The annual Homestead Family Rodeo is carrying on a tradition which began four years ago.
Michelle LoRegio is credited for being the brainchild behind the successful rodeo event. LoRegio moved to Homestead, a boarding facility located in Powassan, with her horse Missy in 2015.
“The rodeo began during COVID. There were a bunch of us here who would compete in local horse shows, but during Covid we had no horse shows to go to, so we thought we would have a small family show at the Homestead,” explained LoRegio.
The barn manager explains what goes on at the ranch.
“We’re a boarding facility, so in 2020 when nobody could go out, people were still able to come to the Homestead to see their horse and help maintain their horse’s health,” explained Lee-Anne Fava, barn manager and daughter of the ranch owners.
“They had to keep their tack in their vehicle. But it was nice that they were still able to see their horses. That was when we were approached by Michelle to host a show.”
The owners agreed, thinking a family rodeo would be good for everyone’s morale, and good for the horses to keep them moving, keeping them in shape.
The first little family-friendly rodeo was held at the outside arena.
“So, everybody got to stay safe while keeping their sanity. And it was really good for camaraderie in the barn,” shared Fava.
And it was well received.
“We didn’t know it would become a regular thing. Everybody just loved it, so we decided to do the second rodeo the following year. It has just gotten bigger and better from there,” grinned LoRegio
Four years later, the rodeo has become somewhat of a family tradition, as it continues to be a draw for riders of all ages and their supporters who are known to attend from different parts of the province.
LoRegio and Kat Jodouin organized this year’s event.
The most recent rodeo, held last weekend, was officially opened with the playing of O Canada and by riders on horseback, carrying the Homestead banner and Canadian flag inside the outdoor arena.
This year an event called “extreme trail” was set up in the indoor riding arena.
“Outside we set up the roping calf and a lasso so the kids or anybody could try their hand at roping,” shared Fava.
While not part of the rodeo circuit, a local judge was hired. Roughly 30 competitors ranging in age from four years old to riders in their 60s put themselves to the test.
First-time judge Madeline Marcellus, had her eyes peeled looking for things such as calm horses, steady riders, even gaits, and good horsemanship.
“Also, no hesitation on the part of the horse or rider. I’ll be looking for that great team with an even flow and good reaction, a good partnership,” Marcellus noted.
Cash prizes, ribbons, and trophies were handed out in various classes.
Barn owners Shirley-Anne Bedard and her husband Roland Perreault enjoy their hosting duties.
“What sets this one apart from the other rodeos, is that we have a different approach. It is not a professional rodeo. It is entirely about bringing families together and having fun. It has really fostered a family feel here at the Homestead. We all refer to ourselves as the Homestead family,” explained Bedard.
“The young children were introduced to some of the events that they may want to go into competition with, maybe they will want to become a barrel racer or learn how to run polls or do an extreme trail pattern. So, it introduces them to that without the pressure of actually being in a live competition,” explained Bedard.
Older riders who have participated in competitions looked forward to barrel racing, poll racing and flag, all the events they would do at a regular rodeo where they earn points.
“Those events are always very exciting,” shared Bedard.
“We wanted to open it up to the rest of the community because we love that it is such a family event,” said Fava.
“It just shows what Powassan and the horse community is all about. It is open, it is welcoming, it is really encouraging. If you are afraid of horses, this could help you get over that. It just brings everybody together in a way that isn’t a massive competition.”
The rodeo wrapped up with a traditional spaghetti supper followed by a bonfire.
