From its humble beginnings in 1937 when a small group of men who enjoyed horseback riding, roping, and coyote hunting decided to form a goat-roping club, Topeka Round-Up Club has always been about social connections. From horse shows to riding lessons to summer camps, that community spirit lives on in the people who belong to the club and work there too.
Topeka Round-Up Club is unique in that it is not owned by any one individual or corporation. Instead it is a not-for-profit Kansas corporation owned by its members. Maybe that’s what makes it so special. Barn Manager, Jolene Johnson started working there about a year and a half ago. She needed a place to board her horse and heard that they were looking for a barn manager. “I ran an office for 15 years,” she said. “I figured, I can run a barn…WAY different!” she laughed. Caring for the 55 or so horses is a full-time job, but a labor of love for Johnson. “Besides raising kids and grandkids,” she shared, “it’s the best thing I’ve ever done!”
The 300-acre facility, located at 7843 SW 37th Street, offers both English (hunter/jumper/dressage) and Western riding lessons, and hosts special events throughout the year, including horse shows, trail rides, summer camps, potluck dinners, picnics, educational programs, and more.
The staff and board of directors meet once a month to decide what needs to be done. Western riding trainer, Keelan Walter, who has been training horses since she was a teenager, agreed that the Topeka Round-Up Club is unique. “It’s the only stable in the area managed by its members. It allows people to come in, contribute their own ideas and really have a stake in the place,” she said. “Everyone adds their own flavor.” She has been working at the club for four years with riders of all ages. She said the riders really learn a lot about themselves working with the animals. “Riding is a very positive experience,” she added. “It’s a real confidence builder.”
Brenna Mannell, board treasurer, got involved after her daughter started taking English riding lessons there. “Haley didn’t really like traditional sports, but she fell in love with riding immediately,” she said. “I was there with her all the time, so I decided to volunteer. It’s such a great group of people, I wanted to be a part of it. The members really make the place go.”
In addition to riding, Haley also works part time at the barn feeding, watering, cleaning stalls, and helping with other horse and facility needs. “It’s just a great environment, Brenna continued. “I love seeing Haley spend time with her horse every day, take responsibility for all his needs and watching them grow and develop together. It’s been an amazing experience.”
Another board member, Debbie Haag, whose daughter Savannah has been riding for about 12 years at Topeka Round-Up Club, said, “I know it’s an expensive sport, but my husband and I feel like the things it teaches them - responsibility, attention to detail, organization, independence - just can’t be compared to other sports.”
Savannah is boarding three horses now and is at the club multiple times a day. “It teaches you about taking care of another living being. You have to be dedicated and organized. I have two horses who are recovering from injuries, so I have to exercise them multiple times a day,” she said. “I also have to make sure I feed each of them special grain for their gut or their hooves or whatever they need. It’s a lot of work, but I love it!”
Gavin Badger has been taking Western riding lessons for six years. He also works at the club taking care of the horses and teaching young kids at summer camp. “It’s amazing how a 1,000 pound animal will let you ride and train them and be so calm and gentle,” he said.
Members receive many benefits including full use of the facility – indoor and outdoor arenas, trails, discounts on riding lessons and special events, social activities, and use of the clubhouse. But perhaps the biggest benefit of all is the camaraderie and sense of belonging that comes with being part of this special community.
Boarding, lessons, camps, horse shows…there’s always something fun happening and new members are always welcome. The clubhouse and facility are available for rent to groups for events and parties. To learn more about the Topeka Round-Up Club, visit Topekaroundupclub.com. Come on out and round up some fun!