Sapphire Event Center by Kristen Theiler
Nestled in the center of the Bitterroot Valley, Corvallis, Montana provides many opportunities for local and visitors alike. Ranches and farms are plentiful along the Eastside Highway, and a majority of the community still lives the traditional, yet modernized, rural lifestyle.
An important part of Corvallis is the relationship between human and animal: the oldest being horse and human. Since the early days of the West, humans have used horses in agriculture and industry. Unlike the changes in technology, the relationship between the two has remained strong.
John and Cindy Stefka’s love of the working animal has lead them to the valley, where they raise, train, and share their love of horses. The Sapphire Event Center, located just three miles north of Corvallis, has been their home for five years.
The Stefkas purchased the property almost twelve years ago, and are constantly working to improve the venue for riders.
After feeding the boarded horses, John and Cindy’s daily routine includes upkeep of the arena and surrounding facilities. There are two homes on the property: theirs and a two-story home, which they rent to Phil and Debbie Page, who assist the Stefkas.
The Stefkas main source of income is the winnings from horse cutting events held around the West side of the States. Each show brings a different amount, varying with the amount of entries that compete. On average, they make about $2,000 after each show. The Stefkas travel to out-of-state shows about four weekends out of the year, but when they return to the Bitterroot Valley, their first priority is the Event Center.
John is rebuilding what used to be an old milk house at the front of the property for Horse-Cutting judges and secretaries that come to stay when the cutting shows are being held.
Almost every month the Event Center hosts a National Cutting Horse Association show for local and national members. The 44-acre arena also hosts several other events throughout the year: riding lessons, equestrian registration and training events are just a few.
For those who are looking to board their horse, the facility offers 70 enclosed and
open-air stalls and pasture boarding. Cindy and John also take care of the horses upon request of the owner. Renting a stall also includes unlimited arena riding when arenas are not rented for events.
Whenever the Stefkas host an event, old acquaintances meet once again and friendships resurface. The Sapphire Event Center brings a sense of tradition and enthusiasm to the horse and rider community of the Bitterroot valley and surrounding areas.