Which horse(s) are you taking to the finals? Ican Make U Famous aka Reno

What is your horse(s)' style when running barrels and what's unique about their personality? Reno is a gritty, powerful mare who always gives 110%. She is all business and likes her routine. Reno does not like warm up pens and I am the only one who can catch her in a large pen.

When did you start competing in barrel racing? I started competing when I was a little girl. Both my parents rodeoed when I was growing up and we traveled to more Canadian rodeos since they were closer than most Montana rodeos.

Do you raise your own horses? Or do you purchase? Are you looking for specific bloodlines? I like to purchase 3-4 year olds who have a solid foundation and finish them my way if needed and enjoy taking them through the seasoning process. I bought Reno as a 4 year old from Valee Miller who trained her and put a super solid foundation on her where I was able to take Reno straight to seasoning. I love Dash Ta Fame bloodlines.

What are your conditioning and workout routines for both you and your horse(s)? I like doing intervals on conditioning days and don’t do a lot of barrel work. Most all of our riding is outside the arena.

When you're headed to the rodeo what do you listen to: inspirational podcasts, music, audio books? XM radio or Trey Johnson podcast

Do you have a rodeo idol and reasons why? My rodeo role model will always be my mom because of her dedication and persistence. She is my original travel partner who encourages me and always gives the best advice!

Do you have favorite spots to stop at while on the road? Any coffee shop!

Who do you travel with (including pets or companion horses) and in what kind of rig? Accompanying Reno and I on all our travels is Reno’s favorite buddy horse, Benelli, and my mini Dachshund, Cedar Sue. My kids, Brinli and Kortlan, travel with us most of the time and my husband, Zach, jumps in when he doesn’t have to work. We travel in a GMC and Lakota rig.

What are your favorite memories/highlights and obstacles you faced getting to the 2022 circuit finals? Reno started the season strong and then we came across ALOT of mud, which I prefer not to run in, lol! We got our groove back in August to finish the season strong.

How do you juggle family life while on the road? Since I am a teacher, my schedule is the same as my kids so it makes it easier for us all to travel together in the summer. When we are all back in school, I travel more by myself. My husband is very supportive and great about picking up the slack getting kids to practices, activities, and games if I am on the road.

What are your hobbies or other sports you compete in? When I get a free minute, I enjoying playing the piano. And I won’t turn down any pick-up game, especially if it were volleyball or basketball.

The Run Down
Saddle: Robbie Phillips
Pad: SaddleRight or CSI
Leg Gear: Iconoclast
Bits: Flaharty Combo, Kerry Kelley Hemi
Feed and Supplements (in addition to what, how much you feed daily): Montana Premium Alfalfa pellets and CEP supplements, and free choice Alfalfa/grass hay
Additional Care: TOPP Equine Services, Out Front Performance, Payne-less Solutions
Sponsors: TeamCEP