FIRST ANNUAL VERDE RIVER CLASSIC HORSESHOE TOURNAMENT
By Harrison J. Bahe
On October 11, 2025, in the midst of a dreary, rain-soaked weekend, competitors and spectators alike gathered at the Enos Ranch for the First Annual Verde River Classic Horseshoe Tournament. Despite the gloomy weather and the occasional drizzle, spirits remained high as the community came together for a day of friendly competition, good food, and live entertainment.
Attendees huddled beneath shades in their most comfortable foldable chairs, coolers at their sides stocked with cold refreshments. The weather, which had been temperamental throughout the morning, finally seemed to calm its angry self long enough for the tournament to take place. Though light rain persisted, it was nothing compared to the microburst that had pounded the greater Phoenix area just 25 miles west of Fort McDowell earlier that day.
The Wesley Family stepped in as food vendors, serving hearty breakfast burritos in the morning and mouthwatering carne asada burritos for lunch. This reporter can proudly attest that the lunch was nothing short of delectable.
The tournament followed a double-elimination format with a 90% payback. The book opened at 11 AM, beginning with doubles and followed by a blind draw. When all the horseshoes had landed and the dust (and drizzle) settled, Team Pistol Pete took home first place and the $500 prize. Team Chuey secured second place with $300, while Team Guadalupe rounded third place, earning $100.
As evening approached, the local band Aravaipa took the stage, filling the cool air with live music that had attendees tapping their boots and enjoying the final hours of the event.
This inaugural tournament served as a test run for what organizers hope will become an annual tradition held alongside the Orme Dam Victory Days Celebration. Despite a packed weekend calendar that included a Sunrise Dance, a car show auction, and the Indian Rodeo at the State Fair, turnout for the Verde River Classic was ample. Rain or shine, horseshoe throwers are ready to aim, toss, and win it all, no matter what the weather brings.
