The Arkansas State University Equine Center was built in November of 2000 with the purpose of providing a place for the students of A-State to learn and advance their knowledge and pursue their interest in horses. The center has been a cornerstone for the College of Agriculture since its construction by opening a doorway into the equine community of Northeast Arkansas. Many events are held on the grounds throughout the year including district FFA competitions for high school students, barrel races, and horse shows during the summer.
The Garry Meadows Arena is named after the contractor who donated labor and funds to help build the arena and prepare the land for construction. The road in which the center is located on, Fielders Road, is named after Lawrence Fielder who was another contractor that allocated recourses in order to construct the road and the Equine Center. The covered arena is 300 feet long by 165 feet wide, bleachers off to the side for spectators, a surround sound system, and a parking lot. The barn complex has 52 stalls, 8 tack rooms, and two wash racks. Also inside the barn is a classroom where our professors can teach about all aspects pertaining to equine that also doubles as a hospitality room for events.
The facility is well managed and cared for by federal work study students, student employees, and even alumni that see this barn all as their second home. Student involvement is crucial to the success of the Equine Center and would not flourish without these passionate students.
The A-State Equine Center strives to meet these goals:
- Provide an opportunity for all students of all majors to enhance their knowledge of horsemanship and general equine management in hopes to encourage the next generation of equine professionals.
- Provide a clean, safe place for students, alumni, and the public to board their horses in a place they can feel comfortable knowing their horses will be well cared for.
- Provide a place for the general public to host all equine and non-equine related events.
- Provide students with the opportunity to begin a career in the equine industry no matter their level of experience.
- September 26, 2024 - AGR Greek Rodeo; 5:00pm
- September 28, 2024 - NEA Alzheimer's Association Benefit Race; all day
- October 24-26, 2024 - J-Town Showdown; all day
