By Katie Terou
SYV Star Intern
Forty competitors from eight teams took part in the Santa Ynez Valley’s annual horse vaulting competition at Rancho San Antonio in Buellton on June 23.
Teams came from across Central and Southern California to compete in the event hosted by the local team, Barefoot Vaulters.
Vaulters competed in nearly 20 categories, all judged by Kristi Dueber, a former vaulter and a judge certified by the American Vaulting Association and United States Equestrian Federation.
The Barefoot Vaulters, formerly known as the Lompoc Vaulters, are the only vaulting team within a 90-mile radius of Santa Ynez.
“I think everybody did well,” said Peggy Van Hook, Barefoot Vaulters coach and event organizer. “It was a successful event and everyone had fun.”
Van Hook described horse vaulting as “a combination of gymnastics and dance on the back of a moving horse.” She said that people typically start participating at young ages and continue into adulthood.
“It is a fantastic way to learn how to ride and get involved,” Van Hook said.
Attendees enjoyed watermelon and tri-tip sandwiches and lemonade from Los Olivos Lemons as part of a fundraising barbecue for the Barefoot Vaulters.
The Barefoot Vaulters, formerly known as the Lompoc Vaulters, are the only vaulting team within a 90-mile radius of Santa Ynez. The team’s members vary in age, ranging from age 7 to 23.
Lily Markee, 16, joined Barefoot Vaulters 11 years ago and describes the sport as a unique experience.
“I feel like I’m flying when I vault,” she said after completing a run at the competition.
Lompoc Vaulters was founded in 1978 by Jeannie Veattie and has since been taken over by Van Hook, whose daughter was coached by Veattie. Members describe the team as a welcoming community.
“I didn’t know anything about horses when I started, but vaulting has made me so brave, and the team is like a family,” said member Melissa Salas, 23.
The team is currently made up of nine vaulters who practice several times a month at Rancho San Antonio. For more information, email lompocvaults@gmail.com.
