6 days ago
Iron Horse Shoot Out returns to Amarillo with precision, power and purpose
The fourth annual Iron Horse Motorcycle Shoot Out is about to kick off in downtown Amarillo, with practice rounds already underway as of Wednesday, July 16. The event brings together elite police officers and civilian riders from across North America for three days of motorcycle skill competitions — and a mission to support the Panhandle's first responders.
Hosted by the 100 Club of the Texas Panhandle in partnership with the Amarillo Police Department Motor Unit, the event runs July 17 to 19 at the Santa Fe Depot Pavilion, 401 S. Grant St. Admission is free, and the public is encouraged to attend.
Precision on the pavement
Riders will face timed challenges across two distinct courses — a tight precision layout under the covered pavilion and a speed course on the adjacent asphalt lot.
'This isn't about showmanship — it's about safety,' said Sgt. Trent Thomas, a 19-year Amarillo police veteran and motorcycle unit supervisor. 'If you can control a bike here, you're more prepared out there — in traffic, during a pursuit, or on a rescue call.'
Thomas said the competition helps riders develop instincts that translate directly to the field.
'We've had officers avoid crashes thanks to the skills they've refined here,' he said. 'You hope you never need it, but when you do, it matters.'
A long road for a worthy cause
John Jenkins, a motorcycle instructor from Calgary, Alberta, drove more than 1,300 miles with his bike in the back of his truck to compete for the third year in a row. He said the Amarillo event stands out among the national circuit.
'There's a level of professionalism and community here that you don't find everywhere,' Jenkins said. 'It feels like you're training with a purpose.'
Jenkins credits the event with improving not only his own skills, but those of his students back home.
'These skills have saved my life — and my students' lives — on the road,' he said. 'You build muscle memory here, so when something happens in real life, your body knows what to do before your brain catches up.'
Training that gives back
While the riders improve their technique, the event also raises money for the 100 Club of the Texas Panhandle, which provides emergency financial support and resources to firefighters and law enforcement officers across 26 counties.
The nonprofit typically raises between $50,000 and $60,000 during the shoot out. The funds help provide:
$20,000 within 24 hours to the family of a fallen first responder
$5,000 immediately for line-of-duty injuries, with up to $12,000 in follow-up support
Equipment purchases for departments lacking the budget
Mental health and wellness conferences for first responders
Executive Director Suzanne Talley of the Texas Panhandle 100 Club said the fundraising goes hand-in-hand with honoring those who serve.
'When people come out and support this event, they're doing more than watching a show,' she said. 'They're backing the men and women who risk their lives for our communities.'
In 2024, the organization raised more than $900,000 in just eight weeks to aid 54 volunteer fire departments impacted by devastating wildfires.
Opening ceremony and community support
A formal opening ceremony is scheduled for Saturday, July 20, at 8 a.m., featuring remarks from Amarillo Mayor Cole Stanley, interim Police Chief Jimmy Johnson, and regional fire and law enforcement officials.
'This ceremony honors the service behind the spectacle,' Talley said. 'It's a reminder of why we ride.'
The public is welcome to attend each day's competitions. Riders pay entry and banquet fees, and additional fundraising comes from slow-ride reentry tickets and sponsor contributions.
Returning sponsors include Full Smile Dental (presenting sponsor), IVRS Wellness, Atmos Energy, ADG, Happy State Bank, Creative Cannon and Panhandle Eye Group.
For event details, live scoring, or donation information, visit
This article originally appeared on Amarillo Globe-News: Iron Horse Shoot Out brings national riders to Amarillo
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