Real County Junior Horse Club
The first organizational meeting of the horse club was in 1972. Plans were made for future youth activities and possible locations. The first play-day activities were held in 1974 in the "Wish Hamilton" arena at what is now known as Flat Rock Subdivision.
The Real County Jr. Horse Club became an official organization "to further the participation of youth in activities on horseback, and related activities" in 1975. The 7.35 acres that is now used by the horse club has changed ownership since its original lease but the owners have always honored the original lease agreement and allowed the RCJHC to use the property. Club members held bake sales, barbecues, and goat ropings to raise money so that the concession, restrooms, and arena could be built. Thousands of hours of labor were donated by men and women of the horse club.
The first rodeo performance was a Saturday daytime performance in honor of our country’s Bi-Centennial Celebration. The horse club had been very active in other activities of the July Jubilee Celebration. They helped plan the Arts and Crafts Fair and were instrumental in the first July 4th Parade in Leakey. Since that very first parade, two members of RCJHC always lead the parade and carry the United States and Texas flags on horseback. The Parade Grand Marshall is picked by RCJHC and is someone who they believe has been important to the youth of RCJHC.
In 1977, expendable electric line poles were set along the arena fence and light receptacles were loaned to the club. All buildings and the arena were wired by a club member which allowed for night time Horse Club activities and the first two-night rodeo performances of the July Jubilee.
In 1978, the first bleachers were put on location at the arena. They were second hand and purchased with donations but it provided a place for the growing crowds to sit.
Since those first years, the Horse Club has continued to grow and July Jubilee Rodeos have continued. Other officers and directors have followed in the footsteps of those first generous individuals who had the foresight to create such a wonderful thing for the youth of this area. The concession stand has been renovated and expanded, more stands have been build, and routine maintenance has been carried out. Although the faces of the board, directors, and members have changed, the purpose of the organization is still the same, "to further the participation of youth activities on horseback, and related activities".
In 2017 the Board of Directors, Vincent Becker, Ronnie Phillips, Russell Glass, Don Gass, Rudy Gonzalez and Mekaila Mills voted to purchase the arena property after 42 years investment of money, time, sweat, tears and blood, WE NOW OWN THE ARENA. Thanks to the generous help from the Frio Canyon Chamber of Commerce and financing from the First State Bank of Uvalde!! Come rodeo with us!!
Real County Junior Horse Club (RCJHC) will award 1 or 2 scholarships to individuals endeavoring to further their educational goals. The Wylden Hubbard Memorial (WHM) Scholarship will award one $5,000 scholarship to an individual who is furthering their education. Any student who displays high moral character, scholastic merit, and a sincere desire to achieve higher goals is eligible.
Febryary 16th and 17th at the RCJHC Arena
Teens, Senior, Junior divisions
Click here for Rules and Entry Forms
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