See You in 2025!!

Trainer Applications will open in March!

Congratulations to the 2024 Grand & Reserve Champions!

Our high point winners were separated by less than 1 point! Both did an amazing job and both horses found new homes!

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Grand Champion: Annika Greaney & Terra

10-yr-old Terra entered the Showdown with a history of some riding but also some bucking/rearing behaviors and an absolute refusal to load onto a trailer. Trainer Annika Greaney skillfully rebuilt her confidence, exposed her to many different things, and this little mare (standing only 13.1) went home with a family as a step-up horse for a child who had outgrown her pony!
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Reserve Champion: Bryan Roselles & Horace

4-yr-old Horace entered the competition as a new gelding with less than 30 days handling - but a great brain and willing personality. Trainer Bryan Roselles did an amazing job with him and he was our high bid horse with an adoption fee of $7100!

2024 Showcase Division Placings

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First: Annika Greaney & Terra

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Second: Bryan Roselles & Horace

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Third: Jade Thompson & Hazel

2024 Foundation Division Placings

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First: Mackenzie Barnett & Dice

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Second: Jay Westerbur & Cinna

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Third: Beth Stahlecker & Jabberwocky

ABOUT THE SHOWDOWN / South Dakota's Premier Horse Trainer Challenge

The Dakota Showdown Horse Trainer Challenge is a competition in which volunteer foster homes and professional trainers work with a Gentle Spirit Horses Rescue horse for a minimum of 100 days. 

The purpose of the Dakota Showdown Horse Trainer Challenge is:

  • To show the public that rescued horses and other equines can be useful, trainable and enjoyable equine partners.
  • To provide training and adoption opportunities for rescued horses.
  • To provide a fun, competitive venue for Professional and Amateur trainers to display their horsemanship skills.

RECENT BLOG POSTS / get news

Things to Know Before You Head to the Showdown!

Things to Know Before You Head to the Showdown!

Last chance to ADOPT!!

We just sent out a bunch of approvals and emails to potential adopters for this weekend's 2024 Dakota Showdown Finale!
That means we can EXTEND...

Volunteers needed!!

One week until the 2024 Dakota Showdown Finale and we need Volunteers! No horse experience needed - we need people comfortable helping move things...

LOCATION

Yankton Rodeo Grounds
404 Paddle Wheel Point
Yankton, SD

info@gentlespirithorses.org

CONTACT US / ask us anything!