2023 Montana Pro Rodeo Circuit Finalist Allie Novotny

Which horse(s) are you taking to the finals? I will be running TS Frenchmans Money (2016 sorrel mare by Frenchmans Shake Em x TS Paddys Penny), my sister Bailee Stovall's great mare at the finals. My horse Dashing French King will be my back-up. This summer I also ran Flingin Bux owned by my other sister Annie Sorge to help me get to finals. So I wouldn't be here without my sisters help and support ..... and their horses.

What is unique about their personality and what are their strengths? How tall are they and what is their weight (thought it would be fun to compare)? Ruby is ALL Business. After being on young horses for the last few years, it's amazing to ride a confident horse that knows her job and wants nothing more than to go do it. You'll also probably never see her with her ears forward, she may only be about 14.3 hands but she has a big attitude. King on the other hand is the goofiest horse in the world. He's 16.1 and thinks he is a dog. He will lick anyone when given the opportunity. This was his first summer really rodeoing and while we struggled with consistency, he loves his job and I'm excited to see what his future holds.

When did you start competing in barrels? I've competed in barrels my whole life!

How long have you been a WPRA member?
My rookie year was 2018, but 2023 was my second year as a member after taking a break to get young horses going.

Do you raise your own horses? Or do you purchase? Are you looking for specific bloodlines? I've always either raised my own colts or bought as weanlings. King is an Aint Seen Nothin Yet, if I could have 1,000 more with that breeding I would. I love taking chances on junior stallions, but my favorite bloodlines to see on papers are Dash Ta Fame, Special Effort, Easy Jet, and of course Frenchmans Guy.

What are your conditioning and workout routines for both you and your horse(s)? I enjoy weightlifting and try to be in the gym at least 5 days a week. Im blessed to have my parents ranch to be able to ride out in pastures and chase cows. I truly believe working cows is the best thing you can do for a performance horses mind.

When you're headed to the rodeo what do you listen to: inspirational podcasts, music, audio books? I love a true crime podcast. When it's time to get pumped up 90s rock is my go to.

What or who are you thankful for? My family. I really wouldn't be here without my sisters and them both being so gracious to let me run their horses this year. I can always count on them to be completely honest with me when I need help with my riding and my training. My parents are always so supportive when I want to chase my dreams and take chances on myself.

Do you have favorite spots to stop at while on the road?
Not really, but if I'm anywhere by Flathead in the summer, I'm going to stop and get a huckleberry milkshake.

Who do you travel with (including pets or companion horses) and in what kind of rig? My weiner dog Billie is my most consistent travel partner. This summer I traveled with Hailey Garrison, Cierra Erickson, Desirae Peters, Danielle Sparing, and the most important, Cedona Erickson (Cierra's daughter).

What are your favorite memories/highlights and obstacles you faced getting to the 2023 circuit finals?
Livingston was probably my favorite memory from this summer. My horse and I were really struggling, and I almost turned out of the rodeo but thank God I didn't. King came through and reminded me that all the obstacles can lead to a positive. Plains was another great moment, I had only ran Annie's horse, Fling Bux, a few times and he managed to place in a tough rodeo and it was only his 2nd performance ever.

What are your hobbies or other sports you compete in? Horses pretty much take up all spare time so I don't really have any other hobbies.

The Run Down
Saddle: Masters Nulight
Pad: Best Ever spinal support
Leg Gear: Classic Legacy2
Bits:Ruby-Ed Wright Medium Shank smooth snaffle. King - Carol Goosetree 3 piece twisted wire dogbone
Feed and Supplements (in addition to what, how much you feed daily): Bluebonnet Omega force and equiline procare, about a pound of each a day. My horses are always on free choice alfalfa/grass
Additional Care: Acuscope by TOPP Equine Services helps keep my horse healthy all summer
Sponsors: My Parents