New rodeo goes up in Grainger County

Doug Martinez has been riding horses for 40 years. He couldn't be more thrilled about the new covered arena going up at The Stables at River Ranch in Grainger County.

"It's just phenomenal," he says. "We'll have bull riding, we'll have steer roping, calf roping, barrel racing, a full blown rodeo."

As a western rider, Doug rides the cow horse, the cutting horse, and the reigning horse. A good looking arena would give him a chance to show off his stallion in a rodeo, but more than that it will give young riders like 16-year-old Brittanie Faulkner a chance to shine.

"With an indoor arena we'll also be able to ride in the winter, so that makes it a lot better and gives us more riding time in the off season," Brittanie says.

When the arena opens in October, it will be the main venue for high School 4H clubs, and the Tennessee High School Rodeo Association. Right now, young riders with the association have to travel to West Tennessee to compete, now the new arena will let East Tennessee kids be closer to home.

"We just want to make this a wholesome spot for people to come and have fun and have their horses, and learn about horses.

The first rodeo at the new arena is set for October 21, and 22. It will definitely be a draw for The Stables at River Ranch, since they're also starting to host weddings.

Tom and Kathy Gilliland own Fantasy Carriage Company. They offer carriage rides for weddings, including those hosted at The Stables at River Ranch. The Gilliland's are excited about the new arena because it will bring more business their way.

"The more people that come through here, the more people that's gonna know about us. For more information about The Stables at River Ranch, call 865-933-2680. Fantasy Carriage Company 865-828-5421.