News Summary
Crystal Cates, a Texan, showcases her mustang Zoro in the Mustang Champion Competition in Las Vegas, while also aiding in flood recovery efforts back home. Her unique skills in scent training have assisted in locating flood victims, highlighting the profound bond between humans and horses. The competition not only emphasizes horse talent but also raises awareness about community support in the aftermath of devastating floods in Texas.
Las Vegas – Crystal Cates, a Texas woman, has brought a unique combination of competition and service to Las Vegas, where she is participating in the Mustang Champion Competition with her specially trained mustang, Zoro. This event occurs against the backdrop of devastating floods in Central Texas that have claimed over 100 lives and severely affected communities in the region.
Cates and Zoro are presently assisting in ongoing recovery efforts in the Texas Hill Country, where the impact of the floods has led to urgent needs for support among families and communities. The competition, located at the South Point Hotel, is in its second year and highlights wild horses captured by the Bureau of Land Management, focusing on their potential to contribute meaningfully to society.
In the wake of the floods, Cates has utilized Zoro’s specialized training in scent work, making him an invaluable asset during search and recovery operations. Video footage shared by Cates demonstrates how Zoro identifies locations where experts should concentrate their efforts. Notably, they have helped locate the remains of four individuals who unfortunately succumbed to the storms, underscoring the critical role they have played in the disaster response.
Following the competition, Cates plans to return to Texas to continue her work with Zoro in search operations. She described the communal response to the disaster as a unifying force among Texans, who have come together to support one another while facing this tragedy. Despite the somber circumstances, this solidarity has become a beacon of hope for those affected by the flooding.
The Mustang Champion Competition not only showcases the skills of talented horses but also illustrates the potential of formerly wild animals to engage in significant work. Cates highlights the idea that these horses can provide families with closure during times of loss, emphasizing their capability beyond mere competition.
Meanwhile, a fundraising initiative launched by community organizations has successfully raised $85,000 aimed at supporting recovery efforts in Texas. These funds will be allocated to local organizations involved in relief initiatives for those affected by the floods, assisting in the rebuilding of lives and communities shattered by this disaster.
The Mustang Champion Competition continues throughout the weekend, offering a platform for raising awareness about the importance of animal training while also supporting a vital recovery cause. As Cates balances her competitive spirit with a commitment to aiding her community, her work with Zoro serves as a powerful reminder of the bond between humans and horses, especially in times of need.
Overall, the efforts of individuals like Crystal Cates and Zoro exemplify how unique partnerships can emerge from adversity, providing hope and assistance to those facing unimaginable loss.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Mustang Challenge Showcases Trained Wild Horses in Las Vegas
Additional Resources
- KTNV: Trainer and Mustang Help with Search and Rescue
- Wikipedia: Texas Floods
- 8 News Now: Nevada Task Force 1 in Texas
- Google Search: Texas Flood Recovery
- Fox 5 Vegas: Task Force Deploys for Flood Recovery
- Google Scholar: Texas Flood Disaster Response
- KTNV: Doctor Reflects on Flood’s Toll
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Texas Natural Disasters
- Statesman: Letters to Those Affected by Floods
- Google News: Central Texas Floods
