The Portneuf River Back Country Horsemen Chapter is once again sponsoring a Horse Trail Obstacle Challenge. The event will take place on June 22 at the Bannock County Fairgrounds. Early bird registration prices are available through June 20. The event will be capped at 42 participants. Participants and spectators are welcome at this event. The event is free for spectators.

Day of event check-in will begin at 8 a.m. with judging to begin at 9 a.m. Registered participants will tour the course prior to the competition. Register and view event details, including schedule and entry fees, at portneufriverbch.com.

A horse challenge is a course of obstacles and tests that challenge the horse to be confident, independent and trusting of its rider. The goal of a horse challenge is to help the horse become a trustworthy, dependable, willing and safe partner in trail riding. Examples of trail obstacles include crossing bridges, crossing water, backing up through obstacles, opening a gate, cowboy curtain, stepping over fallen logs, and carrying and/or dragging items.

This horse challenge is open to horse riders of all ages and experience. There will be three age groups, and four categories: lead line, novice, amateur and open. The three age groups are 12 years and younger, 13-17 years and 18 years and older. Ribbons will be awarded in all age groups and categories. Prizes will be provided to all first-place winners and to both the overall adult and youth challenge event winners.

Debra McFarren, chapter president, has designed the course and has built many of the obstacles. Debra has participated in and won a number of equine challenge events over the years. She is the driving force behind this event.

Participants and spectators are welcome at this event. The event is free for spectators.

For information, visit the Portneuf River Back Country Horsemen web page at portneufriverbch.com or call Debra McFarren at 208-776-0348.

Participants and spectators are welcome at this event. The event is free for spectators.