Based in the Santa Ynez Valley, the VPA is an organization consisting of 150+ members that compete in team penning and team sorting during the spring, summer and fall. These two different timed events are working cow horse sports featuring fast-paced action in a friendly and competitive environment. Teams of three riders begin by cutting out cattle, in a numeric sequence (Team Sorting), or 3 head with the same number (Team Penning), then drive them across a line or into a pen in less than 90 seconds. Riders are challenged to read the cows and keep the herd under control in order to achieve the quickest time to earn either first, second or third place for the day’s event. Divisions are made up of three different categories, Novice (rookie), Limited (experienced), and Open (advanced). There is also a Junior division. VPA members consist of individuals, couples, and families that come out to compete – some coming from as far away as San Luis Obispo, Ojai and Canyon County.

For more information about the Valley Penning Association, please contact us at: 805-344-2506.