Ute Pass Cultural Center was filled with participants, families, and sponsors of the 33rd Awards Banquet of Lake George Outfitters and Gymkhana on Sept. 27. Board President April Achord opened the ceremony with the National Anthem followed by a prayer. She began the festivities announcing there were over 91 participants in the Gymkhanas.

The biggest winner of the evening was 15-year-old Bella Strouse, who was announced as the recipient of the coveted Joe Kraudelt Sportsmanship Award. This award is given to the participant who showed good sportsmanship traits throughout the season and is voted on by the other participants. Tarryall River Ranch was the sponsor of this prestigious award, which included a custom designed saddle and many accessories.

Many other awards given out including special recognition for those who earned the most points for the season. First place winners in each age group were; 10 and under- Mina Achord with 259 points, 11-14 — Parker Gilley with 231 points, and Eva Achord with 230 points in the 15-18 age group. Most improved in each age group were 10 and under — Ellie McCarl, 11-14 — Parker Gilley, and 15-18 — Rylee Gallant.

Achord also acknowledged the efforts and hard work of her co-board members that contributed to an outstanding season; Vice President Lance Geffre, Nancy Weaver, Treasurer, Jennifer McElroy, Secretary, and Arena Foreman, Randy Westfall.

“One of the highlights of being a part of the Gymkhana is watching little kids being led around by an adult and then watching as they move up to taking the reins and doing it themselves and then advancing through the age groups improving all the way,” said April Achord.

“Our sponsors and their unwavering support and assistance are crucial to making the gymkhanas and awards banquet a success. Thanks to their contributions, we can present these well-deserved awards to all the cowboys and cowgirls who have worked diligently throughout the summer,” Achord continued.

The 2025 season sponsors are; Elevation Retreat, Tarryall River Ranch, Melody and Larry Money, Park State Bank & Trust, Cals Trucking, Ginger with Outpost Feed Store, Crippen’s Processing, Hitching Post Trailer Sales, Earthworks Land Development, John and Marianne Mogon, Western Skies Design, Buckin’B Cattle Company, Faith with A Pinch of Faith Bakery, Sherry Kraudelt, Shelly Achord, Rocky Top Veterinary, Land Of Weezalana, Lake George Cabins and RV Park, Dawn Henderson, Shawn and Markyda VenRooy, Lake George Charter School, Lance and Jen Geffre, Lake George Fire Department, Granite Canyon General Store, Scott and Denise Miller, Your neighborhood Realty-Carrie Miller, Kaylee Geffre, and Lake George Community Association.