Zach Pora, a 13-year-old from Seekonk, is proving that dedication, patience, and a little bit of grit can turn a wild mustang into a well-trained partner. A proud and active member of the City Slickers 4-H Club, Zach embarked on an incredible journey when he traveled to Tennessee in December 2024 to pick up his untamed mustang for the 2025 Extreme Mustang Makeover competition.
Since then, Zach has been working tirelessly to build trust with his mustang, Willow in the Wind or also known by her barn name, Willow. Over the months, their bond has grown strong, with Zach proving that age is just a number when it comes to horsemanship. Once wild and wary, Willow has transformed into a calm and responsive companion under Zach’s patient guidance.
The Extreme Mustang Makeover is a highly anticipated event where trainers of all ages take on the challenge of taming and training a wild horse in just a few months. In June, Zach and Willow will head to Kentucky to compete against other trainers, showcasing their progress through a series of events designed to highlight the horse’s skills, responsiveness, and overall transformation.
For those eager to follow along, Zach and his team have launched a YouTube series called Taming the Wild, where viewers can watch his progress, from the first nervous introductions to the incredible breakthroughs along the way. His journey is not just about competition—it's about patience, perseverance, and the deep bond between a horse and its rider.
As June approaches, Zach continues to refine his training with Willow, preparing for the big event with the same passion and determination that have defined his journey so far. One thing is certain: no matter the outcome, he and Willow have already won in the ways that truly matter.
To follow Zach’s journey, check out Taming the Wild on YouTube and cheer him and Willow on as they prepare for the competition of a lifetime!
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