Young riders who have disabilities are able to build self- confidence and self- control.

SAND SPRINGS -- This will be a special rodeo. It says so in the name.

The first Cherokee Strip Special Rodeo will feature horse enthusiasts of various ages and varying horse-riding abilities.

The rodeo is set apart by the added opportunity for horse riders ages 8 and older who are developmentally or otherwise disabled, said Angie Wagstaff, the event's coordinator.

She said participating in the rodeo has great rewards beyond the trophies and belt buckles.

Her 22-year-old daughter, Audra, has hypotonic cerebral palsy and will participate.

"Getting her in therapeutic riding was a quality-of-life saver," Angie Wagstaff said. "It's fun and exciting. Audra's probably the reason I got back into riding."

Horseback riding also helped John Fritz, 14, of Tulsa, who has a neurological disorder.

His mother, Karen Fritz, said the rodeo promotes self-esteem among competitors.

"When we started, when he got to ride, it was the best day of his week," she said. "We've tried different sports, but horseback riding was what we could connect with. He had to gain self-control in order to control the horse."

Registration for the rodeo is still open and costs $15, which includes a T-shirt, a meal ticket and a participation trophy for all competitors.

Riders must have

Helmets are required for all participants and, if needed, special saddles must be provided.

"They have to problem-solve to think through how to get through the trails," Wagstaff said. "It'll be great for all those kids."

Althea Peterson 581-8361
althea.peterson@tulsaworld.com

When: 6 p.m. Saturday

Where: River City Park Rodeo Arena, 2500 S. River City Park Road, Sand Springs

For more information: 486-3685.