Cass County Fair NBHA Barrel Race | Weeping Water, NE

EMDukat Photography
Aug 15
4 min read

Updated: Aug 20

Every August, the Cass County Fairgrounds in Weeping Water, Nebraska, come alive with the sights, sounds, and energy of county fair week. From August 6–10th this year, the grounds were filled with carnival rides, food trucks, livestock shows, and community events that bring together families from all across Cass County. But for many horse enthusiasts, the highlight of Friday night is always the Cass County Fair Barrel Race, hosted by NE09 District Director Kris Harms.

A cowgirl wearing a helmet turns the third barrel on her horse - Agnes Dukat on Mabloom.

This year’s barrel race took place on Friday, August 8, drawing a large crow of competitors and spectators. It’s become a tradition — and one of the biggest races of the season for the NE09 NBHA district. Riders of all ages, from seasoned competitors to local 4-H youth, saddled up for an evening filled with speed, skill, and plenty of community spirit.

A Growing Tradition at the Cass County Fair

For the fourth year in a row, I had the honor of photographing this event. Year after year, it continues to be a favorite - not just becasue its a few minutes from home for me, but the excitement and atmosphere it brings to the fair. The horse arena sits at the northwest side of the Cass County fairgrounds and on Friday night it was buzzing. While the crowd cheered for barrel racers, you could still hear the hum of the carnival rides spinning nearby, the smells of funnel cakes drifting through the air, and the roar of the Figure 8 Race happening just up the hill at the dirt track.

It’s the kind of small-town fair magic that makes summer in Nebraska unforgettable.

Friday Night Action

The evening kicked off right at 6:45 p.m. with the PeeWee division, where the youngest riders got to experience the thrill of making a run down the alleyway and around the pattern. From there, the Open and Youth draws kept the arena lights glowing until nearly 10 p.m.

In total, about 70 barrel racing runs and 20 pole bending runs were made. The pole bending division is growing each year, and it was exciting to see so many riders giving it their all.

The weather couldn’t have cooperated better — though the day started off hot, with plenty of sunshine and just a few teasing sprinkles, the clouds eventually gave way to a perfectly cool summer evening. The kind of night that makes you grateful to be outdoors, surrounded by horses, friends, and the county fair atmosphere.

Heather Basoco on Hey Cube, her horse, run a pattern at the Cass County Fair barrel race in Weeping Water.

Spotlight on the Winners

While every rider brought heart and determination to the arena, Gavin Elznic and his horse, Misfired, stole the show with a lightning-fast run to win the 1D. Their performance set the pace for the night and had the crowd buzzing.

Youth riders had plenty of reasons to celebrate too. Thanks to the support of the community and sponsors, the youth payout was especially meaningful this year. I was proud to personally contribute $150 in added money for the youth division through EMDukat Photography — giving back to the young riders who are the future of this sport is something close to my heart.

A Personal Connection

This event has always held a special place for me and my family. My daughter competed this year aboard her horse, Mabloom — affectionately known as Iris. She made a clean run in barrel racing, and though a downed pole cost her a time in pole bending, the pride and joy of riding at our favorite race of the year was still shining. For us, this race is more than just competition; it’s about the friendships, the laughter, and the community that gathers together under the arena lights.

A cowgirl wearing a helmet turns her grey horse around the first barrel during the Cass County Fair barrel race in Weeping Water, NE.

Why This Race Matters

The Cass County Fair Barrel Race isn’t just about the fastest times — it’s about tradition, growth, and the way equestrian sports bring people together. Whether it’s cheering on the PeeWees making their first run, watching a seasoned rider clock a blazing time, or seeing the youth division flourish with added payouts, there’s something special about this race that keeps people coming back year after year.

The Cass County Fair has long been a place where agriculture, families, and community pride shine. Adding the barrel race to the mix makes it even more dynamic, blending the excitement of rodeo-style competition with the heartwarming, small-town charm of a county fair.

Looking Ahead

With another successful year in the books, it’s clear the Cass County Fair Barrel Race will only continue to grow. Each year, the stands get a little fuller, the runs a little faster, and the memories even more meaningful.

As a photographer, it’s a privilege to capture those moments — the determination in the riders’ faces, the connection between horse and rider, and the cheers of the crowd as another summer night in Weeping Water comes to a close.

Here’s to another year of tradition, competition, and community at the Cass County Fairgrounds. Until next August, we’ll be counting down the days to when the barrels are set, the poles are standing, and the next group of riders makes their mark at the Cass County Fair Barrel Race in Weeping Water, Nebraska.