Casey Tibbs Riders Launch 2026 Gymkhana Series at Casey Tibbs Arena

The Casey Tibbs Riders held the first event of their 2026 Gymkhana Series on Saturday, March 7, at the Casey Tibbs Arena located at 25240 Pappas Road. The day began with all riders entering the arena for a safety tack check before competitions got underway.

Despite windy conditions, the event drew 30 contestants and more than 80 spectators. Riders of all ages including men, women, boys and girls competed in a variety of timed events throughout the day.

Among the youngest competitors was 5-year-old Bristol Stanley of Lakeside, who rode her pony Prince Charming in the lead line division. Stanley has been riding since she was 2 years old and began taking riding lessons at age 3. This was her second show, and she said she had fun and rode fast during the competition.

Casey Tibbs Riders President Samantha Parsons said she was excited to launch the club’s first event of 2026 as the organization enters its second year. Parsons noted that the club has added a new FC 40 class for riders over the age of 40, as well as a 4D Open Jackpot event with a cash payout for the barrels and poles competitions.

The club has also begun selling merchandise, including Casey Tibbs Riders T-shirts and sweatshirts available in a variety of colors.

Carri Wilson served as the event’s judge, verifying that riders completed patterns correctly. Wilson also competed in all five classes offered that day: Single Stake, Big T, Speed Ball, Poles 2 and Barrels.

Wilson has been riding horses since she was in fifth grade and currently gives barrel racing lessons. Her daughter Cade Wilson also competed at the gymkhana, along with one of Wilson’s students, 13-year-old Molly Lincoln.

Wilson has lived in the San Diego Country Estates for two years and has been in the community on and off for the past eight years. She said she enjoys helping the Casey Tibbs Riders get established and appreciates the opportunity to give back.

“There is so much that needs to be done in our community,” Wilson said. “I’m happy to be a part of it and help make these events available to kids and the community.”

In addition to the competitions, the event featured a raffle with three themed baskets, including one for dogs and another for horses and one that included a halter. An awards ceremony at the end of the day recognized riders with ribbons, gift cards and toys for younger participants.

Food was also available on site from the Salt & Pepper food truck.



The Casey Tibbs Riders plan to continue hosting gymkhana events throughout the year, bringing riders and community members together for friendly competition and horsemanship.

Photos by Tiffany Pressler