Casey Tibbs Riders Competition Heats Up in the 2026 Gymkhana Buckle Series
The Gymkhana Buckle Series continued June 6, with riders showing off their skills at the Casey Tibbs Arena.
Competitors gathered at the Casey Tibbs Arena on Saturday, June 6, for another exciting stop in the 2026 Gymkhana Buckle Series. Riders, families, and spectators enjoyed a beautiful day filled with friendly competition, impressive horsemanship, and plenty of fun.
The gymkhana competition began with Single Stake, where riders demonstrated speed and precision as they maneuvered around a single marker. Figure 8 Stake followed, challenging competitors to complete a tight figure-eight pattern with control and efficiency. Next was Speed Barrels, where riders showcased quick acceleration and smooth turns while racing through the course. Poles I tested agility, accuracy, and horsemanship as participants weaved through a line of poles. The day concluded with the always-popular Barrels event, where competitors raced against the clock, combining speed and skill to finish the competition strong. Fast times, clean runs, and close competition kept the excitement high throughout the day as participants worked to earn valuable series points.
More than just competition, the day was a celebration of the gymkhana community. Riders encouraged one another, families cheered from the sidelines, and new friendships were made alongside old ones. The positive atmosphere and sportsmanship displayed throughout the event reflected what the Casey Tibbs Riders are all about.
Casey Tibbs Riders Sentinel, Carla Padilla, competes on Dodger. “He got his name because he dodged the kill pen.” Dodger was rescued from the kill pen and now holds the fasted time in poles at the arena. Padilla carried a flag while riding Rocky, her retired barrel racing horse. She loves to watch the kids compete at the shows. “They are little hot rods.”
Sidney Lynch, 11, riding Shooter, enjoys the shows. “I like to get to know people in the western way of life.” She has competed in two of the Casey Tibbs Riders events so far this year.
At the end of each event the club has an award ceremony to recognize the riders and their times. Ribbons are awarded up to 6th place, along with gift certificates and raffle prizes. An MVP rider of the day is also acknowledged, given to a competitor who has worked hard and made improvements. This community truly builds up its competitors and acknowledges the work that each rider has put in.
The event was held at the Casey Tibbs Arena at 25240 Pappas Road. The first event of the Saturday series was held on March 7 and goes through December 12. There are many opportunities for horse enthusiasts to saddle up and take their chance of racing against the clock on horseback.
The club thanks all competitors, our volunteers, families, and supporters who helped make the June 6 show such a success. They appreciate everyone who continues to support the Gymkhana Buckle Series and look forward to seeing everyone back in the arena for the next show.
Photos by Tiffany Pressler
