142. The Pulse of Rural Horse Shows: A Look Inside Bar K Bar Arena
142. The Pulse of Rural Horse Shows: A Look Inside Bar K Bar Arena  
Podcast: On The Rail
Published On: Mon Apr 28 2025
Description: In this episode of On The Rail Podcast, Abby Wimer, marketing director for the Celebration Centre and Bar K Bar Arena in Lyons, Kansas, talks about the realities of managing a horse show facility in a rural area. Abby shares her background growing up on a cattle ranch in central Kansas and her subsequent career path in the pharmaceutical industry before returning home. She discusses her role in overseeing the operations of the Celebration Centre and Bar K Bar Arena, detailing the various equine and community events hosted at the facility. Abby highlights the importance of community involvement and support for maintaining and growing the facility, including the unique funding structure. She also reflects on the positive impact her late husband Matthew Wimer had on her work and the horse community. The conversation touches on the challenges of managing diverse events, adapting footing requirements for different disciplines, and the ongoing efforts to expand and improve the facility. Abby provides advice for show managers and facility operators in similar rural settings, emphasizing the value of community cooperation and continuous learning.00:00 Welcome and Introduction01:07 Abby's Background and Journey03:16 Joining the Celebration Center04:17 Roles and Responsibilities05:19 Community and Events07:34 Memories and Tributes10:48 Facility Overview and Operations17:01 Equine Events and Activities22:27 Managing the Arena30:52 Weekly Routine and Challenges36:46 Unique Features of the Facility37:27 Exciting Retail Opportunities39:43 Booking and Tourism Grants42:11 Community and Family Atmosphere51:27 Future Plans and Improvements58:44 Advice for Show and Facility Managers01:08:57 Living the Dream: Personal Reflections