In a remarkable display of talent and determination, two North Dakota high school athletes achieved qualification to compete at the North Dakota Rodeo Association (NDRA) Rodeo Finals, in not one event, but two events. Demonstrating their skill in both barrel racing and breakaway roping, these young women have earned their spots among seasoned adult competitors. Their qualification for the finals is a testament to their hard work, dedication, and skill, highlighting them as prominent athletes in our rodeo community.
Kally Sorenson from Watford City, ND, and Carlee Miller from Bowman, ND, are both high school juniors making waves in amateur rodeos, competing in their second NDRA finals in 2024. These talented young ladies are also all-around cowgirls in the North Dakota High School Rodeo Association (NDHSRA). Kally competes in breakaway roping, barrel racing, team roping, and girls cutting, while Carlee competes in breakaway roping, barrel racing, pole bending, and goat tying.
The young cowgirls gave us a snapshot of their experience, competing at a level with seasoned athletes at the NDRA Finals held at Watford City, ND the weekend of September 27 & 28, 2024.
What inspired you to start competing at NDRA rodeos, knowing you would be competing against seasoned competitors?
Carlee: I was inspired to start competing in NDRA rodeos from a young age, traveling with my parents as I watched them compete at NDRA rodeos. Both my dad and mom had a lot of success in rodeo, teaching me everything I know. Watching their routines and understanding what it takes to be a successful competitor made me determined to follow in their footsteps, despite the unexpected challenges.
At age 12, I started competing in the NDRA, and in my first year, my sister and I made our first NDRA finals appearance in barrel racing as the youngest competitors.
Kally: I started competing at the NDRA rodeos to gain more experience and put more competitive runs under my belt as I competed alongside the best in our state. I entered my first NDRA rodeo as a 7th grader and have grown as a competitor ever since, sharpening my skills and gaining invaluable experience.
Kally Sorenson and Nacho winning championships. [Photo: Section 20 Photography]
Carlee: I was extremely grateful to be in the atmosphere and for the opportunity. At first, I was thinking about the outcome of the finals which sparked some nerves, so I shifted my thinking to focus on one run at a time. I believe a little nervousness shows you care, but it’s how you use those nerves that controls your performance. I turned my nerves into adrenaline and excitement, knowing I had no pressure and nothing to lose. Competing against more experienced adults was a little deceiving, but I reminded myself that all my hard work was done, and I just needed to go out and do my job.
Kally: I was grateful and excited for the opportunity to compete at the NDRA Finals. Initially, I felt some extra pressure, but after the first day, I gained confidence and thought, “I’ve got this.” I was really nervous after the short round, waiting to hear the final results, but in the end, everything worked out just as I had hoped.
How has competing at the NDRA finals impacted your confidence and skills as a rodeo athlete?
Carlee: Competing at the NDRA finals has boosted my confidence, knowing I can compete with the best. I’ve learned that a competition run doesn’t define you; it’s how you handle situations that truly matters. The atmosphere of the finals helps elevate my mental game through the experience and emotions involved. I also feel high school rodeo has helped my skills grow as a multi-event contender, contributing to my performance at the finals. Watching and receiving support from women twice or three times my age was humbling and showcased the supportive nature of the rodeo community we live in.
Carlee Miller and her barrel horses are a ND staple in arenas across the country. [Photo: Branded J Images]
Kally Sorenson concluded the NDRA season as the 2024 All Around Cowgirl, claiming the Barrel Racing Championship title and securing a 3rd place finish in Breakaway Roping. Carlee Miller wrapped up her season as the 2024 Reserve All Around Cowgirl and Rookie Cowgirl, achieving a commendable 5th place in Barrel Racing and 6th place in Breakaway Roping. Their impressive performances at age 16 sets the stage for even greater accomplishments in the future.
