Pine Hollow Acres’ New Arena

My little farm, a.k.a Pine Hollow Acres, got a huge upgrade! After many months of trying to get the work done, we finally found a great contractor to come out and build our arena.

The video below is from last November, when my wonderful boyfriend rented some machinery to start digging out the base of the arena. It definitely saved us money, but I was really tired of seeing a big hole in my yard.

Once the contractor came, it was really an interesting experience seeing the progress of the three-day project. The land started out as a hill (slightly flattened from the work we already did), and dirt was moved to flatten the area and pack the ground completely on days one and two.

Flattening and packing the base.

After the base was completed, I had the joy of being home for day three to watch the footing go in! Dump truck after dump truck filed into the corner of our property – I was amazed at how much footing went in that arena!

When all was said and done it turned out to be around 120′ x 130′ and about six inches deep. Perfect for barrel racing! I couldn’t be happier with how it turned out!

Miss Fancy had the honor of being the first into the arena, because of course I couldn't even wait until the contractor left. She was a little worked up, but she calmed down eventually. It's really an amazing feeling to have an arena just outside the window.

The ceremonial first step!

It's a little dusty, but after a good rain it will be perfect. The ground is soft and the grip is great. I can't wait to get everyone back into shape!