END OF THE YEAR KICKS OFF A NEW SEASON

at my best.” She always strives to do her best. Gracie Callaway is back and stronger than ever, after taking a year-long break. Taking herself back to ground zero had to be difficult but earning 2nd in poles was definitely rewarding. Mentally preparing yourself for a run is definitely one of the easiest times to overthink, but when you’re just sitting there relaxing with your horse, it’s much easier to get yourself mentally prepared.

Garrett Talamantes has a lot on his plate, but learns how to balance it well. He is our state president and while fulfilling duties as such, he also has a passion for riding and music. As he balances those, he keeps a distinct quote that his father gave him, “Rodeo fuels the music and music fuels the rodeo.” Singing the national anthem at regions is why he started singing in the first place. When performing, he definitely gets a lot of support from family and our region 8 family. He will never take anything for granted with all the amazing opportunities, and feels that we compete in one of the toughest regions. It always comes down to the wire and you have to push for it more and more. Being a state qualifier amongst these athletes makes all the hours, pain, and sacrifices all worth it in the end.

Taylor Gessley is not only a cowgirl who made it to state, she also made the qualifying run to the American qualifier! This will always be something she remembers, and her words “Always do your best” are something she truly lived by to make this happen! And, making her horse feel the best is one of the most important things to her, from doing magnet blankets to letting her horse work in the arena. She is ready for state and to have a fun time learning from this awesome experience!

These athletes are just some of the amazing people at region 8 who put their best feet forward to represent us well. This year, state will be in Abilene, and we will be up against some of the toughest competitors in Texas. The morning of state, we celebrate state qualifiers for all of their hard work and accomplishments. After that it’s time to let loose and have some fun with awards and rodeo prom where we’re all very excited for the glitter, fancy dresses, and tuxedos!