A Groundbreaking Event for Wild Horses and Native American Horsemanship
The Wild Horse Rez Challenge, a visionary collaboration between Tawnee Preisner of Horse Plus Humane Society and Actress Dawn Olivieri of Moon Mountain Rescue and Sanctuary, made its debut on the Navajo Nation. Dawn and Tawnee established a new nonprofit called Wild Horse Rez. Dawn worked diligently within her network to raise funds for the Wild Horse Rez Challenge and prize money for the Navajo Gentlers, the incredible event they collaboratively organized. This event marks a pivotal moment in the journey of horse gentling, bringing together Navajo gentlers to celebrate and advance their profound connection with wild horses. It’s truly just the beginning of a movement set to transform the lives of wild reservation horses.
Native Americans possess an extraordinary ability to gentle and train wild horses, a skill deeply rooted in centuries of inherited horsemanship. This isn’t just about technique; it’s a cultural bond, a unique way of communicating and building trust with these magnificent animals. Their methods, emphasizing patience, respect, and deep intuition, foster a true partnership where horses are not merely tamed, but become respected companions.
The anticipation was palpable as the sun began to kiss the horizon over the Navajo Nation. It was 7 AM, and the air was crisp, carrying the scent of dust and excitement – the Wild Horse Rez Challenge was about to begin. For just over 60 days, Navajo Gentlers had dedicated themselves to the extraordinary task of transforming wild, unhandled horses, rescued and placed with them in July, into rideable partners.
The day kicked off with a flurry of activity, ensuring every detail was in place. We put up the banners for the sponsors of the event, Wild Horse Rez, Horse Plus and Moon Mountain Rescue and Sanctuary.
The first event, the foundational test, was a comprehensive evaluation of the horses’ initial progress. Five distinct stations were designed to assess essential skills and the bond forged between gentler and horse, with judges meticulously observing and scoring.
First off was the basic skills test. Horses were tested on fundamental leading and standing, along with farrier skills demonstrating their comfort with hoof handling. Bonus points was awarded if the gentler could calmly crawl underneath their horse while it stood perfectly still – a true testament to trust.
The second test was trailer loading. A calm, confident entry into the trailer, followed by a minute of peaceful standing inside, was the goal. This seemingly simple task is a critical life skill for any horse.
Then, after they completed the trailer test, the next station challenged the horses’ patience and composure. They had to stand calmly tied for two minutes, followed by a simulated vet examination, demanding unwavering tranquility.
The final foundational assessment required horses to stand calmly while being saddled and bridled, demonstrating their acceptance of riding equipment.
The excitement continued with the “24-Hour Challenge Championship,” hosted by Leland Grass, founder of Diné for Wild Horses. This intense endeavor saw two champion Navajo Gentlers from previous events compete. Tito emerged as the ultimate Champion, a true testament to his horsemanship.
After a well-deserved lunch, the Maneuver Test began!
Competitors demonstrated their horses’ proficiency in the foundational gaits of walk, trot, and canter, showcasing their training and the horses’ responsiveness.
An additional, more advanced challenge allowed gentlers to earn bonus points by standing upright on their horse’s saddle. These extra points were awarded if the horse maintained its composure and remained calm throughout this maneuver test, highlighting the horse’s trust and the gentler’s skill in building a strong partnership.
Up next was a staff favorite, the obstacle course test! This exciting course tested both horse and rider’s agility and trust. Challenges included navigating a big inflatable blue tunnel, stepping over a crinkling tarp, standing on a sturdy platform like bridge, pulling a log, weaving through large water bottles, and a thrilling gallop to the finish line.
The final test before choosing the winners, the freestyle allowed gentlers and their horses to showcase their talents and everything they learned over 60 days. Routines were performed to country music, with one gentler, Amber, even having a special live music performance by her grandpa.
After a long day of competition, the judges tirelessly tallied points. The Horse Plus and Wild Horse Rez team officially found a winner, and everyone gathered in the arena with big checks! The $10,000 prize money was divided among all contestants, with the top three receiving the largest checks. Leland Grass gave a heartfelt speech, expressing his pride in all the gentlers.
The competition was incredibly close, but finally, the winners were announced:
- First Place: Trey and his phenomenal horse, Topaz. Their teamwork was a joy to watch, with Topaz even responding to neck reining – a truly well-deserved win!
- Second Place: Jake and his amazing horse, Spice Girl. Hence her name, Jake did an incredible job transforming Spice Girl, who was very wild when rescued, into a rideable partner in just 60 days.
- Third Place: Shane and his horse, Bear.
After we gave the awards, Dawn Olivieri also gave a moving speech, thanking everyone and explaining that the horses would go to her rescue and sanctuary, Moon Mountain, and be available for adoption to find their forever homes. This event is just the first of many, and we are incredibly excited about the impact we are making on the reservation, helping even more wild horses get gentled and find their forever homes!
September was an incredibly busy month for Horse Plus Humane Society on the Navajo nation. The week prior to the Wild Horse Rez Challenge we covered the cost of castration of 41 Navajo stallions, a vital step in managing wild horse populations and ensuring their long-term health. These operations, performed with the utmost care and expertise, are crucial for preventing uncontrolled breeding and reducing the strain on the limited resources of the Navajo Nation.
We’ve been proud to support Animal Rez-Q for a number of years, and their dedication to this essential work is truly inspiring. Their efforts, combined with the support of our community, are making a tangible difference in the lives of these magnificent animals.
To see a previous event on the Navajo reservation where we covered the castration cost, please watch this video, click here.
Your support is essential to continue this vital work. Every donation helps Horse Plus Humane Society reach more horses and provide them with the care they need. Please consider making a contribution today to help us continue helping horses in the Navajo Nation in a significant way.
