Eligibility Window Closes In…
JOIN US FOR THE 2026
Mustang Challenge
Fort Worth, Texas
AUGUST 20-22, 2026
ABOUT
The Most Exciting Weekend All Year
The Mustang Challenge is a one-of-a-kind, premier western performance event that celebrates the heart, skill, and adaptability of the American mustang. Produced by Mustang Champions in partnership with the BLM Wild Horse & Burro Program, this competition offers the public an inspiring glimpse into the journey of mustangs transitioning from government care to private partnerships.
Competitors perform in three preliminary classes with hopes to compete in the Championship Finals, where the top 10 horse-and-rider teams go head-to-head for a $50,000 purse. This culminating showdown is a celebration of both the trainers’ dedication and the mustangs’ untamed spirit, creating an electric atmosphere for competitors and spectators alike.
The Mustang Challenge is the richest, western mustang competition with over $125,000 paid out in one weekend. This delivers an unmatched experience for competitors and spectators alike and firmly cements the event as a standout on the international equestrian calendar.
The 2026 Event Dates are August 20-22, 2026 in Fort Worth, Texas. We'll see you there!
THE CLASSES
A Western Performance Triad
The Mustang Challenge is one of the premier mustang western performance events in the country. It combines Trail, Reining, and Ranch Riding classes, and the top horse-and-rider teams from these preliminary rounds advance to the $50,000 Championship Finals.
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Trail
Trail is designed to show a horse's ability and willingness to perform several tasks that might be asked of it during the course of a normal trail ride.
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Reining
Reining highlights the finesse and athleticism of horse and rider through precise patterns featuring spins, sliding stops, rollbacks, and circles performed with controlled speed and accuracy.
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Ranch Riding
Ranch Riding measures a mustang's ability to be a pleasure to ride while being used to perform one ranch task to another.
READY TO COMPETE?
How It Works
1
Adopt & Register
Adopt or purchase a BLM mustang between October 1, 2025, and
May 1, 2026.
Register your mustang online.
(BLM Adoption Schedule)
2
Train
Competitors can have up to 10 months
to train their wild mustangs.
Competition Divisions:
• Adult Under-Saddle
• Youth In-Hand
3
Enter
It’s time to commit!
• Submit your entry form by May 1, 2026.
• Complete the Mustang Trainer …… ….Readiness Curriculum
• Show at one local event
4
Compete
Compete for $125,000 in cash
and prizes!
Adult preliminary classes include:
• Trail, Reining, Ranch Riding
Youth preliminary classes include:
• In-Hand Trail, Showmanship, Handling
& Conditioning
The top 10 from preliminary classes will move on to the Championship
Freestyle Finals!
PREMIUM EXPEREINCES
Be a VIP
Experience the Mustang Challenge like a true insider! VIP access includes exclusive seating, one-on-one time with trainers, daily lunch, live music, and backstage passes to meet the mustangs up close.
Sign up to learn more.
Wether you want to compete or want to attend the show – sign up to learn more.
THANK YOU TO OUR
