Barrel racers came together last weekend to compete in a fun jackpot but also to raise some money for Loaves and Fishes in Red Deer.
Loaves and Fishes is a non-profit agency in Red Deer that provides program support to individuals suffering from mental health issues or other issues such as homelessness.
The second annual Bolt 4 the Colt barrel racing jackpot was held Saturday, Oct. 18 at the Calnash Ag Event Centre and brought barrel racers from around Alberta, explained organizer Lisa Gallais.
Planners also had some fun with the event by hosting a men’s Calcutta barrel race where riders were auctioned off. There were three divisions in the men’s barrel race and this year saw more than 30 entries compared to last year at six. Gallais says they included a men’s category to add some fun to the barrel-racing jackpot.
A portion of the Calcutta earnings went to Loaves and Fishes, explained Gallais, who says she wanted to support the organization that helped her mother before passing away. Gallais says some of the gents donated back their winnings to Loaves and Fishes.
Also up for grabs at the jackpot was a horse. However, it wasn’t the fastest run that earned the filly. “Whoever has the most consistent run out of 25 girls who get to come back win a horse,” Gallais explained.
Kim Hummel won the horse with a difference of .005 in her two times during the short go.
Justine Elliot won the youth division and raced the second fastest time of the day at 17.3 seconds. Steff Maher had the fastest time at 17.2 seconds, earning a halter for the fast time.
Gallais says they expect to continue the Bolt 4 the Colt event next year.