Who: Carrie Thompson
What: Arena Talk
When: March 9-15, 2015
Where: Brazos County Expo Complex (Bryan, TX)
The payouts and placings have been finalized and Diamonds and Dirt Barrel Horse Classic has wrapped up its fourth annual open and futurity barrel race. It is the largest futurity in Texas, the second largest in the country and pays out over $900,000 in cash and prizes. With sponsors like Rolex and David Gardners, the payout for this race is bound to be extraordinary. While many are drawn to the prizes, it is the easy contestant entry process, the spacious expo grounds and the kind people that will be a factor in Carrie Thompson returning next year.
Carrie is a very seasoned rider and has trained futurity horses since 2002. This year, 2015, was the first time Carrie has competed at Diamonds and Dirt. She rode Famous N Dixie, a four year old, out of Ms. Dixie Cousins and Famous Bugs. Bulleva, previously trained by Carrie, now owned by Sharin Hall and Bradford Oesch, was ridden at Diamonds and Dirt by Sharin Hall and finished first in the Slot Race turning in a time of 15.806 and a payday worth $110,000. While large payouts, beautiful trophy saddles and standing in the winner circle are the highlights of most barrel races, the venue and operation of the event are a key factor in whether or not many riders choose to return.
First and foremost comes the care of a rider’s horse. There are numerous stalls available at the Brazos County Expo Complex, but it is recommended that you call and reserve stalls. The floor of the stall is dirt and shavings are available for purchase at the event. Wash racks are also available. Another great bonus is that there are small turnout areas to let your horse stretch its legs out and get a good roll in (of course right after you have spent time washing and grooming).
Diamonds and Dirt Barrel Horse Classic chose an excellent place to host the barrel race. “There was plenty of room to park…the facility is really nice,” said Carrie. The complex also has 78 spacious hook ups for horse trailers and RVs for those staying over night.
The main arena (North arena measuring 130’x241’) and warm up arena are both covered. Carrie also said there is enough room for a good warm up and it was not overly crowded. The alley way is wide and there are not many distractions in or around the alley way. The main arena can comfortably sit 3,000 people.
So here’s the dirt. It’s very nice! Like most barrel races there will be an arena drag after every 5 riders. The dirt is not too sticky or too deep, but just right. Diamonds and Dirt did an excellent job of making sure the ground was suitable and safe and the event went by in a timely manner; but riders were not rushed either. “About 50 riders ran in an hour,” said Carrie.
“I really enjoyed this race and will probably return next year for the futurity,” said Carrie. Diamonds and Dirt Barrel Horse Classic is a wonderful eight day event that you will not want to miss next year! The second annual Diamonds and Dirt Youth Classic is set for November 20-22, 2015 at the Brazos County Expo Complex and is open to ages 19 and under. For additional information, questions and to see the official rules visit diamondsanddirt.com.
Photo’s courtesy of:
- Carrie Thompson (Brandon, MS)
- Lauryn Sanford (Event Coordinator Diamonds and Dirt)
