Locals compete at O-Mok-See Nationals

The rhythmic thunder of hooves and the cheers of proud families echoed through the Lewis and Clark County Fairgrounds as the 60th Annual National O-Mok-See Championship returned to its roots in Helena, where the National Saddle Clubs Association was founded.

The weeklong event held July 4-12 brought together nearly 400 competitors from across the nation, rekindling the spirit of camaraderie and friendly competition that defines this unique equestrian sport.

O-Mok-See, derived from the Blackfoot phrase ‘oh-mak-see pass-kan’, meaning "riding big dance," is a high-speed, family-oriented form of pattern horse racing. With its origins in tribal ceremonies and adapted into modern-day saddle club events, O-Mok-See emphasizes not only speed and skill, but also sportsmanship, unity, and fun for all ages. 

Since the Blackfeet people did not use a written language, the name has seen many acceptable variations, as long as the pronunciation reflects its roots, think "mock" for the second syllable and "can" for the last.

This year’s national event was particularly special as it marked the return of the championship to Helena for the first time since 2010. The NSCA chose the location to honor its founding city on the association’s 60th anniversary. The 2026 championship is scheduled to be held in Fort Pierre, South Dakota. Throughout the week, riders competed in a variety of timed and technical events, grouped by age and experience. Categories ranged from children as young as 8 to senior riders over 40, proving that O-Mok-See is a lifelong passion.

Montana was well represented by young riders from Superior, who brought home trophies, sashes, and unforgettable memories. 

Kaila Frawley, who competed in O-Mok-See during her youth, had the unique joy of sharing this experience with her daughters, Teagan, 11, and Harper, 10. Both girls competed in the same royalty division, with Teagan being crowned National Junior Princess and Harper honored as Miss Congeniality. Teagan also placed ninth overall out of 40 to 50 competitors in her age bracket, making her family and hometown proud.

Another local standout was Miekolani Ruthford, recently crowned Junior Rodeo Princess for the Go For the Gold Rodeo in Superior. At nationals, she added another title to her name: Rodeo Pre-Princess. 

Newcomer Juniper Spence, 13, made an impressive debut in her first O-Mok-See Nationals, placing third in team speed barrels and 2nd in exchange first. The Kawolski sisters, Hazley and Carley, also participated, further showcasing the strong presence of Montana’s young equestrians on the national stage.

For many, O-Mok-See is more than a competition, it’s a family tradition and a community builder. Tammy Stedman from Arlee has been involved with O-Mok-See for decades. 

“My kids O-Mok-Seed when they were little,” she said. “I’ve raised horses for 40 years.” 

Stedman returned to nationals after a nine-year break, riding a colt she trained herself whose dam also competed in O-Mok-See years ago. That same colt set four arena records during the event.

Stedman highlighted the fierce but supportive nature of the senior women’s division. 

“They are some of the most competitive women I’ve ever been around,” she said. “But they’ll cheer you on in any arena you enter. They are strong competitors and a great group of ladies.”

The NSCA continues to champion the values that make O-Mok-See so beloved: fairness, sportsmanship, and connection. With standardized racing patterns and divisions, the association ensures a consistent experience for clubs across the country. As the event wrapped up in Helena, one thing was clear — O-Mok-See remains a vibrant, multigenerational tradition that keeps families in the saddle and communities united.

    Harper Frawley, 10, won Miss Congeniality in the youngest category of the O-Mok-See National Championship in Helena. (Photo by Kaila Frawley)
  

    Sisters Harper and Teagan Frawley were crowed as new royalty at the NSCA O-Mok-See National Championship 60th anniversary. (Photo by Kaila Frawley)
  

    Bob Jones is flanked by Tammy Stedman on his left. Stedman’s daughter Amanda Hansen and her granddaughter, Baily Hansen are on his right. Jones is a Hall of Fame member of the National Saddle Club Association. He has been honored as the oldest rider every year since 2018. In 2023, he teamed up with his son, Daren, for a Devil’s Cowhide comeback at the National Championship in Pocatello, Idaho (he was 86 years old). (photo by Tammy Stedman)