ON THE ROAD with TANA POPPINO |
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| 2010 - click images to enlarge |
 Dec. 20, 2010 - Home never looked better. As excited as I was about qualifying for the Wrangler National Finals, I also knew that the timing wasn't great for me. I, and my horses, weren't ready. It's one thing to be competitive in July, but to try to get your "game" to its highest level in just three or four weeks wasn't realistic. I was extremely hopeful, and knew our potential, but to think that you are going to compete with the best riders and horses in the world, well, that's another thing. I was disappointed, but not overly so. I know we have a lot of work to do before the season gets rolling again in January.
Thanks to Wrangler, Dodge, Las Vegas Events, the WPRA, the PRCA and the NFR crew for all their hard work and support for the NFR. The barrel race was extremely exciting, and the fans loved it. Thanks to the WPRA for all the awards, and to Circle Y Saddlery for the saddle.
 Thanks to all of you who cheered for me and support me in the good times and the not so good. You'll never know how much your encouragement means to me. Thanks to Professional's Choice, Total Health Enhancement, EquiPride, Cowboy Rigs, SpurRadio, and now, MAXX Sunglasses for their support. My family does so much for me, especially Marty. I couldn't do this without him. Well, as I said, I have a lot of work to do, so I better get to it.
Remember God gave us the greatest gift, His son, Jesus; so that we could have a relationship with Him. If you don't know Him, this season would be a great time to get to know Him. We are here because of His love, share that love with someone else.
Merry Christmas. |
| Monday, Dec. 6, 2010 - Trust in the Lord and lean not to the front of your saddle, especially when your horse is smoking a run! I guess I blew the average last night, not what I wanted to do at the NFR, but if you ain't trying your guts out, you'll never win big. I'm so proud of Amigo, he finished the pattern without me last night. Thanks for all the well wishes. I promise to do better tonight! |
 Sunday, Dec.?, 2010 - Don't know what the date is, just that it's Sunday and it's the 4th round here in Vegas. I've been very happy with the way Amigo is running. His second run was awesome, thought I might win the round, but I guess I just showed everyone else that the ground was fast. Anyway, I am extremely pleased. Last night we didn't get a very good first barrel and it caused us to get the second. I need to do a better job riding. Thanks to all of you who are cheering and praying for me. I really do appreciate it.
Got to go to the trade show and meet a few of you on Friday. I will be back next Friday and Saturday so drop by the WPRA booth at 11, or the ProChoice booth at noon. I finally met Kat Abbott who painted the pony. It was as awesome in person as the pictures. It's in the WPRA booth, you've got to see it. She does such a wonderful job painting the horses.
I also met the owners of MAXX Sunglasses the other night. Rick and Nancy Milner are wonderful people. I think Nancy put some photos on Facebook.
The WPRA banquet was great, and the gifts were awesome that they presented us. Thanks to Jerri Mann and the rest of the board for those awards, and saddles. The saddles are on display in the WPRA booth as well. Congrats to all the rodeo committees especially the Prairie Circuit rodeos, Hardnter, Ks, won Small Rodeo of the Year. Claremore, Bennington,and Hastings won Justin Best Footing Awards, and Manhattan won Most Improved. Cheyenne and Red Bluff tied for Big Rodeo of the Year. These committees really went all out for the barrel racers last year and we appreciate it.
If you are watching on TV, you are seeing a great barrel race. Tough horses and talented ladies make our sport unique! I'd waiting to see that victory lap up close and personal! |
Nov. 30, 2010 - NFR activities started at 7 am this morning with WPRA meeting, then down to business-the reason we came. We got to work our horses on the barrels in the arena. Fifteen women working their horses one at a time sharing an alleyway with horses that are on the muscle and ready to go. Sometimes it can get a little hairy! I just wanted to show Amigo the arena so I worked him slow once. He said he knew where we were and why we were here, and he was ready to go. Goose was jumping up and down saying "WhoooooHoooo! I'm ready to go". I told him to "Slow down and pay attention. He wasn't as smart as he thinks he is."
It was good to see all the girls. I hadn't seen Brenda since Cheyenne, Christina since maybe Houston, and all the others. We're all competitors to the hilt, but you make friendships that last forever.
Tonight at the Southpoint they present us our numbers. They introduce each contestant one at a time and you walk across the stage to receive that all important piece of felt that you have worked your whole life for. Lots of the rodeo committees are there and vips so it's a big deal, and everyone dresses up. It's fun to see what everyone looks like in something other than jeans and rodeo attire!
We also get our jackets and paychecks tonight. When you get to finally put that coat on, it makes all the struggles and hard times melt away, and you can say, "yeahh, it was worth it!"
* Check out my 2010 NFR Autograph Schedule |
Nov. 27, 2010 - On the road again, headed back to Vegas. That sounds so good, especially after a 3-year hiatus. Both the horses are feeling good, and Goose and I have finally come to an understanding. They say that "good things come to those who wait", well the last time we won any money at the rodeos was mid July. I think that 4 months is long enough, it's time for our breakthrough!
I am so thankful for my husband, Marty, who takes care of me, my horses, my truck and trailer (that seems to be a full-time job). I think that I have been Cowboy Rigs' best customer this year! |
| Nov. 25, 2010 - Happy Thanksgiving. I want to thank my corporate partners for their support. They stuck with me through the last couple of years so I want to good at the Finals for them; Total Health Enhancement Nutritional Products, Professionals' Choice, Cowboy Rigs Trailer Sales and Service, Donnell Rodeo Productions, and EquiPride. Thanks, also to MAXX Sunglasses who have just come on board. |
| Nov. 19, 2010 - It's definately countdown time to the WNFR. Since our prep time was shortened, and our performance at Dallas was not yet up to par, I've been taking in jackpots as often as I can this week. We drove in the blistering rain to Carthage Wednesday night. Amigo performed well. He may be 15, but he's still got it. He won the jackpot, but unfortunately Goose and I still need to work on our timing and cues. Thursday we went to Ochelata. I got a couple of exhibitions in to work on body positioning. It seemed to help. I knocked first barrel down, but was pleased with his second barrel. Saturday we will go to Checotah and try again. Thanks to everyone for their well wishes for the Finals, hopefully we will have lots to cheer about! |
Nov. 15, 2010 - Wow, the people in Allen know how to throw a party. The Texas Stampede has a new home in Allen, and they really made us feel at home. Thanks to all the committee people for their hard work, especially Frank Cucharillo (I hope I spelled it correctly). Frank was the barrel racers liason, because he is married to a barrel racer, Jodi Rush, he knows what's important to us and he took care of everything for us.
My ribs felt pretty good, and let me tell you, Goose tested them. He is feeling really good, and because we haven't had a lot of practice, I'm a little behind. Goose and I need more work before Vegas, but I was happy with Amigo. He made two nice runs. I clipped the third barrel leaving it to do well in the first round, and won third in his next round. Goose and I are spending some quality time in the practice pen this week, and I'm probably going to hit some jackpots if I can.
Brodie has shoulder surgery Wednesday. Dr. Tandy Freeman did the handiwork. Brodie is doing well. Our sport is so blessed to have such a wonderful gifted man like Dr. Tandy to help our athletes out. He is amazing. Surgery during the week, then rodeos or PBRs on the weekends.
Today is the Talking with Tana show on SpurRadio.com at 1 pm (central time). We will be doing a couple of shows from Las Vegas, so stayed tuned in.
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 Nov 9, 2010 - While I was sitting around letting my ribs heal, I learned about a new sunglasses company and did some research. These glasses are lightweight, and really cut the glare. From the moment I put them on, I have loved them. So, we are now partners, MAXX Sunglasses and I. (If you've ever seen me run outside, I always wear sunglasses because the glare is so hard on my eyes.) Check them out at http://www.maxxsunglasses.com
We did a photo shoot for their catalog. While Telli (Stotts, the photographer) was at the house, I had her shoot some of Amigo and I. Hope you enjoy! |
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 Nov 7, 2010 - Ok, it's time, ready or not, to start making runs and getting sharp for the NFR. My ribs feel better and with a good tape job, they held. I took Amigo Saturday to Afton to run in the jackpot. (He is smoother and I wanted to test my ribs.) He seemed a little flat, but he has been off for quite a while, and I probably didn't ride the best either. With that first run under my belt, I came home and rode Goose, first time in three weeks.
Sunday I took both horses back to Afton. Amigo acted like he knew he was running barrels this time. He was a lot snappier. He ran the fastest time of the day. I iced his legs when we got through, and he acted like I do when I get a hot shower. I think he has missed that!
Then came Goose. I was just hoping that I could stay with him around the barrels and that he didn't throw me over the fence when he stopped. He had a good run, finally we have gotten him feeling better. All his arena antics this summer were just his way of telling me that he hurt. I knew that, but after several vets and different treatments, we weren't making much progress. But finally! He felt so good. It's funny, the horses that love their job, when something starts happening, I tend to try to fix it with my riding and tuning, but these champs are trying to tell us something is wrong. But with every horse, it is different, and it takes time to learn each one. The overcomers are persistant and they are the ones that make the finals more than once! I really respect Charmayne James for keeping Scamper healthy and running so well for so long. (I think Jacie Jo Williams - an up and coming star - uploaded some video from this weekend on Facebook.) |
 Nov 4, 2010 - The Prairie Circuit Finals of 2010 are now in the books. Congratulations to Jessi Eagleberger who won the average, by winning two gos and placing second in the other. Tana Renick is the 2010 Prairie Circuit Champion. Both these gals will be representing us at the Dodge National Circuit Finals in Oklahoma City in April. Congrats also to first time qualifiers Tammy Peterson, Susan Smith, Hollie Etbauer, Jana Turner, and Tanya Steinhoff (PC Rookie of the Year). The other ladies running at the finals were Jeanne Anderson (who borrowed a horse because hers is recovering from an injury), PJ Burger, June Holman, Tracy Nowlin, and Diane Martin. Thanks to Jack's Casing Crews, Team Steinhoff Saddles, Oakridge Equine Clinic, Weaver Investments, Bill Hodge Dodge, Montana Silversmiths, Hayes Vet Clinic, Marcotte Vet Clinic and Wrangler for their support.
The Greater Wichita Sports Commission and the Prairie Circuit Finals Committee did a great job putting on the finals. It ran pretty smooth, although we had to rework the ground for the first go. First time in a new building, new dirt, new equipment, new director, new ground crew--good ground is often a trial and error, but everyone worked together and got it fixed and made still more modifications. The ground in the second and third gos was good. Thanks to all the rakers who did an awesome job!! |
| Oct. 23, 2010 - Today is my mother's birthday. She is so special to me. She travels a lot with me and is my "personal assistant." She helps me stay on top of the business end of this sport. Most importantly, she instilled in me from my childhood, that I could do whatever I put my mind to. She continues to help me believe in me and thank God for His blessings. |
Oct. 8, 2010 - Whoooohooo! We made it. We will be headed to Las Vegas in December for the Wrangler National Finals Rodeo. It has been a long three months. I'm so glad we had such a great winter to hold us in the standings. I'm also glad the season ended when it did. We ended the year in 12th, and the top 15 go to the WNFR. Best of all, my long-time hauling partner, Jeanne Anderson, will also be going to Vegas. This will be her debut under the bright lights! Thanks to my sponsors, Cowboy Rigs Trailer Sales, Total Health Enhancement, Professionals' Choice and EquiPride.
By the way, if you are reading the new Barrel Horse News; they quote me in the article on probiotics. The supplement I feed with prebiotics is EquiPride. It provides food for the probiotics or good bacteria that live in the horses' stomachs and help them digest their feed.
Amigo update - I ran him at Tulsa at the rodeo. He is a little soft and out of shape from his "forced vacation" this summer, but he worked well. I just forgot how to ride him! I think we may have, finally, found the root of Goose's problems and are treating them. He seems to be responding well. |
| Sept. 20, 2010 - I 'm sure all of you are wondering if I fell off the planet, I did, sort of. I have kept hoping that I'd have something good to report, and it just hasn't happened yet. Goose continues to stretch my patience. No matter what I change, it works in the practice pen, but at the rodeos, he seems to have this moonworm in his pattern that I haven't been able to weed out. I keep finding things that don't work. I have decided to turnout of Texarkana and Amarillo this week, and go back to the jackpots and try something else. Hopefully by Thursday and Harrison, Ar, we'll be working together again. Thanks to all of you who have supported me and keep standing behind me, I'm sorry if I have let any of you down. My frustration level has crept to the surface more than once and I apologize. Rodeoing, like life, doesn't always go the way you want, and we should learn to take it all in stride and stay joyful. (I'm working really hard on that part!) The one thing I do know is that, I am more than a conquerer in Christ Jesus. Whatever I put my hand to will prosper, so I will not quit. |
 August 31, 2010 - Not much road to this report, as I am still at home. I get to start hand walking Amigo this week for very short periods. We have done more work on Goose, but what he really needs is time off. I may take him to a jackpot this weekend and see if he is better and make my decision what to do next then.
 I am very excited to be included in a Painted Pony fundraiser project in the Houston area. A very talented artist, Katherine Abbott, painted several WPRA barrel racers on the lifesize horse to be auctioned off to raise money for a worthy cause (go to www.wpra.com for complete story). I think Kat did a wonderful job on Amigo. I think Breyer models of this would be awesome, perhaps with the NFR top 6 each year? What do you think, let me know.
Hooray for Jeanne! She is 11th in the standings and may pass me before the end. I am so happy for her. She truly is a gifted horsewomen and an awesome friend!
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| August 20, 2010 - Amigo is now home. He, unfortunately, isn't loose in his pasture, but in the stall. We took our 20 minute walk today up and down our road. Reminds me of two years ago, but this rehab won't be as long. After we walk, I let him graze for a while. I feel so bad for him having to be cooped up when he loves the outdoors. |
July 27, 2010 – Rodeo, like life, can be like a roller coaster. Up one day and down the next. Everything looked great on the 4th. Then the bottom fell out. A good friend of ours was killed in a car wreck, and a trip to the vet revealed that Amigo needs the rest of the summer off. The only good news was that we found that Goose’s stifles were sore, so we treated those, and he needed several days off. I flew home for the funeral.
Horses are one thing, and they are a very important part of my life and job, but losing a good man is another thing. Whitney Marlon was my husband’s right-hand man at Cowboy Rigs, a good friend, and most importantly, a husband and father of four. He will be greatly missed.
I flew back to Cheyenne where my good friends, Brandie and Shawn Halls, have been graciously taking care of my horses. I jumped in the trailer with Jeanne and Brenda Mays and headed out to Nampa. I worked Goose when we got there and he worked great. Maybe things were back on track.
The next morning, Goose took the wind out of my sails and ducked the second barrel. We drove all day to Cheyenne where we ran twice the next day in slack. He ducked again the first run. Our other run was really ugly. No time to lose, we drove back to Salt Lake and Spanish Fork. Back to the practice pen for me and Goose. Things seemed to be better.
We ran in the perf at Salt Lake where Goose jumped the second barrel. The bright spot, I figured was that I managed to keep him on the right side of the barrel. At least that’s what I told myself. No time to worry, we jumped in the truck and raced to Spanish Fork to run in the slack after the perf. Making it just in time, Brenda and Jeanne were placing. Our run was better, but not up to par.
The last few days, Jeanne and Brandie have been helping me get my act back together. Life, no matter what goes on, comes back to good friends and how much they mean to us.
Great friends don’t let you stay down, they pick you up, dust you off, kick you in the butt, and help you get back on track. I thank God for putting awesome friends in my life.
It’s off to Deadwood to watch Marty, my husband, rope. It will be nice to get to spend a couple of days with him. It gets lonely on the road when you are away from your family |
July 12, 2010
We rested in Oakley for a couple of days after the rodeo. Jeanne and I both won money, and we found an awesome pizza place! From there, we went to Vernal where Jeanne smoked a run and won the rodeo. The next night we ran in slack at Laramie. I ran Goose both places and he is still not working. We had a vet watch us run and he thought his stifles might be sore. He agreed to see us on Sunday down in Greeley.
Yes, Goose's stifles were sore which we are taking care of. I thought I'd just have the vet go over Amigo too, just for maintenance. Unfortunately, we found that his slight limp on the front was more than a bruised foot. He'll be off for the next 3 months to let his suspensory ligament heal. It was a good thing I had him checked. Amigo has such a big heart and tries so hard, he would have kept running till we did permanent damage. Praise God that we found it.
I'm sitting in Cheyenne at the airport. I'm flying home and let both horses rest this week. Good friends are truly a blessing, and I thank God for my wonderful friends who are taking care of both me and my horses. |
Sunday – July 4, 2010
We are leaving Greeley just in time, it is fixing to pour. We went to Crawford last night after the afternoon perf at Greeley. I made the short round back in third, and Jeanne just missed it. She made up for it at Crawford, and smoked a run. I ran Goose and did horrible. I’m going to have to get some practice runs in to get my timing back with him. We got back to Greeley about 3 this morning.
Today went better. We finally got by the Greeley gremlin three times in a row. The short round wasn’t very pretty, the ground at the first barrel was really getting the horses today. Since Lindsey (Sears) was at Ponoka, that put Jesse Eagleburger and I at the top going in. Amigo cut the pocket off at the first and I rocked it going in, but we recovered and finished with a 17.55. Jesse and John didn’t fare quite as well and ran a 17.7. Congrats to Savannah Reeves for winning the short round with a 17.39. I guess today was this dog’s day (as Toby Keith sings), we got to win the average! No time to celebrate, we are headed over to Rawlins to spend the night. We run at Oakley, Utah, tomorrow night. |
July 2, 2010
We ran at Livingston, MT, in slack yesterday. Jeanne ran a 17.71, and mine wasn't so good. Amigo must have thought the gate was closed, because right at the line he ducked to the left. Just about left me sitting right there! We left there before 8 pm, drove all night to get to Greeley. We arrived just after daybreak, built the horses pens, fed them and went to sleep for a couple of hours. (This rodeo life is so glamourous! I don't know what we looked like at 6 am, but it's probably a good thing no one else saw us!)
Amigo did so good today. The ground seemed a little slick underneath, but he kept his feet and clocked a 17.3 which might be third in the first round. Jeanne got past her first and was a 17.9. We were ready to go to bed when Jeanne checked the horses. They were covered with mosquitos. We're too close to the river, I guess. So, we rented stalls and moved the horses to the barn where they could here the concert much better. Amigo wasn't impressed, but Goose seemed to be dancing a little!-- It's lights out for us. |
July 1, 2010
We are pulling into Livingston now. No blowouts!! Yeah!
June 30, 2010
Back to reality. Our day started at 5 am when we got up to feed. Trailers started rolling in about 7, when the girls got here from Greeley slack last night. Slack was at 8. The Cody committee actually packed the ground after each 12! Best of all, we both had good runs. Jeanne is winning second with a 17.32. Congrats to Sabrina Ketchum who ran a 17.2? to lead the race. I’m sitting 5th with a .43. Trailers rolled out as soon as slack was over, most headed back to Greeley. I am so glad that we drew up during the perfs at Greeley. Tomorrow we go to Livingston.
June 29, 2010
Fireworks woke us up last night. Amigo was going crazy. I couldn’t hardly catch him in his stall. I do not understand why people think that fireworks and animals go together. He banged a leg on the stall, so more icing. We rode this morning and I worked Goose. He did great, I hope that we have all his issues fixed. Jeanne and I played tourist today, and went to the Buffalo Bill Museum. We’ve always wanted to, but usually we are in and out of town.
June 28, 2010
Yesterday, we headed out for Cody; and everything was going fine until BANG! Another tire blew out. This time it was on the passenger side. Jeanne pulled over on a side road and we changed it in record time. We are almost ready to try out for a NASCAR pit crew! It was almost dark and we were about 70 miles from the next town of decent size, so we turned around and drove 30 miles back to Rock Springs where there is a nice fairgrounds. This morning we were sitting at the tire shop when they opened at 7, got 2 new tires and headed out. |
June 25, 2010
We had a blowout yesterday on our way from Reno to Lehi. This is the third blowout in the last two weeks. We made it into Wells, NV where the wonderful guys at Les Schwab Tires went to work. Unfortunately, they couldn't fix it in time for us to make Lehi. We missed the turnout deadline by five minutes. NNTO, that's a non-notifyed turnout which is a costly fine when you have drawn the perf that you requested.
My husband who owns Cowboy Rigs in Pryor, OK, is shipping parts today. But, there is no Saturday delivery in Wells, so I will have to drive 100 miles to Twin Falls, ID, to pick up the parts and bring them back so the guys can fix it tomorrow. The good news is that we found Jeanne (Anderson, my hauling partner) a ride back to Reno with Terri Wood-Gates and Norma Wood so she can run in the short round. It could have been worse, God sent a sheriff to help us change the tire, and the rodeo grounds in Wells is close to the tire shop, and we aren't up anywhere else till Wednesday morning (Cody slack).
Some days are funner than others, but these days make the good ones that much more enjoyable. You gotta keep smilin.' |
June 21, 2010
Well, we finally get to catch our breath. We are in Reno. We spent the day icing, riding, and working on our horses. Then we went to town to buy groceries, more ice and shavings. It's amazing how long it takes to do simple errands when you are in a town that you aren't familiar with!
Unfortunately I tipped a barrel the first round here in the rodeo on Friday. I hauled Goose back in to the jackpot on Saturday, and he did awesome. First good run we've had since Houston. We have had several issues. We'd get one thing fixed to find another. The latest was ticks in his ears which we found (and removed) on Friday. Good times were short-lived. I was going to run him on Sunday only to find a hind leg swollen. (That explains the all the icing.) He has also been getting a healthy dose of NutraWound every day since then. The good news is that he doesn't seem to be lame, so he must have just banged it on something. That's life on the road, we spend most of our time taking care of those precious horses that God had entrusted us with. |
May 30, 2010
I'm sitting in my trailer cooling off at the Windy Ryon steer roping. Marty roped this morning, so we drove here (Saginaw, TX) last night after I ran at Claremore.
I was so disappointed with my run last night, I sure let my friends and fans down that came to watch. Goose has been having some issues and my confidence in him is lacking. I tried to help him too much last night and it ended in disaster. The highs and LOWS of rodeo. People often think that when you are in the standings that you don't go through problems, but that's not true. Real champions ride on through the low spots and come out the other side.
Tomorrow, Brodie ropes at the Barry Burks' Junior Calf Roping (for the last time) so we are going to watch. I'm entered somewhere every day next week, and the next week I'll be packing for the summer run so I may not have time to give you any updates, but please think fast thoughts for me! I do appreciate all your support. Happy trails! |
May 24, 2010 - Although I didn't compete in but one rodeo, this weekend was packed full. My son, Brodie, and I competed in the slack Thursday morning at Ada. It was great to have a pro rodeo back at the Ken Lance arena. It was also great that the tornado that was just west of there didn't make it to the grounds! Lots of rain and some hail hit late Wednesday, so the arena was really sloppy for slack.
Claremore, one of my two hometown rodeos, will be welcoming rodeo contestants to the Will Rogers Stampede this weekend. As part of the rodeo week, Friday and Saturday the Roundup Club hosted a WPRA barrel race. Even with the rain we'd had the ground was pretty good, we even kicked up dust on Saturday. The vendors started arriving this weekend, and the committee has begun in earnest, getting the arena grounds ready for the big event. Wednesday night Marty and I will be attending a barbeque for the sponsors and steer roping enthusiasts. Thursday morning, rodeo slack will start at 9 am with the barrel racers, followed at 1 by the men's events. I believe that the steer roping and tie-down roping will be at 7 pm, so it will probably be an all-day event for me.
The rodeo performances start Friday night a 7:30. I will be competing Saturday night in the performance so I invite all my friends to come cheer me on that night. I'd love to win in front of the hometown crowd!! (Goose and I have been working very hard on that.) Sunday evening will start off with a concert by Susie McEntire for a Christian Cowboy Celebration. The people in Claremore are working very hard to put on a top notch pro rodeo for the people of Will Rogers home stompin grounds, so come and enjoy!! |
May 14, 2010
What a surprise. When I got to Abbeyville, KS last night, it was dry! With all these storms, and there had been water standing in all the fields and in the ditches all the way to Hutchinson; I just knew that it would be knee-deep in mud. But no. This is the first time that I can remember that it hasn't been wet at Abbeyville. The ground last year was wet, but still good. Today we were kicking up dust. Good thing I took Amigo. He loves that pen. We were winning it after slack, and there were clouds moving in. Who knows?
Vernon, now that's a different story. It poured during the barrel race last night (Jeanne Anderson was there). I just pulled the weather up on the internet and it doesn't look good. Brodie talked to a buddy of his that said everything was under water tonight. I guess I'll check the forcast tomorrow before I leave to see if we even need to drive five hours to wade the water. I may just save my diesel money and pay the turn out fine. |
May 7, 2010 - We just arrived at Bridgeport, TX, and put up the hotwire so my horses could eat grass till the rodeo starts. We don't run till in the morning in slack. Goose will get a chance to redeem his self. Then Amigo and I will run at Mineral Wells tomorrow night. We were so blessed this week to draw up so we didn't have to do any backtracking or late night driving.
We ran yesterday at Jasper in the slack. Why I smooched to Amigo going to the first barrel I'll never know. Of course he ran by it. He slipped a little on the second, too, so I'll be lucky if I get even a little check. We were up in the perf last night at Crockett. Great ground! Best I think I've ever seen. Sandy, but wet and it held so well. Thanks to the committee for such a great job. Unfortunately, I sat too early on Goose and we got the first barrel, then he got lost and couldn't find the second. Sooo, we stayed after the perf to work. They had several rerides so it took a while. Goose made two smokin' runs, I guess the green horse still comes out every so often. That's rodeo. |
May 3, 2010 - The committee at Guymon did a bang-up job with their ground Monday. Even though it started out wet & cold, the day turned out sunny and nice, and the ground conditions stayed even throughout the barrel racing slack. Steve Long and his help hosted a hamburger fry for the barrel racers between the rounds. I rode Amigo, and he made an awesome run. Syndi Blanchard won the round with a 17.50, and we were 17.53, followed very closely by Jill Moody and Dolly with a 17.54.
The second round was run slowest to fastest, so that put us in the Sunday afternoon performance. Running 11th on the ground, I had my doubts, but girls seem to be clocking no matter where they ran, so I was hopeful. All you can do is all you can do any way. Amigo nailed the first, even rocked it, had a good second, and then his third was better than in the first run. We shut the timer off at a 17.21 or .23 which was good for third in the round. We only had to sweat one run, and Syndi didn't have as good of run as she did the first time. We won the average. I ran at Guymon's rodeo while I was in college and it was just a little rodeo, so it is great to finally win it. It's also a circuit rodeo for me, so the money all counts towards our circuit finals which makes it doubley sweet.
Tuesday, May 4, I will be the guest on a webinar sponsored by Agri-Feeds. We will be talking about EquiPride. If you'd like to learn more, go to http://agribestfeeds.com/informational-webinar and register for the webinar. It will be at 8:00 pm CDT, not 7 like I had said earlier.
I just got back from a City Council Meeting in Claremore. The rodeo committee was asking for money and support from the city to help fund their upcoming rodeo. We, as contestants, don't appreciate what these committee people do to put on rodeos. Wow, it was an eye-opening experience for me.
See ya down the road |
April 28, 2010 - I didn't get to stay home long. It's Wednesday afternoon and I'm headed back to Guymon with my husband, Marty. He ropes steers in the morning and Friday. It's slow going today as the wind is blowing out of the south about 40 miles an hour. These rigs drink the fuel on days like today.
Tuesday evening at 7 pm (central time), I am going to be the guest speaker on a webinar sponsored by Agri Best Feeds talking about EquiPride. If you'd like to learn more about this great supplement, go to http://agribestfeeds.com/informational-webinar and click on my photo or the title, and it will take you through the registration process.
Gotta go, it's hard to type and hold on to my hat at the same time!! If you see me blowing by, catch me if you can!! |
April 27, 2010 - Boy, the last week flew by. I left home in the dark last Monday, and returned in the dark last night. We drove to Corpus Christi all day Monday. I picked up Jean Winters at Alvord, Tx and on we drove. We arrived at Corpus in the dark, also.
The barrel slack was run after noon, then we headed to Lufkin. Jean had a good run and placed. I tipped. It was apparent that something was wrong with my ride. We wobbled in to a friend's house near Marshall, and had to put the truck in the shop the next day. We borrowed a truck and trailer to go to Lufkin, where we did no good.
I had planned on leaving Thursday morning to go to Oklahoma City for the Better Barrel Races Finals, but it was 4 days before they got my truck fixed. A new tie rod, and two front tires later, we were back on the road. There were tornado warnings out in the OKC area that night, so I opted to stay south of OKC at another friend's house where my horses and I could get a decent night's sleep, at least what was left of it.
We got checked in and made our first runs (I ran both Goose and Amigo) in barn 6. Goose placed, and Amigo tipped. The next day, Goose had a bad run, but Amigo did good so both horses qualified for the finals on Sunday. I used the rest of the day to meet people and talk to friends at the EquiPride booth. Both my horses love the stuff and that's good, because it is a great supplement (an all-in-one). You can check it out at www.equipride.biz. They are great people who make a great product, and I sure enjoy them.
Sunday, Goose had another OOPS moment, but Amigo ran well. As soon as we ran, we loaded up and headed to Guymon for Monday morning slack. It was beautiful there that evening, but it didn't last. At 2, the wind started whipping the trailer, so I got up and tied the horses up and took down the hotwire fence. At 7, I repositioned the trailer to give the horses a windbreak, and it started raining. It's Guymon, gotta love it!
Amigo smoked a run and we split 2/3 with Jill Moody. Congrats to Syndey Blanchard on winning the first round. We will run again on Sunday afternoon. The week didn't start off to well, but it ended well. |
April 16, 2010 - Next week is going to be a busy one. Monday, I'll meet Jean Winters in Oklahoma City and we'll drive down to Corpus Christi for slack Tuesday morning. Then we'll drive back to Lufkin, Tx, for the perf on Wednesday. Then I'll drive to Oklahoma City to run Friday and Saturday at the BBR Finals.
While at the BBR Finals, I'll be helping out in the EquiPride booth. So come by and say hello. If you'd like to know more about EquiPride and what it has done for me, go to http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=I1iJzViCCPI |
April 12, 2010 - The rodeo schedule is light in April, so I get to spend some time at home, playing catch-up. You know, cleaning house, washing clothes, cleaning the barn, yardwork, yada, yada.
Goose has been getting some time off, but I took Amigo to Carthage, Mo, to a Heartland Barrel Race. On Saturday, I was dissappointed with our performance. After a little coaching from my son, I decided that I wasn't hustling Amigo enough, and trying to run too pretty. On Sunday, we left all the barrels up and made a nice run, winning the barrel race. Sometimes I back off too much trying to be perfect, smooth is fast; but you still have to "want to win."
I guess my son HAS been listening to me throughout the years, because I asked him how he got so smart and he said, "I'm just telling you what you always tell me."
During the BBR (April 23-25) Finals in Oklahoma City, come by and see me at the EquiPride booth. I'd love to meet you. |
April 1, 2010 - Well, spring seems to have finally made it to Oklahoma, and just in time. My horses and I are glad to be home. They are enjoying the pasture and the green grass. I am enjoying the warmer temperatures, but not the wind.
Jessi Eagleberger and I fought the wind all the way to Lubbock this week. It was a good rodeo put on by a really great bunch of people. Jessi was placing, but unfortunately a downed barrel cost me.
I will be rodeoing from home for the next couple of months, and trying to get my chores caught up, and my young horses going. I will be holding a one-day clinic at Broken Arrow, OK on Sunday, May 23. See the flyer for more info.
Happy Easter and remember, it wasn't the Easter bunny who gave his life for yours, it was Jesus. |
March 19, 2010 - Rodeo is such a humbling sport. You can be on top one day, and hit bottom the next. I was so excited after our first run at Houston. Goose laid down a great run and we won that round. After that, it didn't go so well. We came back in the semis and just were out of sync. We found an arena close by and did some homework, and I felt good about the upcoming run in the wild card. Unfortunately, it didn't go so well either. After I tune Goose, he gets a lot more focused and sometimes I don't allow for that in the arena. He is needing some time off. He gets 3 days. I'll run Amigo at Austin Sunday and Monday. Then we go to Huntsville for slack Tuesday and pray for rain.--It's a deep sandy pen. Then Thursday night we run at Nachidochese and Beaumont Friday, then back to Austin. Amigo will probably get the call at these. One more week and then we get to go home for a couple of months.
We have been having Bible studies after the perfs each night in the Cowboy Bistro tent, and it has grown each night. We all hated to go to our trailers last night, and see the fellowship come to an end. I've gotten to know some of the roughies, the bullfighters, and other timed event guys and it's just been awesome. A young man (15 years old) from Sulpher, LA, has blessed us with his awesome singing and testimony the past three nights. He is in Houston for cancer treatment, but there is no doubt, he's going to win his battle. God is on his side and he has encouraged us so much. Ted and Linda Weisse are our beloved "parents" who lead us, feed us, and guide us. Please pray for them as they return home to Idaho. It'll be June, in Reno, before we see them again.
Austin ends the stock shows and the winter run. I've been blessed so far, and look forward to an exciting year. |
March 9, 2010 - Finally, after 7 years of competing at Houston, the largest rodeo of the regular season, I won money last night. Yeah! I guess persistance does pays off. It also helps to have a different horse. Amigo fell here the first run the very first rodeo performance in Reliant Center, and he never forgot. He must have hurt hisself more than I knew, but he would never turn the first barrel here. Praise God for Amigo and now Goose. Goose loves this arena, and he can handle the challenging ground conditions.
There was another victory last night. Shelley Morgan made a nice run on Janna Beam's horse. It was so good to see Shelley smile again. She's a tough gal and a tough competitor and a wonderful person.
We just finished the spring meeting of the Women's Professional Rodeo Association. We held our meeting here in Houston. It was three days packed full of business. I am proud to be a part of a board of women who are passionate about our sport, and business-minded enough to make some tough decisions. We seem to have a pretty good mix. We didn't always agree, but we are all working together to make our association strong again. |
March 1, 2010 - Tragedy struck the rodeo world Saturday. Shelley Morgan lost her great horse, Short go, in a freak accident at San Angelo. Many tears were shed, and hearts broken as we hurt along with Shelley and Rex. Short go was a champion. Shelley and he had made the finals at both San Angelo and Tuscon. Sometimes bad things happen to good people, we don't understand, but what I have learned is that God can take anything and turn it around if we let Him.
Let the peace of God comfort you and keep you as you keep your mind on Him. -- Isaiah 26:3 |
February 11, 2010
Ft. Worth, wow what a rush. You read about girls having a great rodeo and winning a lot of money, and now it's actually me. Pinch me so I know it's not a dream! Goose likes the pen at Ft. Worth and he worked really great, especially our second run. I am so blessed.
It wasn't too many years ago that Ft. Worth was an invitational barrel race. They should be commended for their great WPRA race. Ft. Worth opened its entries up this year and drew 236 barrel racers which was nice for the purse and great that it let so many girls compete. Unfortuntely, the down side is that it shortened the second round to only 50 girls. Hopefully, next year, they will run a couple of slacks to allow everyone to get a second run. I personally don't like progressive rodeos because if your horse slips or you knock down a barrel, you are out. If you pay for a second run, you should get a second run. You at least have a chance to recoup some of your money.
We ran at Jackson, Ms, last night and didn't do well at all. Goose and I weren't on the same page. Mostly it was my fault. I better get it together, because tomorrow we start four days of runs at San Antonio. |
 January 26, 2010
Last fall, I had the pleasure of being interviewed by More Magazine about how I changed my career so drastically in the midstream of life. I really didn't want to officially become a member of the "40 & over" club, but I thought it would be great publicity for our sport to be recognized in a national women's magazine.
We did have a lot of fun shooting photos for the story. A real photographer, Chris Buck, and three assistants came all the way to Big Cabin, America, to shoot pics of yours truly. In my other life, I shot photos for our corporate publications. It was tougher being on this side of the lens!
If you're curious about my midlife switch, pick up a copy of More.
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 January 22, 2010
While in Denver, I had the pleasure of meeting Lisa Rasmussen who not only uses EquiPride, but has built a great network of retail outlets for EquiPride in Colorado. I have fed the mineral (that’s what I have referred to it as, but learned that it is so much more from Lisa) since my first trip to the WNFR. It was great to meet more people and hear their success stories. Bob and Erick Thornberg (Bob is the creator of EquiPride) were also there. What can I say? They are just good people. I really enjoyed the two days I spent with them in the booth.
Erick shot video of me and my horses at the Stock Show and will be putting some of it (I hope he edits a lot!!) on the EquiPride website as my testimonial.
Photo: Bob Thornberg and I discussing the benefits of EquiPride at the Denver Stock Show |
January 21, 2010
Well, we’re off and running in the winter season. It has truly been winter in Kansas and Oklahoma this year. Jeanne and I just got back from Odessa and Denver. Amigo had an abscess so I rode Goose. He did very well. We won second in the first go at Odessa, then came back with another good run except-- you know, a tipped barrel doesn’t win anything. At Denver, when Goose gets nervous (in front of big crowds in little coliseums) he gets more FOCUSED. He wants to turn so much that I have to really push him past the barrel. He was REALLY focused and dropped his front end and smoked around the barrel, only I didn’t quite make that first hard step to the right. I felt like a rag doll (looked like one too!). He stepped out a little so I could get back in the saddle, and we went on.
My Dad came out laughing. He said, “I was waiting for you to pull up and climb back on. But you didn’t. You just kept running.” I learned a long time ago that I’m not the world’s best rider, and if my horse is working that well, my job is just to hold on and let him work. We actually had the second fastest run of the day. Jeanne had a nice run and was placing in the round. Hey, if you can’t laugh at yourself, who can you laugh at??
I was in OK shape. With a good run in the second go, I could still make the short go. Sometimes you have to stir your guts up, and sometimes you don’t quite make it. I thought I could push him all the way to the barrel, but I was going to cheat and drop my outside rein and grab the saddle horn before I sat down. Goose felt me drop that rein, and he dropped and started his turn (a hair too early) and I hit the barrel with my knee. He finished the run with a time that would have placed high in the go IF.
I am excited that Goose is working so well, but we have to do some tweaking before Ft. Worth. Amigo is doing fine now. I’ll be taking him to some jackpots to get some runs on him before we go to Texas.
On another subject--My heart goes out to the Randy and Toni Gower family who lost their son, Cody. Perhaps you’ve read about Cody and Lindsey Sears. Anyway, Cody was a 23-year old Christian cowboy who has finished his earthly work and gone home to heaven. As a young boy, he wasn’t afraid to show his faith. He regularly led the bull riders in prayer behind the bucking chutes at junior rodeos, and continued his faith in God till He called him home this week. We rejoice for Cody, but as Toby Keith sings, “I’m not crying for you, I’m crying for me.” We’ll miss Cody. Please keep his family in your prayers. --- Tell your kids that you love them today. |
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