The Tillett Horse Races: A seven-year tradition of community and competition

The Tillett Horse Races have become a cherished annual tradition in Lovell, drawing crowds to the Tillett family’s sprawling 35,000-acre ranch north of Lovell. Now in its seventh year, this event brings together riders and spectators of all ages for a day of spirited competition and community bonding. Founded by Randi Tillett Weaver, who grew up on the ranch, the races presented by Crooked Creek Racing reflect a deep love for horses and the simple joys of ranch life.

The roots of the Tillett Horse Races run deep into the soil of the Tillett family’s ranch. Tillett Weaver, born in 1954, spent her childhood on the ranch immersed in the rhythms of ranch life. 

“When we were kids, we worked all the time,” Weaver recalled. “We’d come up with fun little races to do when we had time and the horses weren’t too tired.”

Among the horses Weaver rode as a teenager was one named Big Timber.

“He wasn’t the best cow horse on the place, but he was the fastest, so I won all the races,” she remembered.  “That was also another reason why I started the races, because I loved the feeling of racing and winning.”

These childhood memories were the seed for the Tillett Horse Races.

The first year of the races saw just five horses competing, but it quickly became apparent that this was the start of something special. What began as a modest event on a family ranch has now blossomed into a vibrant community gathering.

The Tillett Horse Races have evolved into a lively event that still retains the charm of its humble beginnings. The races offer categories for riders of all ages and abilities, from seasoned cowboys to first-time participants. One of the event’s most heartwarming traditions is the beginners ride, which welcomes newcomers to the world of horseback riding.

“This year, a gentleman from Connecticut who had never ridden a horse before participated and had the time of his life,” Weaver said. 

The pony races are also a highlight, with plans to expand them into two separate events next year to accommodate the growing number of young riders.

The sense of community and joy at the Tillett Horse Races was on every face that was in attendance. The event was filled with the sounds of laughter and the sight of smiling faces, as people of all ages came together to enjoy the day. The positive energy in the air mixes with the red dirt kicked up by the horse’s hooves, creating a vibrant and lively atmosphere.

“It’s amazing to see people from all walks of life come together like this,” Weaver said. “There’s just something special about watching people laugh and have a good time, surrounded by the beauty of the ranch.”

Despite its growth, Weaver is careful to preserve the event’s intimate, community centered atmosphere. 

“I don’t really advertise, because I want it to grow by word of mouth,” she said. “It’s all about having a good time and enjoying the day without it getting out of control.”

Weaver’s family plays an integral role in organizing the event, with everyone pitching in. Looking ahead, the Tillett Horse Races are set to continue growing while staying true to their roots. 

Next year Weaver and her family plan to introduce new categories like the “All Around Horse” and “All Around Rider,” where participants will compete across multiple events using a single horse.

For Weaver, the heart of the races lies in the community it brings together.

“It’s an old-fashioned community,” she said. “We’re out here having fun. Everyone has a good time, and that’s what it’s all about.” 

As the horses thunder down the track, kicking up clouds of red dirt, the crowd’s cheers and applause create an electric atmosphere that resonates with the spirit of the Old West. The races will continue to evolve, but they will remain a testament to the enduring spirit of the Tillett family and their love for the land, the horses and the people of the community.