by Garrett Fodor
Over the weekend, residents jumped at an opportunity to watch horses and their riders perform choreographed drills after weeks of practice and training.
On Saturday evening and Sunday afternoon, Lazee G Ranch hosted its annual “Shodeo.” The event has become a mainstay in its summer schedule and is one of the biggest draws to the farm. It offers attendees a chance to see the ranch and gather ringside for a two-hour performance.
This year’s theme for the event was decades, as each performance featured soundtracks and costumes from different eras.
The event included the Silver Stars Precision Drill Riding Team and the Rising Stars Riders, which performed routines choreographed to music, in addition to vaulters, trick riders, and dog agility challenges.
Hanna Colenutt, who is an instructor at the ranch and works with the Silver Stars Precision Drill Riding Team, emceed the event. She, Brenda Gagnon, and Diana Dobson work with the Silver Stars team, which travels far-and-wide to compete and perform. The group features riders aged 11 and over.
Colenutt said all the riders look forward to performing in the Shodeo. It gives them an opportunity to invite friends and family out locally and perform at the ranch in front of a large crowd. She added that it is fun for all ages, with there being something for everyone, from horses to dancing.
The tradition of the Shodeo dates back to 2006, with a different theme each year, ranging from the wild west to the beach. It offers performers, both human and equine, a chance to have fun and dress up.
Colenutt said the riders have been practicing regularly for performances since the end of March. She added the Shodeo is a fun event for riders as they get to show personality and dress up in costumes along with the horses.
The event attracted over 200 people. The riders will now continue to practice and prepare for the next performances on the grounds in the fall.