Barrileras, Inc. Celebrates 2023 End of Year Awards

Sabana Grande | December 9, 2023

Barrileras, Inc. proudly celebrated its End of Year Awards 2023, recognizing the exceptional talent and dedication of the athletes who participated in this year’s events. The ceremony, held at Ranch AA in Sabana Grande, highlighted the achievements of these remarkable individuals who showcased their skills in barrel racing, keyhole racing, pole bending, and other Gymkhana events.

Honoring Our Athletes

Throughout the year, these athletes demonstrated outstanding sportsmanship, perseverance, and a passion for the sport, making each event memorable and competitive. The Santa's Barrels 2023 event was a testament to their hard work and commitment, drawing a crowd of enthusiastic supporters and family members.

Our Awards!

For Participation in NBHA World 2023: Brave Hearts

The Brave Heart Award honors individuals who have shown extraordinary courage and dedication, enabling Puerto Rico to participate on the global stage. These pioneers have faced challenges with unwavering spirit, creating opportunities for Puerto Rican athletes, artists, and professionals to shine internationally. Their efforts inspire a generation to dream big and achieve greatness, celebrating their significant contributions and the power of resilience.

Karson Obarski - Youth

Gabriella Mia Criado - Teen

Ana Sofia Irizarry - Youth

2024 NBHA-PR World Qualifiers: Rising Stars

The Rising Stars Award recognizes talents who will proudly represent Puerto Rico at the 2024 NBHA World Championship with excellent horsemanship and sportsmanship. These young athletes have demonstrated outstanding performance and unwavering commitment, standing out as future leaders in the world of equestrianism. Their skills and dedication not only distinguish them but also raise the standard of excellence for all Puerto Rican competitors on the global stage.

Youth Category:

Kaylynn Wilt

Karson Obarski

Isabella Criado

Sophia Turri

Teen Category:

Gaby Criado

Ana Sofia I

Xiorimar M.

Adulto Category:

Victor Figueroa

Keyri Matta

Recognition Award: Fear Fighter

The Fear Fighter Award recognizes the perseverance of the rider who has shown courage in challenging situations and has not given up. This award honors those who, despite adversity, have maintained their determination and courage, inspiring others with their indomitable spirit and ability to face fear with steadfastness.

Awardee: Karson Obarski

Recognition Award: Sportsmanship Award

The Sportsmanship Award recognizes a member who promotes and treats others with respect, selflessly helps others, always acts with integrity, and accepts judges' decisions. This award celebrates those who, through their behavior and actions, inspire others with their integrity, team spirit, and unwavering commitment to the values of sports and community.

Awardee: Kaylynn Wilt

Recognition Award: Spirit Award

The Sportsmanship Award is given to the member who loves the sport more than winning and who shows kindness, acceptance, and respect towards all forms of life. This recognition celebrates those who embody the essential values of sports: passion, empathy, and a sincere commitment to the well-being of all living beings.

Awardee: Valentina Aviles

Best Team Improvement: Ace Team Award

The Ace Team Award is given to the rider and horse who have shown the most improvement during the year. This recognition highlights the combined effort, dedication, and collaboration that have led to significant achievements in the team's development and performance. It is a tribute to the determination and hard work that have raised the standard of excellence in their equestrian discipline.

Awardee: Xiorimar Melendez y Compadre

Top Speed Award

The Top Speed Award is given to riders who have set the speed record in the following categories: barrels, keyhole, and pole bending. This award recognizes the exceptional skill and outstanding performance of those who have demonstrated outstanding speed in these equestrian disciplines. It is a tribute to their technical prowess and dedication in pursuing excellence in equestrian sports.

Awardees:

Barrels - Gabriella Mia Criado

Keyhole - Xiorimar Melendez

Pole Bending - Gabriella Mia Criado

Rising Cowboy/Cowgirl Award

The Rising Cowgirl/Cowboy Award is a recognition of participation. This award celebrates riders who show exceptional commitment and a growing passion for equestrian sports. It pays tribute to their dedication and ongoing enthusiasm as they progress in their journey as riders, inspiring others with their determination and spirit of improvement.

Awardees:

Isabella Criado - Youth

Ana Sofia Irizarry - Teen

Victor Figueroa - Adultos

2023 Legacy Award

The Legacy Award is given to all members who have embarked on this journey with us as Barrileras, Inc. grows. This award honors their commitment and ongoing contribution to the growth and success of our association. It is a recognition of their loyalty, dedication, and community spirit that have helped shape and strengthen our organization over time.

Awardees: 20 Rider Members

Keyri Matta

Victor Figueroa

Cristina Merly Mendoza

Ivonne Roman

Valentina Aviles Paizy

Faith Wilt

Nora Marrero

Rocio Santiago

Melissa Ortiz

Gabriella Mia Criado

Xiorimar Melendez

Ana Sofia Irizarry Ramirez

Salem Y. Toledo

Kaylynn Wilt

Isabella Zurkowsky

Karson Obarski

Kaylee Ayala

Rebecca Quinones

Sophia Turri

Sole Mia Lopez

Dependable Volunteers

The Appreciation Award "Dependable Volunteers" recognizes those members who have proven to be fundamental pillars as volunteers. This award celebrates their dedication and unwavering commitment, which have significantly contributed to the success and operation of Barrileras, Inc. Their generosity and selfless work are essential to keeping our community united and vibrant.

Awardee: Orlando Jimenez

Top Dedicated Volunteers

The Appreciation Award for the "Best Dedicated Volunteer" recognizes the member who has shown exceptional and consistent commitment as a volunteer. This award celebrates their unwavering dedication, sacrifice of time, and efforts that have had a significant impact on the success and community of Barrileras, Inc. Their example inspires others to contribute meaningfully and selflessly.

Awardee: Melanie Zurkowsky

All Around MVP

The All-Around MVP award is given to the member who has demonstrated exceptional performance in multiple areas. This accolade recognizes not only outstanding skills in competitions but also leadership, sportsmanship, and significant contributions to the overall success of Barrileras, Inc. It is a tribute to their versatility, commitment, and ability to excel in various aspects within our equestrian community.

Awardee: Gabriella Mia Criado

Barrel Racer MVP

The Barrel Racing MVP award is given to the member who has demonstrated exceptional performance in barrel racing. This accolade recognizes their outstanding ability, dedication, and notable achievements in this specific discipline within equestrian sports. It pays tribute to their innate talent, technical skills, and determination in each competition, inspiring others with their passion and excellence in barrel racing.

Awardee: Gabriella Mia Criado

Keyhole MVP

The Keyhole Racing MVP award is given to the member who has demonstrated exceptional performance in keyhole racing. This accolade recognizes their outstanding ability, dedication, and notable achievements in this specific discipline within equestrian sports. It pays tribute to their technical skill, precision, and determination in each keyhole racing competition, inspiring others with their passion and excellence in this area of the sport.

Awardee: Xiorimar Melendez

Pole Bending MVP

The Pole Bending MVP award is given to the member who has demonstrated exceptional performance in pole bending. This accolade recognizes their outstanding ability, dedication, and notable achievements in this specific discipline within equestrian sports. It acknowledges their technical skill, agility, and consistency in each pole bending competition, inspiring others with their passion and excellence in this area of the sport.

Awardee: Gabriella Mia Criado

Powerhouse Sponsor Award

The Appreciation Award "Powerhouse Sponsor" is given in recognition of the exceptional support and ongoing commitment of a key sponsor. This award celebrates their generosity, dedication, and significant contribution to the success and growth of Barrileras, Inc. Their selfless support and commitment are essential for the strengthening and continuous development of our equestrian community.

Awardee: Ferdinand Morales

Estrellas del Patrocinio

The Appreciation Award "Sponsor Stars" is given in recognition of the invaluable support and outstanding commitment of our sponsors. This award celebrates their generosity, dedication, and significant contribution to the success and development of Barrileras, Inc. Their continuous support and commitment to our equestrian community are crucial for realizing our events and programs, inspiring others with their selfless support and dedication.

Awardees:

HSA

JS Roping

Rancho AA

Nani Carlo

Top Youth Barrel Racer

The award for Best Youth Barrel Racer is given to the young member who has demonstrated exceptional performance in this discipline. This accolade recognizes their talent, technical skill, and dedication in barrel racing competitions within our equestrian community. It is a tribute to their passion and promising skills that represent the bright future of the sport.

Awardee: Isabella Criado

Top Teen Barrel Racer

The award for Best Teen Barrel Racer is given to the adolescent member who has demonstrated exceptional performance in this discipline. This accolade recognizes their talent, technical skill, and dedication in barrel racing competitions within our youth equestrian community. It is a recognition of their passion, effort, and outstanding skills that inspire other young individuals in equestrian sports.

Awardee: Gabriella Mia Criado

Top Adult Barrel Racer

The award for Best Adult Barrel Racer is given to the adult member who has demonstrated exceptional performance in this discipline. This accolade recognizes their skill, dedication, and outstanding achievements in barrel racing competitions within our equestrian community. It is a tribute to their technical ability, consistency, and passion for equestrian sports, inspiring others with their excellence and determination in barrel racing.

Awardee: Keyri L Matta

Celebrating Success and Community

Barrileras, Inc. has always been more than just an association; it is a community where athletes and families come together to share their love for equestrian sports. The End of Year Awards not only celebrate the individual successes of our athletes but also the collective spirit of camaraderie and support that defines our association.

Looking Ahead

As we look forward to another exciting year, Barrileras, Inc. remains committed to fostering a family-friendly environment where athletes can thrive and grow. We extend our heartfelt congratulations to all the award recipients and participants for their dedication and achievements in 2023.

The Board of Directors and members of Barrileras, Inc. express their gratitude to all who have supported our events throughout the year. We eagerly anticipate the new challenges and triumphs that 2024 will bring.

For more information about upcoming events and how to join Barrileras, Inc., please visit our website barrileras.org or contact us directly.

Together, we ride towards excellence!