2024 Debbie Pellegrino Memorial 4-H Equine Makeover

Nexus Equine honored and thrilled to share with you the extraordinary initiative we are embarking upon – the 2024 Debbie Pellegrino Memorial 4-H Equine Makeover.

In honor of Debbie Pellegrino‘s unwavering love for horses, this 90-day event stands as a testament to her legacy, ensuring that her cherished equine companions continue to inspire and uplift lives. The Makeover is not just a competition; it’s a celebration of connection, dedication, and the transformative power of the human-equine bond.

Applications are OPEN! Apply here!

Here’s a glimpse into the magic of the Debbie Pellegrino Equine Makeover:

Connecting Oklahoma 4-H Youth with Pellegrino Horses: Applications from passionate 4-H youth are meticulously reviewed, and qualified contestants are paired with horses from the Pellegrino legacy. It’s a process driven by knowledge, experience, and a shared commitment to equine welfare.

Setting Preliminary Goals: Our Nexus Equine Trainer assesses the horses and sets preliminary goals, paving the way for a journey of growth and accomplishment. Each horse is then carefully paired with a youth finalist based on a deep understanding of both horse and finalist.

90-Day Transformation Journey: The finalists meet their horses on Day One, marking the beginning of an emotional and inspiring 90-day journey. With individualized goals and unwavering dedication, these pairs work together to achieve milestones, fostering a connection that goes beyond competition.

Competing with Self, Not Others: In the spirit of honoring each individual journey, finalists are not pitted against one another. Instead, they compete with themselves, striving to achieve personal goals that align with varying experience levels. This approach fosters an inclusive environment where every accomplishment is a triumph, regardless of the differing starting points.

Judged Finale Showcase: A panel of three equine industry professionals witnesses the Day One pairings and, on the 90-day Finale, observes captivating 4-5 minute presentations showcasing the accomplished goals. The finalists and their horses come together for a moment of celebration, growth, and profound connection.

Honoring the Legacy: As a tribute to Debbie Pellegrino‘s legacy, every finalist receives a custom-designed Nexus Equine belt buckle, a swag bag for their horse, and the Grand Champion is awarded a $1,500 cash scholarship. The heartwarming opportunity to adopt their horse partner, free of charge, is extended to all finalists. Each finalist is also offered the amazing opportunity to keep their horse at the conclusion of the Makeover.

Together, let’s celebrate legacies, transform lives, and continue the beautiful story Debbie Pellegrino began.

Applications are OPEN! Apply here!