Barbara Worth Brigadettes host ranch riding event in El Centro
Skylar Heisey
EL CENTRO, Calif. (KYMA) – Saddle up, Imperial Valley! The Barbara Worth Brigadettes are gearing up for their annual Ranch Riding Event, a family-friendly day of fun, horsemanship, and community giving.
The Barbara Worth Brigadettes, one of the oldest equestrian clubs in the region, have been riding together since the 1940s.
For more than 80 years, the group has not only celebrated the Western lifestyle but also given back to the community through fundraising events like this one.
“This event highlights all of the activities a person would encounter on a trail ride or while working on a ranch,” explained member Marsha. “We use bridges, pivot boxes, walkovers, and back-throughs…all the kinds of things horses might face in a real ranch setting.”
The event features both ranch rail and ranch riding competitions, where participants will be judged on skills like walking, trotting, cantering, stopping, and backing.
Riders will also perform memorized patterns designed to build confidence for both horse and rider.
“These aren’t show horses — they’re real ranch horses,” said Marie Deyesso. “They’re obedient, hardworking, and beautiful. This is a great chance for riders of all levels to participate and have fun.”
The one-day event includes five age divisions, starting from riders 8 and under, all the way up to adult classes. Contestants can compete in multiple events, earning points toward high-point buckles for each age group.
Spectators are welcome and it’s free to attend. The Sheriff’s Posse will be serving breakfast, and lunch will be available for purchase. Attendees can also enter a raffle with about 15 prizes, so multiple people will go home winners.
Organizers remind everyone to follow the map on the flyer, as a nearby bridge is currently out. The correct route will be posted online.
“It’s fun to watch, fun to compete, and it’s all for a good cause,” said Marsha Boutwell. “If you’ve got a horse, come on out…we’re going to have a ball.”