Which horse(s) are you taking to the finals? I will be bringing CCR Pearl N Blu (Pearl)

What is unique about their personality and what are their strengths? If I had to summarize Pearl in one word, it would be tough. She would run barrels on three legs if I asked her to. She thrives in big, wide-open outdoor arenas and loves performing in front of large crowds. Pearl is one of the most intelligent horses I’ve ever worked with, and her awareness and heart truly sets her apart. I can always trust her to step up and take care of us, no matter the situation.

How tall are they and what is their weight (thought it would be fun to compare)? Pearl is 14.2 hands and 1225 lbs.

What are your favorite memories/highlights and obstacles you faced getting to the 2025 circuit finals? This year was a battle to qualify for the 2025 circuit finals. My other horse, Earl, has been recovering from throat surgery, which meant all the pressure fell on Pearl to carry
us through the season. I also tore my shoulder early in the summer, leaving my arm supported by only the muscle. There were many weekends where I showed up to rodeos wearing a sling, only to take it off to make my run. Thanks to physical therapy and a lot of help, I was able to postpone surgery until after the circuit finals. One of my favorite memories from the year was placing third in Billings. Pearl slipped badly twice during our run, but she never quit and still clocked alongside some of the best horses and cowgirls out there. I didn’t fully realize how much she had struggled until I watched the video afterward. Seeing it back made me emotional—it was a powerful reminder of her heart, grit, and genuine love for her job.

How long have you been a WPRA member and how many circuit finals have you qualified for? I have been a WPRA member for two years and this is also my second circuit finals.

When did you start competing in the barrels? My parents turned me loose on a pony when I was two years old, so as soon as I could
understand the barrel pattern, I was competing. Barrel racing has been part of my life for as long as I can remember.

Do you raise your own horses? Or do you purchase? Are you looking for specific bloodlines? My mom and I raised and trained Pearl ourselves. We owned both her sire and dam, which we purchased for a combined total of $2,500. When it comes to bloodlines, I’m not overly picky. I’m drawn to tougher horses with grit—the kind that may be harder to get along with but have the heart, determination, and work ethic to step up when I need them most.

What are your conditioning and workout routines for both you and your horse(s)? My horses are conditioned using the LARC interval conditioning program, which focuses on short bursts of high-intensity work followed by brief recovery periods. My own training looked a little different this year due to a torn shoulder. I attend physical therapy twice a week and complete daily arm and shoulder stabilization exercises as
tolerated, along with lower-body workouts three times a week. I’ve also discovered a love for outdoor running whenever Mother Nature cooperates, which has become a valuable part of my overall conditioning and mental reset.

When you're headed to a rodeo what do you listen to: inspirational podcasts, music, audio books? I love listening to podcasts on the road—they make time go by so much faster. I’m drawn to educational content of all kinds, from politics and physical health to Christian-
based podcasts and barrel racing topics. I enjoy constantly learning and challenging myself, and listening to podcasts helps me stay motivated, focused, and always looking for ways to improve.

What or who are you thankful for? I am incredibly thankful for my horses, my family, and my friends. I wouldn’t be able to chase my dreams without their constant support. Rodeo can be a very selfish sport, and it truly takes a strong group of people in your corner to make it work.
One example that stands out is when my friend Mia McClory met me on the side of the road and let me borrow her pickup after mine broke down on the way to White Sulphur Springs. If I hadn’t made it to that rodeo and earned that check, I wouldn’t have qualified for the finals. It’s the small acts of kindness from so many people that make this journey possible. I’m also deeply thankful to the Lord for protecting my horses and me through the late nights and challenging situations that come with this lifestyle. Being able to do what I love is truly a gift, and one I never take for granted.

Do you have favorite spots to stop at or favorite snacks while on the road? To get me through the summer, I basically live off Ranch Fuel energy drinks and Chomps meat sticks. I also try to pack fresh fruit and vegetables whenever I can to snack on along the way. I make an effort to choose healthier options while traveling, even though that can be challenging on the road. My favorite places to stop are any good coffee shop or the Westside Convenience Store in Malta —they always have the best snacks.

Who do you travel with (including pets or companion horses) and in what kind of rig? I travel with my dachshund Whiskey, blue heeler Skeeter. I drive a Ford dually with a Sundowner living quarters. 

What are your hobbies or other sports do you compete in? Outside of horses, I don’t have many hobbies that take up my time. I enjoy relaxing at home and unwinding with a good TV show, my dogs, and plenty of snacks.

The Run Down
Saddle: Martin Crown C
Pad: 5 star 1/2” barrel racer
Leg Gear: Classic Equine Flexion splint and bell boots
Shoeing: Safe Grip shoes on front and rims on back
Bits: long shank locked dog bone
Feed and Supplements (in addition to what, how much you feed daily): I feed Putina Strategy and alfalfa pellets along with MVP 6-way, Mega Cell, and Amino 15x. My horses are also turned out on pasture 24/7.
Additional Care: Regular chiropractic work and massage. XLR8 magnetic and redlight therapy products. Along with Hansbo ceramic therapy products 
Sponsors: Cleveland Creek Ranch