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Meet the 2025 EMM Competitors

Born & Raised Around Horses In Cape Hatteras, North Carolina. As The Owner of Sugar Ridge Ranch established in 2021- my goal is to provide a good foundation for the mustang I choose in the live number drawing in Lebanon, Tennessee. I don’t consider myself a trainer by any means- just a girl who loves horses and have trained my own horses to carry me along the beaches here in the Outer Banks.

Maggie

Austin

Adult under-saddle
My journey started in a little red barn tucked into the wood’s edge on a back road in Unionville, VA with a little, black, spitfire of a pony. His name was Billy and someone had broken his trust. Our kindly neighbor had bought him as a companion to her horse after her other pony passed away and was kind enough to let us enjoy both her horses until he eventually became mine. Over the 20+ years that little pony was with me, he became my best friend and eventually my very first horse. He taught me more than any other one horse ever has and I attribute my love of problem solving and working with anxious and sensitive horses to my journey with him.  My professional journey began in 2009 quite by accident. I had intended to work a year after high school before heading off to college, but instead, ended up working with a trainer and fell in love with the training life. I worked for a number of different professionals in different disciplines for a few years before starting my own business, Sunny Side Horsemanship, in 2015. Over the years I have ridden and worked with many incredible horsemen and women from a verity of disciplines, backgrounds, and professions looking to develop myself as a horsewoman and rider. I have always loved diving deep into learning anything involved with the horse such as psychology, physiology, training styles, nutrition, etc. and how we affect them in those ways through our interactions and practices. After pregnancy in 2017 with a rough ending and healing from a c-section, I found myself struggling with things that were easy for me pre-pregnancy both mentally and physically. I started having wrecks on horses that never would have been a problem before, and it completely shook my confidence. This time lead me into movement and brain based education for the rider and deeper understanding of the same for horses. This is an ongoing and passionate journey of mine to continuously better understand the physical, mental, and emotional struggles of both horse and human and how we can overcome them while pursuing our goals. I now focus my work on helping horses and riders overcome their fears; becoming confident and connected in order to achieve their goal no matter breed or discipline. I do not believe in quick fixes for either horse or rider. Our journey of horsemanship is a lifelong one based on developing our emotional intelligence and physical skill sets and rushing either horse or rider leads us to skip over vital foundations that set us up for success. My goal is to always send horse and human home feeling confident knowing they can overcome any difficulties and become successful together.

Christina

Bailey

Adult under-saddle
Laura Baker is a skilled liberty horse trainer dedicated to creating deep connections between horses and humans. She has traveled and performed with her liberty team, which includes her Mustang, Motunui, a standout from the 2023 Extreme Mustang Makeover. Although Laura initially entered with Mot in the competition, she made the thoughtful decision to withdraw her, allowing Mot the time she needed to grow and become a successful partner. Now, Mot has become a rock-solid member of her liberty team, showcasing the transformative power of patience and trust. In addition to 2023's competition, Laura previously competed in the Extreme Mustang Makeover in 2022, demonstrating her ability to transform wild Mustangs into extraordinary partners. Laura is also a successful competitor in the International Liberty Horse Association (ILHA), where her team earned an impressive 4th place overall in the Championship Freestyle Invitational in Kentucky. Beyond the arena, Laura travels and performs with her liberty team, and runs her own business, offering a full virtual coaching and online program that teaches liberty training from the ground up. Through her program, she has empowered horse owners to build trust, respect, and harmony with their horses, creating partnerships that inspire and endure. You can catch more about Laura and her liberty team at everydayhorsemanship.com.

Laura

Baker

Adult under-saddle
Mitchell Baker is a dedicated horse trainer with a passion for Mustangs and wild horse conservation. This is his second year competing in the Extreme Mustang Makeover, following his debut in 2023, where he formed a remarkable bond with his Mustang. After the competition, Mitchell adopted her, and together they now compete in liberty through the International Liberty Horse Association (ILHA). Since 2014, Mitchell has worked alongside his wife, Laura Baker, helping train horses through their business. The couple has gentled and trained numerous wild horses from Theodore Roosevelt National Park, as well as the ungentled Mustangs from the Extreme Mustang Makeover competitions. Mitchell’s calm and consistent approach to training highlights his respect for the natural intelligence and resilience of wild horses. Additionally, Mitchell’s work exemplifies his dedication to preserving the legacy of wild horses while inspiring others to see their potential as exceptional partners.

Mitchell

Baker

Adult under-saddle
Internationally Acclaimed Wild Horse Tamer, Liberty Clinician, Competitor, and Judge Hannah Catalino has spent over 13 years mastering compassionate and effective training techniques, helping transform countless untouched equines into willing partners for people worldwide. She started as a youth competitor in the Extreme Mustang Makeovers and never looked back since. Her deep passion for understanding wild horse behavior has driven her to travel extensively, studying wild herds in their natural environments across the globe. A standout competitor in the U.S. Mustang and Burro Challenge, Hannah has earned three Championship titles and seven Reserve Championships. Her expertise has garnered international recognition, particularly in Europe, where she has been a guest presenter, competitor, and judge at the prestigious Germany Mustang Makeover for over four years. In addition to her achievements in the U.S. and Europe, Hannah has made her mark in the Southern Hemisphere. She has served as a clinician, competitor, and judge at Equifest, New Zealand's leading equine festival, as well as a clinician and judge at Equitana Australia for the Brumby Challenge. As an internationally respected liberty clinician, Hannah has shared her knowledge with hundreds of students and horses of all breeds, including donkeys and mules. She is a co-founder of Global Wild Horsemanship Adventures which aims to connect horse enthusiasts world wide to the global plight of wild horses while learning how to use liberty techniques to gentle wild horses in various regions of the world. Beyond her professional achievements, she embarked on a personal journey covering 750 continuous miles across diverse American terrain with two of her own Mustangs and a burro, riding treeless, bitless, and barefoot, further deepening her connection with the animals she loves and to share in communities across the country what, these amazing animals are capable of.

Hannah

Catalino

Adult under-saddle
Krystal Cates - Mustang Spectacular Competitor Howdy, I’m Krystal Cates, and this is my third year competing with the Mustang Heritage Foundation! If you asked me what keeps me coming back, I’d say it’s the incredible Mustangs (and maybe my ongoing efforts to justify being a borderline horse collector). Along the way, I’ve also been lucky to meet some amazing, slightly horse-crazy people who’ve become like family. I’ve been horse-obsessed since I was knee-high to a grasshopper, which eventually led me to open a horse rescue sanctuary in Mexico back in 2007. Helping horses in need taught me more than I could ever teach them—plus, it gave me plenty of practice convincing stubborn equines that humans aren’t all bad. For me, this journey isn’t about where we place at the show—it’s about what I can give back to these incredible Mustangs. Over the past few years, I’ve had the privilege of working with these wild-hearted beauties, many of whom have gone on to their forever families. That’s the real win. So, whether we walk away with a ribbon or just a few new stories, you can bet my Mustang and I are here to have fun, learn, and maybe steal the show with a little wild flair. See y’all in the arena!

Krystal

Cates

Adult under-saddle
I run a training and barefoot trimming business in Glencoe, Oklahoma. I specialize in barrel horses and colt starting but I have always loved the Mustangs. I got my first mustang at the age of 13 and finally did my first Makeover in 2024, placing in the top ten!

Rachael

Cieslak-Bouziden

Adult under-saddle
I started my career with mustangs in 2013 when I picked up my first for the NJ EMM. I again competed in the VA 2015 EMM. I competed in the GA TIP challenge and decided it was time to do more. Since then I’ve gentled and trained hundreds of mustangs through the TIP program and privately through my business, Gentled Hearts Stable. I am the PA director for the USWHBA and have recently launched, with the US Forest Service and the Double Devil Wild Horse Corrals the Satellite Adoption Center right here in Central PA. I’m very excited about this program where we provide wild horses, from the Forest Service, on the East Coast. We are also a satellite pickup location for the Devil’s Garden corrals. I also host the Gentled Hearts Stable Devil’s Garden Mustang Challenge in PA. This challenge was started in 2022 and has been a huge success in finding homes for more mustangs. All in all, my family and I have made mustangs a lifestyle and are grateful for the opportunities that the mustangs have given us.

Stacy

Garner-Hickes

Adult under-saddle
Michelle is devoted to always doing right by the horse! Honesty, Integrity, and Grit. She never compromises her values or takes short cuts. Good hard work, a side of patience, a lot of heart, and ability to listen is the ingredient list to successfully training champion horses. Proficient in the art of center-riding, multiple disciplines under saddle, and a knack at helping hard-to-manage horses, Michelle will help you reach that milestones in horsemanship you have been reaching for. Connection, Confidence, Communication is the foundation to the program for Michelle to build safe and confident relationships between horse and rider. Teaching leadership skills that leads to trust, respect, and success. Michelle offers clinics to help riders over come fears, making a safer horse and rider pair. With a Degree In Equine Science and certified in Natural Horsemanship Michelle offers trIning techniques that work the mind first in order to get control of the body. Michelle started her show career at Project Cowboy then moved on to competing in her first Mustang Makeover in 2008 at the Women Luv Horses event in Ocala Florida. Since that first makeover Michelle competed in many other makeovers including Mustang Millions and the last makeover they held in Norco, Ca where the majority of the makeover was held on the trails and city streets of Norco, Ca. Michelle moved on in her show career working with her mentors such as Charles Wilhelm, Les Vogt and Lynn Anderson. She has had success in showing in not only the Mustang Makeovers but in NRCHA, NCHA, AQHA, and Ultimate Super Horse challenges. By offering the building blocks to help you peak in your relationship she has helped many of her clients find success showing and on the trail. She has spent years working under her mentors in order to provide better training techniques to the horses and her clients.

Michelle

Gilles

Adult under-saddle
Dusti Gleason, owner of Wildfire Horsemanship established in 2024 out ofLeslie, Mi. She started riding horses at the age of 5 , training in her teenage years and was introduced to mustangs in 2023. Passionate about connecting to horses and meeting them on any level, and not afraid to step outside of her comfort zone. She’s excited to further her training techniques with mustangs and has hopes of competing in more EMM’s.

Dusti

Gleason

Adult under-saddle
Serenity Hackl is a horse trainer from Rosholt, WI, with a passion for gentling wild mustangs. Since 2019, she has successfully gentled over 30, winning four mustang challenges and consistently placing in the top 10. Serenity has been training professionally for 6 years and specializes in ranch riding and Liberty Horsemanship. Back in the saddle after a devastating injury last summer, Serenity is thrilled to be working with her first mustang since the accident, and is honored to be competing in the Extreme Mustang Makeover!

Serenity

Hackl

Adult under-saddle
My name is Holly! I’m known locally for rescuing and rehabilitating auction or rescue cases. This is my first Mustang Makeover and something I have worked hard to achieve. I have spent a ton of time traveling around to watch and learn from different trainers and I’m excited to get in the ring with a project like this in front of tons of people! My goal is to show the trainability of these horses and hopefully get one or two more mustangs adopted!

Holly

Hall

Adult under-saddle
Mike is a 7 time top 10 Mustang Makeover competitor, veteran, clinician, entertainer and all around horseman.. He is known as the Pragmatic Horseman for his practical style when working with horses. He is from Mill Creek, WV where he raises cattle and horses with his wife Tiffany. Mike has one grandson and three beautiful daughters.

Michael

Hurst

Adult under-saddle
Dawson resides with his family in Northwestern, Pennsylvania on a small horse farm. In 2009, Dawson began colt starting which led him to his first Extreme Mustang Makeover competition in 2013. That experience triggered his passion for mustangs. He has since competed in the 2017 Kentucky EMM, 2019 Kentucky EMM, and 2020 Players Choice EMM in Fort Worth. Additionally, he has helped place mustangs through the Trainer Incentive Program (TIP) and through direct BLM adoptions. In addition to working with mustangs, he enjoys educating his local community about them and helping bring awareness to the various mustang programs. Dawson is excited to be back for his fifth Extreme Mustang Makeover and to help place another mustang in a loving home.

Dawson

Ives

Adult under-saddle
My full name is Dillon Chase Lancaster I'm 30 years old this 2025 competition is my first time with a mustang I have trained horse in roping,barrel racing, cutting, reining munevours, and just normal plain trail riding IV competed as a professional bullrider for 15 years and bronc rider. I'm doing this competition to get my name on the map as a horse trainer.

Chase

Lancaster

Adult under-saddle
I have been working with horses for 30+ years showing in PA 4-H, open shows, A rated shows and a couple TIP challenges. I have competed in the Thoroughbred Makeover multiple times and placing in the top 5 twice in freestyle. I won the freestyle twice driving my thoroughbred mare at the Florida Thoroughbred Expo. I have show all different breeds in many disciplines, but love driving and jumping the most.

Amy

Lent

Adult under-saddle
Hello! My name is Kelsi Lohr and I am a 2025 Rookie! I have never done an EMM Challenge. I actually dabbled into the mustang world only three years ago. I have rode many breeds, worked with many breeds and have shown many breeds. I have been in the horse world for over 15 years and still hanging in strong! I am no stranger to working with horses and hoping to see what my pick this year does!

Kelsi

Lohr

Adult under-saddle
Suanna Morris is a college Freshman who has been training mustangs for 5 years. This competition is her 9th mustang gentling challenge and her first adult competition. She trains mustangs professionally out of her family’s facility in South Georgia. Right now she is also attending ABAC to get her Bachelors in rural development. She plans to use her degree while working in the foster care system with her local foster care organization.

Suanna

Morris

Adult under-saddle
Been working with mustangs for many years. Have previously participated in several makeovers. Use mustangs for trail riding and competitive trail and cow work. Also uses mustangs for therapeutic riding and rehabilitation.

Patty

Nuernberg

Adult under-saddle
Hi! My name is Katrina Ordway, I am a trainer, equine sales marketing consultant, and owner/operator of a boarding/training facility. I have had a passion for everything equine since childhood, taking every opportunity to be around horses starting at a young age. In early years I worked as a stall cleaner and volunteer at local barns to work off lessons and receive riding opportunities. In adolescent years I started working at equine and cattle outfits while attending school. I graduated from the University of Wyoming with an agricultural business degree in 2023, and started a student worker position that turned into a training employment opportunity at the same facility I currently work at in my last year of school. Here I have worked with not only Mustangs but also QHs, WBs, TBs, Lusitanos, Fresians, Andalusians, and more. I currently share my home with 1 Quarter Horse, 1 Quarter Pony and 1 Pony (plus my new mustang) as well as dogs, cats, and chickens. This will be my first mustang competition and I am beyond excited to see what incredible things come from this opportunity for both of us!

Katrina

Ordway

Adult under-saddle
Brandon Pate. I was raised in southern Georgia where row crops and cattle were a normal life for me. I never had any interests in horses. After my military service I moved to western Kentucky and met my wife. She grew up with horses and started her training career early in life. She began to teach me all about equine as I assisted with her program. I started finding therapy through horses and my focus in daily life changed. After my affiliation with a few EMM horses I knew someday I would take on the challenge; here I am. Hunting, Millwright and mechanics are my hobbies. I enjoy working, taking care of our facility, farm and producing our own hay. I love time with my wife and raising our children together above all.

Brandon

Pate

Adult under-saddle
My wife and live in southwest Arkansas, we have three children. I grew up with horses and started a colt for the first time at 13. I'm constantly trying to learn more and very grateful for all the people who have took the time to help me learn. This is my first mustang makeover and I'm thankful for this opportunity.

Clint

Pearce

Adult under-saddle
Growing up riding different disciplines and starting colts, I was excited to try something more challenging. After completing the Mustang Makeover in 2019 with my first Mustang, I really started to love working with mustangs and being able to give them a solid foundation ti help them find new homes that they deserve. I’m excited to try another mustang makeover with other amazing trainers to show just how outstanding these horses can be.

Emily

Penegar

Adult under-saddle
Catherine Ruh has had a passion for training horses throughout her career. She enjoys starting young horses and then sending them on to their new career. Catherine often focuses on horses from kill pens that have limited handling and trust in people, and works on their general wellness through both their body and mind to aid them in letting go of their baggage and turning a new page. She also loves repurposing off the track thoroughbreds and giving them the knowledge to have a job in a secondary riding discipline to prevent them from becoming “throwaways” or disposable once they are done racing. Catherine had the privilege to work with a mustang through the Extreme Mustang Makeover program a few years back where she was able to turn “Monsoon” into a trusted riding horse and, despite not competing that year due to a slower training timeline that best fit Monsoon, was able to find him his permanent home where he enjoys trail riding with his junior rider. Catherine believes the horse always comes first, whether the goal is competitive riding or it is simply recreational, and her driving force with her training is always the love of the horse.

Catherine

Ruh

Adult under-saddle
Cara Seekell resides in Hall, Montana with her husband and daughter, Ashleigh, who is also competing. She started training mustangs 8 years ago when she began fostering wild horses captured from the Yakama Reservation in Washington. She grew to love working with the “wilds” so much that she founded a 501(c)(3) non-profit charity, Montana Mustang Connection and Rescue, which primarily focuses on mustangs and burros in need. She was previously a TIP trainer for 6 years and continues to adopt and train mustangs for clients. She has also has had a career as a freelance graphic designer for more than 30 years. Cara has competed in Mustang Mania in Idaho, MYWY Mustang Madness, and Montana Mustang Tip Challenges multiple times.

Cara

Seekell

Adult under-saddle
I have always loved working with horses, ever since my parents bought our first horse 19 years ago. I enjoyed riding trails with my friends and after high school, I decided to branch out and intern at the Diamond-McNabb ranch program for a year in Wyoming. I gained a lot of confidence and knowledge working with horses as we used them for daily duties around the ranch, teaching them how to handle cattle, riding over rough terrain, and patience on the all-day cattle drives. After I returned, my husband encouraged me to pursue the Parelli Natural Horsemanship program, as I was struggling with a Quarter Horse mare that seemed to have no interest in what I was trying to train. Almost immediately after implementing my new skills, my mare turned around and we both began enjoying groundwork and saddle work so much more! I love using the Parelli program with my horses, and I do believe the horses enjoy it as well. Having always had an interest in mustangs, I purchased my first TIP trained mares in October of 2023, and fell in love with the breed. The 2025 Spectacular is my first EMM, and I am so honored and excited to be able to compete in this new, personal adventure! I am so grateful to my husband for being my partner in this journey, and by Gods grace, my dreams are coming true.

Charlotte

Seipp

Adult under-saddle
Hi! I’m Dessie Shepherd and I’m the head trainer at Case 22 Ranchmanship in Ohio. This is my first time competing in the Extreme Mustang Makeover. I mainly train ranch horses but Astrid is only the second Mustang I’ve ever gotten feral to a good citizen. As much as I love my Quarter Horses, I gotta hand it to the mustangs.

Dessie

Shepherd

Adult under-saddle
Hi, I am Kitra Wake. I love in NE Ohio. I am a wife and a mom of 3. I started training mustangs at 16yrs old and never stopped. I train as a hobby now. I work as a veterinary technician. I really enjoy mustangs and everything they can achieve. I love riding in every discipline. I love training and educationg others on mustangs. So that all can see that mustangs are incredible.

Kitra

Wake

Adult under-saddle
I’ve had a passion for horses my whole life. I’ve dabbled in everything from trail riding to English to rodeo . I’ve had the opportunity to start colts and mustangs along side fellow EMM trainers . As soon as I finished homeschool I started my own Horse therapy business! Though this will not be my first time training Mustangs it will be my first EMM competition, I’m very excited to see just what all My horse and I can accomplish!

Grace

White

Adult under-saddle
My name is Logan Wittrock. I am a senior at Manson Northwest Webster, graduating this May. I attend Iowa Central Community Colleges Triton Academy in the Fire Science Program. My plan after high school is to become a Wildland Firefighter. I have been involved in 4H and FFA. I have worked with Susie and Nick McDonald at M&D Performance Horses since I was in 5th grade, riding horses, giving lessons, and learning to break colts, and have also been out to South Dakota to run pastures and work cattle. Last year was my first experience of the Mustang Challenge as a spectator and a support "minion" for Nick McDonald and his Mustang Minion. I enjoyed the experience and the journey leading up to the show watching and helping Nick. I look forward to this journey and challenge and can't wait to see everyone in Kentucky.

Logan

Wittrock

Adult under-saddle
I have been training horses since I was a teenager many, many years ago. I got involved with mustangs in 2012 and I have never looked back. I enjoy training mustangs because they are all different and they always teach you so much more about yourself than you can teach the horse. I hope that this mare I have this go round proves to be an excellent ambassador and a willing partner.

Dominique

Wood

Adult under-saddle
My name is Molly and this is my first time doing the mustang challenge. I have been doing equine therapy for almost two years and I've fallen in love with it. I found out about the mustang challenge a year ago and am finally joining in.

Molly

Bartlett

Youth in-hand
My name is Sophia Biosca. I am 17 years old and I grew up in Algonquin Illinois. I now go to Lyon County high school in Kentucky and I am going into my senior year. I have a history in English riding but have branched out into western riding. I am still undecided on a career path I would like to take after high school. I do plan to continue working with horses after high school. This is my first time competing in the extreme mustang makeover. When I am not working with my horse I enjoy riding at my english barn, going to church and making money then spending it, but mostly i love spending time with my friends and family.

Sophia

Biosca

Youth in-hand
At sixteen years old, Kennedy is preparing for her first Extreme Mustang Makeover challenge. However, not her first mustang training experience, Kennedy hopes to gain knowledge, connections, and lifelong friends throughout this journey. Kennedy brought home her first mustang from holding, Pancake, in 2022 and over the past few years the once feral horse grew from wild to mild and is Kennedy’s best partner for life. The duo later competed at the 2024 Franklin,TN Mustang Heritage Spectacular and won the 2024 MGA Invitational with their team all taking home their first buckles. They were also awarded reserve champion in trail and ranch riding. Although Kennedy is a first generation horseman, she doesn’t plan to be the last as her passion continues to grow.

Kennedy June

Burruano

Youth in-hand
Elle is a 16 year old girl from Hatteras Island, NC, competing in her first ever Extreme Mustang Makeover. She spends her days riding her thoroughbred on the beach and guiding tourists on coastal trail rides.

Elle

Everheart

Youth in-hand
My Name is Claire Fields, I’m 11 years old and I have been riding horses since I was 5. In the summer of 2023 my horseback riding instructor mentored a friend of mine as she gentled her first Mustang for a Tip Challenge. I went most every day to the barn to watch my friend train and work with her Mustang. I was fascinated by the bond she and her Mustang created. My riding instructor also does liberty work with her horses and I have taken a lot of interest in that as well. My mom and I met with people from the Mustang Heritage Foundation at the International Liberty Horse Festival in the fall of 2024. After talking with them I asked my mom if I could compete in the EMM. After a lot of discussion about the commitment and responsibility she and my dad agreed! My mentor is Janet Presnell, I have been taking lessons with her since 2021 and board my horse at her ranch. I love Janet’s methods when it comes to gentling horses and I am learning so much from her!

Claire

Fields

Youth in-hand
Vera Frazier is a 17-year-old horse trainer from Louisville, Ky. Vera competes in Extreme Mustang Makeovers and training challenges across the country. She placed 5th overall in her first youth Extreme Mustang Makeover and was Reserve Champion overall in-hand and Grand Champion in the ridden division at America’s Next Top Youth Competition. She focuses on starting young horses and helping clients with their problem horses using natural horsemanship techniques. Liberty is one of her passions, and she strives to put a solid ground and liberty foundation on every horse she trains. She firmly believes groundwork and liberty are key to a good, well-rounded horse. Her favorite part of training Mustangs and other training challenge horses is watching them transform into a healthier and more trusting horse. Building a relationship is always her first step towards helping each horse reach its full potential and succeed in whatever it may go on to do in life!

Vera

Frazier

Youth in-hand
My name is Madison Harris, I go by Madi, I am 17 years old and I graduated from Lyon County High School on may 15th 2025, in Eddyville Ky. I plan to attend Murray state university majoring in business marketing. This is my 3rd time competing in the Extreme Mustang Makeover and I competed in the Americas Next Top Youth Trainer competition last year. When I’m not working with my mustangs I’m either barrel racing, helping my trainer train her colts at Freedom Farms LLC, and going to church. I also enjoy going to the lake, and spending time with my friends. I hope to continue training mustangs after I’m done with my collage classes.

Madi

Harris

Youth in-hand
Susanne Mallow lives in Moatsville, West Virginia. She has competed in two Extreme Mustang Makeovers placing 5th in Fort Worth, TX in 2022 and Reserve Champion in Franklin TN in 2023.

Susanne

Mallow

Youth in-hand
Jasmine Montgomery, a bright and determined 12-year-old, is embarking on an incredible journey as she competes in her very first Extreme Mustang Makeover with the Mustang Heritage Foundation. Jasmine’s passion for horses and her unwavering dedication have been evident since she started volunteering at New Freedom Farm at the tender age of 5. Over the years, she has grown into a true leader and an invaluable part of the farm’s family. Jasmine’s commitment to New Freedom Farm is unmatched. She has never missed a single day of volunteering, showcasing her deep devotion to the farm’s mission. She proudly carries the American flag for the New Freedom Farm color guard, symbolizing her patriotism and respect for the veterans and heroes the farm supports. Recently, Jasmine achieved a major milestone by earning her very first horse, JAG (short for Just a Girl), through hard work and dedication. She works diligently to provide for JAG’s care and board, while also taking responsibility for the daily care of all 19 equines that call New Freedom Farm home. In preparation for the Extreme Mustang Makeover, Jasmine has taken on the challenge of training her Mustang, Maverick, entirely on her own. From the moment she connected the trailer to pick him up, she has been fully responsible for his care and training. Jasmine even measured Maverick herself and called to order his winter blanket, ensuring he was well-prepared for the colder months. Her meticulous attention to detail and hands-on approach demonstrates her remarkable capability and maturity at such a young age. Jasmine’s work ethic, leadership, and talent shine through in everything she does. Her ability to connect with the horses, her unwavering enthusiasm, and her natural gift for training and caring for equines make her a standout young lady. Competing in the Extreme Mustang Makeover is the culmination of years of dedication, and it is a testament to her determination and resilience. New Freedom Farm is honored to support Jasmine on this exciting journey. She is a shining example of the transformative power of hard work, passion, and love for horses. Jasmine’s story inspires everyone she meets, and her future in the equestrian world is undoubtedly as bright as her spirit. We are thrilled to watch Jasmine, and her Mustang partner Maverick grow together as they prepare for the Extreme Mustang Makeover. Her journey is one of courage, perseverance, and heart, and we cannot wait to see her shine on this remarkable stage.

Jasmine

Montgomery

Youth in-hand
Hannah is a 2nd grade homeschool student. She has been around horses her whole life. Over the past few years she has started taking ponies in for under saddle training at her family’s training facility in South Georgia. This is Hannah’s 2nd mustang training competition!

Hannah

Morris

Youth in-hand
Saranne Morris is a 14 y/o mustang trainer out of South Georgia. Ever since Saranne rode her first horse she knew she wanted to be involved with horses for the rest of her life. Saranne was blessed to have family with multiple horses she could ride. Soon Saranne got involved in the mustangs and competed in her first mustang challenge in 2020. Afterwards, Saranne continued training and rehoming mustangs. She now works at Grace Reings Farm with her family training horses. Saranne hopes to always be able to work with horses and bring glory to God.

Saranne

Morris

Youth in-hand
My name is Tucker Noel. I was born in Madisonville, Ky, but have been raised in Eddyville, Ky. I am 15 years old, I attend Lyon County high school in Eddyville, Ky, where I strive to graduate in 2028. As I get older I am dedicated to becoming a line men. This is my 1st time competing in the Extreme Mustang Makeover. I have recently found a liking in horses and plan to further my life in horses. Other than at the barn, I enjoy racing dirt bikes and four-wheelers, hunting, being outside, and hanging out with my friends and family. I’m looking forward to this journey with my mustang and how far my trainer at Freedom Farms llc will get me and my horse in this time.

Tucker

Noel

Youth in-hand
My name is Marley Norwood, I am going into my senior year at Lyon County High school in Kentucky. I am 16 years old, I play soccer and have attended tournaments in Spain. I am planning on going to college in Florida to play division 2 soccer and major in business. I have a history in trail riding with all western horses, I hope to continue working with and being around horses after this competition.

Marley

Norwood

Youth in-hand
Hi, my name is Bristol Pate. I’m originally from Sylvester, GA but have lived in KY most of my life. I am 15 years old girl with big dreams in the rodeo world. After i graduate from Lyon County in Eddyville, Ky, I plan to attend Murray State University majoring in the medical field. I dream of becoming a Cardiothoracic surgeon. In my free time I enjoy riding my horses and attending rodeos at the Murray State Arena for the Western Kentucky Little Britches Association. Outside of horses I love hanging out with my friends, going to church; worshiping God, being around my family, and shopping. This will be my 2nd time competing in the Extreme Mustang Makeover. During my MSU journey I hope to continue my love for rodeo on the MSU team. After my journey of college I hope to become a Cardiothoracic surgeon while continuing my love for horses.

Bristol

Pate

Youth in-hand
My first horse is my Mustang that I have currently, I leased him first and then bought him. I trained him myself and still currently am training him. I have a group of people that always helps me out and gives me pointers and teaches me new things everyday. Me and my mustang do all of it while showing but our favorite is barrel racing and jumping.

Karlie

Ruff

Youth in-hand
My name is Ashleigh Seekell. I live in Hall, MT with my parents, 5 dogs, 3 cats, sheep, 2 burros and LOTS of mustangs. I am hoping to be a professional horse trainer some day, and really love gentling mustangs. Last year I was very proud to win the youth in-hand division at MYWY Mustang Madness. I have also participated in Mustang Mania, Branded Bonanza and the Montana Mustang Tip Challenges in the past.

Ashleigh

Seekell

Youth in-hand
Kaydence Spangler, a dedicated 15-year-old equestrian, has been competing in horse shows since the age of 9, beginning her journey in Western Pleasure, and later transitioning to Ranch. Known for her perseverance, Kaydence overcame a significant setback in late 2020 when she suffered a complete fracture of her right shoulder during a show, but was back in the saddle by December of the same year. Her fascination with Mustangs ignited after witnessing Bobby Kerr's Mustang act at the 2022 Ute Stampede, further fueling her curiosity for Mustangs and inspiring a deeper interest in horse-training. Kaydence's grit and love for equestrianism continue to drive her along her horsemanship journey.

Kaydence

Spangler

Youth in-hand
I am a recently retired union electrician from Chicago Illinois. My daughter has been riding hunter jumper since she was 7. We are both adopting and doing this together with the freedom farms group. I am a total animal lover and have had mammals, birds, reptiles, you name it. I have absolutely zero experience with horses but I am already in love with my horse. We have already bonded and well on our way to being family. I have 11 acres of pasture And can't waite to start my hobby farm. Horses, donkey, chickens and goats. It is my heaven on earth.

Joe

Biosca

Adult in-hand
I am passionate about horses. Mustangs have a special place in my heart. I gentled my first mustang about 6 years ago. That mustang name is Chile. She is a great trail horse. She is also a liberty champion. I run a nonprofit called SoulStang. Our mission is to gentled as many mustangs as we can and find them good homes. Military veterans and first responder help with the gentling process. Veterans can relate to the problems that mustangs face. Veterans that volunteer for our program find purpose through caring for the Mustangs and learning the natural horsemanship process of gentling a Mustang. They find it very therapeutic without calling it therapy, These Mustangs literally helps save lives. Our other goal in the soulstang program is to educate the public. Demonstrating to the public how wonderful Mustangs are. I have three Mustangs of my own. Plus a wonderful Tennessee walking horse. My specialty is liberty horse training, gentling Mustangs. I also participate in cowboy mounted shooting competitions, carriage, driving, and I love to trail ride. It is a dream come true to participate in the extreme Mustang makeover.

Tina

Caldwell

Adult in-hand
I was a 4H leader in Pennsylvania. I competed in open shows when I was younger, now along with my daughter we host trail and open shows in Kentucky. I love working and being with horses of all breeds. I love working with ottb's and mustangs.

Elaine

Eddy

Adult in-hand
Julia Everheart is a first time Makeover competitor. She is from Hatteras Island, NC. She started riding as an adult at hunter barns and migrated toward trail riding and fostering rescue horses. She also works as a guide taking tourists on beach rides through the Cape Hatteras National Seashore.

Julia

Everheart

Adult in-hand
I am an English rider with a background in dressage and training pony hunters. This will be my first extreme mustang makeover but my 4th mustang. I was diagnosed with stage 4 cancer in 2019 and not expected to survive, however I have been cancer free since 2020 thanks to a straight up miracle from God. I am so grateful to have this opportunity and excited to visit Kentucky.

Lynn

Fitzgerald

Adult in-hand
I'm located in east Texas in small neck of the woods called Dekalb, Tx, i breed quarter horses, take in a few rescues to help give them a better life, I'm also a dedicated farrier that specializes in barefoot trimming, i have started 13 mustangs, this is my 1st EMM but I have participated in 5 Tip Challenges since 2019. I believe that ground work done right is the foundation for their future!

Breanna

Hutter

Adult in-hand
At the age of 55 years old this is Lois’s first time competing. Lois Dawn Magill’s journey with wild mustangs is a testament to resilience, determination, and the healing power of equines. Life presented many challenges, but none as transformative as the personal trauma she faced at the age of 40. She had never touched a horse until age 40. As a little girl she would read about wild mustangs in the Encyclopedia Britannica and journal about wild mustangs and zebras in her diary. During this difficult time, Lois encountered her very first wild mustang, a Sulphur Mustang she named Cecelia Dawn(her true soul sister who saved her from the throws of depression-suicide). The experience of gentling Cecelia was life-changing and became the foundation of her passion for working with Mustangs. Entirely self-taught and overcoming the challenges of being learning disabled, Lois has developed a unique and profound connection with the mustangs she trains. Her dedication and determination shine through in her work, inspiring others to believe in the power of second chances—both for horses and for people. For this year’s Extreme Mustang Makeover, Lois is training a remarkable Mustang named Dublin Clites. Dublin’s name carries deep meaning: “Dublin” honors the Dublin, Virginia Veterans Cemetery, and “Clites” pays tribute to a married couple of retired Navy and Air Force veterans who generously support New Freedom Farm. Lois chose Dublin as her draw because he was the underdog in the holding area, often picked on by other Mustangs. His deformed ear and older age made him less likely to be chosen by others, but Lois saw his potential and knew he deserved a chance to shine. Dublin’s story of resilience mirrors Lois’ own journey, making their partnership even more meaningful. Lois is a US Navy veteran and retired forensic nurse investigator. After retiring, Lois founded and the director of New Freedom Farm, Inc., a nonprofit in Buchanan, VA, dedicated to healing veterans and rescuing Mustangs. Through her work, she has touched countless lives, embodying the belief that every soul deserves a fresh start. Her participation in the Extreme Mustang Makeover is an extension of her mission to showcase the beauty, strength, and spirit of Mustangs, while highlighting the incredible bonds they form with humans. Lois has fostered and rehabilitated mustangs for the Bureau of Land Management. Lois’ story is one of grit, heart, and hope. Her unwavering commitment to Mustangs and veterans alike is an inspiration, and her journey with Dublin Clites promises to be yet another chapter in her incredible legacy. Together, they exemplify the true spirit of the Extreme Mustang Makeover: resilience, transformation, and the extraordinary connection between the mustang and human. Her tag line for New Freedom Farm is healing our heroes and the American Icon the wild mustang.

Lois Dawn

Magill

Adult in-hand
Montana Mathewson is 18 years old and resides in Henagar, Alabama. She has grown up riding horses her whole life alongside her family, who have trained horses. This will be Montana's first Extreme Mustang Makeover, but when she was two years old, her mom competed in the 2009 EMM Eastern Stampede, which caused the spark and love for the brand to grow! Although this will be her first mustang she’s training herself, Montana has owned a couple of mustangs previously. Montana wants to use her love and passion for mustangs to advocate the uniqueness and versatility of the American Mustangs to others for years to come. She has worked and trained with all different kinds of horses, but her heart always goes back to mustangs! Montana wants to thank all of her supporters, friends, and family for helping her dreams come true!

Montana

Mathewson

Adult in-hand
Horses have been my passion for as long as I can remember. I’ve always been fascinated by mustangs and their transformation through training. In 2021, I took on my first unhandled mustang—an 8-year-old gelding from Devil’s Garden—and that experience only deepened my love for working with these incredible horses. In 2022, I competed in my first 100-day gentling competition, the Montana Mustang TIP Challenge, and returned in 2023 for my second. When I’m not training mustangs in my free time, I work full-time at a Friesian breeding farm, where I continue to build my knowledge and skills. I’m always looking for ways to improve my horsemanship and grow as a trainer.

Courtney

Mueller

Adult in-hand
Started riding in 1960. Graduated from Oklahoma Farrier College in 1973. Left the horse business in 1983. Remarried in 2010 and started up with horses again in 2012. Watching the Mustang Makeovers have been a yearly thing since August 2015.

Glenn

Nehoda

Adult in-hand
Fadocia Annette Nole Hall is an amateur trainer with too many names: personal, professional, maiden, and married! Yet they all factor into her equine journey. Fadocia Annette was born with a deep desire for one horse, but made room in her heart for many more. She started out working with rescues, segued to her lifelong dream of owning a wild Chincoteague Pony, and is now living exceedingly above and beyond all she could ask or imagine, with a little Moriah Mustang. Author of several children’s books, including “Marley the Mustang” and “Memphis The Mustang,” Fadocia Annette is already working on a new book about #4091,“Summit of Simeon” or “Simi” for short. Her career as co-producer of the PBS Television show, "Tennessee’s Wild Side", allowed her access into the Mustang Heritage Foundation and exclusive interviews with some of the world’s greatest horse trainers. She takes none of it for granted and recognizes the Divine opportunity and incredible adventure to compete in her first EMM Adult In-Hand competition, if only for an Audience of One.

Fadocia Annette

Nole Hall

Adult in-hand
Ashlyn Popiwczak is a 22-year-old horse trainer from Georgetown, KY. She has gentled over 50 Mustangs and burros and has trained countless other equines of various breeds and disciplines through her business Heart of the Wild Horsemanship LLC. She has competed in multiple TIP Challenges and an EMM, and she hosted her own TIP Challenge 2023. She specializes in burros and has done multiple shows, charity event appearances, and is currently filming a movie with her BLM burro Gidget. Outside of training, she works at Hagyard Equine Medical Institute as a senior veterinary technician. Through her work with her BLM burro, Gidget, and her BLM Mustang, Sage, Ashlyn hopes to educate the public and make a difference in the future of America’s wild horses and burros.

Ashlyn

Popiwczak

Adult in-hand
I am a 63 year old who suffers from rheumatoid arthritis. I want to show people that just because I’m older with major health issues, we need to find something to give us purpose. For me, that’s wild Mustangs and burros. This is my third Challenge, and I love showcasing these amazing animals! I also love it when a horse or donkey learns to trust me. It’s so rewarding, and gives me a reason to get out of bed. Never give up!

Kammy

Popiwczak

Adult in-hand
To say this is a first, is an understatement. I call it horse and student. My name is Jim White, I am 64 and this will be my first Extreme Mustang Makeover event as a competitor. I have three mustangs from previous EMM's: 2017 Lexington, KY EMM, 2019 Lexington, KY EMM and 2023 Franklin, TN EMM. I also acquired a rescued mustang and have bought one directly from the BLM. I am looking forward to working with "Tiny Dancer" a 3-year-old mare from the Moriah, HA in Nevada. Please share with everyone you know and come out and watch the competition June 12-14th 2025.

Jim

White

Adult in-hand
Youth in-hand
Adult in-hand
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