Rick Steed works a cow on Newbie. Photo by Carrie Wirth.
Jupiter, Florida – September 3, 2014 – Steed Training and Horse Shows by Appointment kicked off another fabulous event at the Golden L Ranch in Jupiter, Florida last Saturday, August 30. Steed Training introduced the first leg of the Cow Horse Extravaganza Series to Golden L Ranch, allowing western riders of all levels to test their skills at the Open Reined Cowhorse Play Day. Spectators viewed a special presentation of reined cowhorses while exhibitors ran through reining patterns and practiced boxing, a discipline in which riders maneuver their horses to keep a cow at the short end of the arena.
From 8 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., riders tested their horses in a fun, relaxed environment while receiving individualized training tips from Rick Steed. After a delicious BBQ break, exhibitions from Rick Steed, Trevor Steed and John Ingram wowed the crowd. The Steed brothers showed off their reining patterns and boxing skills, and topped it off by a ride ‘Down the Hairy Fence’, working a cow at top speed down the long side of the arena, but keeping within markers. After a flawless run on High Dollar, Rick dismounted and untacked his horse to perform without a bridle, and then, without a saddle.
The highlight of the family fun event was Rick Steed’s exhibition of boxing a young buffalo. “There probably have been buffalo that have been worked but that’s probably the first one we’ve taken down the fence,” said Steed of his surprise exhibition.
The wild-eyed buffalo was brought out as the grand finale of the Cow Horse Extravaganza. Rick Steed did an exceptional job of working the buffalo, igniting cheers from the crowd.
“A buffalo is probably 30 percent faster and if you give them any advantage, you can’t stay with them,” Steed said. “It is a riot. Cowhorse is the steroid drug and working a buffalo is like steroids on top of steroids. It is as good as it gets.”
Professional polo player and guitarist Tom Blake performed country and rock favorites throughout the day and performed the National Anthem while Miss Palm Beach County Rodeo, Alexandra Ortiz carried the American flag. The event also featured a Blessing of the Animals at 3 p.m. and a raffle to support Omega Equine Rescue.
“I really appreciate the support we’re getting from South Florida,” Steed said. “We are moving to a new facility in Loxahatchee Groves. In January, it should be completed. We’ll be down in the heart of everything for the season. We’ll have cow horse experiences there, as well as cowhorse lessons and horse shows. All three events!”
The Reined Cowhorse segment of the Cow Horse Extravaganza Series was a great success at the Golden L Ranch, their current home base until their new Loxahatchee Groves location – just 10 miles from Wellington – is completed. Once completed, it will be a first-rate venue for reined cow horse and other Western disciplines with ample seating for spectators and the ability to host arena polo as well. The front of the property will be set up to provide a relaxing park environment with a lake view, picnic tables and fire pits.
Steed Training’s Cow Horse Extravaganza continues Sept. 27 with Herd Work & Team Sorting. The series finale, Ranch Horse, is Oct. 25. Both events will be held at Golden L Ranch in Jupiter. The Cow Horse Extravaganza is supported by many generous sponsors whose contributions are key to the success of the events. Contact Susan Shelly at (561) 305-1432 to learn about sponsorship opportunities.
Steed Training Cow Horse Extravaganza Fast Facts
Steed Training and HSBA are bringing the family-friendly Cow Horse Extravaganza to the Golden L Ranch in Jupiter, FL. Each event showcases talented riders and horses in different Western disciplines and offers a casual, welcoming environment for spectators of all ages. Dress to fit the Western theme and bring along your dog to join in the festivities. The Cow Horse Extravaganza is FREE to spectators!
Aug. 30 – Reined Cow Horse – 4-6 p.m.
Reined Cow Horse Play Day 8 a.m.-3:30 p.m.
Sept. 27 – Team Sorting/Herd Work
Oct. 25 – Ranch Horse
Event Contact:
Thomas DiRocco
thomasdirocco@hotmail.com
Phone: 561.371.4997
Location:
Golden L Ranch
11334 172nd Pl N
Jupiter, FL 33478
Directions:
Take exit 116 from the Florida Turnpike or 87B from I-95. Go west on Indiantown Rd (FL-706 W) for 3.3 miles from the Turnpike or 3.8 miles from I-95. Turn left onto 111th Terrace N/Rocky Pines Rd and continue for .8 miles. The road turns right and becomes 172nd Place N. Golden L Ranch is on your left shortly after the turn.
For sponsorship information, please contact Susan Shelly at (561) 305-1432.
About Horse Show by Appointment
Horse Show by Appointment’s fresh approach to reined cow horse competition was an unprecedented success in its first season, and now HSBA is back for a second year. HSBA aims to make showing “Fun, Fair, and Affordable” for competitors. To accommodate those traveling long distances to show and help busy riders fit showing in at their convenience, HSBA allows riders to reserve their own ride times in advance. This cuts down on usual travel expenses such as stall rentals and hotels and encourages competitors to make the trip and join in the fun.
Each HSBA series includes four shows. Riders who compete at three out of the four shows earn a place in the annual Championship Finals, which offer over $100,000 in cash and prizes. Competitors may also qualify for the Finals in absentia by simply sending in entries and payment to each of the four shows.
Visit www.showbyappointment.com for information and updates on HSBA shows. Check out HSBA on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/ShowByAppointment.
Catherine Zachariadis for Phelps Media Group, Inc. International
MEDIA CONTACT:
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Suite 214
Wellington, FL 33414
561-753-3389 (phone)
561-753-3386 (fax)
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