Gymkhana
2012 Gymkhana Schedule
All CGRA Gymkhanas begin at 10:00 am
* = Westernaires Arena Jeffco
# = Jeffco Rodeo Arena
^ = Adams County 4-H Arena
+ = Jeffco Table View Arena
- Feb 12, *
- March 11, *
- April 15, *
- May 20, ^
- June 2, #
- July 1, #
- September 8, #
- August 8, +
- October 7, +
What is a Gymkhana?
(Text adapted form a Wikipidea article)
Gymkhana is a term used to describe an equestrian event consisting of speed pattern racing and timed games for riders on horses. These events often emphasize children's participation and may be organized by a recognized Pony Club or a 4-H club.
In some areas, this type of competition is called an "O-Mok-See" (also spelled O Mok See or "Omoksee") competition, a term derived from a Native American phrase meaning "games on horseback".
Gymkhana and O-Mok-See classes include timed speed events such as barrel racing, keyhole, keg race (also known as "down and back"), flag race, and pole bending. All of these events are designed to display precise, controlled actions and tight teamwork between horse and rider at speed, although most clubs offer a variety of classes, allowing riders to compete at the speed level they are most capable of, and comfortable with.
The origin of the term "O-Mok-See" is thought to specifically originate with the Blackfeet Indian Tribe where they described a particular style of riding as "oh-mak-see pass-kan" meaning "riding big dance". This event was principally a war ceremony.
Before setting out on a mounted expedition against the enemy, the warriors of the camp performed this dance as a part of the prelude of stirring up courage and enthusiasm for battle. The warriors put on their finest dress costumes, decorated and painted their best horses, carrying their war bundles, shields, lances and bonnets. They turned and rode together at full speed into the great camp circle, circled around it once and then rode to the center of the camp. In the center were a number of old men and women who sang special songs and beat drums for the horsemen. The horsemen then rode their trained horses to the rhythm of the singers and drummers. from time to time the riders dismounted and danced about on foot beside their horses, shouting to one another to be brave when the battle came.