‘Day Of The Horse’ Set Saturday At Topeka Western Store

A full day of fun and education is planned for all horse lovers.

Appropriately called “Day of the Horse,” activities are scheduled Saturday, Oct. 19, at R Bar B Saddle, Tack and Trailer located at 3256 Northeast 39^th Street, Topeka.

“We are excited to host this full day featuring leading horse trainers and other experts in all phases of horse ownership and management, and we’ll even have a Western fashion show,” announced Russ Brown, who owns and operates R Bar B, with his wife, Dina, and their family.

“It’ll actually serve as a grand opening for our new riding arena and revamped facilities with free admission for all ages,” Brown said.

Kicking off the programs will be trainer Ryan Vessar to talk about “Preventing Probems,” at 9 o’clock. Lee Hart, “Top Hand” at ranch rodeos and other national extreme riding competitions, is to discuss “Trail Obstacles” as the second speaker.

Horse nutrition is the topic for Sarah Leonard of Purina Feeds at 11 o’clock, and it’ll be a busy noon hour as the Fashion Show is scheduled at the same time trainer Chad Mathes will talk about team roping.

A repeat clinician for R Bar B events, Cal Noyons will review “Communicating Through Horsemanship” at 1 o’clock.

Dr. Jeff Van Petten, a champion cowboy in his own right and veterinarian with equine medicine as an important part of his practice at Meriden Animal Hospital, is to discuss horse health at 2 p.m., before Marty Bloomquist, horse owner, breeder, longtime exhibitor and clinician, reviews tips for reining at 3 p.m.

A multiple-time qualifier for barrel racing competition at the National Finals Rodeo in Las Vega, Nev., Jeannie Anderson of White City will give the climax training presentation about barrel racing at 4 o’clock.

Day’s activities conclude with a horse show for youth 10-years-and-under beginning at 5 o’clock. With a $10 entry fee for entire families, events include walk-trot pleasure, trail, barrel racing, flag race, and pole bending.

Concessions are to be offered during the day by the Christian Youth Rodeo Association. Information is available at www.rbarb.com, or calling 785-286-3006.