“It’s really spectacular”: Cascades Futurity and Aged Event at Deschutes County Fairgrounds

REDMOND, Ore. (KTVZ) -- The Cascades Futurity and Aged Event, a horse cutting competition open to the public, is taking place at the Deschutes County Fairgrounds. General admission to the event is free.

Cattle cutting is a practical skill that cattle ranchers still utilize. The goal of the sport is to single out an individual cow from a herd without touching the animal. Judges observe the rider's ability to enter the herd without causing a disturbance, as well as the horse's skill in keeping the selected cow separated once isolated.

Monty Buntin, a trainer for the Cascades Futurity and Aged Event, invited anyone who wanted to come down to watch, regardless of their background in riding or ranching. “Yeah. Absolutely. Anybody can come. Anybody will enjoy to watch these cutting horses work. It's really spectacular when you see a horse take over and start competing with a cow without help or assistance from the rider. To watch two animals compete against each other. This is the only thing, only sport that does that,” Buntin said.

This year's event features a new cattle dog exhibition, where highly trained dogs demonstrate their ability to work livestock. In addition, vendors are positioned around the upper ring of the arena selling food, drinks and western wear.

On Friday, Sept. 11, organizers have scheduled a ticketed dinner along with a Sept. 11 tribute. The tribute will feature young riders waving flags while following a wagon pulled by Flying J draft horses.

The competition runs daily from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. through Saturday, Sept. 13.