Montgomery Creek Ranch: A Sanctuary for Wild Horses and a Beacon of Hope
Nestled in the serene hills of Northern California, Montgomery Creek Ranch (MCR) is a sanctuary dedicated to protecting and preserving America's iconic wild horses. With a mission to provide rescued wild horses a safe and natural environment to live out their lives, MCR has become a beacon of hope for these majestic animals, many of whom have been displaced by federal roundups or other circumstances.
MCR was founded by Ellie Phipps Price, a passionate philanthropist and wild horse advocate who is also American Wild Horse Conservation’s founding board chair. Since its founding, MCR has saved and provided sanctuary to over 250 wild horses, ensuring they are given a chance to thrive, roam freely, and receive the care and attention they deserve. At MCR, the focus is not only on offering refuge but also on creating a space where these horses can tell their stories, helping to educate the public about the importance of humane management and conservation of wild horse populations.
Blazey’s Journey: From Wild Herd to Ambassador
Blazey is one among the many horses MCR has rescued. Blazey is a five-year old bay gelding who was born in the Onaqui Mountains of Utah, on lands where the Pony Express horses once ran. But as a yearling, he rounded up with a helicopter, torn from his family, and trucked to a government holding pen. He’s one one of the lucky ones. As you can see, he’s adjusting well to domestic life. Soon he’ll be up for adoption , his future assured.
In early November 2024, Blazey transitioned to MCR’s satellite facility in Sonoma, where he began training in English riding—a significant milestone for this once-wild mustang. His gentle spirit, willingness to learn, and natural elegance have made him an ideal candidate for his new role as an ambassador for wild horse conservation.
In January 2025, Blazey took center stage as the mustang ambassador for AWHC at the Desert International Horse Park in Thermal, California. His debut is shining a spotlight on the beauty of America’s wild horses and raising awareness of their plight.
Blazey's story is one of transformation and inspiration. But not every wild horse gets this second chance. MCR works side-by-side with American Wild Horse Conservation to keep wild horses wild. And MCR’s training and sanctuary program offers a safe landing and refuge for wild horses whose freedom is taken away.
Visit Montgomery Creek Ranch to learn more about their mission, meet the horses, and find out how you can support their vital work. Together, we can ensure they remain a living symbol of freedom for generations to come.