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They line fences with their ponies to watch the races .
Each has a favorite team they root for . Each is hoping that someday , they too will be on the track with their very own team , listening to the crowds and fans cheer them on .
Inspired by the adults competing , they gather up their ponies and friends . Racing around makeshift tracks , they challenge each other to see who has the best mounts and team . Dust flies as they come in for their dismount . A determined heart helps them make the exchange and head out again . Quickly they look back to see who is following and just how close they are to catching up . But working with ponies is not always smooth sailing . Occasionally a pony will decided that the race needs to run in the opposite direction than it originally started . And chaos can insue .
YOUTH IN RELAY BY : TERESA GARRETT-MARTIN
TERESA GARRETT-MARTIN
These smaller ‘ Relays ” quickly garnered the attention of not only the attendees of those races , but Indian Relay racing associations like Horse Nations Indian Relay Council and CIRRA . As a result of seeing their passion and drive youth and junior divisions have been added to the association membership ranks to help support these young teams . Horse Nations Indian Relay council is hoping that this year ’ s races bring an even bigger turn out in their Youth and Junior divisions . “ The youth races are always a highlight for the people attending our races .” says HNIRC president , Calvin Ghost Bear . The associations know , that with guidance and platforms where these young teams can compete against each other , the future of Relay racing is secure .
Over the course of the summer relay season RelayHorse will be bringing you an inside look into our youth and junior relay teams . We are very excited to share their stories and experiences with you . Cloud Peak Energy Season Opener race in Gillette is fast approaching ..... get your tickets while you can . We look forward to seeing you in Gillette on May 26th and 27th !