GEORGIA (WVDN) – The West Virginia Barrel Racing team recently returned home from Georgia where they competed in multiple events where they placed second in the spirit parade and three participants made it back into the world final championships.
This district took 17 kids from southern West Virginia which included two from Raleigh County and the rest were from Greenbrier and Monroe counties.
Just to be able to get to this high-class event, the kids had to do a lot of side projects for extra funding.
“The kids fundraised for months to be able to go. We sold cinnamon rolls, worked concessions, sold raffle ticket and 50-50 tickets. All the kids had such a great time, and it was a great experience. Every single one of them tried their heart out,” said Corianna Spinks, the district director.
In the long round there were over 700 horses.
“These kids made it back on the short go of just 205 which is a huge accomplishment to go to a huge show like that and fall into place,” Spinks said.
One thing the West Virginia competitors knew is they had complete support behind them.
“We cheered and chanted for our team all week no matter the time of day. Georgia knew West Virginia came to represent. We have a lot of community support and I thank them for that. People were watching on the Wrangler Network back home while we were out there and people would call or comment on what a great job they did,” Spinks said.
Spinks is a huge believer in the barrel racing game. She believes it teaches more than just getting on a horse and riding.
“The horse world teaches these young kids responsibility, respect, how to win, how to lose, and to be humbled from time to time,” Spinks stated.
Anyone who wants to get involved, contact Spinks or anyone in the WV04 district.
“We have a great group, and everyone helps everyone. We are more like family,” Spinks said.
The overall finishes were as follows:
Rhiley Honaker ran a 16.825 on Oakley, placing them in 29th of 4D
Kaylee Spinks ran a 16.676 on Cayann, placing them in 22nd of 4D
Aidyn River McGrady ran a 16.068 on Arrow, placing them 16th of 3D
