EQUINE THERAPY & CUTTING CHALLENGE

The  Special Forces Foundation is a proud partner of the NCHA (National Cutting Horse Association) for equine therapy. Equine therapy, also known as Equine Assisted Psychotherapy (EAP), can be a powerful way for veterans to heal from Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and other debilitating effects. An even more dynamic facet of this modality is the extension of equine therapy into the competitive realm of cutting horses. The fast-paced, intensely challenging discipline—very akin to combat—allows operators the ability to express their instinctual talents and training while balancing the disciplines and healing modalities of equine therapy.

In 2023, NCHA Executive Director Jay Winborn started the Military Cutting Challenge as a way for those who previously served in the military to heal using equine therapy. This dynamic three-day event pairs military veterans with cutting horse trainers to practice equine therapy to help them gain confidence and knowledge through competition days, where they showcase their skills.