Specialty Act

Eh Capa Bareback Riders

Thrilling Audiences Throughout the West

Introducing the official CHI St. Alexius Health Specialty Act for the 144th Mandan Rodeo!

EhCapa has been thrilling audiences with their exceptional and courageous riding skills at rodeos, horse shows, parades and various other venues for over 60 years. What started as a casual riding group for youth has become a renowned performance and specialty act that travels the PRCA rodeo circuit throughout the West. 

Known for their horsemanship skills, professionalism and dedication to perfection, the approximately 30 riders excite audiences with their fast paced, eight to twenty minute display of exquisite bareback and bridle-less riding, loping though tightly timed and precise patterns, over jumps and, for some riders, without any rein whatsoever.  All riders range in age from 8 to 19 and perform in full show costume lead by a drill instructor. 

The club has performed at rodeos small and large throughout the country including: Cheyenne Frontier Days, Rodeo Salinas, the 4th of July rodeo in Cody, Wyoming, and the Snake River Stampede — and now one of the world’s oldest, Mandan Rodeo Days.

Building a Strong Bond with Horses through Sound Horsemanship Principles

The EhCapa riders, ranging from 8 to 19 years old, cultivate a special connection with their horses based on sound horsemanship principles. Through the use of leg cues, vocal commands, and a one-inch wide leather strap called a “tack rein,” they maintain control over their mounts. This approach fosters trust and understanding between the young riders and their equine partners, resulting in remarkable outcomes.

Building Character and Skills: EhCapa’s Approach to Youth Horseback Riding

EhCapa firmly believes in the transformative power of horseback riding for young individuals. Their program focuses on instilling essential values such as commitment, patience, and consistent practice. By actively participating in team activities and mentoring others, the riders develop not only horsemanship skills but also important life skills. This comprehensive approach fosters personal growth, self-confidence, and the ability to build relationships based on trust and understanding.

A Family-Oriented Horseback Riding Club Since 1956

Founded in 1956, the EhCapa Bareback Riders offer an affordable and enjoyable horseback riding experience for children. This family-oriented club caters to both boys and girls, fostering a sense of camaraderie and shared passion for horses. Over the years, EhCapa has showcased their riding skills across various Western states, including Idaho, Wyoming, Nevada, British Columbia, Oregon, Washington, California, Montana, and even as far as Ohio. On average, riders stay with EhCapa for approximately six years, creating long-lasting memories and bonds within the club.

When does Eh Capa perform at the Mandan Rodeo?

Eh Capa Bareback Riders will perform all three nights during the 144th Mandan Rodeo July 2nd-4th. The CHI St. Alexius Health Specialty Act typically occurs following the ConocoPhillips Breakaway Roping event and before the Action Motor Sports Tie Down Roping event.

Check out what happened in 2022!

The 2022 specialty act for the Mandan Rodeo was Felix Santana and his Andalusian stallion, Romano.

Romano is the elite Andalusian performance stallion of the Young Living Friesians herd.

Santana is a third-generation dancing horse trainer. The rider learned from watching his uncle’s performances and concerts in Southern California that featured trained horses.

The 143rd Mandan Rodeo Days began Saturday, July 2 and ran through Monday, July 4.