Meet Twister: A Calm, Willing Mustang with a Bright Future
3-year-old BLM Mustang Gelding | Antelope Valley HMA – approximately 14.2 hh
Twister joined the 2025 Dakota Showdown Horse Trainer Challenge having never worn a halter—now he’s halter broke, respectful, and learning new skills every day. His trainer, Beth Stahlecker, describes him as nonchalant—he takes most things in stride, wants to do the right thing, and looks to his person for confidence. He gets concerned or nervous at times, but never terrified, and he can settle quickly.
Beth says there’s not a mean bone in Twister’s body—he has never threatened to kick or buck, even with ropes around his legs—and she believes he could be a great first mustang for the right person. While he’s safe and kind, he still needs more time, exposure, and miles. He will thrive with an experienced adopter or someone working closely with a trainer to continue his education.
Halter broke and easy to catch
Navigates tarps, bridges, gates, and other obstacles with ease
Picks up front feet for trims and has had backs picked out multiple times
Stands for grooming, fly spray, and basic handling
Yields hindquarters, backs up, and responds to groundwork cues
Respectful with treats and understands reward-based training
Shows interest in jumping and has free-jumped out of the round pen when motivated
Being tied hard and building patience while tied
Consistency with catching and tying in new environments
Confidence in overwhelming or high-stimulation situations
Oral sedation and tube dosing (will need more desensitization)
Continued exposure to new places and situations before starting under saddle
Beth notes that while Twister sometimes tries to “walk off” if he’s bored or doesn’t want to do something, she suspects this may translate to a forward bolt if rushed into saddle work. For now, he’s a safe, smart, and very teachable young horse who just needs more time and experiences to be ready for the next step.
See him in person at the Dakota Showdown Finale – August 24, 2025 at the Yankton Rodeo Grounds!
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