How To Join The Sky High Angels

Horse And Rider Must Be In Harmony

LINCOLN — For those witnessing the Sky High Angels’ spectacular performances at the Lincoln Rodeo this week and wishing they could become part of the pageantry and patriotism, opportunity exists.

Before reaching for the phone, it’s recommended those thinking about trying out for the team take an inventory of what it takes to become a Sky High Angel.

A top consideration is having a horse capable of carrying a rider through a variety of stunts that may require balancing or moving around on the horse while the horse is either cantering or galloping. The disposition of the horse is a factor. High-strung animals and those that get spooked easily are unsuitable. Horse and rider must learn to be in harmony.

Sky High Angels director, Gloria Roles, who is also on the board of directors for the Northwest Arkansas Barrel Racing Association, said it takes an exceptional horse to be able to handle the routines, noting many times the horses are expected to run at full speed and immediately stop and stand still. Horses must be able to function in the midst of excitement and crowd noise, plus carry a flag and run two-by-two in pairs with another horse. Stallions are not allowed.

Roles said the routines are fast-paced and difficult and require all riders to carry a flag throughout the entire performance. Learning the routines requires a combination of dedication, patience, top-notch riding skills, an extraordinary horse and a lot of hard work. She noted practices can take up as many as three nights per week when necessary but are typically scheduled on Friday evenings.

“Of course, all of this takes money,” Roles said, explaining the group holds an annual dance and chili dinner to raise money needed for costumes, tack and other expenses. The group has also held garage sales, run concession stands, done catering for hire, and each member pays annual team dues.

“Even so, most of our traveling expenses, with respect to fuel, food and accommodations, are generally out- of- pocket,” Roles said.

Interested parties are asked to please keep in mind that the try-outs are for three available alternate positions.

“Our performance riders are chosen on a seniority basis unless otherwise voted on by the team,” Roles said, explaining those selected will be filling some very important shoes.

“Your job will be potentially the most difficult because you will be filling in for absent performance riders during practices and performances. Therefore, you will have to know all of the positions instead of just one,” Roles said.

New members will also be helping behind the scenes by handing out flags and water, doing other chores and assisting with carrying sponsor flags in grand entries and parades, as needed.

The qualifying age to begin trying out with the Sky High Angels is 14 unless otherwise voted on by the team. The vote will be held on each individual basis.

“Even though this team takes a lot of time, teamwork, dedication, and sometimes blood, sweat and tears, I cannot stress enough how much fun it is,” Roles said, going on to say the group has made many new friends and has been able to share their passion for horses and riding with the other members of the team.