Pole bending is one of the most exciting events in high school rodeo- blending speed, agility, and precision into an impressive display of horsemanship. This event challenges riders to navigate their horses through a serpentine course of six poles, testing their ability to maintain control and speed while weaving through the obstacles. It requires not only physical skill but also strategic timing, as riders must balance the need for speed with the precision needed to avoid knocking over the poles.

For two consecutive years, North Dakota athletes have set the stage ablaze at the National Finals in Pole Bending, clinching national titles. Kinley Follman from Towner, ND, secured the 2023 National Junior High Finals World Pole Bending title, while Zoey Wagoner from Alexander, ND captured the 2024 National High School Finals Rodeo World Pole Bending title.

These two young ladies gave us a quick snapshot of their journey to claiming a world title.

How does it feel to bring home a National Pole Bending title to North Dakota, and what does this history book achievement mean to you? 

Kinley: “It still feels almost unbelievable. The journey getting to that point is the most memorable part of the accomplishment. Having the opportunity to grow and learn with such an amazing equine partner like Tango is something I wish everyone could experience.”

Zoey: “It feels great to bring home the National Pole Bending title for North Dakota.  It means so much to me because Lil Joe and I have put countless hours in the practice pen building a bond which makes this achievement incredibly special.”

Can you share a bit of history about your equine partner and how you grew together to land a world championship? 

Kinley: “Tango had been sitting out in a pasture, looking for a job, when we bought her three years ago. Initially, I focused on barrel racing with her, and we achieved many accomplishments. Eventually, we transitioned to pole bending, and it’s been up from there. I train and condition her at least four times a week, with occasional touch-ups on the pattern. Tango truly is a once-in-a-lifetime horse. Every time we enter the arena, she knows exactly what I want to achieve and consistently fulfills those goals.

Zoey: “Lil Joe was originally my mother’s horse, but I needed a step-up horse, so I ‘borrowed’ him, and he quickly became mine. I’ve had Lil Joe for 7 years now and together we have grown and learned how to maneuver through the pole pattern, effortlessly.   He always tries his best in the arena and never fails to make me proud.”

Family is the backbone to achieving success.  How has your family supported and contributed to reaching your goals?  

Kinley: “My family works very hard so we can compete every weekend. They constantly encourage me to be the best version of myself, both as a person and a competitor. Thanks to their support, I have amazing opportunities to travel around the country all year long and compete with the best.”

Zoey: “My family has always been there for me; hauling us to rodeos, helping me take care of my horses, and always supporting me no matter what. Their support and encouragement have played a big part in my success, and I couldn’t have achieved so much without them.”

How has the North Dakota rodeo community supported you on your journey to becoming a national champion, and what impact has their support had on your achievements?

Kinley: “My family and a few close family friends have always been there for me. Always giving me words of encouragement when it gets rough sometimes. They make it so much more fun to compete and our rodeo family never fails to make every weekend interesting!”

Zoey: “The rodeo community has been so great to me. I’ve made so many lifelong friends, and I couldn’t ask for any better people.”

What are some key lessons you have learned along the way to a national title that have helped you grow as both an athlete and as an individual?

Kinley: “I learned that nothing is given to someone. You must work harder than you think is possible. If something isn’t working, you must dig down and find a way to make it work. It does get tiring at times, but it’s those that push through are the true champions.”

Zoey: “One key lesson I’ve learned is to embrace mistakes as opportunities for growth—they only make you better. I didn’t even make it to the short round at National Junior High Finals a year ago, but by learning from mistakes and improving myself, I can now proudly say that I’m a world champion.”