KDSN RADIO News
Westernaires Varsity Big Red Team to Bring First-Ever Arena Spectacular to the Sac County Fair
(SAC CITY, Iowa) The Sac County Fair will welcome a milestone attraction this summer as the Westernaires Varsity Big Red Team brings its arena spectacular to the Sac County Fairgrounds on July 28 and 29, 2026.
For the first time, Westernaires will perform in Sac County, presenting a family-friendly showcase of precision mounted drill riding at speed, featured acts, music, pageantry, and the high-energy arena entertainment that has captivated audiences across North America for generations.
The featured performance team, Varsity Big Red, represents the highest level of Westernaires precision drill riding. Comprised of riders ages 16 to 19, the team will present the organization’s renowned Firelight Finale drill, along with a dynamic lineup of crowd-favorite acts, including trick and fancy roping, Roman riding, trick riding, and more.
These young performers bring remarkable skill, discipline, and showmanship to the arena. Their synchronized riding, striking costumes, and fast-paced choreography on horseback create a visually spectacular performance designed to keep audiences engaged from start to finish.
“We’re honored to bring Westernaires to Sac County and share this performance with a community that values hard work and tradition as much as we do,” said Gretchen Partch, instructor for the Westernaires Varsity Big Red Team.
Westernaires will bring 40 riders to Sac City as part of the fair’s summer celebration. This first appearance in Sac County reflects the organization’s longstanding tradition of sharing youth horsemanship, excellence, and western heritage with audiences of all ages.
Since 1949, Westernaires has performed for audiences across North America, including dignitaries, world leaders, and royalty. Based in Golden, Colorado, the nonprofit organization includes more than 1,000 young people ages 9 to 19 and cultivates self-respect, responsibility, teamwork, and leadership through horsemanship and family participation.
Many of the riders appearing with Varsity Big Red have spent 10 years developing the skill, discipline, and dedication required to earn a place on one of the organization’s premier performance teams. Their appearance at the Sac County Fair brings one of the nation’s most respected youth horsemanship organizations to Iowa for a memorable summer event.
Tickets for Sac County Fair events are available at:
https://saccountyfair.com/visit
