In the spring of 2008, construction was completed on 10 state-of-the-art horseshoe courts at Rotary Park. The new horseshoe courts were built in joint cooperation with the Madera County Board of Supervisors, Madera City Council, Madera Parks and Community Services and the Big Valley Horseshoe League.

The horseshoe courts have been a five-year project from start to finish, and were built to the National Horseshoe Pitchers Association specifications. The horseshoe courts include lighting for night pitching, are located adjacent to the Rotary Park Pavilion, and are open to the general public for family recreation and specialized events.

The Big Valley Horseshoe League was organized in 2001 to promote the sport of horseshoe pitching in the Madera area. Since conception, the amateur horseshoe league has expanded to six teams and approximately 80 horseshoe pitchers.

The league has established a National Horseshoe Association Club, and will hold tournaments on June 7 and Sept. 21 at Rotary Park horseshoe courts. The league and club membership is open to all regardless of skill level.

The Big Valley Horseshoe League is extremely proud of the new courts, and would like to thank a few individuals involved in making the project possible. (1) Diane Lewis, former parks director who accepted the idea, and agreed to the park site. (2) Larry Hibdon, project manager, who made it all happen (3) Mary Ann Seay, parks director, and Leon Emo, parks supervisor, for all the league support and guidance. (4) All the construction workers and park personnel involved in the project. (5) City and county officials who approved the project. (6) Art Burt, Bobby Chavira and Jessie Alvarado for league assistance. (7) Lastly, John Silva, former county supervisor, who provided the initial grant moneys to start the project.

The Big Valley Horseshoe League future plans include expansion of the amateur night league to include service organization, churches, after school programs, etc. Anyone needing assistance in establishing horseshoe tournaments, horseshoe rules, or those interested in joining the horseshoe league, call (559) 662-1994.

Once again thank you to all those persons who have contributed and supported the horseshoe court project.

Harlen A. Ripptoe, president,
Big Valley Horseshoe League,
Madera

This entry was posted on Saturday, May 24th, 2008 at 3:03 pm and is filed under General. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. You can leave a response, or trackback from your own site.