Which horse(s) are you taking to the finals? Ican Make U Famous aka Reno
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)? Reno is a gritty, powerful mare who always gives 110%. She is all business and loves her job. Reno is the boss of the trailer! She is 15.2h and about 1200 lbs.
When did you start competing in barrels? I started competing in youth rodeos when I was little. Both my parents rodeoed when I was growing up and some of my greatest childhood memories are traveling to Canada to rodeo as a family.
How long have you been a WPRA member? Since 2018
Do you raise your own horses? Or do you purchase? Are you looking for specific bloodlines? I bought Reno as a 4-year-old from Valee Miller who trained her and put a super solid foundation on her where I was able to take Reno straight to seasoning. I love Dash Ta Fame bloodlines.
What are your conditioning and workout routines for both you and your horse(s)? I like doing intervals on conditioning days and don’t do a lot of barrel work. I like to switch up the terrain when possible to work on different ground types. I have also learned, some days “less is more” when working Reno.
When you’re headed to the rodeo what do you listen to: inspirational podcasts, music, audio books? XM radio or Trey Johnson
What or who are you thankful for? I am so thankful for a supportive family who encourages me and pushes me to be my best. I am also grateful for an amazing God who never leaves my side and provides every step of the way!
Do you have favorite spots to stop at while on the road? Any place that serves fancy coffee! When we are in Baker, we make sure to always stop at The Coffeehouse. They have the best bagels and coffee.
Who do you travel with (including pets or companion horses) and in what kind of rig? I travel mostly with my 2 kids and husband, when he has days off. Taylour Russell as well as my mom hopped in for a few different road trips. Reno’s favorite buddy horse, Benelli, and my mini Dachshund, Cedar, will always be in the rig with me. We travel in a GMC and Lakota rig.
What are your favorite memories/highlights and obstacles you faced getting to the 2023 circuit finals? 2023 was one of the most challenging seasons I have had and it was mostly because of circumstances and road blocks outside the rodeo arena that tried to hinder us. I had more pickup troubles this summer and missed a few rodeos because of break downs. I am so grateful for amazing family and friends, like Taylour, that let me borrow different pickups to help get me to the next rodeo. But through it all, God showed up every single time!
What are your hobbies or other sports you compete in? Both my kids are big into sports. When we aren’t chasing them from game to game, we spend alot of winter time in the gym as a family, playing basketball or volleyball. I also love to play the piano when I get a free minute.
The Run Down
Saddle: Robbie Phillips
Pad: CSI
Leg Gear: Iconoclast or Classic Equine
Bits: Kerry Kelly Hemi
Feed and Supplements (in addition to what, how much you feed daily): Montana Premium Alfalfa pellets with CEP supplements, and free choice Alfalfa/grass hay
Additional Care: TOPP Equine Services, Out Front Performance, Payne-less Solutions, MG Equine Services, Flexineb
Sponsors: TeamCEP, TOPP Equine Services, MG Equine Services