Which horse(s) are you taking to the finals? Canyon of Roses is my horse who got us to the Finals. Rose is recovering from and injury and it’s best to let her continue to heal. It is sad she won’t get to play in the arena we worked so hard to get to, but we will be back. So, we regrouped and drove to Copper Spring Ranch in New Mexico to get Guys Sangria "Penny" (2011 sorrel mare by Frenchmans Guy x Hot Brandi N Wine by Hot Colours, South Dakota bred, PESI enrolled). So, Penny is my partner!! It is a complete honor to run her at the MPRF. What a gift!
What is unique about their personality and what are their strengths? How tall are they and what is their weight (thought it would be fun to compare)? Penny is 15’1 & 1150 lbs. She is the sweetest mare I have ever been around. Hugs, kisses and scratches are her favorite only behind treats!!! She is a cookie monster. Penny has the most beautiful head, gorgeous build and runs like a freight train. She is crazy fast and quick. Lisa Anderson competed on her in the past and they were in the winning circle. She is such an amazing horse; I could go on forever. She is COOL!!!!
When did you start competing in barrels? When I was 7, then did 4H and AQHA Horse shows. Then I went back to barrel racing and never looked back.
How long have you been a WPRA member and how many circuit finals have you qualified for? I have been a member for 25 years and this is my 1st Circuit Finals! WOOOOHOOOOO
Do you raise your own horses? Or do you purchase? Are you looking for specific bloodlines? I am borrowing Penny for the finals. She is a crazy talented mare who has been there done that!!!! I purchased Rose, who got me to the finals, from Brian and Lisa Anderson Copper Spring Ranch. She is bred well & built to perform and I love how she runs. Rose was trained by Lisa, which was a huge factor in purchasing her.
What are your conditioning and workout routines for both you and your horse(s)? I do the Lark Test with Robin Kolve. It has changed my program immensely. Not only is it a great tool for getting hoses in shape, it gives the much-needed information on horse's blood, breathing and muscles. It is a game changer!
When you're headed to the rodeo what do you listen to: inspirational podcasts, music, audio books? I love listening to motivational speakers! I believe in positive thinking and positive attitude. I read a devotional book daily with bible verses and inspirational quotes. I love all music, but before a rodeo, I listen to 80’s rock.
What or who are you thankful for? Jesus Christ my Lord and Savior!! My Mom and Pop who support and embraced my love for horses from the very beginning. My Pop is part owner of Rose & keeps me positive & shares his rodeo wisdom, which I love! I think he is as excited to be at the finals as I am. Todd, my husband, who has loved me through the tears, wins, heartbreaks and celebrations. His words of wisdom keep grounded and he keeps me fighting for my dreams. He is so giving and supportive. He’s my ride or die. I’m so thankful for “My People” they know who they are. Lisa Anderson has been a true friend for over 20 years. The answer to my prayers when I asked for a Christian Rodeo friend. Her friendship goes above and beyond! She is always sharing her knowledge, advice and help in all capacities of this tough sport. Not only is she the driving force that got Rose and me to the Circuit Finals but also loaned her talented mare for me to race there. A remarkable woman and friend. Lisa and Brian are the most kind, fun loving, giving people I know.
Do you have favorite spots to stop at or snacks while on the road? Best stop is the Italian Restaurant in Red Lodge Piccola Cucina. Gas station hot dogs for breakfast.
Who do you travel with (including pets or companion horses) and in what kind of rig? My travel partner, Taylour Russell, and I have a variety of companions. BooBoo my Frenchie is with me 24/7 and Snooki my Mini horse when Taylour isn’t with me. Sometimes there is Nix (Concurso), Perci (BooBoo’s Dad) and Princess Dixi (mini wiener) all professional travelers!!! GMC 3500 Denali and Platinum horse trailer
What are your favorite memories/highlights and obstacles you faced getting to the 2024 circuit finals? Highlights were winning Butte, turning barrels on Rose and being in awe of her every time. MAKING MY DREAM A REALITY!!!! But making the phone calls to my friends and family on the way home from Big Fork telling them I made the circuit finals was the best!! Keeping Rose healthy and sound when racing at so many rodeos and traveling so many miles were challenging. I also struggle with leaving Todd while on the road rodeoing. I like the guy!
What are your hobbies or other sports you compete in? I own Dirty Glitter Designs blinging steer horns. I like golf, traveling, and boating on the river. I also enjoy spending time at our ranch in the Highwood Mountains.
The Run Down
Saddle: Coats
Pad: CSI
Leg Gear: Iconoclast Sport Boots
Shoeing: Derick Miller
Bits: Flaharty copper roller dog bone gag bit
Feed and Supplements (in addition to what, how much you feed daily): Equine Senior, Vitamin E, Beyond Probiotic, CEP (Tia Murphy), Turkey Tail Mushroom, Vermont Blend Mineral, electrolytes
Additional Care: Out Front Performance Taylour Russell
Sponsors: King Motors