My Mission
“To help barrel racers WIN in the arena and out with resources for developing educated, confident, high-achieving equine athletes.”
“To help barrel racers WIN in the arena and out with resources for developing educated, confident, high-achieving equine athletes.”
Introducing the 2019 Top 15 NFR Barrel Racing Qualifiers
/0 Comments/in NFR Barrel Racing /by Heather SmithThe top 15 NFR barrel racing qualifiers are all settled in Las Vegas and will soon be blasting down the alley at the Thomas & Mack.
In anticipation of the rodeo action, I’m excited to share some background stats and descriptions of the horse power (with pedigree links!) we can look forward to seeing during this years race to the gold buckle.
So before the gates open, let’s dive in and get to know these these amazing women and their horses – who we can look forward to entertaining, educating, and inspiring us at the 2019 NFR and beyond!
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Q&A with First-Time NFR Barrel Racer and Rodeo Veteran, Dona Kay Rule
/0 Comments/in NFR Barrel Racing /by Heather SmithThey say it takes 20 years to make an overnight success.
Dona Kay Rule’s been a success with horses and in the rodeo arena for much longer than that. With family and business priorities though, it’s only been recently that she’s had the freedom to pursue rodeoing professionally full-time.
As not only a top barrel racer, but an exceptional roper and recipient of the WPRA Pioneer award, Dona Kay may be a first-timer in the alley of the Thomas and Mack this year, but as a lifelong, tough competitor in team roping and calf roping as well – she’s no rookie. Read more
Top 15 Barrel Horse Pedigrees Headed to the 2019 NFR
/0 Comments/in NFR Barrel Racing /by Heather SmithThe stage has been set and soon rodeo’s leading ladies and their elite equine athletes will make their way to the bright lights of Las Vegas.
This post highlights the lineage of the incredible horse power that ran steady in 2019 for barrel racing veterans and made dreams come true for first-time NFR barrel racing qualifiers.
May this collection of pedigrees prepare you to study the world’s best barrel horses in action and inspire you to bring out the best in your horses and consider your next champion!
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Looking Back on Rodeo Road with the 2018 Top 15 NFR Barrel Racers
/0 Comments/in NFR Barrel Racing /by Heather SmithNow that we’re several days in to the 2018 Wrangler National Finals Rodeo – I bet you’re more than inspired to give your best effort to your own barrel racing goals in the new year!
If you’re wondering what it really takes to make NFR dreams more than just dreams, there’s no one better to ask then the gals to who have been there, won that.
In today’s collection of Q&A’s, the top 15 NFR barrel racers share their greatest challenges and biggest lessons from the 2018 season, plus insights for overcoming adversity, as well as what they’re most grateful for.
You’re sure to gain some valuable wisdom to apply to your own barrel racing journey!
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NFR Warm Up – Get to Know the 2018 Top 15 Barrel Racing Qualifiers
/0 Comments/in NFR Barrel Racing /by Heather SmithThe top 15 NFR barrel racing qualifiers have arrived in Las Vegas and will soon be blasting down the alley at the Thomas & Mack.
In anticipation of the rodeo action, I’m excited to share their reflections on the 2018 season, and what we can look forwarding to seeing in this years race to the gold buckle.
So before the gates open, let’s dive in and get to know these these amazing women and their horses who we can look forward to entertaining, educating, and inspiring us – at the 2018 NFR and beyond!
Read more
A Legend & Legacy in the Making – Q&A with NFR Barrel Racer, Lisa Lockhart
/0 Comments/in NFR Barrel Racing /by Heather SmithAfter 12 NFR qualifications, Lisa Lockhart and her top equine partner, Louie have already earned legendary status in the barrel racing world – and this dynamic duo is still fast as ever! Look for them to light up the Thomas & Mack this year and once again inspire us with their precision, speed and winning consistency!
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Fulfilling a Greater Goal with NFR Barrel Racer, Stevi Hillman
/0 Comments/in NFR Barrel Racing /by Heather SmithFor professional barrel racer and NFR qualifier, Stevi Hillman, barrel racing may be a huge part of how she achieves her goals, but barrel racing achievements aren’t necessarily THE goal itself. In the Q&A interview below she’s shared numerous insights that will leave you motivated and inspired to go for yours as well!
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Bet on Bettis – Pre-NFR Interview with Barrel Racing Qualifier Taci Bettis
/0 Comments/in NFR Barrel Racing /by Heather SmithTell us about the horse(s) you’ll be riding at the 2018 Wrangler National Finals Rodeo?
Bogie is a Smash is ten years old. He’s quirky, but means business. He’s my main mount who has qualified me to the WNFR. Traffic Guy Shine is a five year old colt I got in May. She’s a little behind but has loads of talent.
Do you think the Thomas & Mack environment will complement their running & turning style, or do you anticipate making any specific adjustments?
Smash seems to deal well with anything. Obviously we would both rather be in a big outdoor pen. But that’s not what the T&M is so we deal with it. It might takes a few runs to adjust but I’m not changing much. Go in how I know how to ride him and give everything we have.
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