This year Michelle will be hosting a trainers challenge. Five trainers have been selected to compete. They will pick up the horse on February 28th, 2026 and have until July 14th to train this horse. They will be competing for prizes and of course bragging rights. The competition will be held at the 2026 WI Farm Technology Days Show. Over the course of 3 days the trainers will compete in classes and events to gain points and ultimately the Trainer Challenge Queen (because the trainers are all ladies). Points will also be generated for publicity posts they share on their social media and to give sponsors the shout outs they deserve. If you would like to sponsor these ladies and horses please let me know. I have several levels of sponsorships including a Sponsor-A-Horse program where the sponsor gets their own stall door banner for the length of the show.
MEET THE TRAINERS
Ava Ellefson – A Plus Horsemanship, Sturgeon Bay WI
Horses have always been a part of Ava’s heart and life. Her trainer philosophy centers on creating a willing, attentive mind in every horse. Believing that lasting success comes from partnership, Ava also prioritizes teaching owners effective communication skills so they can continue to build confidence and create a solid, successful partnership with their horse.
In recent years, Ava has found a special passion for working with Mustangs. “Having the opportunity to start mustangs has been incredibly rewarding. It’s an honor to show them that humans are safe, and I love watching their journey as they continue to thrive in their new homes. She was a successful Mustang Heritage Foundation TIP trainer until the program ended in 2023, and a proud competitor in the 2024 Mustang Champions Mustang Challenge, and is excited to be a part of the Inaugural MP- Horses Trainer Challenge in July 2026.
Through her work, she continues to inspire trust, patience, and partnership in both horses and riders, one ride at a time.
Sam Kraft – TKR All-Around Horsemanship, Winneconne WI
Sam has always had a deep love for horses. From a young age, walking past horses out in a pasture on the way to the bus stop, to reading every book, participating in 4-H, to now getting to live her childhood dream. It has been a path she has chosen to follow, and wouldn’t change it for the world. Barrel racing was her first competitive love, which moved to every discipline she could try. She has always been fascinated with the precision of training a competitive horse while keeping a strong, confident, loving relationship with the horse. Recently, Sam took a dive off the deep-end, devoting herself to building her business as a horse trainer. “I am very grateful for the people around me that have supported and helped me so far. Although you will find me in western tack most days, l love training all-around horses.” From the rodeo arena, to the show pen, over fences, behind them in a cart, or going down the trail, she takes pride in developing well-rounded athletes who are versatile, confident, and capable across multiple events. Whether preparing a horse for the show pen or strengthening fundamentals at home, Sam makes sure to tailor her training program to the individual horse—bringing out their full potential while protecting their confidence and willingness! By blending patience with clear expectations, Sam creates a steady, lasting progress both mentally and physically with the horse.
“The goal is simple: develop horses that are not only polished and skilled, but happy, confident, and truly enjoy their work.”
Abby Leib – Dream Chaser Farms, Cuba City WI
“Chasing dreams with the determination and grace of a horse.”
My name is Abby Leib, and I am the founder of Dream Chaser Farms. I have experience competing in various disciplines, including western pleasure, showmanship, and gymkhana, along with actively engaging in trail riding and training. My passion for horses drives me to continuously learn and grow, leading me into the world of ranch horse versatility where I can further develop my skills and knowledge. With a deep commitment to integrity and excellence, I strive to provide high-quality horse training and I pride myself on offering top-quality horse, ensuring that each client receives a trustworthy and exceptional experience.
Taylor Belisle – Dynamite Horse Co, Amery WI
My training philosophy is rooted in foundation, feel, and fairness.
Every horse enters the program as an individual — shaped by temperament, prior handling, and natural ability. Rather than applying a rigid formula, I focus on understanding the horse in front of me and building a program that develops their strengths while addressing their weaknesses with clarity and consistency.
I believe in creating balance. Sensitive horses need confidence. Duller horses need refinement and responsiveness. The goal is not to overpower a horse, but to guide them toward the middle — where they are attentive, willing, and mentally engaged.
Foundation work is non-negotiable. Quality groundwork establishes respect, communication, and emotional regulation before expectations increase under saddle. Progression is deliberate and structured, ensuring each step is solid before moving forward. I prioritize correct body position, softness, forward motion, and understanding of cues so that horses leave with tools they can rely on long term. Physical condition and mental development go hand in hand. Proper nutrition, conditioning, and recovery are essential components of the training process. A horse cannot perform well without being properly supported, and soundness — both mental and physical — is always a priority.
Above all, I aim to produce horses that think through pressure rather than react to it. A successful training outcome is not just a horse that performs in the arena, but one that is confident, adaptable, and prepared for a sustainable future.
Ginger Salzman – Brass Tacks Horsemanship, Rio WI
Hello, my name is Ginger Salzman. I focus on building a strong foundation for the horse and rider.
More info to come!
MEET THE HORSES
MP STEELNVAGAS – 2023 AQHA Dunskin (Buckskin Dun) gelding.
Frisco is a sweet guy even though he is at the bottom of the herd pecking order. He is a beautiful light buttermilk buckskin color and has all the dun zebra stripes. He is definitely a head turner.
MP STEELNHEARTS – 2023 APHA Red Dun (Sorrel Dun) gelding.
Freckles is a super friendly guy. He has always loved attention and the grandkids. He has a super thick and long mane that really makes him stand out. Don’t forget the stripes – even though he’s just a red dun, he has all the stripes too!
MP STEELNFANCY – 2023 APHA Bay mare.
Fancy was a little spitfire as a foal. She did not like people at all and wouldn’t let me love on her for the first few months. Once she was weaned and away from her mom, she decided she liked to have the scratches and pets that I hand out – everyone else liked them so she had to find out what the novelty was. Now she loves all the attention she can get and is second to get in your face to get haltered and do whatever you want of her.
MP BRENNASROYALWHIZ – 2022 AQHA Bay mare.
More info to come.
MP STEELNDREAMS – 2023 APHA Dunalino (Palomino Dun) mare.
More info to come.