Tillett Horse Races and Barbecue this weekend

Now in its eighth year as an August extravaganza, the Gail Tillett Good Memorial Old-time Horse Races and Barbecue is a three-day event this year – coming up this weekend, August 15-17, though the races themselves are once again on Saturday.

Presented by Crooked Creek Racing and Crooked Creek Cattle Co, the event takes place at 1425 Gypsum Creek Road and 1009 Highway 37, across the park road from the turnoff to Horseshoe Bend as part of the annual Crooked Creek Cattle Rendezvous.

The fun begins Friday at noon with the first Pryor Mountain Songwriting Contest, which runs for 24 hours until noon on Saturday. Each contest entry costs $20 for up to two titles. Enter by simply showing up at the rendezvous site across from the Horseshoe Bend turnoff at 1009 Highway 37 to obtain a title to write about.

Each entrant must be 12 or older and be able to play an instrument or have an accompanist. Register at noon Friday to draw up to two song titles, then write an original western/cowboy song for each title by noon on Saturday. Then return Saturday at noon to perform the song for judges.

The contest is being run by songwriter TJ Casey, with proceeds going to his nonprofit company that assists farmers, ranchers and veterans.

Montana Silversmith buckles will be awarded for first, second and third place.

There will be a free concert Saturday at 6 p.m., where the songs could be performed by the contestants, if they choose, and Casey will perform, as well.

Horse races

The big day is Saturday, when the old-time horse races will be held. The site for the main set of races has been moved to 1425 Gypsum Creek Road due to the slight possibility of distemper at the former site, according to organizer Randi Tillett Weaver. Turn left onto the Crooked Creek Road just before Horseshoe Bend, then continue west on the Gypsum Creek Road to the race site. Signs will be posted.

Check-in will begin at 10 a.m., with racing commencing afterwards.

Races include a youngsters’ lead race, pony race (14.2 hands or less at the withers), beginner’s race, walking race, trotting race, short race, long slow race, long fast race, bareback race, Houston race for larger horses, a surprise race, the Dryhead race for the Tillett family back at the original site and a stick horse race.

There will be prizes for all races and this year a new category is being offered – One horse, one rider -- where a contestant rides the same horse for each race. The winner will receive a buckle, trophy, blanket and feed for the horse.

A barbecue potluck dinner follows the races, and everyone is invited. Bring a side dish to share with meat, drinks and table service provided. No alcohol allowed.

Everything is free, with donations accepted. Attendees are asked to bring their own chairs for the races and barbecue.

Cowboy church

On Sunday, the 4C Cowboy Church service will be held at 10:30 a.m. with coffee and donuts at 9 a.m. at 1009 Highway 37.

For more information, see Crooked Creek Cattle Co. on Facebook, @4c_adventure on Instagram and X or call Weaver at 307-899-8979, Dusti Tryon at 307-899-1865 or Zenaena Tryon at 307-272-7253.