Roping and riding builds friendships and families

First time participant in the SMR Cup cowboy Brian Jones came with twins Cady and Cooper and his wife, Cassidy. (Photo by James A. Jones Jr.)

Former Southeast High School sweethearts Cassidy and Brian Jones were there, and their twin baby girls, Cady and Cooper, too.

In addition to being a new dad, Brian Jones is also an old hand as a cowboy. He formerly worked at SMR, but for the past few years has worked at Longino Ranch in Sarasota. Brian is an old hand as a cowboy, but a rookie participant in the SMR Cup.

“I just got the opportunity this weekend. I am pretty excited,” he said.

Also present was another sure enough working cowboy, George Lusby, and his wife Jackie.

George Lusby’s cowboying days may be over. As are his 27 years with the  Manatee County Sheriff’s Mounted Posse.

After all, he is 81.

That’s a good age to  revel in the sunshine, surrounded by family and old friends. What better way to spend the day than sitting on a hay bale and watching the youngsters in your family compete in the SMR Cup?

Or to bounce Dewey David Parks, his 3-year-old great-grandson, on his knee?

“We’ve been back in these woods chasing cows,” Lusby said, recollecting his years working at the former Reagan Ranch on Upper Manatee Road.

The Lusbys said they liked the shooting and fishing competition, and what they were watching at the moment, the roping contest, all of which mix and match cowboys and polo players.

The final day of the SMR Cup is Sunday, Jan. 29, at the Sarasota Polo Club, located near the southwest corner of Lorraine Road and University Parkway.

Gates open at 10 a.m. Admission is $10. Children under 12 are admitted free. Bring a picnic lunch and enjoy the weather and a little polo. And look for the horse race at halftime.

For more see Sunday's Herald.