Tauni Huddleston is a versatile horsewoman, accomplished mustang trainer, and the owner of Wapiti Charlotte Ridge Mustangs and Highlands in Utah, as well as Yellowstone’s Casanova Guided Tours based in Montana. She is known for her intuitive, patient, and relationship-based approach to horsemanship, which prioritizes communication, confidence, and trust between horse and rider. Her philosophy combines clear guidance with an understanding of each horse’s natural instincts, allowing her to bring out the individual best in every equine partner she works with.
Tauni’s journey with mustangs began the day she adopted her wild mare Wapiti, who foaled shortly after arriving at Tauni’s home. The filly born that day, Charlotte, became a profound part of Tauni’s story and the inspiration behind her mission to champion the American mustang. Training Wapiti from untouched wild horse to successful show partner taught Tauni not only resilience but the deep emotional connection mustangs form with the people who earn their trust. That bond continues to shape her advocacy and her commitment to showcasing the intelligence, heart, and athletic ability of these remarkable horses.
Today, Tauni manages and trains a diverse herd of more than twenty horses, ranging from untouched mustangs to performance bred Quarter Horses. She competes regularly in the URCHA and MVRHA, entering Ranch Horse Versatility and cow horse events with mustangs and traditional stock horses alike. She also participates in national mustang competitions, including the Mustang Champions. Her competitive goal is simple and powerful: to demonstrate that mustangs can excel at the same level as top-bred performance horses and hold their own in the show pen.
Tauni’s horsemanship is shaped by years of hands-on training, mentorship under respected professionals, and practical ranch experience. She has developed a reputation for grit, feel, and a deep understanding of horses who need patience and clarity to bloom. Horses in her program are known for being willing, brave, and thoughtful, reflecting the standard she holds for herself and her training.
Outside the arena, Tauni operates Yellowstone’s Casanova Guided Tours in Montana, a premier wildlife guiding company serving Yellowstone National Park. Her work in the wilderness strengthens her understanding of animal behavior, timing, and communication, and those same principles carry directly into her horsemanship. She brings a unique blend of real world behavioral insight, quiet leadership, and a deep respect for nature into her training style.
Tauni is honored to participate in the Southern Equine Expo and share her methods, her mustang journey, and her passion for creating willing, confident, and connected horses. Whether she is working with a completely untouched mustang or refining a seasoned cow horse, her goal remains the same. To help horses feel understood, to help riders find clarity and confidence, and to build partnerships that last a lifetime.