the inside of a horse arena
Arena One, in Batesville, Mississippi, was recently sold to new ownership. • Courtesy photo.

New Owners For Mississippi Cutting Venue

A facility in northern Mississippi that regularly hosts cutting events has new owners.

Drs. Darrell and Kathryn Sneed, of Collierville, Tenn., now own Arena One, in Batesville, Mississippi.  

The new owners said they plan to build upon the legacy built by the facility’s former owner, the Lee Garner family, and are committed to continuing its pursuit of excellence with future shows and events for various equestrian disciplines. They plan to continue to host cuttings, and have already held a number of events since buying the property last month, according to a press release announcing the change in ownership.

The facility located about 62 miles south of Memphis, Tennessee, has been a frequent host of weekend cutting shows over the years. The new owners would like the venue to host team ropings, rodeos and events sanctioned by the American Quarter Horse Association and American Paint Horse Association.

According to their statement, the owners plan improvements such as additional onsite overnight accommodations, expanded concessions, enclosed barns for safety and comfort of the visitors and their horse, additional practice arena space, more amenities as well as additional restaurant and bar offerings.

The Sneeds have deep Mississippi farming roots, and an understanding of the cattle business. They both practice in the Memphis area in their respective disciplines, and in their spare time enjoy their horses and Black Angus cattle at their ranch. 

Growing up in Tate County, Darrell Sneed has been immersed in farm life since the beginning. His wife, Kathryn, has a life of love for the Quarter Horse, with a background in the AQHA circuit. 

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