O-Mok-See – the name means “riding big dance,” which originated with the Blackfoot Indian Tribe. It was a war ceremony that was meant to get courage for battle. The warriors would wear costumes and decorate their horses, ride a distance away from camp, then ride together at a great speed back to the camp circle where the rest of the tribe sang songs and beat drums. The horsemen would ride their horses to the rhythm of the singers and drummers. At various times during the “big dance,” the warriors would dismount and dance on foot. If anyone fell off their horse during the ritual, it was a sign of bad luck.

The Kansas Omoksee, this being the fourth year, was held Sept. 7 and 8 in Lyons. Riders from all over participated in events such as Keg Bending, Top N’ Turn, and Western Relay, among others. The two-day show was a competition among the participants to earn points that would be totaled at the end of the competition. There were various age groups with the highest scorer of each age group winning a saddle. Awards were given to the top 10 riders of each age group.

Also, during the Kansas Omoksee, the first ever Kansas Omoksee Royalty Contest was held. Contestants had the responsibilities of keeping their horses clean, fed, watered, as well as keeping their stall clean. A dress code where long sleeved, collared shirts, western boots and belt, jeans, and a western hat were to be worn at all times during the competition. The contestants were also responsible for a fundraiser of their choice, donating an item to a live auction, helping in the arena, and making everyone feel welcome and at home at the Kansas Omoksee. The contestants were being judged all day Saturday by two secret judges, as well as an interview judge and a horsemanship judge.

Cameryn Kinderknecht, Ellis, was the winner of the Kansas Omoksee Queen. This was her first royalty competition and she welcomed others as well as offered arena workers, judges, and audience members bottled water and a good conversation over the joys of horses and friendly competition. Her responsibilities during this next year include appearances in a variety of events, fundraising for Kansas Omoksee, and raising awareness for the sport of Omoksee. This was Kinderknecht’s second year at the Kansas Omoksee. She and her horse, Kita, placed 5th out of over 20 women in the competition portion over the weekend.

Kinderknecht is a freshman at Fort Hays State University.

— Submitted