Razorback Roundup Horse Auction Funds UA Equine Program

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Students from one of two Equine Behavior and Training labs, above, and from the Horse and Livestock Merchandising class plan and conduct the Razorback Roundup.

FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. – Pistol, Strider and Buddy are looking for new homes. They and 16 other horses will be auctioned at the 11th annual Razorback Roundup Saturday, Nov. 19, at the Pauline E. Whitaker Animal Science Arena on North Garland Avenue.

Nancy Jack, director of the University of Arkansas Dorothy E. King Equine Program, said 19 horses donated by program supporters will be offered in the auction at 4:30 p.m. Horses can be closely inspected with staff and students available to answer any questions from 1 to 2 p.m.

A choreographed presentation from 2:30 to 4 p.m. will allow prospective buyers to see each horse perform under saddle. All profit from the sale goes directly to support of the students and care of the horses. The D.E. King Equine Program is part of the department of animal science in Dale Bumpers College of Agricultural, Food and Life Sciences.

"This is the highest quality group of horses and the most variety of breeds and disciplines we have ever offered, including mustangs who have performed at Silver Dollar City, a money-earning cutting horse, and a dressage horse ready for 2011 USDF Second Level tests," Jack said.

The equine program is primarily self-funded, and this annual auction is the major event that provides its operating funds, Jack said. "Over 70 people (students, staff and volunteers) are working overtime with fierce focus to make this another success," she added. Students in the Horse and Livestock Merchandising class plan and run the auction, while students in Equine Behavior and Training work all semester training the horses.

"Our primary goal is to place each individual horse with the right owner. Sale price is of secondary importance," Jack said. Potential buyers have the opportunity to study a detailed notebook prepared on each horse, Jack will be available to discuss a buyer's interests and help identify the horse that would be the best "fit."

Purchase prices at previous auctions have ranged from $1,284 to $2,600 for yearlings and $1,803 to $3,165 for riding horses. Refreshments will be for sale at the arena concession stand.

An online catalog with a photo of each horse, short videos of several of the horses being ridden and other auction details can be found at razorbackroundup.org.