“ Brandon understands that land is more than just acreage— it’ s an investment in memories, traditions, and opportunities. Whether it’ s a recreational retreat, a productive farm, a hunting property, or a future homesite, he enjoys helping clients find the right piece of land to match their goals.”
Page 36 Stories of the Heartland • Sunday, September 20, 2026 hometownsource. com / heartland /
Horses, heart and community spirit unites Minnesota saddle club
BY SHEILA MCCOY STORIES OF THE HEARTLAND
Each year, horse riders from near and far gather at the Western Saddle Club Association( WSCA) Championship Horse Show for solid and friendly camaraderie, tough competition and memorable stories to share. This year will be no different as they prepare for the WSCA Championship Show, which will be held Sept. 24-28 at the Minnesota State Fairgrounds in St. Paul.
One club in Central Minnesota that has long kept riders on their toes is the Osakis Trail Blazers Saddle Club. Consistently ranking in the top four at the WSCA Championship Show over the last 12 years, including many times in first place, their riders are confident they’ ll deliver great results this year, as well.
As to the club itself, it is more than people getting together to ride and compete. Arlene Bayer of Belgrade, a longtime member of the Osakis Trail Blazers, said the club is like one big family and has been ever since it was established in 1976.
Although they compete against each other, they look out for one another and pitch in to help whenever help is needed, she said.
The Osakis Trail Blazers Saddle Club has about 200 members, including active riders of all ages from young children to individuals well into their senior years, as well as supportive non-riding members who help run events. The riding levels vary too, from beginner to advanced riders. While most members lived in or near Osakis in the early days, today most members live a distance away, some as far as three hours away. The reason they stay in the club, Bayer said, lies in their love for the club and its people. The experienced riders also coach the younger riders, give them feedback on their runs and everyone is simply willing to help, Bayer said.
“ It’ s not like some sports where you’ re all for yourself. It’ s everyone helping and cheering on each other, even though you’ re competing against each other,” Bayer said.“ I always say,‘ You’ re only as good as the crowd you hang out with,’ so I want them to be good, so I can be just as good.”
Being coached by the more experienced
Sheila McCoy / Stories of the Heartland
Competing in speed events is a favorite for both Arlene Bayer of Belgrade and her horse, Dandy. While Bayer has earned a multitude of impressive wins over the years, these days it is more about having fun and passing on the passion of horses and riding to the younger generation.
“ Brandon understands that land is more than just acreage— it’ s an investment in memories, traditions, and opportunities. Whether it’ s a recreational retreat, a productive farm, a hunting property, or a future homesite, he enjoys helping clients find the right piece of land to match their goals.”
Brandon Johannes 320-293-9179
BJOHANNES @ AMERICANLEGACYLANDCO. COM AMERICANLEGACYLANDCO. COM