The Ride Like a Mother barrel racing series continues to draw competitors and fans to the Hanover Ag exhibition grounds in Grunthal every Thursday evening, with just two weeks remaining in the season.
A place for everyone
One of the youngest competitors, four-year-old Blaine Watt, races on her horse Peanut under the proud watch of her mom, Lyssa Ingeberg.
“I practice at home, but I’ve never done anything like this,” said Ingeberg. “Her aunt runs high school rodeo, and Blaine just started picking it up. We ride every single day.”
Ingeberg says Blaine is already competing independently at other events, including a recent jackpot in Selkirk where she clocked her fastest time—38 seconds—without any help.
“She wakes up asking if there’s a barrel race today, or if we’re riding horses. That’s all she wants to do,” Ingeberg said with a smile. “She’s scared of sheep, does not like them. She'd rather ride a horse.”
Building confidence, one lap at a time
Long-time barrel racer Melony Stadnyk says the sport is equal parts dedication and love for horses.
“I’ve been doing this for at least 15 years,” she said, standing beside her five-year-old horse, Dwayne. “I started him on barrels last year. I didn’t push him much then, but this year I’m asking for more speed.”
The two have developed a bond through training, and Stadnyk says Thursday nights at Ride Like a Mother are a highlight of her summer.
“I know almost everyone here,” she said. “It’s such a good community.”
Camaraderie at the core
Judy Klassen, another rider in the series, picked up the sport again in 2020 and hasn’t looked back since.
“My friend told me to throw my horse on the trailer and come along. I ended up winning some money and thought, well, I guess we’re doing this again,” she said.
Klassen emphasizes the camaraderie and mutual support that define the Manitoba barrel racing scene.
“If someone’s missing gear, someone else will have what you need. It’s just a community that helps each other out,” she said. “It’s fun, it’s empowering, and we cheer each other on.”
Her horse’s daughter also began competing this season, continuing the legacy.
Two more weeks to catch the action
With just two Thursdays left in the series, spectators can still catch the action at the Hanover Ag grounds. The event is open to the public and welcomes new riders and families looking to get involved.
Ride Like a Mother is more than a barrel racing series—it’s a showcase of mentorship, growth, and connection, all set against the backdrop of Manitoba’s love for horses.
-With files from Carly Koop.