A Record-Breaking Wild Prairie Showdown

The third annual Wild Prairie Showdown was a smashing success, raising more than $120,000 for the Great Outdoors Foundation and ICON Water Trails. Team GOF had an outstanding showing thanks to the efforts of Rona “Aloha Aina” Berinobis and Afton “The Rural Girl” Holt. This year’s event set several records including total fundraising — more than double what the 2022 campaign yielded — and attendance. Check out the following photo recap and event highlights and be sure to join us for next year’s Wild Prairie Showdown!

THE EVENT

The Wild Prairie Showdown took place at Toast in Ankeny on Thursday, October 12. Around 250 of Central Iowa’s finest were in attendance and raised more than $120,000 collectively for ICON Water Trails and the Great Outdoors Foundation.

THE PROGRAM

Guests heard from Great Outdoors Foundation CEO, Hannah Inman, ICON Water Trails Executive Director, Stephanie Oppel, GOF Board Chair, Joey Taylor-Moon, among others. They celebrated major milestones as well as the launch of the Great Outdoors Foundation Conservation Fund.

THE COMPETITION

Team GOF went head to head with Phoukham “Has Too Many Hobbies” and Emily “Keep It Clean” Naylor, representing Team ICON in the fundraising, fashion show, and interview categories. Jackie Schmillen, Director of Public Affairs for the Iowa National Guard, served as emcee.

THE STARS

Team GOF had an outstanding performance in the Wild Prairie Showdown, raising more than $60,000 for the Great Outdoors Foundation and its initiatives. Ultimately, Team ICON and Emily “Keep It Clean” Naylor, swept the team and individual MVP awards, respectively.