Here's the Beef High Steaks Sizzler 2025 | Sandhills Global Event Center | Lincoln, NE
- EMDukat Photography
- Jul 4
- 4 min read
Updated: Jul 9
The scent of fresh dirt, sizzling Wagyu beef, and summertime adrenaline filled the air at the Sandhills Global Event Center in Lincoln, Nebraska as riders, horses, and spectators gathered for the "Here’s the Beef High Steaks Sizzler," held June 27th–29th, 2025. Hosted by Shelley Schaefer of S Bar S Arena, this three-day barrel racing extravaganza lived up to its name with over $11,000 added money, more than $5,000 in Wagyu beef prizes, and some truly sizzling runs.
As the official photographer for the weekend, I was on-site capturing the energy from Friday night through Sunday afternoon. Between the pounding hooves, flying dirt, and cheers echoing through the big arena, this event brought a little bit of everything: competition, community, and a whole lot of beef.
A Look Inside the Weekend
The event kicked off Friday evening with the Open 5D and Youth 3D races. With around 160 riders competing over the course of the weekend — many running multiple horses — the entry list was packed. The arena footing was fast, the fans were loud, and the competition was fierce from the very first drag.
By the end of the night, Raelynne Howell and PLT Salty Perks claimed the Friday Open 5D 1D win with a smoking 15.999, while Hailey O'Daniel took the top Youth spot aboard Frenchiesclaimtafame.
Saturday was where things really heated up — both inside and outside the arena. With humid summer weather and temperatures pushing high, fans were thankfully set up throughout the spectator area to provide relief. Riders cooled down between runs with the help of shade, breeze, and Wagyu beef jerky (more on that later!).
The day kicked off with exhibitions and rolled into the much-anticipated Wackel Farms Wagyu High Steaks Race at 10:30 AM. Sponsored by Adam Wackel of Wackel Farms Wagyu and Plum Creek Wagyu, this race added $3,000 to the pot and awarded an incredible $1,000 package of Wagyu beef to the winners — because what says champion more than premium wagyu steak?
It was Randee Prindle aboard Red Man Jones who stole the show Saturday morning with a 15.783, taking home the High Steaks title and the coveted beef bundle. (Not a bad haul for a fast run!) The Youth 3D winner was Whitly Gregory on MR JB 183 who clocked in with a 15.984 to take the top spot. The afternoon wrapped with Pole Bending. Maddie Blair and Good Golly Wally dominated the poles with a fast 21.944.
Beyond the arena, multiple vendors were set up on-site, such as Samler Equestrian Supply, 99 Halters, Alli's XLR8 Gear, Dime Nutrition & Supply, along with title sponsor Wackel Farms Wagyu/Plum Creek Wagyu to name a few!
Speaking of snacks — if you didn’t grab a bite from Plun Creek Wagyu ’s meat wagon, you missed out. Not only did they sponsor the event and hand out prizes, but Adam was there all weekend offering samples and selling his signature Wagyu beef. I snagged a pack of Wagyu beef jerky for an on-the-go snack between drags, and let me just say — it was tender, flavorful, and exactly what I needed. Highly recommend!
Adding to the fun, Miss NFRP Kelsey Hutton joined us for the weekend and was a hit during awards. She posed with the winners, handed out buckles, and added an extra sparkle to the celebration photos.
Sunday Showdown
By Sunday morning, the sky opened up with a little rain, which was a welcome cooldown after Saturday’s heat. The final day brought the last Open 5D and Youth 3D races, along with more sidepots and plenty of anticipation.
Once again, Whitly Gregory and MR JB 183 came out on top, sweeping both the Open and Youth races with a time of 15.888. Between her double win and the consistent high-level competition across all divisions, it was clear the bar had been set high for this year’s High Steaks Sizzler.
Throughout the weekend, Midwest Rodeos was on-site livestreaming every run and offering run videos for purchase. It was great to see families and fans watching from home, cheering on their favorite riders.
Relive the Moments
I was honored to document so many incredible runs and heartfelt moments. From pre-run pep talks and post-run hugs to the gleam of a new buckle in the winner’s hand, these are the memories worth keeping.
You can view the full proof gallery linked here:
And be sure to scroll through for award photos featuring our buckle winners with Adam Wackel and Miss NFRP Kelsey Hutton. Those smiles say it all!
Where to Find EMDP Next
I’ll be back behind the lens again on Sunday, July 27th at the Springfield Farmers Market in Springfield, NE! If you’re in the area, stop by, say hi, and let’s chat about capturing your next portrait or equine moment.
Until then, thank you to Shelley Schaefer for putting on another top-notch weekend, to all the competitors for bringing their A-game, and to every sponsor who helped make the High Steaks Sizzler one to remember.
If you brought home a buckle, a personal best, or even just a new memory — I hope your weekend was as rewarding as it was fun.
Want to be the first to know where EMDukat Photography will be next?
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