America’s Favorite Trail Horse yields non-profit organization Freedom Horses
One hundred of the top finalists were selected to go to the National Finals at the Franklin Family Ranch near Austin, Texas, on May 8th-12th, 2011 as part of the new national TV series America’s Favorite Trail Horse, which begins airing September 13th 2011 on HRTV. At the filming the finalists were treated to clinics and demonstrations from nationally known clinicians.
During a moving and emotional presentation on horse-human relationships by Monty Roberts, Finalist Betsi Bixby felt a strong need to use horses to help women heal from the effects of abuse and assault. Shortly after the National Finals concluded, Betsi Bixby took the lead, emails were shared and a small group of dedicated ladies formed a charity called Freedom Horses, which included ACTHA’s Marketing Director Tammy Sronce .
Based in Weatherford, Texas Freedom Horses will assist women gain confidence, compassion and courage with the use of our noble equine friends. Women will have the chance to learn ground work, basic horse care and horsemanship, while spending quality time with hand selected horses.
ACTHA’s Tammy Sronce states “I am very proud of America’s Favorite Trail Horse, not only are we showcasing the great American trail horse, we are helping a higher cause. Freedom Horses was born from a small group of ladies who felt the need to help others. No matter which competitor wins the TV Series, Freedom Horses and the people it will help, is the real winner”.