Which horse(s) are you taking to the finals? My main horse, Friday Nite Headline, is recovering from a fractured splint bone and removal of splint surgery. He was such a blessing this summer helping me reach my goal! Thankfully he will recover but am sure going to miss him at the Finals! I also ran Firewater B Dashin, aka Wiki, this summer. She was an important part to tracking my goal also. Firewater Pwr Stroke, will be with me and will run Thursday night. She has only been entered in one rodeo. So I’ll take it night by night with her.

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)? Friday is honest and consistent in his style. He runs the same pattern and is just getting stronger in his style. He’s 15.3. Wiki is a full send on any ground horse and to just don’t stop hustling forward. She’s turny and runs with all heart! She’s 15.1. Powerstroke is quirky, she is untrusting and watchful. She has a little attitude but she’s all business in the run. She lets you know when she’s not ok with something! lol She’s 15.1

When did you start competing in barrels? I got my first horse/pony when I was 3, Ladybug. I’ve been hooked on horses since!

How long have you been a WPRA member and how many circuit finals have you qualified for? I’m not sure how long I have been a member. I bought my permit a few times and then in 2003 I filled it. I didn’t buy my card until 2009. This will be my first qualification! Finally!

Do you raise your own horses? Or do you purchase? Are you looking for specific bloodlines? My entire team was bred and raised by Buckshot Nelson along with Dan and Judy Simonson! They are all sired by their stud, Shootin Firewater. I am so blessed to own 4 superstars from their program. My favorite lines are Firewater Flit and Rare Form.

What are your conditioning and workout routines for both you and your horse(s)? I do a lot of long trotting and loping circles. Sprints once a week and slow work 1-2 times a week. Personally, I keep fit by my trade. I ride 5-12 horses a day. I’m usually too tired to work out after that...lol

When you're headed to the rodeo what do you listen to: inspirational podcasts, music, audio books? I listen to the radio or visit with my traveling partner. I will read positive messages or parts of books while I’m relaxing on the road.

What or who are you thankful for? My family! My mom, Cathy Bessette, for the calls and support throughout the YEARS! My brother, Shane Bessette, he helped get Friday moving right! Ardythe and Barbara Bessette for the messages and support! James, my husband, is my biggest supporter and driver every other weekend! He pushes me to keep going or to stay strong when I get in a non-ideal mindset! Poor guy had his work cut out for him! My traveling partner, TJ Barnett-Little! She has been in my corner all year and helped me believe it was possible to accomplish the end goal: The finals! She will be by my side at the finals helping to keep things calm and fun! The Simonson family and the ones who sets me straight when needed, Buckshot Nelson. I’m blessed with some great supporters! Love you all!!
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Do you have favorite spots to stop at or snacks while on the road? Anywhere that has Purple Zero Monsters [zero calorie, zero sugar, energy drink with light flavors of grape and citrus, EDITOR'S NOTE]! I love the fruit snacks, That’s It, and Chex mix.

Who do you travel with (including pets or companion horses) and in what kind of rig? I travel with my mini heeler, Mazi. My traveling partner, TJ Barnett-Little and my husband, James.

What are your favorite memories/highlights and obstacles you faced getting to the 2024 circuit finals? My favorite everything about this season is qualifying on horses I trained and seasoned. Putting my program to the test and getting my mindset on track! Learning to set weekly goals and taking the steps to achieve them. It was a battle to the end and my team pulled through! So thankful and grateful for my horses and support system!

What are your hobbies or other sports you compete in? Horses are a very consuming part of my life with traveling and training outside horses for clients. I try to follow my two boys around and support their passions. TJ and Chance Hedden are my favorite people and I’m so very proud to be their Mom.  

The Run Down
Saddle: Robbie Phillips
Pad: Ed Wright or Classic Equine
Leg gear: Classic Equine
Shoeing: I run rims on all mine, all the way around
Bits: Elliot bits! I run all 3 horses in the Spur Up original 02 bit. Fits my hands and they all work good in it.
 Feed and Supplements: I feed Omelene 200 and Koolspeed for grain. Formula 1 Noni, Equiboss Chelator minerals and Mag 5000.
 Additional care: PEMF blanket, Spectra Red light therapy, regular chiro appts with Sid Erickson and Back on track blankets and leg wraps.
Sponsors: Equi-Boss Performance