Horseback riders aged 40 plus have an opportunity to meet others and ride in a less competitive atmosphere through the Vintage Gymkhana Series.
Organized by Carol Thompson, who is also the secretary for the Rimbey Ag Society, the event is a more laid-back event where riders can bring their horses to compete in various timed events throughout the year.
Thompson, who took part in gymkhana herself, said she spoke with people who didn't want to run against the 20-year-olds.
"It got me thinking, maybe there's a niche for the over 40 people. I always say you go your speed, you show up and go as fast or as slow as you want," she said.
The idea was for a more non-competitive event, where everybody helps everybody.
"Some people bring in some young horses they want to go a little bit slower on. I've got two Clydesdales that come in. One is western and one is English."
The series follows closely to the original gymkhana with four events, including barrel racing, poles, stakes and thread the needle.
Thompson also does prizes, where everybody gets a prize at the end of five or six of the dates.
"I do all my prizes locally, so the money stays in Rimbey," said Thompson, adding that it's with various sponsors who support the building,
The event has grown over the years and sees around 20 to 30 riders per date from all over, including Sylvan Lake and Wetaskiwin.
The event took place in October, November and December, with the January one being cancelled due to it being too cold. Within each event, there's been a Christmas potluck, prizes for ugly Christmas sweaters, a Halloween costume contest and more.
"It's just a fun group of people that get together."
The next date is March 29 at the Rimbey Co-operators Agrim Centre.
Thompson said it takes a village to run the event, as many volunteers also step up to help announce, write down the times, help with the gates, etc.
The cost to take part in the series is $20 per event and a one-time Ag membership fee of $5, or $40 for the series membership, which gets you the prizes, too, plus the $20 at every date.