Lee sat down with myFM to tell us what a day in the life at the REACH centre is really like!
The REACH Centre in Clinton operates as a home for the community and equestrians alike.
Matt Lee, the General Manager of REACH Huron, knows this mission well, as he himself grew up as a farm boy in nearby Walton. Together with a dedicated team, the REACH centre has become a hub of equestrian excellence, drawing attention from all across Ontario and the East Coast.
Lee describes the REACH centre as a hockey arena with a twist—it’s a dirt playground where rodeos and barrel racing take center stage.
Every day there’s something new going on at the REACH centre, from thrilling equestrian events on the weekends, to educational programs in collaboration with University of Guelph, Ridgetown that involve 16 on-site horses for schooling.
It also offers programs like Fanshawe’s Early Childhood Education and Personal Support Worker courses, as well as Ridgetown’s equine program. Community rides on Tuesdays and practice sessions on Thursdays keep the place buzzing. Come Friday to Sunday, the equestrian action takes over once more.
Since its inception in 2010, the REACH Centre has steadily grown and found its niche in the western sports world. Positive relationships built with organizations like the Ontario Barrel Racers highlight their success, with upcoming events like the October 14-15 rodeo drawing attention.
One thing that Lee finds fulfilling is witnessing REACH Centre kids grow up to become strong competitors on the rodeo circuit.
Provided by REACH Huron
Of course, every journey has its challenges. Meeting or surpassing previous achievements is a perpetual goal, and ensuring facilities are accessible and available to locals is a priority.
Community partnerships have played a pivotal role in their success. One Care uses their facilities to deliver meals on wheels and support seniors, while smaller groups like the Tanner Steffler Foundation hold meetings and training sessions at the REACH Centre.
The relationship between REACH and its community is symbiotic. They leverage the large crowds drawn by their events to support local festivals and initiatives. In return, the community embraces the competitors and students who temporarily reside in the area, creating a welcoming atmosphere.
To stay updated on their events, you can visit reachhuron.ca or subscribe to their newsletter. With something happening almost every weekend, including free admission and food trucks, the REACH Centre is a vibrant cornerstone of the Clinton community, where equestrian dreams come to life.
To hear the full interview with Matt Lee, listen below!
Written by: B. Shakyaver