Barrel race promotes community outreach

Driving west on Highway 24, passersby might have noticed a new fenced in arena on the left not far past the Russellville exit. That arena stands out in front of the Cowboy Church of Franklin County and serves as a way for the church to host events and, more importantly to the church membership, provides a platform to reach out to the community.

“We want to reach out to people that don’t have a church home or maybe don’t feel comfortable in a traditional church setting,” pastor Brian Welch said.

In late October the church held their first event in the arena: their second annual barrel race.

“Last year we held it at an arena in Mt. Hope, but we’re happy to have this up and running,” Welch said.

The event kicked off at noon with games in the arena for children, and at 1 p.m. the Exhibition Barrels began.

At 2 p.m. the official barrel races began, with divisions for children 12 and younger through adults.

One participant was the pastor’s daughter, Tori Welch, who took on the Open Barrels.

“This is my horse’s first run, so I’m excited, but I don’t quite know what to expect,” she said.

The barrel race was just one of the events scheduled this year as part of the church’s community outreach program. Oct. 28 they hosted a Horse and Rider Costume Contest, and there is a Fall Festival scheduled for Nov. 4 from 5-9 p.m., featuring games and activities, food and a Judgement Hayride.