142. The Pulse of Rural Horse Shows: A Look Inside Bar K Bar Arena

On The Rail

In this episode of On The Rail Podcast, Abby Wimer, marketing director for the Celebration Centre and Bar K Bar Arena in Lyons, Kansas, talks about the realities of managing a horse show facility in a rural area.

Abby shares her background growing up on a cattle ranch in central Kansas and her subsequent career path in the pharmaceutical industry before returning home. She discusses her role in overseeing the operations of the Celebration Centre and Bar K Bar Arena, detailing the various equine and community events hosted at the facility.

Abby highlights the importance of community involvement and support for maintaining and growing the facility, including the unique funding structure. She also reflects on the positive impact her late husband Matthew Wimer had on her work and the horse community.

The conversation touches on the challenges of managing diverse events, adapting footing requirements for different disciplines, and the ongoing efforts to expand and improve the facility. Abby provides advice for show managers and facility operators in similar rural settings, emphasizing the value of community cooperation and continuous learning.

00:00 Welcome and Introduction

01:07 Abby's Background and Journey

03:16 Joining the Celebration Center

04:17 Roles and Responsibilities

05:19 Community and Events

07:34 Memories and Tributes

10:48 Facility Overview and Operations

17:01 Equine Events and Activities

22:27 Managing the Arena

30:52 Weekly Routine and Challenges

36:46 Unique Features of the Facility

37:27 Exciting Retail Opportunities

39:43 Booking and Tourism Grants

42:11 Community and Family Atmosphere

51:27 Future Plans and Improvements

58:44 Advice for Show and Facility Managers

01:08:57 Living the Dream: Personal Reflections