What an incredible week at the Thoroughbred Makeover! Our six CARMA-sponsored riders brought their A-game. In less than a year, these dedicated horsemen and women transformed their former racehorses into competitive athletes across multiple disciplines.
The Thoroughbred Makeover is much more than a competition. It’s the culmination of countless early mornings, late nights, and moments of breakthrough in the saddle. Every rider who qualified for this event has already achieved something remarkable, and we’re honored to have supported six exceptional partnerships on this journey through the Messineo Makeover Scholarship, made possible by the generosity of Nancy Messineo.
Please help us celebrate these achievements by Team CARMA:
Jojo Weaver and Levi captured Reserve Champion in Freestyle, earned the #1 Junior Rider title, and were the recipient of the $5,000 Top California-Bred Horse Award, Presented by Georgia B. Ridder Foundation in honor of After the Finish Line. What an incredible accomplishment!
Liz Miller and Logan’s Red Falcon had an exceptional showing, earning sixth place overall in the Competitive Trail Championship finals and fifth place overall in the Ranch Work Championship finals. The pair also took home Best Groomed and Conditioned honors for Ranch Work.
Photo Credit: Atalya Boytner for Erin Gilmore Photography
Lilli Kress and Impressively took sixth place in the Amateur Jumper division out of 70 riders, showcasing skill and partnership in a highly competitive field.
Photo Credit: Erin Gilmore Photography
Paisley Phelps and Carmelitas Man had a great week, finishing in the top third of their dressage class, which had more than 100 competitors. The judges had nothing but great things to say about the pair, and it’s clear Carmelitas Man has a bright future in the dressage arena.
Nathan Allan Williams-Bonner and Big Rainbow competed in the jumping division and participated in a clinic with renowned clinicians Richard Lamb and Linda Allen, continuing to develop their partnership.
Chanel Minnifield and La Peer made their Makeover debut in the hunter division, gaining valuable experience at the national level.
The Thoroughbred Makeover is a powerful platform that showcases the incredible versatility and trainability of off-track Thoroughbreds—but it’s not the finish line.
For many horses, the Makeover is just the beginning of their second career.
By sponsoring these six riders, CARMA is proud to support the mission of Thoroughbred aftercare and retraining.
Our riders serve as ambassadors for what’s possible when we invest in these athletes’ futures. Their success stories inspire potential adopters, support retraining organizations, and prove that off-track Thoroughbreds aren’t just capable partners—they’re competitive, willing, and ready to go on to even greater achievements long after the Makeover spotlight fades.