“Horses change lives. They give out confidence and self-esteem. They provide peace and tranquility to troubled souls; they give us hope”- Toni Robinson

The lessons I have learned and success along the way goes back to growing up on a ranch. Being on the back of a horse everyday taught me not only respect for the horse but how to become a better horseman. My mom said the first time I was put on a horse, I screamed the entire ride and when we got back to the barn, I stopped and said, “That’s it??” I was hooked after that! I had the opportunity to ride cutting horses for a couple years, which is where the light hands, more legs, and sitting deeper in the seat was instilled.

FiredUpLilSister37 aka ‘Sister’ in Eaton, Colorado Barrel Race [Photo: submitted]

My parents were definitely dedicated in taking me to local gymkhanas, team pennings, barrel races, and little britches rodeos. I rode everyday practicing barrels and poles in the middle of a pasture. I then competed in high school rodeo and excelled in the barrel racing and pole bending on one horse, Stroker — which then I took him to college with me for two years to compete.

Later, marrying my late husband allowed me to rodeo professionally and ride different horses. Tragedy struck in 2017, which tested my personal strength but my saving grace through it all were my horses. During this time, I had to step back, but it allowed me to become more in-tune with them while allowing me to heal. Each horse has their own personality and quirks, which was/is good for my mentality and allows me to learn in myself and patience.

A tip I would give other barrel racers and competitors is to learn how to control your nerves before a run. It’s something I have had to work on constantly. Horses feel your emotions, so if we are nervous and uncertain of what’s going to happen, so are they. Kelly Conrado told me once to ‘trust my training,’ so that is what I always tell myself before I enter the arena. It helps to calm my nerves — knowing the horses are prepared for this.

Ronnie Will at The American in 2022 with Sister, Comanche, and Stoli [Photo: submitted]

Also, I believe a major key for a barrel horse is walking outside of the arena. Walking allows their mind to relax, as well as strengthen and work different muscles. Riding inside the same four walls everyday can make a horse unmotivated, so take them out. Getting them out of the arena gives them more purpose and clears their mind, along with yours.

This summer, I decided to take a new route and moved to North Dakota with my college sweetheart. I can honestly say, I would have never pictured myself being up in the north, but the experience up here has been wonderful.

Snazzy Image aka ‘Stoli’ in Steamboat Springs, Colorado [Photo: Bobwire-S]

The different ground and set ups, compelled my horses to be more aware of their feet and has shaped me to become a more substantial rider. The horsepower I have seen and been able to run with was fascinating. The northern air has definitely helped my horses look healthier, feel stronger, and thickened them up. They have never felt better. I am excited for next year.