Reining Horse Participant Honors Oklahoma Country Music Legend

The reining horse competition at the state fairgrounds is a serious competition for some serious money. But there’s a fun side to the event that may be just as competitive.

Sebastian Petroll was born in Germany.

“Growing up, horses were always a part of our lives,” said Reining horse rider Sebastian Petroll.

When Petroll decided to get serious about reining horse competitions he knew where he needed to be.

“Once I did and I said you know what, I am going to be a professional, I figured I am going to have to go to the reining horse capital of the world and Oklahoma and Texas, that’s where you have to be,” said Petroll. 

He lives in Texas and is in Oklahoma City competing in one the biggest reining events in the world with his horse Extra Miss Wimpy.

“She had a very good run, pretty solid. She has won about $4,200 total already at this horse show,” said Petroll.

However, there is one more event Petroll is sticking around for, the freestyle competition.

“Similar to the regular reining class, they still have to perform the maneuvers, they still have to do the sliding stops, they still have to do the spins, lead changes,” said Petroll.

Participants in the freestyle are judged more on showmanship, with costumes and music.

“The freestyle is a fun event for the family, so even if you don’t know a lot about reining, it’s very entertaining, it’s fast pace,” said Petroll.  

After Petroll decided to participate in the freestyle, he knew he wanted to honor Oklahoma country music legend, Toby Keith.

“Toby Keith means a lot to the state, the state meant a lot to him,” said Petroll. 

He’ll sport his Toby Keith shirt and cowboy hat and play Toby’s “American Ride” for the routine.

“I do have a little prop with me too, hopefully, if all works out but I’m not going to reveal that until tomorrow,” said Petroll.

The freestyle event is Thursday at 6 p.m., at the state fairgrounds, and is free admission.

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