Barreling into the New Year at the Harrison County Fairgrounds

Equestrian enthusiasts celebrated the upcoming New Year in style with some friendly competition this weekend.

CBR Productions’ inaugural ‘Barreling into the New Year’ event brought barrel racing back to Harrison County. Over 200 horses and racers from across the Gulf Coast competed in multiple racing categories on a clover-leaf course, including a kid competition.

Event organizer Blain Rivers says despite the competitive aspect of the event, it’s all about making lasting connections with fellow barrel racers. “The barrel racing community is very, very friendly. If anybody needs help, there’s always a helping hand. It’s competitive, but on a real-life basis, it is very, very friendly.”

Event organizers hope to make this an annual event.