Texas Tech's Growing Equestrian Center

For more than seven years, the Texas Tech Equestrian Center has been the heart of the region's horse world here on the High Plains. The $3.2 million facility is located on the southwestern edge of Lubbock, about nine miles from the main campus.

Spread across 45 acres, it's home to the university's national champion ranch horse team, along with its competitive rodeo and equestrian teams. In addition, the center is headquarters for Tech's outstanding therapeutic riding program.

Formed in 1998 in collaboration between the Davis College of Agricultural Sciences & Natural Resources and University Medical Center, the TTRC provides therapeutic horseback riding and hippotherapy to children and adults with physical, cognitive and emotional disabilities.

The therapeutic riding center is accredited under the Premier Accredited Center Program of the North American Riding for the Handicapped Association. It is also a designated service learning course for Texas Tech.

During the year, program officials report that the equestrian center features horse shows of all kinds, team ropings, calf ropings, barrel races, clinics, youth activities and on occasion agility dog shows. There's a concession stand, restrooms and a meeting room at the site.

The facility has an indoor arena with seating for approximately 700 people, evaporative coolers, and new bucking chutes. In addition, there are two warm-up arenas and more large arenas available, along with 145 indoor stalls.

Written by Norman Martin

1008NM15/ Photo Illustration: N Martin - Davis College