Montana Pro Rodeo Circuit Finalist Christy Fullen

What are the most important qualities you look for when picking a prospect to make a rodeo barrel horse?
Breeding, conformation and my Grandad always said to look at their eyes. If they have kind, smart eyes, they are worth riding.

What are the 3 most important things you do during the year to keep your horse sound and working all year long?

I work with my vet, horseshoer, and chiropractor all the time.

What is the one item in your tack room or barn that you would never want to be without? A German Martingale

Give us the rundown on your horse
Bit: Ed Wright medium shank chain bit
Headgear: None
Saddle: Larry Coats
Protective boots: Chem Tac bells, splints and skids designed by me.
Feed (hay, grain, supplements): Grass/alfalfa hay, Total Equine feed, and Oxy-Gen supplements.

What is your horse’s greatest strength? Her heart. She tries her guts out every time for me.

Biggest weakness? Her front feet. She is a shoeing project.

What is the most unique habit or behavior your horse has? She never rolls until we get home no matter how long we are out on the road. Then just as soon as I turn her loose in her pasture, she runs out and rolls first thing.

What horse(s) are you going to be riding at the Circuit Finals? Firewater Spirit

If you could make a run on any other horse in the Montana Circuit what horse would you choose and why?
Theresa Walter’s Licorice. Just look at her, who wouldn’t want to go for that ride just once.

Tell us an interesting fact about yourself that we may not know (a special talent, hobby, interest, etc.):
I am a master diver and avid fly fisherman.

What is your occupation (how do you fund your barrel racing/horsey habit)? I train horses, give lessons, and work part-time for a wholesale distributor of animal products called Chem Tac based out of Texas.

Who or what event has been the biggest influence in your rodeo career? Undoubtly my best friend and adopted mom, Kay Ballenger has been the largest influence on my rodeo career. She owns half of all of my horses, and she is ALWAYS encouraging me to keep going even when I think I might need to quit. I couldn’t and wouldn’t want to do this without her.