The heart of America beats strong in a cowboy, and nobody embodies this spirit better than Jake Draper, a War Horse Challenge rider and United States Army Green Beret with 23 years of service. Jake's passion for horses and the cowboy lifestyle led him to the National Stock Horse Association's War Horse Challenge in Las Vegas. In this blog article, we'll explore Jake's journey and the incredible program of War Horses for SOF, which provides a unique opportunity for active duty and veteran special operations forces to heal, grow, and strive for greatness.
Growing up, Jake had a deep connection with horses, but as an adult, he didn't have many opportunities to ride. However, he recognized that horses and the cowboy lifestyle are an integral part of American heritage, and he wanted to keep that spirit alive. When he learned about the War Horse Challenge, he saw it as a chance to be part of something bigger, to honor his military service, and to contribute to a community that supports the preservation of the cowboy way of life.
The National Stock Horse Association's War Horse Challenge:
Taking place at the South Point Equestrian Center in Las Vegas from August 22-28, 2023, the War Horse Challenge is an event that brings together riders, horse enthusiasts, and supporters from across the country. It showcases the skills, talents, and bonds between horses and riders in various disciplines, including stock horses, ranch horses, and reining. The event provides a platform for riders like Jake to demonstrate their horsemanship skills while celebrating the essence of the cowboy culture.
War Horses for SOF Program:
War Horses for SOF is an extraordinary five-day onsite program specifically designed for active duty and veteran special operations forces. This program is provided at no cost to the operators, with travel, lodging, meals, and program costs covered by the organization. The program focuses on holistic wellness, decompression, and performance optimization, providing participants with opportunities for healing, growth, and personal development.
The program is broken into multiple sections, each with specific training objectives that enhance and integrate with one another. Participants can engage at their own comfort level, although they are encouraged to push themselves for personal gain. The WHFSOF Program aims to create a supportive environment where individuals can learn something new, strive for greatness, and make a positive impact on those around them.
Jake Draper's involvement with War Horses for SOF has been life-changing. He believes in the program's mission and values, seeing parallels between his military service as a Green Beret and the commitment to personal growth and pushing oneself to be the best. For Jake, being a part of War Horses for SOF allows him to continue his journey of self-improvement and make a positive impact on those around him.
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