TAKE HOME A MUSTANG

MUSTANG WORKSHOP, SIERRA VISTA, ARIZONA, MARCH 2025

- 2 expert mustang trainers

- 6 mustangs (geldings and mares)

- 6 active participants

- 30 days of training for the horse (attendance for the entire period is not mandatory)

- Guest speakers 

- Day trips and excursions

- Cowboy Church 9 March 

WHO IS THIS WORKSHOP FOR?

This workshop is perfect for anyone who dreams of owning a mustang and exploring the Wild West but feels hesitant about the training process. It offers a unique opportunity to learn about wild horses up close, with experts guiding the gentling process to give the horse a solid foundation for future training. Additionally, the course is valuable for trainers, horse owners, and volunteers in the equine industry, particularly those working with challenging or unstarted horses. If you already own a mustang and want to start your horse on the right path, this clinic is also for you- and you can bring your mustang!

WORKSHOP GOALS

We help mustangs adjust to human interaction and prepare them for their new homes in the USA or Europe, ensuring a stress-free and safe transition. An important aspect of this preparation is trailer loading, which is crucial for their move. While we do not ride the horses during the clinic, we focus on preparing them for the next step in their training. Since each mustang is unique, some may require additional time to adapt. 

WHY PARTICIPATE?

In essence, it’s a chance for ownership! We want you to fall in love with your mustang and bring him home. Each mustang comes with the required paperwork for import to Europe or to remain in the US. Our goal is to match each mustang with the perfect person and home. Taking home a mustang is not a must! You are welcome to join the clinic strictly for your personal Wild Horse experience!

WHAT TO EXPECT

Two experienced trainers will initiate the mustangs, with this phase reserved solely for observation. Following this, each mustang will be matched to a participant, and the training will cover essential skills such as halter training, hoof handling, and communication. Participants will progress through training that advances to more complex groundwork, gaining insights into understanding and communicating effectively with mustangs. The training approach will be tailored to each horse’s unique character, and trainers will offer personalized guidance throughout the process. 

GUEST SPEAKERS AND PLANNED TRIPS

Our program offers a unique blend of hands-on learning and cultural experiences, designed to provide participants with comprehensive care knowledge for mustangs and enriching activities.

- Veterinarian Session: Learn about health maintenance, dental care  and nutrition essential for mustangs, presented by a seasoned equine veterinarian.

- Hoof Care: A hoof care specialist will guide you through the unique needs of mustangs, ensuring you understand the essentials of proper hoof maintenance.

- Cultural Enrichment: Experience the rich traditions of the American West with a Native American storyteller, followed by a traditional horse blessing ceremony.

- BLM Facility Tour: Get an exclusive behind-the-scenes look at the Bureau of Land Management facility and learn about wild mustang management and care.

- Salt River Mustang Observation: Observe wild mustang herds in their natural habitat along the Phoenix Salt River—a truly remarkable sight. 

- 3 day Ranch Visit to Mexico: Cross the border to visit a traditional working cow ranch, where you’ll enjoy trail rides, meet local leather craftsmen, and learn about authentic ranch life.

This program is designed to deepen your understanding of mustangs and equip you with the knowledge to care for your own. Don’t miss this opportunity to fully immerse yourself in the world of wild horses!

IMPORTANT INFORMATION FOR PARTICIPANTS FROM ABROAD

Destination Airport: Tucson

Arrival: March 5, 2025, in Tucson with overnight at an airport hotel. Pick-up the next morning for Sierra Vista

Departure: Open to participant's schedule

Location: Sierra Vista, Arizona, USA

Accommodation: Double room with breakfast at Karin’s house (limited to 6 people).

Weather: Bright sunshine, can get very cold at night and windy in March, with minimal rain.

COURSE LEADERS & ORGANIZATION

We're thrilled to announce that Randy Helm, a retired BLM mustang trainer with over 30 years of experience, will be leading our main event weekend alongside local expert horseman Travis Elliston, who will be with us for the entire month of March! Both bring a deep passion for wild horses and unmatched knowledge in mustang training, promising attendees an unforgettable and enriching experience.

Karin Finney is the key organizer for this event, handling everything from paperwork and registration to accommodations and day trips. She oversees the setup at a local ranch in Sierra Vista and ensures the horses are well cared for. Karin also manages the logistics of getting your horse to Europe and is a proud owner of a mustang adopted from Randy Helm's prison program, now living with her in Germany. As a European Mustang Ambassador, she is dedicated to promoting the horses and connecting Europeans with the wild horse world.