Mark Lyon of Arlington, Neb., took the grand prize at the second annual Fort Dodge Extreme Mustang Makeover Legends Finals, September 20 in Fort Worth, Texas, in the event's most difficult level of competition, after falling from his horse mid-performance. He demonstrated that a well-trained horse doesn't always need a rider to win, capturing the $12,500 top prize and the hearts of thousands watching his performance on Christian, a three-year-old, bay, mustang gelding.

Well into Lyon's textbook perfect performance, which included a ballet of movement including deep stops and picture perfect spins, the crowd's hearts fell when he leaned to Christian's side in a tight turn and his saddle slipped causing him to fall. Since the entire focus of the judges was on the mustang's ability, judges awarded Christian for his reaction to this unforeseen happening. Judge and famed horse trainer, John Lyons, said, "That was the best part of the whole performance. He did exactly what he was trained to do," describing how Christian stood and waited for his rider to get back on. Lyons went on to take the horse through his paces firing a shooting pistol at balloons and riding through a ring of fire.

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Due to unprecedented demand for Extreme Mustang Makeover photographs, Barron Photografix is now able to offer a discounted rate on orders.  Orders placed from 9-29-08 and 10-31-08 will receive 20% off the regular price.  To take advantage of this offer use the code: EMM

This code must be entered when checking out or the discount will not be applied.  If you have previously placed an order before 9-29-08, we will be honoring this discount on your bill.

 

To learn more about the program and apply, click here or download the application and information.