Lorenze girls- barrel racers

The NCP Saturday Showcase is a feature story that recognizes students, staff and alumni for their exceptional achievements and contributions to the school community. This week, we have the pleasure of recognizing two Parke Heritage Middle School sixth grade students who are barrel racers.
🏇Emmery Lorenze
🏇Oakley Lorenze

Emmery's journey into barrel racing began at the age of seven, inspired by the racing events she watched at rodeos and on television. Her father, a former barrel racer, supported her passion by providing her with a horse to start her own journey. Initially, Oakley was hesitant about racing as she didn't want to go fast. She rode a horse that went slow and taught her a lot about riding. Now she loves the speed and going fast. She and her current horse, Snokn Sue have grown together and work together to compete in many contests.

“We have done really well against some tough competition. Last year, we ended up in the top 25 and this year Selena ended up in the top 15 and Cash in the top 20. We are also a part of the International Barrel Racing Association (IBRA). In the state of Indiana, Cash and I ended up seventh in the Youth Second Division for the year and seventh in the Youth Third Division. Selena and I ended up eighth in the Youth Second Division. I’ve won five buckles on Selena and three buckles on Cash,” said Emmery.

Likewise, Oakley has been successful in her barrel racing divisions.

“This year, I ended the IBRA season first in the Youth Third Division in the state of Indiana. I was also second in the fourth Division in the Open. I will get a saddle for winning the Third Division. I have won two other saddles and two buckles with Smokn Sue,” said Oakley

She has also qualified for Best of the Best in Ohio the last two years. There are only a handful of shows that are qualifying shows each year. Racers have to place in the top three of their age class to qualify. Sue and Oakley ended up placing in the top 25 this year and last year at the actual Best of the Best race.

For Emmery, the most exhilarating moment of barrel racing is when her horse sprints "home" from the third barrel, relishing the speed and thrill of the race. Oakley finds joy in the time spent riding her horse and the excitement of navigating the barrels. Their shared passion for the sport is evident in their dedication to daily riding, taking only Mondays as a day of rest for their horses after competitions.

“Horses are my life. I love riding and spending time with them. Selena is my best friend and can make a bad day better just by seeing her,” said Emmery.

“Barrel racing is such a fun sport. It takes lots of practice, time, and patience,” added Oakley.

For both Emmery and Oakley, horses are not just a hobby but a way of life, filled with passion, dedication, and the thrill of competition.

The Saturday Showcase provides a platform for students, staff and alumni to be acknowledged for their accomplishments and serves as inspiration for others to strive for excellence. If you would like to submit a nomination, please complete this form. https://forms.gle/Mxims77Qn2mPgaVMA