2021-04-28
Barrel racing association tweaking full slate of events
by KEVIN MCBAIN
Local Journalism Initiative Reporter
The Western Shore Barrel Racing Club (WSBRC) is planning for a full slate of competitions in 2021.
The club that covers the western region of Nova Scotia expected to open its nine-day schedule in Bridgewater May 8 and 9. However, following new COVID-19 restrictions announced April 26, these two event days were postponed.
At the time of writing, the first scheduled event was for Caledonia July 24 to 25. The season was expected to conclude with a one-day competition, October 23, in Caledonia, with seasonal awards presented at the end of the day.
"We have a pretty full line-up of shows this year, probably one of our busiest," said Craig Carey, president of the club. "On average we have three-to-four shows a year. Last year we just had two because of COVID-19."
Other events include Bear River (August 21 to 22) and Shelburne (October 2 to 3).
Last year there were just two events held in Shelburne and Bear River during October.
"It was horrendous for us. We sat around for two-thirds of the season. It was a tough one," commented Carey, who hails from Yarmouth.
The WSBRC was formed in 2012 to give riders in the western region some more, closer-to-home competitions.
WSBRC can have up to 50 members competing at an event. They can be male or female and range in age from five years old to 80, with the majority of riders ranging between 16 and 50 years of age.
Participants come from all over Nova Scotia, including Queens County, Shelburne County, Annapolis Valley, Yarmouth, Bridgewater and Antigonish.
Many racers in the WSBRC compete in the Maritime Barrel Racing Association. Carey, who also competes in barrel racing events, estimates most athletes compete in an average of 10 to 20 shows across the province every year.
All competitions can be expected to follow COVID-19 protocols. While typically spectators are encouraged to come and cheer participants on, due to current health regulations the number of people allowed in to the venues will be limited.
