so far from what many see as "cowboy country," but Florida proved it was the home of great horsemen and women during the Gatorland Extreme Mustang Makeover April 3-5. Held during Lynn Palm's Women Luv Horses in Ocala, the Gatorland brought a new facet to the legendary Ocala area, replete with million dollar Thoroughbred racehorses and hunter jumpers. Hosting 34 trainers from throughout the Southeast, among them was Jesse Peters, a northern transplant from Astonia, Ohio, who came to Florida to work as an instructor with Pat Parelli. A lanky 6' 7" horseman, Peters was paired with a bay mare that barely stood over 13 hands tall he named Aspire. Like all the trainers who compete in Extreme "When Pat saw the horse for the first time, he asked me why I didn't choose another one, and I told him I didn't choose her, but when you're a horseman, you work with what you've got," he said. Work with her, indeed. Peters proved that even with a scant 70 days of training, with the first few of those focused on just getting the horse to allow the touch of a human hand, the American mustang is a trainable creature, which is, of course, the purpose of the whole competition. "The Extreme Mustang Makeover has gotten the reputation of being one of the best and most original equine competitions in the industry," said Patti Colbert, executive director of the Mustang Heritage Foundation (MHF) that produces the event in cooperation with the Bureau of Land Management (BLM). "The facts are, however, that the competition has absolutely no meaning if at the end of the day the horses are not adopted to good homes. So, it's very important that the public have the opportunity to see how willing these horses become in the right hands." After the preliminary go-rounds, which included a body conditioning score, an in-hand trail obstacle course and an under saddle obstacle course, 12 finalists were invited back for a freestyle performance. Working fourth in the order, Peters made it an original entrance, backing an enormous trailer into the entry gate and releasing a large green ball, with Aspire bounding out of the trailer after it. Working through a number of obstacles, familiar to any Parelli fan, Peters made his exit just as dramatic, standing in the saddle, and then dropping to take the horse into a lope and leaping back into the trailer. Judges Heidi Cecil, Margo Ball and Suzy Jeane were clearly impressed, giving the pair scores of 9 to 9.5 on horsemanship and perfect 10s on artistic impression for the routine. Peters took home a check for $3,500 as well as a $500 Mercedes boot gift certificate and other prizes courtesy of Lynn Palm's Women LUV Horses and its sponsors. Coming in second, after tying for the position, were Mary Berlauk of Tallahassee, Florida, and the black mustang pony, Tiramisu. With a light step and a natural snap to her knees, "Tira" showed a natural ability that judge Heidi Cecil said could not be taught. That pair earned $2,000 of the $10,000 purse. With an appreciative crowd in attendance for the finals performance, it was only natural that another large crowd would gather for the adoption taking place April 5. Maintaining it's 100 percent adoption rate, all horses in the competition were placed for adoption by the Foundation, with Aspire taking the top spot at $3,000, while Tiramisu was adopted for $1,825. The second highest adopted horse went to Kit, trained by Katie Williams of Ocala, who was adopted by $2,000 by a generous benefactor who transferred the adoption to Katie. "With the tough economic condition the country is in right now, we feel truly blessed that all of the horses were placed for adoption and at prices that helps the Foundation continue it works," said Colbert. Gatorland Extreme Mustang Makeover Results 1. Aspire, shown by Jesse Peters, Ocala, Florida, earning $3,500 Gatorland Scores : The Gatorland scores are in - congratulations Jesse Peters of Astonia, Ohio! Scoresheets: Condition | Freestyle | Horse Course | In Hand | Total MUSTANGS BLAZE NEW TRAIL IN MAY NORCO COMPETITION Mustang fans and interested adopters will see more than 36 hardy horses in a new environment when they compete in the Extreme Mustang Trail Challenge in Norco, Calif., May 15-17. For the first time, Mustangs and trainers will be asked to take the competition through downtown Norco and across trails in the foothills to encounter obstacles such as getting the mail and crossing creeks. But a new, and happily unexpected element has been added, as it was discovered some of the mares provided for the competition through the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) were in foal. "Mares in the wild are often harder to determine in foal, especially if they're maiden mares, but we were shortly getting phone calls from our trainers that the mares were definitely going to foal prior to the competition," said Mustang Heritage Foundation Executive Director Patti Colbert, who oversees the nationwide Extreme Mustang Makeover competition series. "Now, in addition to the planned competition, the Norco Trail Challenge will include a 'Mommy and Me' class for these mares and their foals that will be safer for the pair and allow people to take a look at these little treasures." Mares and their foals will be adopted as pairs, and for an added element, the Norco Extreme Mustang Trail Challenge will host a 'baby shower" for the newcomers and invites supporters and fans to bring donated foal halters and feed to be donated to adopters and to area rescue centers. The purpose of the competition is to showcase the beauty, versatility, and trainability of these rugged horses that roam freely on public lands throughout the West, where they are protected by the BLM under Federal law. The BLM periodically removes excess animals from the range to ensure herd health and protect rangeland resources. Thousands of removed animals are then made available each year to the public for adoption. All of the animals involved in the "Makeover" competition will be available for adoption May 17. Adoption fees will be set by competitive bid with initial fees being determined by the level and quality of training each horse has received. To qualify to adopt, one must be at least 18, with no record of animal abuse. In addition, adopters must have suitable facilities and can adopt no more than four animals. Adoption applications may be obtained and approved on the spot. The Extreme Mustang Makeover is sponsored by Fort Dodge Animal Health, Western Horseman magazine, Martin Saddlery, Roper Apparel, Smith Brothers and Daily 72. To apply for a trainer's position, go to http://www.extrememustangmakeover.com or call 512.355.3225.
MUSTANG SALLY TAKES FIRST NORTHWEST MAKEOVER WIN While her name, somewhat predictably, was Mustang Sally, perhaps it should have been Pegasus as the smallish brown mare virtually flew over jumps with rider Laird McCabe of Yamhill, Ore., aboard, impressing the judges to take the first Northwest Extreme Mustang Makeover win March 21 and a champion's check for $3,000. Even the lyrics of the famous song almost fit the five-year-old mare gathered from the Jackie's Butte herd management area. "Mustang Sally now baby You been runnin all over town now Slowing down was not in the cards for Mustang Sally, though, as McCabe took her through her required paces, showing great variations in speed through both right and left circles and then guiding the mare to ground-churning stops. But it was the jumps that got the standing room only crowd on its feet as the little mare easily cleared three-foot jumps with room to spare. McCabe played the field right as he came into the finals held at the Northwest Horse Fair in Albany, Ore., with just enough scores to get the mare into the final round. Early leaders Matt Zimmerman and Corrine Elser had already gotten the best from their horses in early go-rounds, with Zimmerman falling to sixth place in the finals, while Esler took fourth. It was McCabe's easy handling of Sally that won the judges and the crowd, as well, as the mare showed she had a lot left to give. Judge Ed Mayfield gave the pair a nine for both technical and artistic merit, while judge Denny Jones got the crowd cheering with 10's for both categories. "This was a fantastic finish to the event," said Kali Sublett, Mustang Heritage Foundation (MHF) event coordinator. "Sally and Laird were the last horses to compete and they did an incredible job showing the crowd what great horses these mustangs can be." Twenty eight of the Pacific Northwest's best horsemen and women competed in the event after having 90 days to gentle a wild horse they picked up in Hines, OR, December 5 and 6 to compete for a total of $7,500 in prize money. The four and five year old mustangs, gathered in Oregon, were judged March 19 and 20 on conditioning, groundwork, and a "Horse Course" that requires maneuvers and includes obstacles found in trail and recreational riding situations. The top 10 then competed in the finals March 21 with all horses placed for adoption immediately following the competition. The high-adopting horse, ironically, did not qualify for the top 10 finals, but trainer Jani Mari Sigray-Cochran of Rogue River, Ore., had already earned a reputation as a good trainer having earlier competed in Craig Cameron's Extreme Cowboy Race aboard a mustang. Her mustang, Cayuse, a brown gelding, was adopted for $5,000 by Mary Kulish of Eugene. Mustang Sally was adopted for $2,000 by Don Miller of Jefferson, Ore., while Rudy, a very stout black gelding who placed second in the competition with Dave Weeding aboard, was adopted for $3,500. A total of 28 horses were adopted for an average of $1,142.86. "It's really not unusual for the high adopting mustang to be one from the 'field,'" said Sublett. "The people who come to adopt spend a lot of time in the barn area looking over the horses and talking to trainers and have already decided which horse they are interested in before the competition." The purpose of the competition is to showcase the beauty, versatility, and trainability of these rugged horses that roam freely on public lands throughout the West, where they are protected by the BLM under Federal law. The BLM periodically removes excess animals from the range to ensure herd health and protect rangeland resources. Thousands of removed animals are then made available each year to the public for adoption.
MUSTANGS GET OUT THE VOTE AT ROAD TO THE HORSE What began as a friendly bet between two of the nation's most dynamic equine entrepreneurs turned out to be a sound affirmation of the interest in and support of America's wild horse. Two of the top 10 finalists from the 2008 Extreme Mustang Makeover in Fort Worth, Texas, were tapped to take on two representatives of the original colt starting challenge, Road to the Horse, during that event March 14. Tootie Bland, producer of Road to the Horse, threw down the gauntlet during the 2008 Makeover and challenged Makeover visionary Patti Colbert with a "Battle for the Bling," with the loser buying the winner an original Rickrageous Jacket, designed by Denise Strickland of Blue Spring, Mo. While a panel of five judges scored the tests and ensured fairness, spectators were also able to get in on the action, text messaging their choice to determine the winner. By a 60 to 40 percent margin, the more than 4,000 fans gave a resounding vote of confidence to the "Extreme Team," crowning them the winners of the "Battle for the Bling." Taking on 2008 and 2008 Road to the Horse contender Tommy Garland of Powhatan, Va., was 2008 Extreme Mustang Makeover champion Mark Lyon of Atherton, Neb. riding his mustang, Christian. Top 10 Makeover and Extreme Cowboy Race finalist Wylene Wilson of Queen Creek, Ariz., riding the mustang Filthy Rich, faced Road to the Horse boss wrangler Thomas B. Saunders V of Weatherford, Tex. Garland and Spirit were clearly the crowd favorites, though, as they entered the arena to cheers and applause. Despite soft circles and crisp lead changes, the duo was not able to overcome the dynamic edge of Christian and Lyon, receiving just a slightly lower score from the panel of judges. It was the timed obstacle course, however, that brought the biggest reaction from the crowd. Never one to back down from a challenge, Wylene Wilson entered the arena riding Filthy Rich bareback to take on Saunders, who brought a wealth of cowboy experience to the contest. At the sound of the buzzer, both were off to throw water balloons in buckets, complete spins in a box, race around poles and then return to the finish carrying a live chicken. Even though Sanders edged Wilson out at the finish line, the crowd still crowned the blonde bombshell the winner with their vote. "I'm not shocked very often, but I was this time," said Colbert following the announcement of the winner. "Tootie Bland has done more to help bring awareness to the American mustang to the American public and we can't thank her enough for that." To top the surprise win, Colbert not only received a Rickrageous jacket emblazoned with the Extreme Mustang Makeover logo, but Bland also received a jacket with the Road to the Horse logo, contributed by Filthy Rich's adopter, Sharon Miller of Corpus Christi. EXTREME MUSTANG MAKEOVER ADDS YEARLINGS TO TEXAS AND TENNESSEE EVENTS
"Our fans have spoken and they really like to see the youngsters have an opportunity to use their skills in gentling these yearling mustangs," said Mustang Heritage Foundation Executive Director Patti Colbert. "With an estimated purse of $5,000 at each event, youth will have a great chance to test their skills and earn some sorely needed funds for their education." A total of 25 youth, age 9 to 18, will be accepted for each event. Applications will be accepted through May 1 for the Texas event and June 1 for the Tennessee. Horses will be gathered from any of the 10 Bureau of Land Management Herd Management Areas and brought to BLM facilities for pick up by trainers in Palomino Valley, Nev., Paul's Valley, Okla., and Ewing, Ill., approximately 100 days prior to each event. Additional pick up facilities may be added. Trainers may pick-up and show one yearling. Trainers may choose to adopt their yearling for $125 or trainer may place yearling in the live adoption and receive 50% of the adoption amount over the $125 adoption fee. Trainer must submit the Trainer Application and parent/guardian must submit the BLM adoption application. Trainers are not required to adopt the mustang and their application is used for BLM review only. The Foundation plans to place another 1,000 horses for adoption in 2009, having placed in excess of that number since the beginning of the Extreme Mustang Makeover in September 2007. Since it's creation, an estimated 100,000 fans have filled the stands and walked the barns of events held across the U.S. and fans will have even more chances in 2009 as the Foundation will hold 10 events from Oregon to Florida. First up will be the invitational Mustang Magic competition at the famed Fort Worth Stock Show and Rodeo January 23-24, followed by the Northwest Extreme Mustang Makeover in Albany, Ore. March 19-21; the Gatorland Extreme Mustang Makeover held in conjunction with Lynn Palm's Women LUV Horses in Ocala, Fla., April 3-5; the Midwest Extreme Mustang Makeover in Madison, Wis., April 19-21; the Norco Extreme Mustang Trail Challenge May 15-17 in Norco, Calif., the Western States Extreme Mustang Makeover June 12-14 in Sacramento and the Wyoming Extreme Mustang Makeover August 14-16 in Douglas. The MHF in cooperation with the Bureau of Land Management created the Extreme Mustang Makeover event to highlight the recognized value of mustangs through a national training competition. The event will give the public a unique opportunity to see the results of wild horses becoming trained mounts and then participate in a competitive bidding process to adopt one of these treasured animals. The purpose of the competition is to showcase the beauty, versatility, and trainability of these rugged horses that roam freely on public lands throughout the West, where the Bureau of Land Management protects them under Federal law. The BLM periodically removes excess animals from the range to ensure herd health and protect rangeland resources. Thousands of removed animals are then made available each year to the public for adoption. All of the animals involved in the "Makeover" competition will be available for adoption at the Fort Worth event in September.
The fans had it right. When given the opportunity to predict the winner of the January 23-24 Mustang Magic competition, more than 10,000 voted on line for Norman, Oklahoma's Bill Lopez and the mustang Spoonful of Buckshot. The team did not disappoint as they bested a field of 11 other mustangs at the Fort Worth Stock Show and Rodeo. (Pictured at right: Bill Lopez and Spoonful of Buckshot - Photo by Charles Brooks ©) View The Dallas Morning News exclusive video here... Trainers discover that wild mustangs have the power to heal.
50 mustangs to be gentled for $12,500 purse When more than 5,000 enthusiastic fans lined up to witness the transformation of 25 wild horses in 2008, the Extreme Mustang Makeover became a highlight of the Western States Horse Expo and will make a return engagement with 50 mustangs June 12-14...read more. EXTREME MUSTANG MAKEOVER OFFERS TWO ULTIMATE TESTS IN APRIL DEADLINE FOR TRAINER APPLICATIONS DECEMBER 1 The Extreme Mustang Makeover will offer two of what has become the definitive test of horsemanship when it debuts the Gatorland Extreme Mustang Makeover during Lynn Palm's Women Luv Horses event April 3-5, 2009 and returns to the Midwest Horse Fair for the second consecutive year April 17-19. Applications must be received no later than December 1 for both events WINNER HEAD OVER HEELS IN 2008 EXTREME MUSTANG MAKEOVER Mark Lyon of Arlington, Neb., took the grand prize at the second annual Fort Dodge Extreme Mustang Makeover Legends Finals, September 20 in Fort Worth, Texas, in the event's most difficult level of competition, after falling from his horse mid-performance. He demonstrated that a well-trained horse doesn't always need a rider to win, capturing the $12,500 top prize and the hearts of thousands watching his performance on Christian, a three-year-old, bay, mustang gelding 2008 EXTREME MUSTANG MAKEOVER RESULTS The results are in! Click here to view results for the 2008 Extreme Mustang Makeover! THE EXTREME MUSTANG MAKEOVER HEADS TO THE NORTHWEST! Albany, OR is the next step for the Extreme Mustang Makeover Competition Series as the Northwest Horse Fair and Expo welcomes 30 trainers and their wild horses March 20-21. A total of $7,500 will be up for grabs and trainers have until November 1 to submit their applications. Pick up for the horses will be in late December or early January (location and date to be announced). EXTREME MUSTANG MAKEOVER HEADS WEST When more than 5,000 enthusiastic fans lined up to witness the transformation of 25 wild horses in 2008, the Extreme Mustang Makeover became a highlight of the Western States Horse Expo and will make a return engagement with 50 mustangs June 12-14. The Extreme Mustang Makeover has touched off a firestorm of new fans for America's iconic mustang as 50 trainers have the opportunity to build transforming relationships with the wild horses at they work to gentle each animal in approximately 100 days. The trained mustangs will be judged on conditioning, groundwork, and a "Horse Course" that requires maneuvers and includes obstacles found in trail and recreational riding situations. Now recognized as America's definitive test of horsemanship, horsemen and women are invited to apply for a spot in the competition and must apply no later than February 1. Horses will be available for pick up March 13-14 at the Sacramento Horsemen's Association arena. EXTREME MUSTANG MAKEOVER RETURNS TO MIDWEST HORSE FAIR October 27, 2008, Bertram, Texas - The Midwest Horse Fair welcomes back the star of the 2008 show as the Extreme Mustang Makeover returns to Madison, Wis. for the second year in a row April 17-19 with America's most definitive horsemanship test Featuring 50 wild horses gathered from Nevada, trainers will have approximately 90 days to gentle the mustangs before displaying their talents before what has been a standing room only crowd. "Rhonda Reese and her team at the Midwest Horse Fair stage a first-class event and we're only too glad to be a part of this fantastic show," said Mustang Heritage Foundation (MHF) Executive Director Patti Colbert. "Trainers from the Midwest were phenomenal because they not only raised the bar for the competition, they fought a really tough winter in 2008 to get these horses ready. The Mustang Makeover has really gained a following in the horse industry and I know these trainers will bring it in 2009." YOUNGSTERS GRAB THE SPOTLIGHT AT EXTREME MUSTANG MAKEOVER October 6, 2008, Bertram, Texas - Competition for the younger set concluded with real panache at the 2008 Extreme Mustang Makeover September 19 as $20,000 was awarded in three age groups during Mission 007: Yearling Edition of the four-day Makeover event. More than 200 yearlings competed in the event with trainers from 16 states ranging in age from nine to 64. The bulk of the purse, $10,000, was reserved for the youth division of the competition, which featured youngsters from age 9 to 18. More than 50 youth from six states competed in the event, which required that the yearling mustangs, gathered from their natural habitat in June, be gentled to lead through a trail of obstacles and loaded in a trailer. Ten finalists were then invited to a freestyle round where they were only limited by their imagination in showing what the yearling had learned. WINNER HEAD OVER HEELS IN 2008 EXTREME MUSTANG MAKEOVER SEPTEMBER 20, 2008, FORT WORTH, TEXAS - Mark Lyon of Arlington, Neb., took the grand prize at the second annual Fort Dodge Extreme Mustang Makeover Legends Finals, September 20 in Fort Worth, Texas, in the event's most difficult level of competition, after falling from his horse mid-performance. He demonstrated that a well-trained horse doesn't always need a rider to win, capturing the $12,500 top prize and the hearts of thousands watching his performance on Christian, a three-year-old, bay, mustang gelding. Well into Lyon's textbook perfect performance, which included a ballet of movement including deep stops and picture perfect spins, the crowd's hearts fell when he leaned to Christian's side in a tight turn and his saddle slipped causing him to fall. Since the entire focus of the judges was on the mustang's ability, judges awarded Christian for his reaction to this unforeseen happening. Judge and famed horse trainer, John Lyons, said, "That was the best part of the whole performance. He did exactly what he was trained to do," describing how Christian stood and waited for his rider to get back on. Lyons went on to take the horse through his paces firing a shooting pistol at balloons and riding through a ring of fire. MUSTANG TRAINER BEGINS CROSS COUNTRY TREK TO MAKEOVER Las Vegas, Nev., horse trainer Matt Replogle is making his journey to the Extreme Mustang Makeover in Fort Worth, Tex., September 18-21, a different, and perhaps more meaningful one. He's inviting other trainers and mustang fans to join him. While others will be loading their mustangs into trailers, Replogle is making the 1,200-mile journey to Fort Worth riding his yet unnamed mustang to the event in order to raise awareness about the value and trainability of mustangs along with bringing a focus to breast cancer. ARCHIVE
MUSTANG MESSENGER |
AMERICAN MUSTANGS CELEBRATED AT CAMP WILDFIRE
EXTREME MUSTANG MAKEOVER GRAD BECOMES OFFICIAL COLLEGE MASCOT
EXTREME MUSTANG MAKEOVER HORSE CAPTURES ADMIRATION AT IDA SHOW
Onyx, a fifth place finisher in the 2009 Gatorland Extreme Mustang Makeover, (now owned by Holly Bailey of Monticello, Fl) performed flawlessly for her college-age riders over the weekend, scoring in the mid to high 60's, and even receiving many votes by the students for the "Best Draw" of the day award, where students vote on the most desirable horse to draw for the show.
October 10, 2009, Georgetown, TX - In a rare public appearance east of the Mississippi, the U.S. Marine Corps Mounted Color Guard will appear October 23-24 during the Extreme Mustang Makeover Eastern Stampede in Murfreesboro, Tenn.
EXTREME MUSTANG MAKEOVER EQUINE CONTENDERS TO BE PRESENTED DURING SMU VS NAVY GAME OCTOBER 17
SEPTEMBER 21, 2009, FORT WORTH, TEXAS - American mustang Rembrandt and trainer Wylene Wilson of Queen Creek, Ariz., delivered a picture perfect performance to capture the hearts of fans, $5,000, and the 2009 Extreme Mustang Makeover Legend division championship September 20 in Fort Worth, Tex. Rembrandt and Wilson's victory was made sweeter still by the fact that Wilson's daughter was in the crowd, fully recovered from a serious head injury that occurred the same day they got Rembrandt.
"He came up to me and said that after losing his wife he was looking for his soulmate, and I said, 'So is she.'"
COCA-COLA JOINS EXTREME MUSTANG MAKEOVER EASTERN STAMPEDE 
MUSTANGS AND MUTTS TAKE THE STAGE IN FORT WORTH
That willingness shown through during the adoption that immediately followed the competition, as Wendy was also the high-adopting horse at $4,000, while Lilly Bet adopted for $1,400. The second highest adopting horse went to Marley, trained by Greeley, Colo., horse trainer Randall Davis, who adopted for $2,200 and placed fourth in the competition. All 22 mustangs were adopted for an average of $1,100 per head.
Chase Dodd of Soddy Daisy, Tenn., has been the bridesmaid, but never the bride, so to speak, until he met the mare he named for Pat Summit, the winningest basketball coach in Tennessee history and with that legacy already on her young shoulders, the three-year-old mare proved she and Dodd made quite a couple taking the win in the April 19 Midwest Extreme Mustang Makeover finals in Madison, Wis.
The success of the 2008 Extreme Mustang Makeover Yearling Edition has spurred the addition of yearling competition, for youth competitors only, during the Extreme Western and Eastern Stampede's in Fort Worth, September 18-20 and in Murfreesboro, Tenn., October 23-25.
MUSTANGS BRING MAGICAL PERFORMANCE TO FORT WORTH STOCK SHOW
EXTREME MUSTANG MAKEOVER HEADS WEST