REDVERS — The Ponderosa Barrel Racing Series is hosted by Jennie Weber at her ranch, located between Manor and Redvers on Highway 13. The event is named after the long-running TV show Bonanza.
Weber has been involved with horses for many years and organizes a variety of events at her ranch, primarily focused on barrel racing.
Her ranch features a large indoor arena, which is heated and highly appreciated by competitors during the cold winter months.
In December, Weber introduced the Ponderosa Series for barrel racers who wanted to participate. The series will run until April, with the finals scheduled for April 19.
To add some extra fun, Weber held a gala race on Dec. 31, inviting attendees to dress in gowns while racing the barrels. It was up to each rider whether they wanted to participate in the gown dress-up, as not all horses enjoy this kind of activity.
Weber said the youngest rider is three years old, and the oldest are in their 60s. Racers travel considerable distances to join the event, with an average of 35 horse-and-rider teams attending each race.
The events are held every other weekend, with a few special events scheduled on the off Saturdays.
Barrel racers run a cloverleaf pattern around three barrels, racing against the clock and each other. A barrel knocked down results in penalties, which are added to the rider’s time.
These horses are highly trained and built for speed. Not all horses are suited for barrel racing, but many are specifically bred for the sport.
Parents, grandparents and friends often attend to watch and cheer on the competitors. Weber offers coffee and hot chocolate to those in attendance and also prepares a hot meal, followed by dessert.
On April 12, another jackpot will be added to the series with an Easter theme.
“It’s a fantastic group that comes out, and they often come with the whole family,” said Weber.
Lisa Huynh and her daughter Kyra also attend the jackpots.
“They’re always amazing,” said Huynh. “Jennie always hosts the best jackpots and serves home-cooked meals for us. Great people always show up, good competition and it’s always nice to ride in a warm arena.”
Kyra also competes and debuted her American Quarter Horse (AQHA) stallion, A Nick of Honour (Harry), at the event. It was his first jackpot, and Kyra was thrilled with his performance. His laid-back temperament as a stallion doesn’t affect his focus on the barrels.
The next event was scheduled for Jan. 18 to make up for a missed race on Jan. 11, followed by another on Jan. 25.
The jackpots are open to all who wish to attend and try their hand at the turn-and-burn event.
