2023 Montana Pro Rodeo Circuit Finalist Tia Murphy

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

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)? Reno is bossy, sassy, and all business. She loves her job and is all grit. I have never measured her but I’m guessing she is around 15.2 and 1200 lbs.

When did you start competing in barrels? I have been running barrels since I was a little girl and rodeoed with my parents growing up. I took a break from barrels while in high school to focus on sports.

How long have you been a WPRA member and how many circuit finals have you qualified for? Since 2018; this is my sixth qualification to MT circuit finals.

Do you raise your own horses? Or do you purchase? Are you looking for specific bloodlines? I purchase them and like anything with heart and grit.

What are your conditioning and workout routines for both you and your horse(s)? I like to somewhat follow the LARC program for conditioning Reno. And for me, in between chasing my kids and riding horses, I try to fit in running or other workouts.

When you're headed to the rodeo what do you listen to: inspirational podcasts, music, audio books? Trey Johnson podcasts and my daughter’s playlist, lol!

What or who are you thankful for? I am extremely grateful God has blessed me with this journey that I get to share with others. I am thankful for my husband, kids, and mother who continue to support me, encourage me, and push me to never give up. And I am thankful for my mare Reno, who has been the biggest blessing.

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

Who do you travel with (including pets or companion horses) and in what kind of rig? This year I traveled mostly by myself. My daughter would join me when she didn’t have sports or 4-H. My mini dachshund, Cedar, always travels with me and is my personal bodyguard. Reno’s favorite buddy, Benelli, also comes along. We travel in a GMC and Lakota rig.

What are your favorite memories/highlights and obstacles you faced getting to the 2024 circuit finals? Each year I continue to learn from the ups and downs and this year was no different. We started off the beginning of the summer troubleshooting some soundness issues. After a change in shoeing, Reno was back to running and feeling like her normal self and finished the season strong.

What are your hobbies or other sports you compete in? I love following my kids in all their activities from sports to 4-H.

The Run Down
Saddle: Robbie Phillips
Pad: CSI
Leg Gear: Classic Equine Flexion
Shoeing: Lite rims on all 4
Bits: Kerry Kelley hemi and a short shank lifter
Feed and Supplements (in addition to what, how much you feed daily): Alfalfa mix hay 24/7, CEP supplements with alfalfa pellets
Additional Care: Flexineb, EquiPod, Acuscope, XLR8