At Colorado Horse Rescue, we believe in second chances and the power of partnership. The PEAK Training Challenge celebrates the progress of our horses and the trainers who help them rise.
What is PEAK?
The PEAK Training Challenge is a competitive demonstration and adoption event where talented Colorado horse trainers team up with unstarted or lightly handled CHR horses. Over several weeks, these partnerships grow in trust, skill, and understanding, culminating in an exciting public event with showmanship, storytelling, and a $15,000 cash prize pool.
The best part? It’s free to attend, family-friendly, and an incredible opportunity to meet some of CHR’s adoptable horses.
2024 PEAK Training Challenge
Meet the 2025 PEAK Trainers and Horses
We’ve got four incredible teams in this year’s challenge, each forging their own unique path. Here’s a look at how training is progressing so far:
Socks + Alex Parsaye
Socks has been a quiet superstar. Described as the “perfect mix of bravery and sensitivity,” he tackles new challenges with curiosity and calm. His trainer is keeping a few details under wraps to save some surprises for show day, but rest assured, Socks is shaping up to be a kind, talented, and eager-to-please gelding. We can’t wait to see what this pair reveals in the arena!
Dynamo + Cayla Stone
Dynamo lives up to his name; full of energy, intelligence, and heart. He’s confidently moving through walk, trot, and canter, starting to understand the bridle and bit, and even taking his first jumps! His trainer says he’s showing all the signs of becoming a fantastic kids’ horse: sensible, spunky, and incredibly fun to teach. Obstacles? No problem. New places? He’s a champ.
April + Margaret Blaha
April’s journey is one of steady, thoughtful progress. Her trainer is using both natural horsemanship and clicker training to great effect, and April is thriving. She’s been trailered frequently, handled by the farrier, walked, trotted, and loped, stood on a bridge, chased a ball, and even pulled a roping dummy. She’s gentle, curious, and loves spending time with her barn buddy Macaroni. After a brief pause due to a minor leg issue (possibly a kick), she’s back in action and even completed her first trail ride!
Honor + Tyler Hardin
True to his name, Honor has been an absolute gift to work with. His trainer says he’s been impressively willing and quick to learn, whether it’s bareback riding, trick work, or pulling obstacles in the arena. This sensitive soul loves ending sessions with snacks and cuddles, and he’s consistently risen to each new challenge with grace and patience.
Come See the Magic for Yourself
Mark your calendar for this year’s PEAK Challenge showcase on July 19 at 10 a.m. Bring your friends, your family, and your curiosity. You’ll witness powerful transformations, meet adoptable horses who are ready to start their next chapter, and celebrate the incredible dedication of our trainers.
Stay tuned!
We’ll be sharing more updates (and behind-the-scenes moments) as the event approaches. Follow along on our social media platforms for more training progress. See you July 19th!