Major Bend Horse Competition Aids At-Risk Youth

It’s not all about cycling this week in Central Oregon. The 22nd annual Oregon High Desert Classics hunter-jumper horse competition also kicked off Wednesday night, and organizers said they expect it to be the largest to date.

More than 600 horses and riders, hundreds of spectators from all over the world are coming to Central Oregon for the event.

It not only gives a big boost to our economy, but the two-week show also is the No. 1 fundraiser of the year for J Bar J Youth Services.

J Bar J is actually four programs on the High Desert, working to improve the lives of at risk youth and their families. They include the J Bar J boys Ranch, The Academy at Sisters, Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Oregon (a 21 Cares for Kids partner), and Cascade Youth Family Center.

Before the show, NewsChannel 21 met up with one boy in the J Bar J Boys Ranch program who shared what this event means to him.

“Since it’s so close to the horse show I’ve got a lot of things to do,” said Kyle.

Kyle is almost done with his term at J Bar J, but before he leaves, he’s got some work to do for the big event.

Originally from Southern Oregon, he’s made a couple bad decisions in his past, and that’s what got him here.

“It’s just an opportunity for me to straighten the curves in my life,” Kyle said.

Kyle says through the program, he’s been able to do maintenance work, but also volunteer work with local organizations. The interactions with other J Bar J residents have changed his life.

“I think so many of the kids enrolled in the programs are so thankful for the opportunities that they are presented here,” said Amanda Gow, organizers of the Oregon High Desert Classics. “J Bar J Ranch itself really can help kids turn their lives around. I know the programs with Big Brothers Big Sisters, our kids are continually thankful for the resources they receive.”

Kyle is just one of the thousands that have benefited from the profits of the Oregon High Desert Classics. This year’s show is expected to be the largest to date, and organizers said they are very excited to welcome riders and spectators from as far away as Canada and the East Coast.

Kyle says he has a changed attitude about life from being at the ranch, and knows what he doesn’t want to lose.

“When you have your freedom taken away from you, you don’t know how much you’ve lost until you’ve lost it,” said Kyle.

This event is free, and you’re encouraged to attend. Event organizers say there’s nothing like it, and look forward to seeing a great turnout. It runs through the 31st.

For more information, check the event’s Website.