The Tennessee Walking Horse Breeders’ & Exhibitors’ held its first ever Extreme Cowboy Race at Circle E Guest Ranch in Belvidere, TN on Saturday May the 8th. The event was sponsored by Manna Pro and Wahl Clippers. The race was sanctioned through the Extreme Cowboy Association and in its first year there were 26 entries, proving to be very exciting for both spectators and exhibitors! Many first timers as well as EXCA veterans came out to try their hand at some very challenging obstacles. Exhibitors came from as far as southern Florida. Linda Starnes of Brownville, KY judged the event.

There were four divisions including Novice, Non-Pro, Ride Smart and Pro. After the first round the top three contestants in each division were brought back for the second go. Winning the Novice division was Kelsi Graham riding Flower, Babs Steele and Sir Galahad’s Rebel were second, followed up by Mary Helen Martin on Generator’s Evil Outbreak. Kelsi also won the Non-Pro Division, followed closely by Tracy Pinson and Skyjacker’s Mountain High, and third was Mary Helen Martin aboard Generator’s Evil Outbreak. The Ride Smart division was won by Larry Simpson riding Bojangles Midnight Blaze, Bernie Duncan was second on His Power, and third went to Pam Weston riding Pickle. The Pro division was won by Randy Speagle aboard Spotted Alens’s Renegade, with Leanne Hale second on Slick, and Randy Speagle third on Capers Delightful Angel.

The day ended with dinner and live music in a beautiful facility. Along with the race there was also a trail ride on Circle E’s numerous and challenging trails. Many new friends were made and plans are being made for another event in the near future. Please check back to www.twhbea.com often to find out when the next ride is.