Tornados spawned across
Oklahoma on Monday night, killing at least five people across the state.
Royal Vista Ranches near Purcell was hit by a tornado, which destroyed a
mare barn, partially destroyed the indoor arena, wiped out houses and
fencing, and killed an estimated 10 horses. All affected horse owners
have been contacted, and horses on the farm are being cared for.
No humans were killed, and the stallion barn and four
stallions within escaped without serious damage or injury.
Business
at the farm is continuing.
“I’m
flying down there to assess everything,” said Royal Vista co-owner
Vaughn Cook.
The tornado hit at 5:45
p.m., with little apparent warning.
“That’s
when the clocks stopped, that’s how I know,” Cook said.
Royal Vista Ranches co-owner Laura Wipf said business is
continuing as normal, and, despite the damage, collecting stallions and
breeding is continuing today.
“I’m
going to tell you there’s nobody better than horse people,” Cook said.
“We had about 150 people there after it happened with trailers and
trucks taking horses home and to clinics. (I would like to say) thanks
for all the help. There’s a crew of about 20 horsemen down there putting
up temporary fences and such around the pastures. More are coming to
help clean up. AQHA people really pull together and do their part when
something like this happens.”
Nearby
Oklahoma Stud received relatively minor damage, reported manager Milt
Alderman.
“We were very blessed,” he
said. “You see those things on television all the time and you think ‘Oh
my gosh’ and feel for those people. But when it’s right on top of you,
it’s sure enough scary.”
Belle Mere Farm at Norman, Maui Farm at
Purcell, and Joneson Ranch at Shawnee, have all reported little to no
damage.
This story will be updated as
more information becomes available on damage received at other farms.
To provide assistance to Royal Vista, write to:
Royal Vista Ranches
26822
State Hwy 59
Wayne, OK 73095
