Sheriff’s Posse Arena takes equestrian to the extreme
Horse and rider enters a small T-shaped chute. The rider has to work with the horse to get it to stop at the end of the chute, then back into the center chute before going on to the next task.
Even though the name would suggest sending horse and rider flying down cliffs, Extreme Equine, a program put on once a month at the Lee County Sheriff’s Posse Arena, is the exact opposite.
About the only extreme the program has is the fun and finesse the riders show in working with the horses, making rider and horse work as one.
Above all, it’s about making friends and getting together for a fun day with (wo)man and beast.
Sherry Buettner started the club four years ago as a family-friendly learning show where people can come and enjoy their horses, learn and be safe.
“I got the name because we were not the norm. I’ve trained world champions and you could see everyone’s laid back. There’s no stress,” Buettner said. “I’m not ordinary. We prove all types of disciplines can get together.”
Buettner said this isn’t all about “turning and burning.”
“We do all types of classes to meet every need and discipline. All types of disciplines and horses can be shown together and it makes it more fun,” Buettner said.
Among the events is an obstacle course, on-the-rail classes such as Ranch Pleasure or Western Pleasure, fun ranch riding, novice reining and others, followed by the speed classes where you “turn and burn.”
In the beginning, Buettner said the riders couldn’t even trot a circle. But through the years they have gained experience and more difficulty has been added to the patterns they run.
“We usually get between 20 and 30 riders. It depends on the show. There will be more coming later for other classes. Some don’t to the obstacle or don’t stay for the fun classes,” Buettner said. “It varies.”
Classes are enjoyed by riders age 8 to 78, and all have enjoyed their experiences with Extreme Equine
“It’s given me confidence. Sherry helps us and the horses learn tasks and maneuvers, behavior issues are addressed,” said Kathy Parent. “My horse was hyper and very green when we came here four years ago, and if you ask anyone, she’s the most improved horse.”
“We keep getting more difficult courses because we keep getting better. It takes a lot of finesse and it makes things challenging and fun,” said Adele Smith, of Alva. “We’re all about having fun with our horse. It’s not about dressing up. It’s just about having a good time.”
Extreme Equine takes place from September to April and put on the shows once a month. In between they also do trail rides and other events.
Buettner also provides schooling throughout the month with classes and clinics so they can learn.