Learn about Trail Hand and Expo events for young riders.

The Trail Hand Division is the perfect starting point for young rodeo enthusiasts! Designed for boys and girls ages 7 and under, this division helps participants build confidence, develop skills, and learn the fundamentals of rodeo in a fun, supportive environment. Unlike the Little Wrangler division, the Trail Hand Division is unique to Michigan and is not recognized at the national level.
Trail Hand entries are now open for all spring 2025 rodeos!
For children who have access to a horse.
Events:
For children who do not have access to a horse but still want to experience rodeo. All equipment is provided for non-contact events, or participants may bring their own.
Broken into two age groups:
Events:
Trail Hands also have the option to participate in Open Events.
Expo Mini Bull and Steer Riding
Children ages 5–7 may compete in both the Trail Hand and Little Wrangler (national) divisions.
However, they may not compete in the same event in both divisions (e.g., if entered in Little Wrangler barrels, they cannot enter Trail Hand barrels).
(Paid in addition to membership fee, required for year-end awards):
Families may pay directly or secure business sponsorships (see sponsorship form here).
(For those joining after the last fall rodeo):
Members will still receive year-end awards, but at a reduced level.
For sponsorship questions, contact Lisa Koehn at koehn.lisa@sccresa.org
For questions about Trail Hand membership, contact Trail Hand Director Jena Becker at trailhandsmichigan@gmail.com
Open events are designed to give younger kids an opportunity to practice and learn about rough stock sports in a safe environment. These events are open to youth who are members of NLBRA of MI. They are Expo-only, meaning no points go towards daily finals, state finals, national qualifications, or awards. Open events are entirely dependent on stock contractors and may not be available at every rodeo. Costs are subject to change at any time. These events take place before the start of each rodeo.
Expo Only—No Points or Official Scoring
To Enter
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