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Last night was the first competitive event at the Ole Red Arena for the newly named Trousdale County Saddle Club.

Formerly, the Smith County Saddle Club, the organization has been operating in Hartsville under the Smith County name for nearly a year, as its charter would not allow for a name change during competition season.

However, moving forward, the club will operate under its new name, Trousdale County Saddle Club, at the Ole Red Arena, located at 75 Sleepy Hollow Lane in Hartsville.

“The Smith County Saddle Club was, of course, in Smith County,� said Angie Langford of the Trousdale County Saddle Club. “But with the rules, it takes a while to change the name.�

Similar to last night’s event, saddle clubs throughout the state hold regularly scheduled competitions, so that members can qualify for the state show, which is held each year on Labor Day weekend at the state fairgrounds in Wilson County.

While those participating in the state show are required to be a member of a local saddle club, state show participation is not required to become a member of the Trousdale County Saddle Club.

“You don’t have to compete in the state show to be a member of the club,� said Langford. “Signing up for membership is for people who want to compete in the state show, but it is also for people who just want to practice with their horses. People do, however, show their horses to qualify for the state show, which is the big show for the Tennessee Saddle Club Association.�

Members of the saddle club are not the only ones invited to the competitive events, as the Trousdale County Saddle Club is open to spectators.

“There is no admission for spectators, so people like to come and watch,� said Langford. “You can get your chairs out of your car and watch the show. We’ve built a new concession stand, so we do have concessions. It’s all very kicked back and really family-oriented.�

Although the Ole Red Arena was built to house the Trousdale County Saddle Club, according to Langford, other events will be held there throughout the year.

“We are excited to host the Trousdale County Saddle Club,� said Langford. “But we are also excited about doing other events at the arena.�

Those interested in attending a Trousdale County Saddle Club event can visit The Ole Red Arena, LLC on Facebook.