Texas High School Rodeo, Extreme Team News, February by Texas High School Rodeo, Extreme Team News

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jacob lewis & macie renee friess

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The winfree family of Region V

Equine Professionals Edition

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EXECUTIVE BOARD STATE PRESIDENT STEVE DICKEY

PO Box 862, Centerville, TX 75833 903.536.4098 (home) steve@txriatarealty.com

1ST vice president Mike Cook

In This Issue

EXTREME TEAM NEWS Official Publication of the Texas High School Rodeo Association

SPONSOR SPOTLIGHT:

HOLLY DeLAUNE Marketing Director

830.815.1800 • delaune.holly@gmail.com

375 Tokio Loop • West, TX 76691 254.829.1788 • scarface@kencook.net

LAUREN TUTTLE STUMBERG Graphics/Layout Director lauren@distinct-graphics.com 830.249.8020

2ND vice president alan bohlen

PO Drawer 468 • Hondo, TX 78861 830.426.3270 • alanbohlen@yahoo.com

AVA ANDERSON

Advertising ava.anderson@yahoo.com 830.540.3737(H) • 512.576.2275(C)

secretary/treasurer Susan baldwin

704 1/2 Southview Circle • Center, TX 75935 936.590.4447 texashighschoolrodeo@gmail.com

NATIONAL DIRECTOR COTTON GEORGE

PO Box 30 • Martinsville, TX 75958 936.564.8993 (home) cottongeorgetx@gmail.com

PAGE 06

BRIAN ROBERTS

Equine Professionals edition PAGE 08

Junior High national Director john bland

REGION I

REGION II

RAELYN HILL REGION III

ALLISON DANLEY

queen coordinator Dee dee dunda

REGION IV

KAILEY TOAL

8819 Holiday Drive • Odessa, TX 79765 432-413-2358 • prettywoman1965@hotmail.com

73 Breeze Way, Boerne, TX 78006 830.815.1800 delaune.holly@gmail.com

ARIAT PERFORMANCE REPORTERS KENNADY JOHNSON

PO Box 112 • Turkey, TX 79261 806.220.7108 • jeblandnspade@yahoo.com

MARKETING Holly DeLaune

Computer Programmer brian.roberts53@att.net 281.213.9143

REGION V

KALLIE WISENER

jacob lewis PAGE 12

REGION VI

KALLI DAVIS REGION VII

SYDNEY GOLBOW REGION VIII

Delegates at large

KATIE WHITAKER

Mikey Duggan

NATALIE SWENSON

REGION IX

PO Box 1414 • Canyon, TX 79015 806.655.9910 • m.j.duggan@att.net

REGION X

BROOKE BOILES

bill byler

6708 Coshatte Rd • Bellville, TX 77418 979.865.9409 • bbyler@wtbyler.com

macie renee friess PAGE 16

chris wolfe

630 E FM 813 • Palmer, TX 75152 214.403.4638 • chris.wolfe@bldr.com

bubba bennight

Ranch family: The Winfree Family of region V PAGE 19

143 Bailey Blvd. • Bastrop, TX 78602 512.461.6091 • bubbabennight@yahoo.com

robert sbrusch

821 Manor Drive • Angleton, TX 77515 979.848.3805 • sbrusch@sbcglobal.net

student officers

thsraofficers@hotmail.com student president shelby hermann student vice president bailey reina student secretary jimmie smith Queen mckenna greene

THSRA OFFICIAL SPONSORS

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THSRA is a non-profit organization (501-C). Production of this publication was funded by membership dues and is provided complimentary to members of THSRA. Non-members may purchase annual subscriptions for $25.00

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Using Bone Scan as a JoDiagnostic Symons Inc. Tool for the Diagnosis of Select Disorders of the Spine and Pelvis in the Equine

by Jake Her sman, DVM of Animal Imaging

cintigraphy (bone scan) has been used for many years as an aid in obtaining an accurate diagnosis of many abnormalities of the equine axial skeleton. As can be said for most diagnostic aids, scintigraphy should not be viewed as a stand-alone diagnostic tool. Nothing should ever replace the value of a thorough clinical exam to correlate scintigraphic findings with other available tools, such as x-rays, ultrasound or regional diagnostic anesthesia. In this article, we will explore how scintigraphy can be used as a diagnostic aid in select areas using clinical case examples. If a horse is determined to be a candidate for scintigraphy, the horse is exercised (if able) for 10-15 minutes to ensure adequate distribution of the radiopharmaceutical drug. Foot protection is then applied to avoid any contamination of the feet. The legs are wrapped and an IV catheter is placed. The radiopharmaceutical drug (MDP) localizes in areas of active bone turnover. If a pool or vascular phase exam is selected for possible soft tissue injuries, specific areas will be imaged within 10 minutes of the IV injection of a radiopharmaceutical drug. Bone phase imaging is acquired 2-3 hours after injection. Scintigraphy is highly sensitive, but lacks the detail of x-rays. It is a physiologic test for bone remodeling, primarily osteoblastic (boney) activity. A common site for scintigraphy evaluation includes the cervical, thoracic and lumbar spine as well as the pelvis. Often these patients have obscure clinical signs that cannot be alleviated with lower limb anesthesia or the horse is just not competing at the same level as he or she once did. Below are cases where a diagnosis was made with the help of scintigraphy: Osteoarthritis of the Cervical Facets A ten year old Thoroughbred eventer presented for an obscure right front lameness. Attempts at regional anesthesia were unsuccessful; therefore, a bone scan was performed. The horse was administered 200 millicuries of technetium/MDP. An intense area of radiopharmaceutical uptake was noted in the region of the C6-C7 articular facets. Standing digital x-rays revealed an enlarged cervical facet at C6-C7. As an event horse, the possibility of a static compressive lesion was of concern. A myelogram was suggested to rule in or out a compressive lesion. Scintigraphy and radiography (x-ray) played a role in ensuring the safety of both horse and rider in this case. There are likely numerous cases of English and western sport horses with radiographic evidence of facet joint disease. Correlating radiographic and scintigraphic evidence of osteoarthritis of the cervical facets can be useful in which cases may be treated. Treatment typically involves ultrasound guided cervical facet joint injections. It has been reported that fifty percent of clinically normal horses may have degenerative changes of the articular processes of C6-C7; therefore, case selection with applicable clinical signs and diagnostic imaging is important prior to initiating therapy. Abnormalities of the Dorsal Spines of the Thoracic and Lumbar Vertebrae Close, impinging or overriding dorsal spinous processes can be an important cause of pain and clinical abnormalities in a large group of horses. Horses often present with no apparent baseline lameness, but obvious behavior problems or a reluctance to work, especially under tack. Dyson et al. recently reported on a retrospective look at 604 horses comparing scintigraphic and radiographic findings on horses that presented with back pain. They reported that the dorsal spines of T14-T17 were the most commonly effected. Thoroughbreds and older horses were overrepresented. They noted that the more severe the dorsal spine disease, the more likely the patient would have osteoarthritis of the corresponding thoracic facet joints. There was an association between scintigraphic and radiographic grades of the spinous processes. A fourteen year old Quarter Horse gelding used as a barrel horse presented for a full bone scan. The horse had previously been successful; however, of late behavioral issues were noted. He would stretch out, occasionally buck and was painful to palpation of his thoracic and lumbar epaxial musculature. A previous injury was noted on his tailhead. A bone scan revealed moderate intensity uptake in the dorsal spinous processes of T16 through L1 as well as radiopharmaceutical uptake in the area of the 1st and 2nd lumbar vertebral facet joints. Increased uptake was noted in the first coccygeal vertebra. Standing radiographs revealed areas of sclerosis and excessive remodeling between the above mentioned spines. The spines were impinging upon one another without overriding. X-rays did confirm the presence of enlarged sclerotic facets. An old fracture was noted in the first coccygeal vertebra, which was painful on direct palpation. Regional anesthesia of these areas can be rewarding. Often the behavior issues are decreased with local anesthesia of the back. If confirmed, therapeutic options, such as mesotherapy, local injection, shockwave therapy, physical therapy and/or surgery can be helpful. Combining radiography and scintigraphy can be useful in obtaining an accurate diagnosis to facilitate the most effective treatment.

Tuber Ischii Another challenging area to evaluate in the horse is the pelvis. A complete discussion of all of the potential pathologies that may be present is beyond the scope of this article. However, we will use two cases to discuss the tuber ischii and the sacroiliac region. A seventeen year old steer tripping horse presented with a history of an acute left hind lameness that was noted at an event three weeks prior to the bone scan. On presentation, a short caudal phase of the left hind was noted. The caudal thigh musculature was asymmetrically thickened on the left side. Patchy sweating was noted on the left side of the inner thigh. A pool phase study revealed subtle radiopharmaceutical uptake in the area of the left tuber ischii. Bone phase images revealed an intense radiopharmaceutical uptake in the left tuber ischii. Standing digital radiographs of the left tuber ischii revealed a large fracture fragment that was embedded in the semitendinosus/semimembranosus muscle groups. Scintigraphy was useful in directing our diagnostic efforts to an area that is not frequently injured. Sacroiliac Joint Horses that present for poor performance, a decrease in hind limb propulsion, pain over the sacroiliac region or excessive upper limb flexion are often examined with scintigraphy. It is important to remember that we are likely evaluating not only the sacroiliac joint, but possible inflammation in adjacent ligaments, musculature and osseous structures. The amount of soft tissue covering the pelvis influences the images due to loss of signal. Image interpretation is also often confounded by the presence of radioactivity in the bladder. Dorsal and oblique images are critical for a thorough evaluation of the sacroiliac region. A twelve year old Quarter Horse gelding that performs as a barrel horse presented for a recent hind limb lameness that did not respond to regional anesthesia. The horse was administered 180 millicuries of technetium-MDP. Moderate radiopharmaceutical uptake was noted in the region of the right sacroiliac joint on oblique and dorsal views. Pain was noted on palpation of the tuber sacrale region. The right sacroiliac joint was injected. Scintigraphy is a very sensitive diagnostic screening modality for osteoblastic activity in the bone. The challenges of evaluating the axial skeleton in the horse are immense. As demonstrated by the cases presented, scintigraphy can often provide us the information needed to solve diagnostic challenges related to the spine and pelvis of the horse.

Equine Professional's Index Equine Sports Medicine & Surgery page 9 Elgin Veterinary Hospital page 10 Byler Performance Equine page 11 JD Norris, DVM / Equine Dentistry page 13 Selway Equine Therapy page 13 Weems & Stephens Equine Hospital page 13 Brazos Valley Equine Hospital page 15 Kendall County Veterinary Center page 17 Lone Star Stables page 17 Reata Equine Hospital page 17 Bracken Equine Clinic page 31 Texas Equine Hospital page 32 Animal Imaging page 37

Doctors / Owners: Robert D. Lewis, DVM Tommy Hays, DVM

Brian Brandon, DVM Gary Warner, DVM

Marty Tanner, DVM Cody Johnson, DVM

Associate Vets: Lara Shreve, DVM

Kristi Underwood, DVM

512-285-3395 office | 512-285-3398 fax email: evhequine@yahoo.com

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Equine Lameness Evaluation by Wyatt W Winchell, DVM, MS Diplomate, American College of Veterinary Surgeons

hat is lameness? Lameness is an abnormality in the horse’s normal gait or stance and there can be many reasons for a horse to show signs of lameness. There may be pain, a mechanical restriction or even a neuromuscular problem. Veterinarians are responsible for trying to sort through all the possible causes of lameness. This is usually done in a systematic manner and each veterinarian may have a slightly different approach. It is important to determine the cause of the lameness because this will greatly influence the treatment and prognosis for the horse’s lameness. The evaluation is usually started with a good physical examination. The horse’s temperature, heart, rate, and respiratory rate are evaluated. Then the horse’s legs are palpated and any abnormalities in conformation are noted. The horse can then be jogged in hand and may even be placed on a lunge line to evaluate the horse in a circle and at different gaits. Horses will show lameness in different ways. Maybe it is an obvious head nod, a subtle shortness in the stride, or possibly a “hip hike” when the lameness is in the hindlimbs. The lameness will many times be exaggerated or more obvious on the inside of a circle when jogged. Difficult lameness’s can be evaluated with the help of a lameness locater. The lameness locater has three inertial sensors that are placed on the horse and can help localize difficult lameness issues. This can be especially useful in horses that have lameness in multiple limbs. Once the leg or legs that are lame have been identified a more thorough examination of that limb is performed. Is there heat or swelling in the limb? Is there increased digital pulses? Are there any abnormalities in the horse’s conformation? Hoof testers can be used to place pressure around the foot and to help localize any areas of sensitivity that may be associated with the foot. The problem leg is then usually “blocked” (peripheral nerve block) with a local anesthetic. The local anesthetic desensitizes the region and will block the pain stimulus that is causing the lameness. Many times blocks are started in the heel region and after the block has taken effect the horse is again jogged. If the lameness has not improved the blocks are slowly moved up the leg to localize the lameness to as small an area as possible (heel region, foot, fetlock, suspensory ligament, carpus, etc.). Once the region of lameness has been localized radiographs or ultrasound are used to evaluate the region or regions of interest. Radiographs

are used to evaluate the bony structures of the limb (e.g. chip fractures of the carpus) and ultrasound is used to evaluate soft-tissue structures of the limb such as tendons and ligaments (e.g. bowed tendon). If radiographs and ultrasound are inconclusive or if the injury is in a region that is difficult to image a MRI or CT may be needed to help evaluate the injury. Based on the examination and imaging findings a treatment plan is developed for each horse. This may be as simple as rest and antiinflammatories to recommending surgery to correct the underlying problem (such as arthroscopy to remove a chip fracture). It is important to have lameness problems evaluated early. The sooner the problem is identified and steps are taken to resolve the lameness the quicker the horse can return to competition and the less likely there will be a more chronic injury that will affect the rest of the horse’s career.

jacob lewis

The Whataburger Whatakid is selected due to their ability to excel both in and out of the rodeo arena. Whataburger is proud to recognize a THSRA member from each of the ten regions who truly upholds the title “Whatakid!” One of the nominees will be chosen at the State Final Rodeo in June as the Whatakid of the Year. In recognition of this accomplishment they will receive free Whataburgers for an entire year!

by Allison Danley

Congratulations to Jacob Lewis, a 17 year old senior from Stephenville, Texas, for being selected as Region III’s Whatakid! Jacob Lewis has competed in Region III for the past ten years, working his way up from the youth division to the TJHRA and THSRA. Jacob is known in Region III for his competitiveness, his never-give-up attitude, and for his fun-loving personality. His region is proud to be represented by such an accomplished cowboy. At Stephenville High School, Jacob is a member of the National Honor Society and has made the AB Honor Roll throughout his entire educational career. Jacob is also an active member of the FFA. He participates in Ag Mechanics and is on the Senior Skills Team, which he has qualified for state in. When asked about his athletic activities, Jacob replied, “I have had to make sacrifices to be able to rodeo and compete at the level I want to compete at. I stopped playing sports (football and basketball) when I started high school so I could spend more time focusing on rodeo.” A normal day in the life of Jacob Lewis is packed with things to do, but in the end he still manages to make rodeo a priority. “I wake up and go feed my horses and

then it’s off to school from 8:00 to 12:30,” he says. When he’s not at school, Jacob works at the Twisted J Ranch, where he can be found riding horses and checking cattle late into the afternoon. After a long day of hard work, Jacob goes home to practice roping and riding broncs. On the rare occasion when he’s not busy with school, work, or rodeo, Jacob enjoys playing pool and hunting hogs in his spare time. Jacob feels especially grateful to have been blessed with great horses in his rodeo career. “My calf roping horse, Shaggy, is a 9 year old sorrel. He came from Junior Livingston on the Heart Ranch and I’ve had him for about two years. Lane Livingston and I trained Shaggy completely by ourselves,” says Jacob. He admits that Shaggy is his favorite horse, due to Shaggy’s fun personality. “He’s a rascal,” Jacob laughs. He’s also very fond of his heading horse, a 17 year photo by Chutin Flicks old sorrel named Tuf. “He taught me how to rope,” says Jacob. While Jacob has always been one of THSRA Region III’s toughest competitors in the calf roping and team roping, this year he has taken on two new events in hopes of winning the coveted all around title. Traditionally, most cowboys gunning for an all around title in the THSRA compete in the roping events and bulldogging. Jacob, however, chose a different approach, making him the only cowboy in Region III to work the chutes at both ends of the arena. “I’m not big enough to bulldog, but I’m the perfect size to ride saddle bronc,” explains Jacob. He rode his first bronc at Tarleton State University in 2013 when TSU rodeo coach Mark Eakin convinced him to ride a practice bucking horse. “It’s something I’ve always wanted to do,” says Jacob, who is currently sitting second in the region. He also has plans to enter the cutting this spring to help him maintain his current lead in Region III’s all around race. Besides the THSRA, Jacob competes in the Central Texas Youth Rodeo Association, the United States Team Roping Championships, and Ultimate Calf Ropings. Jacob enjoys going to team roping jackpots as well, saying, “I really like the laid back atmosphere and hanging out.” His favorite rodeos to go to, however, are the THSRA Region III rodeos because, “Lots of my buddies go there and it has some really tough competition.” The ‘tough competition’ hasn’t seem to faze Jacob, who has made it to state in the calf roping and / or team roping every year in his TJHRA and THSRA careers. Jacob’s future plans include attending college and getting a degree in accounting or finance. He also plans to compete in the National Intercollegiate Rodeo Association and Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association in calf roping, team roping and saddle bronc riding. Jacob knows he couldn’t have already achieved so much without the many people who support him. “I would like to thank my parents, always my parents, for hauling me to so many rodeos and helping me out. I would also like to thank Junior Livingston and Cody Johnson, both of whom have helped me out a lot. I really appreciate these people,” says Jacob. Congratulations once again to the talented and entertaining Jacob Lewis on being named Region III’s WHATAKID! We are proud to see this honor go to such a dedicated and deserving cowboy.

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Mikey Jo Duggan

hat started out as just a secretary job has turned into a love for the Texas High School Rodeo Association and all the people involved.” says Mikey Jo Duggan. Canyon, Texas is where Mikey has called home her entire life. She was raised in a rodeo oriented family by her parents, Larry and Barbra Duggan, and two older brothers, Jody and Kacey. Mikey wasn’t involved in High School Rodeo due to the fact she was on the rodeo road with her parents. Her dad rodeoed and her mom was a secretary for the PRCA. When she was home and had free time, she enjoyed riding horses. When the opportunity arose for Mikey to follow in her mother's footsteps as a rodeo secretary, she was hesitant, but ten years later she can’t imagine herself doing anything else. She finds so much joy in her job as Region I secretary, and wanted to take her passion for rodeo to the state and national levels. Mikey serves on the Executive Board for the THSRA as a member at large. Along with being a region secretary and a 5th year member of the Executive Board, she has also been a timer at the Texas High School Finals Rodeo, National Junior High Finals Rodeo, and the Nation High School Rodeo Finals Rodeo. Along with all she does for the THSRA, she was selected to work as a timer and secretary for the National Steer Roping Finals and a timer at the Wrangler National Finals Rodeo. She also serves on the Texas Rodeo Circuit board. In her very small amount of free time she enjoys reading, watching movies and traveling. Just like any other rodeo secretary, she would love to see the association grow in membership across the board on both the junior high and high school levels. She also serves on the THSRA scholarship committee and is working hard to increase the scholarships given to our members each year. She believes there are some challenges facing rodeo, but the dedication she sees every weekend at each rodeo tells her the future of rodeo is bright and better than ever. Mikey said “Seeing and getting to share in the excitement of a state championship from

one of my Region I members and their families just makes all the hard work worth it.” To Mikey there is so much more to high school rodeo than winning. She loves seeing kids progressively get better and turn into responsible young adults. Mikey cherishes the bonds that she and everyone else make during their junior high and high school rodeo years stating, “We are all a big family and that’s what I love about my region and the THSRA.”

macie renee friess

by Ava Anderson

CONGRATULATIONS to WHATAGIRL, Macie Renee Friess! This Champion Cowgirl hails from Region 2 and she is a seventeen-year-old, All Around Student at Sonora High School. Macie got her start before she was even of school age by competing at local 4-H play days. She later joined up with the AJRA and became a member in 2006 and 2007. Through the years thereafter, Macie has won several AJRA World Championships in the breakaway and goat tying events.

photo by Jennings

Macie then joined the junior high division of THSRA and has competed at the state level every year since. Friess continues to compete in high school events through Region 2, qualifying for State the past three years in breakaway and goat tying. Macie shares some of her most memorable rodeo experiences by saying, “I would have to say that breakaway roping is my favorite event and the one where I’ve had the most success. This past summer was so exciting for me, because I won State in the breakaway and was able to compete at Nationals. I must add, that going to Nationals has been a goal of mine and it was an amazing experience!” For the past two years, Macie has also qualified in team roping and she says, “This last year, photo by Jennings the team roping was especially memorable for me because my cousin, Gunter was my partner.” She also contributes a significant part of her winning success to her team of horses Nemo and Grinch. In addition to spending a considerable amount of time with her horses, most of Macie’s days are filled with multiple school activities and many extracurricular activities. Friess is an Honor-Roll Student and member of the National Honor Society. Moreover, she has received a number of other notable awards such as: Principal’s Excellence Award, ACT College Readiness Award, and the Computer Science Award. Macie is a member of the Sonora Student Council and currently presides as the council’s Vice-President. She further serves as a Senior Class Representative and her classmates recently elected her as a Homecoming Queen Candidate. Her other extracurricular activities include being a member of the Fellowship of Christian Students and Fellowship of Christian Athletes. Her favorite class is Bible History with Coach Clyde Dukes. A typical weekday for Macie starts around 6:00 AM and after school her hours are filled with various sports activities such as football or track practice. During her last years of high school she says, “I’ve spent time as a trainer for the football team and I also run Varsity track as a sprinter and discus thrower. I was a State Qualifier in track in the 4x100 meter relay.” She recalls some of the sacrifices she had to make over the years and says, “When I started junior high, I had to choose between softball and rodeo. There just wasn’t enough time to practice for both in the spring. After my sophomore year, I decided to give up basketball to focus more of my time on rodeo. That sacrifice has definitely paid off for me and it has helped me become a better competitor.” In the meantime, this All-Around Sportswoman finds herself arriving home from school with the race still being on as she tries to finish up all her chores before dark-thirty. Meanwhile, back at the ranch, a considerable amount of time is spent on roping or goat tying practice. Then there are animals that need to be fed, homework and other school studies to complete. Macie wistfully says, “With what little free time I can squeeze in my hectic schedule, I love to dance … and I really enjoy going to the river and spending time with my family and friends, especially with my two cousins, Bailey Joe and Gunter!” However, it appears that the Friess’ weekends are usually filled to the brim too, as Macie good-naturedly quips, “When we are not off at a rodeo or 4-H event, my Dad usually has something planned for me to do! Macie is an active participants in all sort of 4-H events as she shows meat goats, judges wool and mohair along with judging other livestock events. She is an honorable recipient of the 4-H Gold Star award, along with the distinguished 4-H “I Dare You” leadership award. Macie goes on to say, “I really look up to my Dad. He grew up on this same ranch that I’ve been raised on and I love it as much as he does. My Dad has always been there for me and when I am not doing my best he pushes me to do better.”

endall County Veterinary Center has been serving the Boerne and surrounding communities for over 20 years. Our mission is to provide you with the highest quality veterinary care for not only your highly competitive athlete but also your backyard friend. Our team of veterinarians, technicians, and friendly office staff are committed to providing you with exceptional veterinary care and service. Our veterinarians attend regular continuing education classes and often communicate with specialists locally and at referral centers.

Equine Services: • Pre-Purchase Examinations • Wellness Care • Lameness Examination • Surgery • Reproduction • Time of Need Care • Digital X-Rays

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Our Mission

student officers President - austin vincent vice president 1- klancy best vice president 2- aaron macy Secretary/historian - brent ivy

REGION I

state directors / region officers kirt espenson 1750 CR 628 • Hart, Texas 79043 806.240.0432 • e6calfranch@aol.com

steve mcconnell 425 CR 510 • Hereford, Texas 79045 806.276.5671 • lindam@wtrt.net secretary - Mikey Duggan PO Box 1414 • Canyon, Texas 79015 806.655.9910 • m.j.duggan@att.net

joel kirkpatrick 2388 HWY 82 • Crosbyton, Texas 79322 806.697.2336 • jrtzkirkpatrick@hotmail.com President- Steve Mcconnell 425 CR 510 • Hereford, Texas 79045 806.276.4571 • lindam@wtrt.net

PERFORMANCE REPORT

By Kennady Johnson

– ARIAT Performance Reporter

o Promote the sport of rodeo and the highest type of conduct and sportsmanship and expose its positive image to the general public; o Preserve the Western Heritage; o Offer a privilege of family bonding; o Offer an opportunity of continuing education; o Maintain the highest regard for the livestock. These five key points are what the NHSRA is built upon and what each and every member should strive for each time they enter the arena. We are the future of rodeo and how we act and portray the sport is how spectators and fans will understand it. What separates rodeo from other sports is our athletes. We follow the “cowboy code”- helping someone out even if they are competing for the same check you are. As time passes we move further and further away from what the U.S. was built upon. It’s up to us to keep the western heritage alive in the 21st century. High School rodeo wouldn’t be possible without the support of our entire family. And I can’t think of any better way to spend my weekends than with my family and friends doing

what we love. Although it may just be you and your horse during your run, it took a lot of people and work to get you to that point. It’s never just a one man show. Behind every skilled competitor there is a family that is just as dedicated. The NHSRA and THSRA want to see their members succeed even after their high school rodeo careers are over. For the past two years, the THSRA has given over $185,000 in scholarship money to deserving seniors. If you are interested in receiving a scholarship from the THSRA, you can request an application from your secretary. Applications must be turned in by April 1st. This is an easy and helpful way to help you reach your goals and secure your future. Livestock is the single most important part of our sport. Not only are we athletes, but the animals are as well. Our horses are members of our family, and sometimes they may get treated better than we do. There are 22 rules and regulations put in place to make sure that the rodeo stock is taken care of and treated with the upmost care and respect. A rodeo is way more than just a rodeo. It’s not just a weekend thing that doesn’t take much time or effort. It’s a way of life and a true commitment. Day in and day out we’re living a life that teaches hard work, practice and patience. Are you a part of the mission?

Region I 2013-2014 High School & Junior High Rodeo Schedule March 8 & 9 - Vernon March 16 - Hereford March 22 - Lubbock Club @ Levelland March 29 & 30 - Altus - Rumble on the Red April 5 & 6 - available for weather make-up May 2, 3 & 4 - Tri-State Finals in Vernon

Farm & Ranch Family The folks at McCoy’s Building Supply understand that it takes a lot of hard work and the whole family pitching in to get things done on a farm or ranch. That’s why we’d like to take some time out to salute Texas High School Rodeo Association families who are farmers and ranchers. In our monthly Farm & Ranch Family Spotlight, we’ll feature one family, sharing their story of how they work together as a family to make their farm or ranch successful. The spotlight will run for 10 months; each month will feature a different region. Each Regional McCoy’s Farm and Ranch Family will receive a $100 McCoy’s Gift Card. The McCoy’s Farm and Ranch Family of the Year will receive a $500 McCoy’s Gift Card and will be announced at the 2014 THSRA State Finals.

The Winfree Family of Region V

McCoy’s Farm and Ranch would like to recognize the Winfree Family from Region V as being their Region’s Farm and Ranch Family. Hailing from Orangefield; Will, Carol and their son Jesse run Winfree Ranch where they keep busy with hay production, feeding animals, constant fencing needs, and processing cattle. The Winfrees run cattle on a few thousand acres with most being a cow calf operation and the rest stocker cattle. It goes without say-

ing that running animals on that many acres requires a lot of work Jesse, a Region V member competes in steer wrestling and calf roping and enjoys spending quality time with his family while practicing and getting ready for rodeos. The Winfree’s say that their favorite family activity is to just simply spend time together. Practicing for, traveling to and hanging out at rodeos provides them with a lot of great family and memories. Jesse has a big part in making

the family ranch run smoothly. In fact, he is involved in all parts of the operation, including hay production and feeding. You might call his involvement “on the job training,” as the Winfree Ranch will one day be passed to him and all of these duties will fall to him. This same tradition of passing the ranch on to the next generation has been in practice since 1828 when Jesse’s ancestors started the ranch. Learning from the older generation has been in practice for almost 200 years on their ranch. Carol says, “Our family business is a continuation of many years of hard work put out by previous members. It is a lifestyle, not a choice. It is a passion and a legacy that we hope lives on in our son and will continue to enhance the ranching industry.” The Winfree Family would like to thank McCoy’s for honoring Farm and Ranch Families across Texas. McCoy’s is a true partner with ranching families and the Winfree Family makes several trips to the city of Orange to visit their local McCoy’s Store, where they pick up all of their fencing needs.

“Memories are Priceless”

5455 SE 1800 • Andrews, Texas 79718 432.661.9389 • cfalcon@andrews.esc18.net

student officers President - kynzie rae mcneill vice president - macie friess Secretary - lori hill state directors / region officers charlie falcon

REGION II

secretary - jody mcelroy Box 224 • Balmorhea, Texas 79718 432.940.0385 • secretary@thsra2.com

PO Box 673 • Eldorado, Texas 76936 325.853.2811 • m.mertz@wcc.net kenny stewart 2347 FM 829 • Stanton, Texas 79782 432.458.3439 • kwstewart93@gmail.com

michael mertz

President- dale roberts PO Box 1536 • Seminole, Texas 79360 432.209.4225 • dalrob12@yahoo.com

PERFORMANCE REPORT for a Few Senior Girls

By raelyn hill – ARIAT Performance Reporter

egion II respects their seniors and is already starting to miss them. They all played a role in our love for rodeo and everything that comes along with it. Macie Friess, Collyn Heinrich, Lori Hill, Kara Hurt, and Denise Martinez

Region II 2013-2014 High School & Junior High Rodeo Schedule JR HIGH SCHEDULE: Rodeo 7 & 8 March 15 & 16 | Odessa Outback Region Finals March 29 & 30 | Odessa Outback

are defiantly some seniors who will leave all of us with a little bit of something. Macie Friess, the 2013 THSRA state breakaway champion has been a member of region II all four of her high school years. She loves that region II is just like a family! She said, “If you haven’t had a good day in the arena I can guarantee that at least one person will go out of their way to talk lori hill to you and try to cheer you up.” Macie plans to attend Texas Tech after graduation and go on to become a physical therapist. Another a senior of region II and also a new member this year is Collyn Heinrich. She has been a member of region I in the past and has rodeod since junior high and competes in breakaway, team roping, and barrel racing. She appreciates the level of competition that region II offers and has won many team roping and breakaway team ropings. After her senior year she plans to fulfill her rodeo scholarship to Odessa College and eventually transfer to Eastern New Mexico University to get her law degree. “Rodeo is my life and has provided many life experiences that couldn’t be gained anywhere else, I would never give it up for anything,” are the words of senior, Lori Hill. She started rodeoing in the fourth grade and has rodeod in region II for all of her high school years. She has been the pole bending champion two times in region II. Lori stated that her favorite things about her region are how close she has become to the people and all the priceless memories she has made with them. Kara Hurt a senior who is also new to region II has been around

HIGH SCHOOL SCHEDULE: Rodeo 11 & 12 March 15 & 16 | Odessa Rodeo 13 & 14 March 22&23 | Andrews Region Finals April 4 & 5 | Andrews Cutting August 30 & 31 | Sweetwater

Raelyn & Peyton at san angelo high school rodeo

rodeo her whole life and started rodeoing in the fourth grade. She really likes the great people and great facilities of her region. She has made it to tri-state finals two years and participates in barrels and poles. After completing her senior years she is going to keep training barrel horses and attend college. Another senior from region II, Denise denise martinez Martinez has been rodeoing since she was only three years old. She participates in barrels, poles, and breakaway roping. Denise’s favorite thing about region II is getting to spend time with her family. After wrapping up her senior year she plans to go on to college and become a vet equine. Although our region is losing some amazing people we will also be gaining some new ones. However, no one will ever replace the seniors. Every senior leaving has touched us differently and they will always be remembered.

• A complete line of pelleted horse feeds for every life stage of your horse, backed by over 80 years of experience. • Formulated to target individual needs. • High fat formulas for increased energy; high protein formulas for growth; and high fiber formulas for maintaining a healthy digestive system.

student officers President - Allison danley vice president - Cheyenne Britain Secretary - dakota allen

www.thsra3.com

REGION III

12 Reasons Why YOU Should Be The Next Ariat Reporter

Tired of reading self help from teenagers? Want to feature your region’s awesome new members or champion alumni? Go for it! mike Britain 645 CR 393 • Stephenville, Texas 76401 254.595.0563 • mjbfarmsinc@aol.com

fulton murray 7 Westover Road • Fort Worth, Texas 76107 214.789.4884 • jfmurray3@mac.com

940.365.1548 • mhairford@matadorresources.com

matt hairford 6464 Paradise Drive • Aubrey, Texas 76227

president - mike Britain 645 CR 393 • Stephenville, Texas 76401 254.595.0563 • mjbfarmsinc@aol.com secretary - Kelley Williams 8853 Greenhaven Dr. • Fort Worth, Texas 76179 817.706.8236• kelley.williams@thsra3.com state directors / region officers

PERFORMANCE REPORT

3. At the end of the year, you will receive a $500 scholarship for a job well done. That makes each article worth $45.45 in scholarship money. By ALLISON DANLEY

– ARIAT Performance Reporter

eing an Ariat Reporter is a fun and rewarding way to be a part of your region and the THSRA. Here are 12 reasons why you should consider being the next great Extreme Team News Ariat Reporter: 12. I’m graduating. 11. Being an Ariat Reporter looks good on your college resume and scholarship applications. 10. You will get everyone in your region’s phone number. Think of the possibilities. 9. You just thought you knew your rodeo friends before. Imagine how much closer you will be after you interview them about all of their hobbies, heros, school and rodeo achievements, horse’s personalities, hidden talents, and favorite rodeo memories. 8. If you are interested in pursuing a career in journalism, this is a good way to get some experience and knowledge in that field. 7. Holly, THSRA Extreme Team News Marketing Director, is one of the easiest and funnest people to work with. 6. It’s a great way to find out how you can help out and become more involved in your region and the THSRA. 5. Being the Ariat Reporter gives you a reason to go talk to someone and make new friends. I’ve made a lot of new friends and have become more outgoing as a result. 4. You get to pick the articles' topics!

2. Promote the sport of rodeo! The Extreme Team News goes out to every member of the THSRA - this is your chance to represent the sport of rodeo in a way that will make your region proud. 1. If you have a picture of someone in your region in a Spider-Man costume from preschool that you may or may not be ready to go public with, it can be used to try to convince them to heel for you in college. Being THSRA Region III’s Extreme Team News Ariat Reporter for the past two years has been one of the best experiences of my rodeo career. If you are interested in being your region’s next Ariat reporter, contact your secretary for more information. Remember, being a reporter is a lot of hard work - you have to come up with a topic, get contact information and pictures, interview people, write an article that your readers will be interested in, and meet a deadline. But the job comes with huge benefits as well; from making new friends to receiving a $500 scholarship, you will never regret representing your region as an Extreme Team News Ariat Reporter.

THSRA Extreme Team News Reporters receiving $500 scholarships at the 2013 THSRA finals.

Region III 2013-2014 High School & Junior High Rodeo Schedule Rodeo #9 - Saturday, February 15, 2014 Rodeo #10 - Sunday, February 16, 2014 Rodeos and Finals will be held at Lone Star Arena, Stephenville, Texas

student officers President - Mackenzie Roberts vice president - lainey cooper Secretary - courtney gardner

REGION IV

state directors / region officers jeff Roberts PO Box 158 • Wills Point, Texas 75169 972.742.6593 • droberts@teconcorp.com

jerry wade 9129 FM 2578 • Terrell, Texas 75160 214.663.4977• raelyn.wade@kbm1.com

chuck sinks 555 Sinks Road • Rockwall, Texas 75032 214.869.4719 • ssbarexcavating@aol.com

President- jerry wade 9129 FM 2578• Terrell, Texas 75160 972.524.6880 • raelyn.wade@kbm1.com secretary - debby roberts PO Box 158• Wills Point, Texas 75169 972.742.6405 • droberts@teconcorp.com

PERFORMANCE REPORT

Perfect Love By kailey toal– ARIAT Performance Reporter

his time last year, right before Valentine’s Day, the previous Region 4 Ariat reporter, Sierra Motley, wrote an excellent piece on how we should focus on the Lord’s love for us. Her article stuck out, and stuck with me, and I would like to keep her same idea going with this article. As we enter into February, the month dedicated and abounding with love, we need to remember what 1 John 4:19 says, “We love because He first loved us.” During this month, the focus typically tends to be placed on our love for our significant other or each other. That is completely fine, and great, but we often forget why we love each other. God is the one who has set the pattern and model of love. We all love our livestock, and our sport, and we are able to love them because the Lord first loved us, and taught us what love is. God sent His one and only, perfect Son to die on the cross and take away our sins. For example as, John 3:16, “For God so loved the world, that he gave His one and only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in Him, should not perish, but have everlasting life.” Another example of this would be Romans 5:8, “But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.”

If that isn’t a perfect example of selfless love, then what is? His love for us is incomprehensible. It is far beyond our simple, human expectations or definitions of love. Just as God loves us, we should love one another. As John 13:34 says, “A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another.” We can love one another because of God. God is love. When you are finding it hard to love your horse after a bad run, or someone after a conflict, take a step back and remember how God loves you. God loves when you win or lose, are good or bad, happy or sad, make good grades or bad grades, are cruising through life or having a hard time. God loves us unconditionally, just like we should do to each other. This month there is a special emphasis on love, so it is on our minds, but we should always remember to love one another just as He loves us, and just how deep His love is. This quote from Dieter F. Uchtdorf about sums it up: “Though we are incomplete, God loves us completely. Though we are imperfect, He loves us perfectly. Though we may feel lost and without compass, God's love encompasses us completely. ... He loves every one of us, even those who are flawed, rejected, awkward, sorrowful, or broken.” His love for us is so great. So perfect.

REGION IV RODEO SCHEDULE 2013 – 2014 All Rodeos at Wade Arena - Terrell February 9

RODEO #8 All events except Rough Stock

February 23 RODEO #9 All events except Cutting March 9

RODEO #10 All events except Cutting & Rough Stock

March 2

Weather/Cancellation Make-up Date

March 28-30 FINALS

ALL EVENTS

The Love for Rodeo

President - kacie lummis vice president - jayce young Secretary - kallie wisener

student officers

REGION V

state directors / region officers Gene Arceneaux 13448 Coon Road • Winnie, Texas 77665 409.296.3818 • garceneaux@sigindserv.com

jeff lummus PO Box 646 • Orangefield, Texas 77639 409.313.7765 • jhlummus@yahoo.com

carter elliott 17125 FM 850 • Arp, Texas 75750 903.521.2034 • candjcattle@gmail.com

President- gene arceneaux 13448 Coon Rd • Winnie, Texas 77665 409.296.3818 • garceneaux@sigindserv.com secretary - phyllis arceneaux 13448 Coon Rd • Winnie, Texas 77665 409.296.2014• regionvsecretary@gmail.com

PERFORMANCE REPORT

By Kallie

wisener – ARIAT Performance Reporter

o everyone’s surprise 2013 has already come and gone. For Region V we’ve kicked off the New Year with a rodeo. Contestants of Region V competed hard, as they fought for their points in each event. Many of these contestants here in Region V have competed for their whole high school career, so most of them know to stay on top of the leader board, they can’t afford to miss a rodeo or not place. Being this late in the lesson the competition is tough and it gets more challenging with every rodeo. For Kate Collmorgen, a junior in Region V, she competed in her first rodeo of the season Januarys 4, 2014, marking the halfway point of the Region V rodeo season. Kate has been rodeoing longer than she can remember, but unfortunately she injured her knee causing her to start later in the season. Kate competed in barrels, poles, breakaway, and goat tying, until she blew out her knee at the 2013 THSRA state finals. Last year at state Kate had made it to the short go in goat tying. She ran down the Abilene pen hoping to make a run to qualify for nationals, but instead it took a different turn. Kate stepped off her horse and before she

kate collmorgen photo by Jennings

could get her hands on the goat, it took a hard turn in the opposite direction causing Kate to fall to the ground. Even through the extreme pain of her knee, she didn’t let it get the better of her and she tied her goat. As Kate was assisted out of the arena by paramedics she knew it wasn’t good. Kate was told she had torn her ACL completely in half and also tore her meniscus. Kate was off her horse for 3 months after her surgery. Slowly she began to work her horse and prepare him for when she is able to compete again, after 6 months. On Kate’s first rodeo Kate swept everyone away with a 15.168 in barrels. Not only did she "lay down" a run, but she won the go around. Going into the weekend her main objective was to stay focus and compete to her best ability. In Sundays performance Kate ran a 15.182, winning 2nd in barrels, along with winning 4th in breakaway with a 3.720. Kate said she was very pleased with the way her horse worked both days and ways happy that she roped her calf. Coming into the weekend Kate was at a huge disadvantage, but she didn’t let that stop her. She put the past behind her and performed to her best ability. Not only did Kate come back on back in a winning streak, but Caleb Cogbill as well. Caleb Cogbill is a senior and competitor of Region V from Orange, TX. Being Caleb’s senior year, this is his last chance in high school rodeo to make it all the way to Wyoming. On September 26th, only two days before high school rodeo, Caleb wasn’t expecting to be put in the hospital. When Caleb

2013-2014 Region V Junior High School Rodeo Schedule February 15 & 16: Nacogdoches - Finals

2013-2014 Region V High School Rodeo Schedule February 1-2, 2013 Trinity Valley Expo- Liberty TX March 1-2, 2013 Marshall City Arena -Marshall TX April 5-6, 2013 Nacogdoches County Expo Center-Nacogdoches TX

was practicing steer wrestling, he was running after the steers and was coming off his horse when his horse began to buck making miss the steer and get stepped in the back by his horse. He was rushed to the hospital by a friend, Mrs. Jodi. When they made it to the hospital, he was caleb cogbill told he had broken three ribs photo by Jennings and lacerated his spleen. After a three month recovery he was able to rodeo again. Caleb was released just three days before the January high school rodeo. Caleb came into Saturdays performance winning the steer wrestling and Sunday not only did he win 4th in steer wrestling, but he won 7th in team roping along with his partner Brad Lovelady. Caleb said, "It felt great to be out that long and come back and make good run and show his competition that I'm still going for the win even after missing most of the rodeos." Through his determination and focus on what he needed to do, Caleb never let his injury discourage him. As we all know Region V is the best, and the determination to win that lies in each one of our contestants proves it all. Kate and Caleb never let their injuries interfere with their love for rodeo. Jeremiah 29:11 says “For I know the plans I have for you, plans to prosper you and to give you a hope and a future.” This rodeo season may not be going the way you hoped, but put your trust in Jesus. Jesus promised that He would never put something on us we couldn’t handle. These scriptures remind us that true victory is found in Jesus Christ alone. There is nothing greater than rodeo with God in the middle of it. Through the challenges life may throw at us, never loose “The Love for Rodeo.”

state directors wesley caldwell 3918 Kerr Creek Drive • Gonzales, TX 78629 830.672.3902 • wcaldwell@gvec.org

President - kalli davis vice president - kendra dracoulis Secretary - katie boyd

student officers

REGION VI

secretary - Laura Goodman 4896 Windmill Cove • Waelder, Texas 78959 830.839.4206 • lgoodman4206@gmail.com

pat davis 3833 CR 284 • Hardwood, Texas 78632 830.540.4312 • Patrick.Davis@dps.texas.gov president - bubba bennight 143 Bailey Blvd • Bastrop, Texas 78602 512.461.6091 • bubbabennight@yahoo.com

PERFORMANCE REPORT

By KALLI DAVIS

– ARIAT Performance Reporter

egion VI members and friends had a blast at Cowboy Prom! Everyone looked so nice all spiffed up. So many photos I want to share this week so I am going to cut my article a bit short. This weekend at cowboy prom I was able to spend time with great friends, and I would like to emphasize the importance of friendship.

Proverbs 27:17says, “As iron sharpens iron, so one man sharpens another.” Your friends are the people who help make you better, whether it’s long goat tying sessions or that they are your team roping partner. In so many ways friends help make you better in every aspect of your life, from competition to being a better person. Having friends is the most beneficial part of life, everyone needs people to encourage them

photo booth fun!

prom queen taylor toddy & king reid zapalac Fun at Prom! Cassidy, Kendra, Lauren and Kenna

Region VI 2013-2014 High School & Junior High Rodeo Schedule

morgan brown & stetson schuster

February 8 & 9, 2014 March 8 & 9, 2014

Mckenzie Caldwell and Macy Freidrich

and help them achieve their goals. I am so glad at Region VI we are all friends! Everyone cheers for everyone at the rodeo, and we are all supportive and kind. That is what rodeo is really about, friends! We make so many lifelong friends when we rodeo and that is a true blessing. I would like to thank all the parents who donated money and time to make Cowboy Prom happen, you guys are amazing!!!!!

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TXFB-INS.COM

randy halbert 18710 FM 442 • Needville, Texas 77461 979.793.6414 • rbhalbert@yahoo.com

melissa raley 6100 Hoddeville School Rd • Brenham, Texas 77823 979.830.0878 • melissaraley@texasbb.com

student officers

President- robert sbrusch 821 Manor Drive • Angleton, Texas 77515 979.848.3805 • sbrusch@sbcglobal.net

secretary - anne dollery PO Box 886 • Caldwell, Texas 77836 979.272.2249 • texasjuniorhighrodeo@gmail.com

state directors / region officers brandon bratton 7245 S FM 2038 • Bryan, Texas 77808 979.324.5294 • bratton1974@yahoo.com

REGION VII

PERFORMANCE REPORT

President - kassidy pruett vice president - dakoda leopold Secretary - haley elliston

God’s Plan

By SYDNEY GOLBOW

– ARIAT Performance Reporter

hilippians 4:13 states “I can do all this through Him who gives me strength,” and this is something that is true for all of our Region 7 members. With only three rodeos left, the race for state is getting tougher as we speak. This year has been full of ups and downs for everyone, but it’s safe to say we are ready to see what 2014 has in store for us. All of our contestants are strong in their own ways, but something they all have in common: their competitiveness and dedication. With 20 points between first and tenth place in the calf roping, the drive to win is becoming obvious in all of our runners. The competition gets harder and harder each rodeo. Our barrel racers are showing the fire in their blood for sure with less than four-tenths of a second being the deciding factor for our top ten placings at the last rodeo. The dedication is showing with all of our kids by seeing their improvements with their times. The saying “practice perfect” is taking full effect now as we all fight our way to the state finals. Region 7 warriors are not giving up now and we are proud of everyone for giving their all and giving God all the glory!!

Of course with these positives, also come negatives. We all have bad days and there’s nothing we can do to fix them. Although we do get upset, we have to continue to look for the pot of gold at the end of the rainbow. This may not have been the season to shine for some of our contestants, but that doesn’t mean they can’t shine elsewhere. Our contestants are tough and have the ability to win anywhere. Don’t let anyone let you down Region VII!! This year has been memorable for all of us and we will continue to make this the best year yet. It’s crunch time to qualify for state, so get to work and make your road to state one that you will never forget Region VII!!

Region VII 2013-2014 High School & Junior High Rodeo Schedule

REGION 7 HIGH SCHOOL Feb 16 - 2 rodeos March 2 - 1 rodeo REGION 7 JUNIOR HIGH Feb 15 - 2 rodeos

student officers President - lindy swaim vice president - shelby herrmann Secretary - utah cox MO Cox 16453 CR 1726 • Odem, Texas 78370 361.244.0510 • melindacox2@aol.com

state directors / region officers

PO Box 833 • East Bernard, Texas 77435 281.468.8973 • region8thsra@gmail.com

secretary - Nena Boettcher

REGION VIII

361.396.3102 • lonniebrown3b@yahoo.com

lori herrmann 12614 FM 70 • Sandia, Texas 78383 361.510.8775 • lori_herrmann@yahoo.com leslie pullin 969 S FM631 • Taft, TX 78390 ldpullin@aol.com • 361.528.3140 PO Box 293• Sinton, Texas 78387

President- lonnie brown

PERFORMANCE REPORT

Put the Try in Triumph

By KATIE

WHITAKER – ARIAT Performance Reporter

very accomplishment starts with the decision to try, and once you’ve tried your hardest, the best is surely to come. Constantly falling down and getting back up is a part of life, especially in rodeo. Not every loop we throw curls over the calf’s back and not every turn we take around a barrel is smoking hot, but just because things are not always perfect, giving up should never be an option. Never trying new things or changing something because it didn’t go just right, results in a plateau. The only thing after the plateau is a rocky mountain. The top of that mountain looks impossibly far away, but once you get there the view is unbelievable. The only way to get there is to try. Some people may be better climbers, faster, or stronger, but you have something they don’t; heart. The willpower to dust yourself off and try again is something not everyone has, but once you‘ve found that skill, nothing can stand

in your way. A lot of times we break bones or pull muscles, and the road to recovery seems so long and stark, stretching on for what seems like years. Being hurt is hard when all you can think about is being on a horse or with a rope in hand. Same goes for our companions. Watching the barrels from the side lines because your horse is currently out for the season is never easy, but giving in is not an option. When the time comes to try and run again, it will be all you can bring yourself to think about. Trying to get back in it, trying to do your best, and trying to make the best decisions possible is all part of the game. Sometimes giving in seems easier. And it may be. But the reward is not nearly as sweet. Good things come to those who work and try utah cox photo by Jennings their best. However, not everyone can be the best, but everyone can be their own best. You’ll never know unless you try. When you fall down the only thing that seems fitting to do is to stand back up and try again. Eventually it’ll be in your favor. So when the time comes to look ahead and decide which way to go, don’t choose the road that is wide and flat, choose the jagged road with the bumps. Not every one of those bumps and turns will be fun, but it will surely be worth it. If you don’t try how will you know? The only way to find out is to buck up, tilt your hat down, and put your best foot forward, because there can never be a triumph without a try.

2013-2014 Region VIII High School Rodeo Schedule February 8, 2014

shelby herrmann photo by Jennings

All Rodeos in Sinton, Texas 29

34 Pierce Rd • Huntsville, Texas 77320 936.295.4136 • jwhooks881@yahoo.com

Fired Up!

By Natalie swenson– ARIAT Performance Reporter

appy New Year! I hope that the break from school and rodeo treated all of the High School Rodeo contestants well. Region 9 has its first 2014 rodeo January 26 in Crockett, TX. I have gotten the chance to talk to some of the Region 9 competitors, they are all ready and fired up for what the new year has to bring. Morgan Payne, Junior at Bryan High School Says “I've been practicing everyday weather permitting, and trying to keep my horses in the best shape for the next rodeo.” The drive that is seen in Region 9 this year is nothing like I have seen before. Since Region 9 has not had a rodeo yet for this year I think that an update on the event leaders will sufficient. In the Tiedown, John Douch is leading it with 47 pts. Hayden Rosco and Lane Ardoin are leading the Team Roping with 56 pts. Wyatt Chalmers is leading the Steer Wrestling with 45 pts. Colby Winfrey is leading the Saddle Bronc Riding with 40 pts. Megan Wright is leading the Pole

TEXAS ram DEALERS

REGION IX

President - jake hughes vice president - riley hooks secretary - kelsey thompson

student officers

state directors / region officers john hooks

3951 CR 3385 • Lovelady, Texas 75851 936.348.0220 • starnsranch@windstream.net

chris starns

secretary - kim ackel 19885 Burrell Wingate Rd • Beaumont 77705

409.781.3902 • kimackel@thsra9.com

119 CR 451 • Buffalo, Texas 75831 903.388.6164 • j_w_westbrook@yahoo.com

President- eddie dyson

julie jordan

204 CR 6763 • Dayton, Texas 77535 713.553.6421 • eddiedyson@thsra9.com

PERFORMANCE REPORT

Bending with 58 pts. Morgan Starns is leading the Girls Cutting with 47.50 pts. Tacy Webb is leading the Goat Tying with 55 pts. Kendell Emmons is leading the Breakaway with 55 pts. Colton Currie is leading the Boys Cutting with 46.5 pts. Tristan Mize is leading the Bull Riding with 28 pts. Caley Walkoviak is leading the Barrel Racing with 48 pts. and Dillon Baize is leading the Bareback with 30 pts. I would like to take some time to thank all of the people that keep Region 9 going. Our colby winfrey Region 9 President photo by Jennings and Vice President, Eddie Dyson and Terry Winfrey. Kim Ackle our Secretary. Our State Directors, Board Members, Arena Directors, and Adult Event Directors. Students it is important to understand that without these people there would be NO Region 9. So make sure to you say thank you when you see these people. I look forward to reporting back to you about Region 9 rodeo number 8 and 9, in Crockett, Tx January 26. Region 9 members don't forget that report cards, state ads, and all tickets are to be turned at rodeo #8. Any questions talk to Mrs. Kim - kimackle@thsra9.com.

2013-2014 Region IX High School Rodeo Schedule January 26, 2013

kendell emmons photo by Jennings

Rodeo #8 & #9

Crockett

February 23, 2013 Rodeo #10 & #11

Groesbeck

March 22, 2013

Huntsville

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student officers President - maverick harper vice president - parker cudd secretary/tres. - lydia bierschwale vanessa halford 1817 CR 177 • Stephenville, TX 76401 254.595.1211 • vanessa.halford@sville.us

jerry wright 434 CR 315 • Oglesby, Texas 76561 254.290.4965 • jerrywrighthomes@hughes.net secretary - leigh ann flores PO Box 243 • McGregor, Texas 76657 254.722.0795 • region10rodeo@att.net

state directors / region officers

marty mcfall 1701 CR 135 • Brownwood, Texas 76801 325.642.4108 • mdmac76801@yahoo.com president - jerry wright 434 CR 315 • Oglesby, Texas 76561 254.290.4965 • jerrywrighthomes@hughes.net

PERFORMANCE REPORT

Colby Armour

Competing and Having Fun!

By BROOKE

BOILES– ARIAT Performance Reporter

eek God and opportunity will seek you, but once He supplies us with that opportunity it is up to us to do something with it. Throughout the confusion or the doubt you may question yourself with, you are becoming exactly who you are ment to be. The THSRA serves a remarkable role in creating future champions and legendary one of a kinds. I questioned Colby Armour, a Junior from Weatherford, about her thoughts on HSR. She stated "It is a great way to learn how to compete, be successful, and become friends with people who have the same ambitions to win. Her favorite part of HSR is Being able to compete amongst friends and have fun while doing it. When asked what she hopes to accomplish this year she said "My goals for this year are to make state and continue to focus on conquering the main obstacle, which is making nationals. I've made it before and once you make you never lose the thirst to do

it again." she is still undecided about her future, but Has thought about getting a degree in the medical field or criminal justice. She does though, know that she intends to college rodeo wherever she goes. When asked about how HSR is helping her She answered, "It is preparing me to transition into the college rodeo experience and it has taught me responsibilities other sports couldn't. I appreciate the horses I have been blessed with, who have helped me to grow into the competitor and roper I am today." Along with the rodeo standing as so much for so many, so do those who stand to support the competitors. For Colby her family is her biggest support team! She said "If I'm having an off practice roping, Dad always knows the right things to say to make me focus and be aggressive. My mom and sister are there to bring my up after I have a bad rodeo or to congratulate me on my win. Without my family I would not be where I am right now in my rodeo career." So, to all those who make the THSRA possible, it is greatly appreciated! I know there are numerous points of view just as strong as Colby's, and to you, Colby, Goodluck and God bless in all you do! We wish the same to everyone else, and hope to see greatness!

2013-2014 REGION X HIGH SCHOOL RODEO SCHEDULE Wildfire Arena, Salado

February 15-16, 2014 March 1-2, 2014 33

JUNIOR HIGH

Texas Junior High Rodeo Association News Letter from the TJHRA Secretary

ear JH Members and Families: When I write the February column I am always getting ready for Mid Winter Conference. We take all the youth state officers Junior High and High School each year. This year we are headed to West Virginia. This morning around 6:15 am I received a text from the Eppright’s who went early to enjoy some skiing since Cullen will be in meetings while we get a little free time to have some fun in the snow, later in the week. The text I received this morning give me real mixed emotions about our trip….you know how cold it has been this winter, well the next polar air is to arrive in West Virginia on Tuesday, the majority of us fly out on Wednesday. I have never been to West Virginia and not really looking forward to the freezing weather, but to gear myself up I know that Texas is going to be there and we will be representing the great state of Texas! So off to the store I go to get a few more hand and feet warmers! If you would like to be able to go and represent Texas at different activities in the state and out of the state, you might want to consider running for a state office. The forms will be in your state package when you sign up for state, or if you do not make it to state I can always send you one by email, all you have to do is ask. They are due May 1, 2014 and the election will be during the state finals, this is open to anyone that is a member in good standing with TJHRA. Our officers are really busy beginning this week and then with all the major stock shows coming up they will be visiting those as well to actually shake hands with our sponsors. With that being said, we are currently looking for sponsors for our live web feed during the finals. We are going to be showing on our own website this year so we will be able to show case anyone that is interested in a better way this year. If you are reading this and would like to show case your business or show support for our junior high state finals, please contact me. Don’t forget to keep up your studies so you will not have any trouble getting out of school for the state finals. If you need a letter for your school email me. Happy Valentines! Anne Dollery P.O. Box 886 Caldwell, TX 77836 Texasjuniorhighrodeo@gmail.com 979-272-2249 (office) 979-412-2551 (cell) 979-272-1072 (fax)

www.tjhra.org 34

Texas Junior High Rodeo Association News

NEW BEGINNINGS

By MOLLY ATKINSON– TJHRA STUDENT VICE PRESIDENT

he beginning of a new year is the best time to start fresh and make goals to get your life moving in the right direction. Always remember goals cannot be too big or too small. Setting

goals will better yourself and give you something to work towards to, to accomplish. Whether your goals are for rodeo or school is your choice. Goals can drive motivation and ambition. They give you something to work and strive for each day. There are an unlimited amount of goals that can be set. Just remember to be realistic with your goal. There are a few steps you should consider when setting your goals for the New Year that will suit you best. First, think about the big picture. Ask yourself what you want to do to better yourself. You can also set short-term and long-term goals throughout the year depending on the circumstances. For some people it is much easier to set a short-term goal instead of a long-term goal. Writing down your goals and putting them somewhere as a reminder every day is a good way to work for your goals each day. It is a good idea to create goals for different all the different aspects in your life. It is smart to make goals that are measurable. Once you reach your goal, reward yourself. Accomplishing a goal will boost your confidence and self-esteem and make you feel do about yourself. There is a small amount of the population that makes goal and sees them through. You should feel great about yourself for setting a goal and accomplishing the goal. Remember ALL things are possible. Good luck with all your endeavors in 2014!

A CLOSE RACE

By hayden cape -

TJHRA Region I Vice President

s the second semester of Region 1 Jr. High rodeos are about to get underway, the boys All Around race is a close one with True Lacina leading Cody Harter by a mere 10 points. However Shelby Espenson seems to have a commanding lead in the girls All Around contest. With 2810 All Around points, True Lacina of Amarillo, hopes to maintain his lead throughout the second semester of

rodeos. True is an 8th grader who competes in the goat tying and all of the roping events including calf, ribbon and team roping. His favorite event is team roping where he is a heeler for Jace Bland. They currently lead the team roping in year end points. True said his favorite thing about being in Region 1 is “everyone knows everyone and mostly everyone gets along.” Cody Harter is on the hunt for the boys All Around Title as well with 2800 points, putting him in second by only 10 points. He competes in goat tying, chute dogging, and all the roping events as well. He currently leads the calf roping and the chute dogging for Region 1. Cody likes calf roping the best stating that it is a family thing. Shelby Espenson an 8th grader from Hart, Texas is number 1 in the girls All Around by 305 points over Robbyn Wells halfway through the season. Shelby is very busy in the practice pen and at rodeos as she competes in breakaway roping, barrels, poles, goat tying, team and ribbon roping. Shelby currently leads the goat tying, although her event is the breakaway roping, “because I have lots of help and it is fun.” With just six weeks left before the first Region 1 Jr. High rodeo begins, the true lacina All Around races look to be photo by Jennings exciting!

cody harter photo by Jennings

shelby espenson photo by Jennings

Texas Junior High Rodeo Association News

Life is a Journey, So Enjoy the Ride!!!

By Kenzee kent -

TJHRA Region II

t seems like just yesterday I was a 6th grade rookie just beginning my junior high rodeo career. It is surreal that as I look at myself in the mirror, I see an 8th grade refection looking back at me. These past years have flown by and I have learned that competition is a major component of any rodeo cowgirl or cowboy, but it is the friendships and memories made that mean the most. As I reflect upon my junior high rodeo career, I see reflections of memories of great times at region 2 rodeos, state rodeo finals at Gonzales and even a life changing experience of getting to compete at the National Junior High Finals in Gallup, NM. This year the competition at Region

2 has been bigger and tougher than ever before. The number of region 2 rodeo contestants has doubled from the past year. The fierce competition for the coveted All -Around Cowgirl and Cowboy titles are the tightest I have ever seen. The top three contenders for the All -Around Cowgirl spot is only separated by 290 points. Bradi Good, from Midland, is leading at the moment with 3210 points, Kenzee Kent (myself) from Smyer, is in a close second with 3110 points, and rounding out the third place position, is Kenna McNeill from Hobbs, NM with 2820 points. The boyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s competition is just as tight. Tyler Handley, from Odessa, is leading with 3035 points, Tyler West of Mertzon is in a close second with 2850 points and rounding out the third place position is 6th grader Colten Green from Rocksprings with 2810 points. As the last four rodeos to be held in Sweetwater and Odessa will conclude the season, it will be a battle to the end. I can almost envision the practice sessions that will take place in order to prepare for the battle. However, I know in the end that it is not who wins or loses, it is the friendships and memories that we will all remember for years to come. Life is a journey, live it to the fullest and enjoy the ride!

TJHRA 2014 STATE FINALS DATES: May 25 - May 31, 2014

THSRA 2014 STATE FINALS DATES: June 8 - June 14, 2014

NJHFR DATES: June 22 - 28, 2014 - Des Moines, IA | June 21 - 27, 2015 - Des Moines, IA

NHSFR DATES:

July 13 - 19, 2014 - Rocksprings, WY | July 12 - 18, 2015

2013-2014 JUNIOR HIGH STATE DIRECTORS EXECUTIVE BOARD NATIONAL DIRECTOR JOHN E. BLAND 940-537-1354

jeblandnspade@yahoo.com

PRESIDENT TROY ASHFORD

tashford@farmersagent.com

254-721-0909

1ST VICE-PRESIDENT VICKIE JAROSEK 254-774-8303

vickie@bettertreesoftexas.com

DELEGATE JOHN ATKINSON 979-482-2018 DELEGATE CINDY CLAYTON 254-485-9466 DELEGATE AMANDA GORHAM 830-676-3373

gypsydoll75@yahoo.com

DELEGATE JASON KEY

936-558-8326

key.jason@ymail.com

DELEGATE TONY LACINA

806-676-1042

nobaro@sbcglobal.et

midtexlivestock@hotmail.com clayton@our-town.com

DELEGATE CHUCK SINKS 972-771-5721 ssbarexcavating@aol.com SECRETARY ANNE DOLLERY 979-272-2249 adollery@aol.com

STUDENT OFFICERS

PRESIDENT CULLEN EPPRIGHT 830-857-4144 crope@gvec.net V.PRES MOLLY ATKINSON 979-482-2020 midtexlivestock@hotmail.com SECRETARY IMA CHAMPION 903-388-8129 Tobachampion@yahoo.com PRINCESS AUBRIE FIELDS gsfields@fivearea.com STATE DIRECTORS REGION I GARY FIELDS KENT HALEY JEREMY MC CASLIN

806-946-6138 806-670-2174 405-520-5206

gsfields@fivearea.com kent@championfeeders.com jeremy.mccaslin@sheherddistribution.com

REGION II KEITH KENT 325-665-6050 SHORTY SHAW 432-686-8103 KENNY STEWARD REGION III MIKE BRITAIN 254-595-0563 KEN BRAY 817-219-0436

mjbfarmsinc@aol.com kbray@equibrand.com

REGION IV DAVE CLARK

tricbad@embarqmail.com

903-880-5919

keith@randkautoplex.com shorty@shortysrentalcenter.com To Be Seated in October

REGION V C.J. BOSWELL 936-275-8443 SHANE MARTIN 936-462-3413 REGION VI NATALIE BENNIGHT 513-304-8507 MICHAEL ISELT 979-540-8863 ROBIN ZELLA 830-424-3024

nbennight@yahoo.com iseltpaint@aol.com rzella@me.com

REGION VII CHRIS OATES 936-661-1783 DEE ANN RAWLINSON 979-578-1420

chrisoates@sbcglobal.net drawlinson@reatarealty.com

cjboswell64@gmail.com rebeccamartin97@yahoo.com

REGION VIII MATT SCIBA 361-571-7888 matt@lifepointevictoria.com KELLIE BEAL 361-220-2533 cowgirlkellie@gmail.com JASON UNDERBRINK 210-854-7718 jasonunderbrink@yahoo.com REGION IX DANNY TAYLOR 979-255-6945 taylorfarrier@aol.com Jim Hodges 936-661-2480 jim@hbi-inc.com JOHN SCHUENEMAN 979-268-4994 jschueneman@shorthornres.com REGION X TRENT BOATRIGHT 512-630-5962 cimarronstorage2@verizon.net JOHN DOWNING 254-770-7064 cdowning@vvm.com BLAKE RUSSELL 512-778-5301 blake.russell@viagen.com

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