Rodeoathletes0715 2nd by Rodeo Athletes

February 2015

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Letter From

Valorie Smith

My husband and I have been organizing and promoting rodeos for over 15 years, and my two boys have a combined twelve National Rodeo Championships with one more son making his own splash. In fact, Garrett Smith rewrote history by winning three National High School Rodeo All Around Titles and Wyatt Smith is a 2015 WNFR Qualifier. I guess you could say that equine sports are in the Smith’s blood. Once you combine our family’s love for rodeo with my expertise and skill in marketing, you have a combination, which is unbeatable when it comes to planning and executing the perfect branding and promotional campaign or materials for your rodeo or western product. My company, Rodeo Graphics, is a dedicated marketing agency whose primary focus is working with those in the equine and rodeo industry. We have the history of working with some of the world’s biggest clients and rodeo athletes and helping them to remain at the top of their field. Working with Rodeo Athletes just seemed like the perfect fit. Combining two companies that both love to promote cowboys and encourage the innovation of the rodeo world. Having two professional athletes going down the road, I know first hand how tough it is to make a living as a rodeo cowboy. The sport is definitely for those that love the western heritage and way of life. My goal is to help make a change to the rodeo industry so that the majority of professional cowboys and cowgirls have the opportunity to earn a 6-figure income. Valorie Smith

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Table of

Contents

Casey Martin

CSI Pads

Reese Riemer

Cassidy Kruse

Jesse Stipes

FROM ONE GENERATION TO THE NEXT

With roots dating back to 1876, Burns Saddlery has a legacy of custom, handmade goods proven to stand the test of time, both in story and quality. These are products worth passing on.

Bloomer Trailers High School Rodeo Team

Burns Custom Ranch Saddle with full tooling and chocolate gator seat

ack when Custer and the U.S. 7th Cavalry were having their Last Stand in 1876, a cowboy named Miles Lamonie Burns with his skills in blacksmithing and leather working opened a retail shop in Utah. He sold handcrafted saddles and harnesses starting a legacy seven generations strong. Burns Saddlery is the world’s oldest Western retail business to stay in one family, and maintains the focus of handmade artistry that began in 1876 with Burns Custom Hats and Burns Custom Saddles, both lines of products handmade in Salina, UT.

BURNS CUSTOM HATS

“I grew up knowing that tradition was incredibly important,” said sixth-generation owner Braydan Shaw. “I am honored to contribute to the Burns legacy of hard work and creativity with Burns Custom Hats. Hat making is nearly a lost art, and I love that at Burns every step is executed by expert hands. Come on in and let us custom fit and shape a hat just for you. It will be your most iconic accessory.” Every Burns Custom hat is burned with a hand torch to remove excess long fibers, lock the barbs of the beaver felt and smooth the hat. Sanding gives the brim and crown a silky-smooth finish. A light coat of oil is then applied to even the color and texture of the hat body. After burning and sanding, the hat is blocked to size and the brim is pressed. Then the calf-skin Burns Custom sweatband is individually sewn into each hat along with the satin liner. Near the end of the hat construction, each hat is steamed and hand-formed to the desired crown and brim style. Burns master hatters take special care to ensure ideal shape and fit. Burns Custom Hats use only premium rabbit blend and pure beaver bodies. These hats will last a lifetime.

Beau Clark

Burns Saddlery

Jordan Ketscher

2015 Spring line of grosgrain ribbon trimmed Burns Custom Hats

Clint Laye

Meghan Johnson

Callie duPerier

Alexa Lake

Reid Barker

BURNS CUSTOM SADDLES

Steps in the hat-making process. Above: steaming, Right: sanding. Below: shaping the crown.

A Burns saddle is bench made by a skilled craftsmen right here in the USA. Each saddle is individually made with the highest quality Hermann Oak leather and the utmost attention to details. Even though you won’t see it, each layer of a Burns saddle is bowlingball-smooth and finished as if you would. Next, saddle makers spend extra time on the seat position, carefully ensuring the correct location of the seat pocket to provide even weight distribution along the horse’s back and balance and comfort for the rider. There are two separate methods of installing the rigging to ensure that they are set perfectly square with the tree. Using the traditional nail and string method checked by a laser level guarantees the riggings are correct. Burns pays particular attention to the leg swing on their saddles, making sure you get the appropriate positioning for athletes’ members. whateverfamily your riding application may be. Tooling, carving, dyes, and all painted backgrounds are carefully done by hand. Stop by Burns Saddlery in Salina, Utah and see firsthand the workmanship going in to every Burns Custom Hat and Burns Custom Saddle. It happens every day right in the store, 95 West Main, Salina, UT.

Payson Smith

Kelly Tovar

Photos provided by the

RodeoAthletes.com

For information on advertising or other inquiries, visit our website at www.rodeoathletes.com, email info@rodeoathletes.com or call us at (623) 777-9451. Head Saddle Maker Matt Wanner in action. Wanner is a true artist, as it is very hard to get him out of his “zone” when he is making a saddle. Wanner’s tooling is something you don’t see every day.

The publisher is not responsible for the accuracy of the articles in RodeoAthletes.com Magazine. The information contained within has been obtained from sources believed to be reliable. Neither the publisher nor any other party assumes liability for loss or damage as a result of reliance on this material. Appropriate professional advice should be sought before making decisions. ©Copyright 2015.

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in by: Shawna Mart

Casey Martin Casey is a big man with an even bigger heart, and has an outpouring love for all children. He is an amazing daddy! He teaches the kids to always follow their dreams and to keep Jesus in their hearts. 10 |

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When Casey and I met, 13 years ago, I had no idea about this thing calledrodeo life, and I definitely didn't have a clue about steer wrestling! I asked, “You do what again?”“What the heck is bull doggin’?” My parents and I had to get used to him coming over very late and very filthy! The first time I complained, he said, "I rodeo, so I have to practice a lot. Are you sure you are okay with that? Please tell me now." I had no words to answer that. I saw his passion for this sport for the first time and didn't understand; I had never been to a rodeo. I will never forget going to a practice with him for the first time at Eric Savant's place. I really saw his drive, passion, talent, and dreams flash before my eyes! He left for the summer shortly after; the longest summer ever! I had a lot to absorb. I really liked him, but thoughts boggled my mind. "This is what my summers are going to be like if I marry this guy? What if we have kids?" But I missed him more than he could have ever imagined. In a very short time, his dreams became mine and I supported him 100%.

I will never forget his first Pendleton, Oregon win in 2008. Money was tight, and we had our three girls, (two, 15 months, and newborn), plus being evacuated due to a hurricane. It was special, because we were with his mentor, Mr. Tom Carney. He believed in Casey, and knew his talents. I was questioning myself a lot about his career choice, but after hearing the excitement in his voice, a huge peace came over me and I knew that God had a plan and He would always provide for my family. After the 2013 summer run, I had a melt-down. I told Casey, "That's it! Next year we are getting a rig and going with you! He calmly said, "Okay dear we will see." That next month, a much needed trip fell into our laps and just the two of us were off to Mexico! We had an amazing time, and a few weeks later the pregnancy symptoms hit me! I had to quickly ditch the new rig idea, and for nine months our family would sing, “Blame it on Mexico!" The following summer, I delivered our sweet, beautiful, blue-eyed boy.

In college, Casey again proved himself to be a big man. At that time our local college only offered a $500.00 rodeo scholarship, so Casey worked his way through college as a carpenter, was on the MSU rodeo team, and went down the PRCA road on his permit.

Besides naming our children, Casey is the easiest person to please! He loves eating left-overs, mainly because it's free, but easy for me! I could cook fish sticks out of a box, and he's happy. However, if I serve

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that for my family meal, his brothers will throw them at me! He is the most positive person I know, and inspires those around him to "be more.â&#x20AC;? I can't vent to him about a hard day with the kids anymore, because he will send a very humbling reminder text after I'm done. He tells me often, "people that mind don't matter, and people that matter don't mind." If you say the word "can't "around him, you will hear "can't never could do nothing!" Besides keeping me in line, Casey has a great sense of humor. He likes to tell people that if it wasn't for

him, I would've ended up in a "crazy house" somewhere - not true by the way! Casey is a big man with an even bigger heart, and has an outpouring love for all children. He is an amazing daddy! He teaches the kids to always follow their dreams and to keep Jesus in their hearts. It's very comforting to know that when he's away, he enjoys attending the special needs rodeos. He goes as much as he can to serve. He loves to make the day all about them, and he tells me that seeing the kids' faces

light up is priceless. I am so blessed to have this very special cowboy, and I can't imagine my life any other way. I asked the kids to share one thing that they love about their daddy: Reese(9) He teaches us to follow our dreams and never give up! Sydna (8) That he rodeos! Therese (7) He's sweet! Waylon (5) When he gives me hugs and a kiss before he weaves(leaves)! Woodrow (3) Daddy is 28! Slaydon (1) A few fun facts: He loves hunting, playing cards, making bets and taking naps. He's a great heeler and excellent carpenter. He's probably going to kill me for this one, but if you are ever with him at the Mirage during the NFR, ask him what color the Christmas tree is across the street! Caseyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Parents When our sixth child was born, we named him, Zacheus, (the little man in the sycamore tree along Jesus' route). Well Casey is not, by any means, a little man. But his attitude is like the man in the scripture, ready to do whatever it takes to be the best man that he can be, both in the rodeo arena, and at home. When Casey was a little boy, he was a model of dedication and hard work. It was not uncommon to see him in the mud, in the rain, trying to exercise his lamb to compete in the 4-H shows. To Casey, it wasn't about winning; it was about doing the best that he

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could. In the high school arena he always took the re-ride on his saddlebronc, even if he was the only one that covered a horse. Several times he left the pen with no points, because the second horse was an eliminator. When he missed winning the all-around by one point, I think that we were more disappointed in him, but he set me straight. He said, “Dad, the more we get, the more we want.” He has always been okay with himself as long as he knows he gave 100%. In college, Casey again proved himself to be a big man. At that time our local college only offered a $500.00 rodeo scholarship, so Casey worked his way through college as a carpenter, was on the MSU rodeo team, and went down the PRCA road on his permit. The only time he asked me for help was to buy a trophy saddle from him, so that he could buy his books for

school. In college, he met his beautiful wife-to-be, Shawna. Casey had never had a problem with following my advice. I asked him to finish college before he bought his PRCA card, and when he got out of college I said, “Casey, there's no reason for you and Shawna not to tie the knot.” Shortly afterwards, that sacred knot was tired. Before they had gotten too serious in their relationship, Casey made sure that Shawna understood the sacrifices that the wife of a rodeo cowboy would have to make; which his beautiful bride embraced with love, but that didn't keep his rodeo buddies from playing, "If I Make It To Cheyenne," at the wedding reception. Speaking of Casey's traveling partners, The Lord has made sure that his friends would be like him. When

Shawna was pregnant with their fifth child, Casey was in South Dakota and she went into labor. After a 90mph trip in the airport, Todd Soon getting a $600 speeding ticket at gunpoint, and Casey running full speed into the airport, he made his flight home in time for little Woodrow to be born. Now my only regret is that since Casey hit the winning circle, I've lost a good carpenter. He used to have to work for me between rodeos to make ends meet. But I guess that's okay. I think I am most proud of the father and husband that he has become, especially in the trust that he has in Jesus as King of his family and the fact that he finds a church for Holy Mass wherever he might be on the rodeo trail. I am proud that that is my son!

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ther) o (M e y a L y r r e by: T

Clint Laye Clint was one very fun kid to raise. He never wanted to be a kid. His sister(Raina) sometimes could talk him into playing school or other childhood fun, but for the most part he just wanted to be a grown up. Rodeo Athletes Magazine / July 2015

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hen you asked me to write some stories about Clint as a kid and how he grew up I had so many things to say. But I realize they can’t all be published so I have narrowed it down to a few key ones. As a mom I am so proud of him I could write an entire book. You just take what you need. For starters to get a feel for his mixed up lifestyle. We (Darcy-Clint’s dad and myself) were both raised on cattle ranches in Alberta (Darcy’s family being rodeo competitors, mostly steer wrestlers). We also own our own small ranch, that neither of us was lucky enough to be born with a silver spoon in our mouths we also hold down off-farm work. As much as we would have liked it we never got to be full time ranchers. Darcy always competed at rodeos. Mostly steer wrestling, but he did some roping also. He held his pro card for some of his career but weekend rodeos were more what we could do. I started to barrel race after the kids were born. We always went as a family. If we lost Clint we could always find him down at the rough stock end. It was usual to find him behind the chutes or in the clown barrel. When he learned to enter the mutton busting there was no stopping him. He knew how to find the sheep and seemed to find where to ask. We would try to tell him there was no mutton busting and he would get so mad at us if he found out different. Mutton busting was usually in between Steer Wrestling and Barrel Racing so we tried to dodge it. Clint was one very fun kid to raise. He never wanted to be a kid. His sister (Raina) sometimes could talk him into playing school or other childhood fun, but for the most part he just wanted to be a grown up. He demonstrated determination when he was young. He memorized the

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Kenny Rogers song “Gambler” before he could read. He played it over and over on the cassette player until he knew every word. Then he sang it at the Canadian Cowboys Association year end banquet on stage for all to hear. He decided to do that on his own. I remember he used to come to the hayfield with us and ride in the tractor to bale. He would steer the tractor with one of us behind him but one day we had so much to do we put him on the one tractor alone and he shadowed alongside my tractor to bale all by himself. He might have been eight or nine years old. He never made one mistake. He had that job figured out to the exact art. I’m sure if I had a pin I could have popped his chest it was so full of pride! It actually brought me to tears he looked so big over there. I tried to never treat him like a little kid; I just knew he didn’t like it. I really miss those days. Scott Guenthner, CPRA/PRCA steer wrestler, was one of Clints friends as a kid. Scott always had ponies that he broke and sold. Clint started to do some of that too. They were pretty good little business men. They had some pretty tough days with the ponies. Lots of buck offs, duck outs and runaways. The boys mostly won over on the ponies. There were a few stinkers that were fair miserable. One in particular by the name of Checkers, he was a crafty boy. He was smart as a whip and did nearly every job, but when he took a notion to pile the rider it was quick and usually painful. I remember Clint coming up to the house rather beaten looking one afternoon and he told of Checkers giving him a dirty duck out then piled him and Clint did look pretty sore. I told him there was one place for a pony like that, Fort Macleod (horse meat packing plant in Alberta) on a meat hook. Well, he kept Checkers for three more years. Guess he didn’t agree with me. The ponies ended out being “all around” ponies. Usually could do everything from jumps,

When Clint put his mind to something it happened. He decided in grade 11 that he wanted to finish high school as fast and painlessly as he could. He wanted to home study to finish. The way he viewed it school got in the way of rodeo.

barrels, roping, wagon racing and ranchwork. My favorite thing was watching them teac a few to jump one day. Raina ran a plastic pipe through the steer runback alley in our arena about a foot high. Clint jumped on the pony at the end thenkicked him up to galloping and Scott chased it with a stick to make certain it would go over the jump and not stop. Each trip back Raina would raise the bar! Those ponies were good jumpers after. One weekend Tanner Byrne (PBR Bullrider now)came to spend a weekend. The boys hitched up a team of ponies and were playing chuckwagon racing. For some reason Tanner was on the lead pony riding it. He came off and got run down by the wagon. They said he was a bit stunned but they sure laughed about it and still do. Probably a good thing none of us moms witnessed it. The money Clint made from selling ponies went to fees in the steer riding. Clint never got a free roll. We always made him pay his way. We knew if he wanted this in his future nobody but himself could make that happen. He had a few loyal sponsors that helped to see him down the road. That was much appreciated. There were some things we helped with but the initial fees and fuel was his own. He travelled with as many steer riders as he could to help offset the cost. Clint was often in the winner’s circle so that kept him on the road.Those boys would enter the wild pony racing at Wabamun rodeo every year. The prizes were bicycles. Al Smith was the pony stock contractor. He would start reminding them boys early to get entered and win some bikes. Al really enjoyed a tough pony race. He brought some true wildies too. We never bought a bicycle for our kids. Darcy was pretty much there for most all his rodeos. I took Clint some, but Raina was Jr barrel racing too and sometimes we had to split up. In the winter Clint played hockey. He enjoyed hockey but really couldn’t wait until rodeo season came. He later quit hockey to learn

to rope and have more room in his life for his other heated passion hunting. There just weren’t enough days in the winter to do all, so he made that choice on his own. Doubt he has any regrets. He spent some quality time hunting. Mostly with his cousin, Shane Laye. Shane has a Taxidermy shop and has spent a fair share of his life hunting & guiding. He is pretty much a hard-ass in the hunting world. The challenge of hunting with Shane was pretty intriguing for Clint. No easy route hunts went on with him. I’m sure when Clint is done rodeoin’ hunting will be a part of the next phase. Every chance he gets now he is hunting something or fishing. Clint always seemed to have a bank account so he could rodeo or so I thought. When he and Raina got older I heard some stories that weren’t told when it happened. Like Clint bailing Raina out of a speeding ticket that was not something Dad or Mom needed to know. I actually was happy he helped her outI’m sure the reminder for her to pay him back was a touchy subject until it happened. A lesson they seemed to have taught one another. I think they learned together what I didn’t need to know. Just as well, I always say, I prefer to see life through rose colored glasses! High School Rodeo was the next step and that was when we realized we actually raised a roughstock kid instead of a Timey! Clint competed in Steer Wrestling, Calf Roping and Team Roping along with Bareback. Bareback was by far his favorite. Steer Wrestling was the “fun” timed event for him and he was fortunate enough to ride a great old horse-Preacher. Preacher had belonged to Lee Graves and after Preacher could no longer make the long hauls he ended up in our world. Clint was as proud of him as the rest of us. Zeke Thurston (2015 Houston Saddle Bronc Champ) did some team roping with Clint. They were doing pretty good together. We used

to tease Zeke that he was our “rent-a-kid”. Through steer riding and high school rodeo he and Clint were back and forth to each other’s homes and travelled together. We had lots of fun with Zeke. He is a great kid. Another kid I thought would be a Timey! When Clint put his mind to something it happened. He decided in eleventh grade that he wanted to finish high school as fast and painlessly as he could. He wanted to home study to finish. The way he viewed school got in the way of rodeo. His school principal offered to make it better by allowing him to study at his pace (which was going to be fast!) and stay a student of the school he had attended since grade one. He finished two years in one and a half and then left high school with his High School diploma on Jan 19, 2012 and was enrolled as a college student in Odessa Texas College by Jan 22, 2012. He then had to accomplish a full year of studies to be eligible for the college rodeo team the next fall. He did it. Not gracefully, I must admit but did do it. He never even liked school. I was amazed he could focus on something he disliked so much. He wanted to rodeo and college rodeo provided him with a road to his vision. When he was ten years old he came to me a said “Mom, one day I am going to give you tickets to the NFR, because I am going to be in it” I have never forgot that day. I had no doubt he would. I did teasingly suggest it would be easier for me to purchase two tickets and he could sit with me to watch. He said not a chance, not what he wanted. I never forgot that conversation and I knew in my heart he would give it all he had and if it was to be it would be. I see his vision unfolding each year. Still brings a tear to my eyes when I think of that determined ten year old. I feel very proud and blessed to call Clint my son. I think his road has been a bit bumpy, but he never loses sight of his goal. Very strong mind.

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CSI Pads

he CSI Saddlepads logo is red, white and blue — which is a color scheme this company takes very seriously. “I believe in this great country,” says CSI CEO and Founder, Donna Saddoris. “I believe in American workers, American ingenuity and the American dream.”

CSI Saddlepads started like many small businesses in the US, in the kitchen of a small house on a rural route and born from a specific need. In this case, the mission was to create a better experience for horses and riders. Twelve years later, that mission, along with unwavering American pride, are still the company’s driving forces. The result has been a revolution in the saddle pad industry.

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Making “Made in the USA” More than Just a Label

At the heart of the CSI Saddlepad system is something truly unique — the CSI Flex-Plate. The Flex-plate is sewn into the outer shell of the CSI Saddlepad. It’s purpose is to create a larger footprint for the saddle tree to set on. The larger surface area is then able to effectively disperse the rider’s weight and lessen the impact to the horse’s back. “No other saddle pad on the market has the CSI Flex-Plate,” says Saddoris. “A lot of pads have raised areas and similar shapes, but none have our Flex-Plate and it’s the CSI Flex-Plate that makes such a big difference in saddle fit, performance and safety.” To prove how effective the Flex-plate is in dispersing pressure, the company invented what they refer to as the

“Redneck Pressure Tester” — a device which allows a person to compare the CSI Flex-Plate to other pad materials using a bar to simulate exaggerated saddle tree pressure. The test is a true eye-opener for any one who takes it and has lead to the company slogan of “the difference is amazing!” You can take the CSI Pressure challenge for yourself at any expo or event where CSI has a booth. In addition to the Flex-Plate the CSI Saddlepad features a variety of horse friendly design points including a two and one half inch contour that fits to the horse’s back and provides wither relief. The pad has a removable, reversible and replaceable all-natural wool liner. Plus, the outer shell is

made of durable materials that stand up to the rigors of everyday use. “We know the CSI Saddlepad is an investment so we designed it to last,” says Saddoris. “Each pad is handmade and quality checked by a CSI Team Member, so you know you’re getting a quality product worthy of the Made in the USA stamp.” When you combine all the features of CSI Saddlepad, you have a saddle pad that can dramatically improve performance for equine athletes by providing superior comfort, allowing greater range of motion, and reducing soreness. This makes the CSI Saddlepad the ideal choice to help keep your top competitive horse performing at their best. It also makes it the perfect saddle pad to help keep your cherished trail horse riding long into his senior years as well as to help keep your favorite young horse sound as his body changes. Literally, any horse that is ridden with a saddle can benefit from a CSI Saddlepad. The CSI Saddlepad has been tested and proven in the most challenging environments. Feedlots, ranches, rodeos, horse trainers and extreme trail riders have all demonstrated the CSI Saddlepad can provide comfort, improve saddle fit, promote safety and keep horses healthy in just about any circumstance. The pad has also proven its longevity, standing up to longterm use. Many of the pads that were manufactured in the company’s first year are still being used today. “Most of our customers never put their saddlepads through anything near what we’ve put our test pads through,” says Saddoris. “We know, however, the CSI Saddlepad will stand up to the test of time — which is why we offer a 60 day money back, ride it, get it dirty guarantee. That’s the best guarantee in the industry.” One place the CSI Saddlepad has shown its ability to really out-perform the competition is in the rodeo arena. The number of competitors using a CSI Saddlepad grows each year and

“I believe in this great country,” says CSI CEO and Founder, Donna Saddoris. “I believe in American workers, American ingenuity and the American dream.”

this makes Saddoris, who is passionate about the sport of rodeo, very happy. “It is such as joy to see athletes I’ve followed throughout their careers — admired throughout their careers — riding a CSI Saddlepad,” she says. “When they stop at the booth and chat it makes my day. What makes it even better is when they leave with an armload of CSI Saddlepads. It makes me know we’re doing it right.” “I’ve competed for years on CSI Saddlepads,” says PRCA roper Jake Rodriguez. “What the CSI pad has done for my horses is truly amazing — it keeps them sound and happy and that keeps me winning.”

Rodriguez was so impressed with his CSI Saddlepad experience, he became part of the CSI Saddlepad team and now manages the company’s endorsement program. “I am very proud to be associated with an American Made product that does such great things for horses,” he says. “Now I get to see the best of the best riding the best saddle pad on the market.”

Rodriguez also appreciates being involved with a company that actively promotes good horsemanship. One of Saddoris’ main personal missions is to help horse owners better understand how saddle fit impacts their horse’s ability to perform — whether going down the trail on a Sunday afternoon or competing in the extreme pressure of the NFR. Anyone who has met her at an expo can attest to her passion for helping horses. Much of the company’s literature and a big part of their website is also devoted to education. “I developed this product to help horses and riders,” Saddoris says. “I never lose sight of that — ever.”

To find out more about CSI Saddlepads, visit their website at http:// www.csipads.com or call 877.274.7230 or 660.638.4CSI. Also join them on social media at http://facebook.com/ csisaddlepads and http://instagram. com/csisaddlepads or under the hashtags #csichamp #csisaddlepads and #csipads Rodeo Athletes Magazine / July 2015

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Janie Riemer d n a y m im J : y b

REESE RIEMER Life of a Cowboy

Reese went to Weatherford College for two years winning the Southwest Region calf roping title his sophomore year and on to Tarleton University for his junior and senior year. He went to the College National Finals but never had much luck. He purchased his PRCA card his senior year in college. Rodeo Athletes Magazine / July 2015

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rom a small town in the Texas Panhandle and raised on a ranch that his great-grandfather established in 1900, this athlete was destined to be a cowboy. At two years old, Reese was dragging a rope with him everywhere he went. He had a pony named “Bucky” and together I guess that started his rodeo career. By four, he was chasing calves out of the arena for me at the rodeos where I judged. Reese has always been a competitor and growing up he was into every sport that was offered from baseball, to basketball and football all through grade school and junior high but his favorite sport was roping. He had quick hands and feet when he was little and still does now.

Reese was a gift from God to us. We adopted a daughter, Jennifer, because I had zero chance to have children. When I found out I was pregnant 10 years later, let’s just say I told the doctor he must be mistaken. No doubt, Reese has been a blessing from God.

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A knee injury in the seventh grade put a halt to all the sports except roping. A family decision to home school began in the eighth grade through high school. This gave him time to divide his activities between school, the roping arena, and hunting. During his younger years, he went to the junior associations rodeos where he won numerous awards and prizes. Moving on to his high school years, he dominated Region 1 in the calf roping and won the National High School Calf Roping title in 2007. During his high school years, Reese started going to amateur rodeos winning championship Calf Roping titles in 2007 & 2009. Reese went to Weatherford College for two years winning the Southwest Region calf roping title his sophomore year and on to Tarleton University for his junior and senior year. He went to the College National Finals but never had much luck. He purchased his PRCA card his senior year in college. That summer was a difficult time for him being away from home for such a long time. As a family, his Mom and I supported him in all aspects of his

life and were always with him everywhere. I remember he was wanting to come home and turn out at the last rodeos in the Northwest. He couldn’t draw a good calf and things were just not going his way. I had to remind him that we finish whatever we start even in the tough times, so, I flew up to the Northwest and finished the rodeos with him. It turned out to be a good decision. Something about family support helps turn things around. It’s hard to talk about Reese without talking about roping because that is what he wanted to do. It’s always been a goal of his to be the best at roping calves and of course like many other cowboys to pursue the Gold Buckle. I have to say hunting has to rate at the top with roping. Reese was raised on the ranch where he could hunt anytime and all the time. His guns are the first thing he grabs when he comes home these days. I remember about ten years ago he became interested in hunting with black powder rifles and pistols. He left the house one morning with his black powder rifle shot a deer, cleaned and dressed the deer; then grab his black powder and left again. It wasn’t five minutes till I heard the first gun shot, then a few minutes later another shot. Next thing I know, Reese is dragging a coyote in one hand and a bob cat in the other. He had shot the coyote first and when he started towards the coyote a bob cat came out of the draw and jumped on the wounded coyote. He was able to reload and shoot the bob cat too. That makes quite a hunting story to tell his kids someday. My Dad (Hugo) was a big supporter of the National Rifle Association (NRA) and the Second Amendment to the Constitution was very important to him and I believe that gene carried on to Reese. God, family, rodeo, and guns are his whole life. Janie: Reese was a gift from God to us. We adopted a daughter, Jennifer, because I had zero chance to have children. When I found out I was

pregnant 10 years later, let’s just say I told the doctor he must be mistaken. No doubt, Reese has been a blessing from God. When Reese was little, he would spend hours on the trampoline playing bucking bulls and rope the bottle calf on his pony. From the word go, I felt Reese was blessed with talent to play sports whether it was baseball, football, or basketball. Starting at about the age of four, he would watch tapes of the NFR over and over again. I remember he wanted to rope left handed but his Dad kept putting the rope in his right hand until it became natural. Reese would chase calves out of the arena at the amateur rodeos but his fear was the rodeo clowns. At a rodeo in Gruver, Texas,Reese was about three years old and chasing calves out when his pony decided to visit the clown. That almost ended his career in rodeo except his dad came to the rescue. During his Pee Wee sports days, Reese acquired the nickname “The Rocket” from his coach. If they needed a touchdown, the coach would say “give the ball to Rocket, we need a score.” He loved to play basketball and baseball as well. No matter what sport, he always gave his best. Having those sports cut short in junior high with a knee injury, Reese began to focus everything on roping. When we made the decision to home school Reese, I checked into several home school programs. We went with the program from Texas Tech

University. Being home-schooled gave him a chance to pursue his dream of roping, help his Dad on the ranch, and do his school work on his hours. We learned to work a head on the bad days so the pretty days could be spent roping. His favorite subjects were history and government. When it came to Spanish, now that was a different story; Reese always said they talked to fast on the tapes. I would wait for him to take his tests at the counselor’s office and I could tell by the expression on his face when he walked out the door whether it was good or bad. Thank goodness he only had to take two years of Spanish. When he went to college at Weatherford, I think that was a big change because he actually had to attend class with a professor. At Tarleton, he was able to take most of his classes online which he preferred. He finished his junior and senior year at Tarleton where he maintained a 4.0 grade average. Right now, Reese wants to rope while he is young but when he gets older his education will come in handy on the ranch.

the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo in 2014, he spent time with a young boy who is now a complete fan of Reese. He told his parents he wanted to change his name to Reese Riemer. At autograph signings, Reese gives a bracelet to fans which has the word “CHOOSE” on them. He is wanting young people to know they have a choice in life and his is to follow the Lord. (Joshua 24:15)

Second to roping, Reese loves to hunt. I think today he uses target shooting and hunting for his down time from the road. He carries golf clubs with him when going to the rodeos and I know he likes to play golf when he has a chance on the road. I’ve watched Reese around kids and he is great with helping support and give advice to them. For instance, at Rodeo Athletes Magazine / July 2015

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by:

Jody Johnson

Meghan Johnson Meghan's Grandfather, Victor Karns had been pressing Meghan to go up north since he had enjoyed the northern rodeos in his youth. We had gone to a few the summer before but they had not been kind to us. Deciding that we would compete in Denver and if that worked in our favor then we would continue. If not, then Megan would concentrate on finishing her education . . . Denver turned out well! Rodeo Athletes Magazine / July 2015

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welve years ago, Meghan asked her dad about purchasing a living quarter horse trailer. We had been traveling around New Mexico with a bumperpull trailer attending 4-H shows and rodeos. Some of the arenas we frequented did not have hotels nearby soMeghan's Dad told her that if and when she rana 16 in barrels then he would consider it. It wasn’t long and she hit that goal, and she held him to his words. We combed the internet and settled on a seven foot three horse trailer. Meghan'sFather really did not want to spend too much money on what might be a passing “phase” in her life butMegan was thrilled!As the years passed, the horses got faster and the trailers longer, and the trucks to pull them bigger. Meghan laughs now when remembering last year when it was her Father convincing her that

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we needed a Peterbilt. We have always been proud of Meghan’s perseverance. Times have not always been good. When she was young, we got our horses from my grandfather. They were small foundation bred horses with heart. Meghan would work with her horses everyday. One cold, wind howling day I remember sitting in the truck watching her practice pole bending. I gave my advice with hand gesturesthrough the thick protective glass as she rode by. Meghan raised her brow and gave me a look that said, “Really, pansy?”. I was always a fair weather rider, but Meghan would ride through the rough stuff. When Meghan was in Junior High, we acquired a wild unbroke half-starved mare. She was an appendix mare out of a daughter of Firewater Flit. This is the mare that stepped up Meghan’s game. There was nothing easy about this horse. That horse was a handful the first

Meghan has intelligently set realistic goals for herself with success being laid from a foundation of trial and errors with a work ethic that is a true rarity.

year, but by the time they started High School rodeo, they were ready to run. Meghan won her first PRCA money on 'Fire'. She helped her win the 2011 WPRA Turquoise Divisional Circuit, and the 2011 WPRA Permit Champion. Half way through that year, the mare tore a tendon while playing around in her pen. It was devastating. The whole family was upset. But there was still 'Nellie'. 'Nellie' had been bought for Mom, but like most rodeo parents, when the need arises you pass them to the child. 'Nellie' had come off the racetrack and had been trained exactly in the same fashion as 'Fire', so jumping from one to the other was not difficult. 'Nellie' just lacked seasoning and it was no time before the duo were in the money. Meghan and 'Nellie' went to the National High School Finals, College Finals, and Turquoise Circuit Finals in 2013 and 2014 and won a round at the NIRA back in 2013.

her to go up north because he had loved the Northern rodeos in his youth. We had gone to a few the summer before, but they had not been kind to us. We decided we would hit Denver first, and if that turned out well then we would continue. If not, we would concentrate on finishing college . . . Denver turned out well. Meghan graduated college in May 2015. This was no surprise to us as Meghan has always had good work ethics. Megan never had to be reminded to do her homework and graduated sixth from her High School class of 300 and kept her scholarships throughout college. Meghan's degree hangs in our office

like a trophy. We are very proud of that piece of paper. If asked what sheâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s going to do with it, and like most of her friends, Meghan is not sure. All she is sure of is that she wants to rodeo. I am sure Meghan would say her success has been laid from a foundation of trial and error, great vets like Wendy Miller and Erin Weich, and her grandfather who will drive hours to shoe her horse. Meghan's sponsor, Greg Hughes, who tells her the way it is, and her other sponsors who believe in her are true gifts. Meghan has always had a cheering section of friends that have helped her along the way; even jumping in to drive at the last moment. There are so many new friends with valuable advice. When they say that it takes a village, they are not kidding.

In 2015, Meghan decided not continue NIRA, but to focus on PRCA/WPRA instead. Megan's Grandfather, Victor Karns, had been pressing for

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ther o m , e s u r K m a by: P

Getting to know

Cassidy Kruse Cassidy also loves to dance. From age 3 until 12 she participated in ballet, jazz, hip hop. She still loves to dance and a fun night out includes dancing as much as she can. Rodeo Athletes Magazine / July 2015

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Cassidy Kruse is a Wyoming native, born and raised in Gillette, WY. She is 19 years old and a very determined, beautiful, honest individual. Her parents are Ray and Pam Kruse and brother, Casey Cash. She has a French bulldog named Josie after Martha Josie. Josie calls Miss Martha his little angel so she named her dog Martha’s Little Angel, Josie for short. She needs a lot of sleep, her favorite color is purple and her favorite food is Tacos and Goulash. You could throw in a few crab legs here and there and maybe some brownies. Her favorite show is One Tree Hill.

friends. Cassidy was always determined to be the best at everything she did. She started playing basketball in grade school. She played defensive guard from age 8 to 15 and was pretty wicked at it. She pushed herself so hard she had a problem with her growth plates in her feet and kept breaking them. Her doctor would but her in medical walking boots, but she was allowed to take them off to play because she knew she wouldn’t stop playing the game. Cassidy also loves to dance. From age 3 until 12 she participated in ballet, jazz, and hip hop. She still loves to dance and a fun night out includes dancing as much as she can. When

When asked what she wanted to study in college she replied “I didn’t know I had to pick something to do. My parents raised me to be a professional barrel racer and that is what I want to do”. She graduated with a 4.0 and went on to do one year of college in Odessa, TX. She finished her first year with another 4.0 grade average. She decided that she would put college on hold so she could spend this time with “JJ” fulfilling her dream. She is doing

just that running up and down the roads and making many new

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the time came to decide which

sport we wanted to excel in it was decided that r o d e o was the sport of

riding since the is a very p l i s h e d woman. Her studied hours

choice. Cassidy has been h o r s e s age of 3 and a c c o m h o r s e dad has and hours

At an early age she was taught to speak on her own behalf. She can carry on a conversation with the best of people. I am amazed when I watch her speak about herself and her amazing horses.

Cassidy is very people orientated. At an early age she was taught to speak on her own behalf. She can carry on a conversation with the best of people. I am amazed when I watch here speak about herself and her amazing horses. If you are following her you can see she is good with her interviews except for a few umhh’s here and there.

Tim which is a full brother to “JJ”. She currently owns JJ’s mother, sister and 2 full brothers. She has a full daughter to the fabulous Frenchmans Guy that was also struck by lightning and pretty much just hangs out and runs the place. of video to help her learn her craft. She competed in the barrels, goats, poles, break away and roping, earning an all around title at the age of 12. In 2004 she purchased a horse called Tex on Tec aka “Reno”. It was love at first sight! What an amazing team they become, but in 2007 Reno was struck by lightning and killed. She was so strong participating in all the decisions regarding his final resting place. You can imagine the impact felt by our family. She has competed in the WYHSRA (Wyoming JR and High school rodeo association), the NRCA, NWBRA, WPRA and the BBR. She has a mentor who helps her with most of her rodeo problems named Lonnie Farella. Lonnie found Cassidy’s amazing horse JKR Assured Win aka “JJ”, for her in Nebraska. This time with “JJ” is so special because he has overcome 2 life altering injures. He means very much to her with his amazing heart of gold. Her backup horse is Dash to

Many don’t know but she was nominated by Martha Josie to be on a show for Cartoon Network called PROPS. This program was about youths that excelled in their sports and the public voted for their favorites. She was the only barrel racer on the show. The film crew came to Atlanta, GA to film her at a barrel race in Spearfish, SD. Everyone was asking her if she was nervous with all the cameras on her. She replied “Why would I be nervous, my mom records every run I make.” Upon finishing in 6th place, she won a day with Charmayne James at her home and with her family. That one day turned into 4 days. Cassidy was with Charmayne they day she brought Clayton home. Johnny Mosley was there to narrate the show and she was gifted with her first Charmayne James saddle. She was blessed with getting to ride the amazing Scamper, Cruiser and Grasshopper. A new friendship was born!

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by: Ashley Stipes

Jesse has had two examples of great fathers in his life in his grandpa and his dad, and he is continuing in their footsteps with his own two children Addy, 6 and Jeyton, 3.

Jesse Stipes

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2015 is set to be a big year for Jesse Stipes as he prepares to fulfil his dreams and achieve the goal he has been working toward since he was a child. This summer Jesse will be traveling and roping with longtime friend Billie Jack Saebens and attending all of the rodeos that make the sport famous. Jesse has been roping since he was old enough to walk after his grandpa Melvin Stipes saw a spark of interest and helped a love for the sport to blossom. Melvin has always been Jesse’s biggest fan and has always cheered the loudest whenever he has had the chance to watch Jesse compete. Whether it was taking Jesse to rodeos or gifting him a horse to compete on, Melvin has done everything in his power to help his grandson’s passion grow and flourish. It was Melvin who bought Jesse his young colt Bunny due to his love for black and white paints. Little did he know, Jesse would eventually ride Bunny to an IPRA average title along with the IPRA world title in 2009. He won both titles roping with his younger brother Casey. Jesse’s dad, Leon, also has a history of roping and has been a major influence in Jesse’s life and his decision to forge his own path into the world of rodeo. From the time Jesse was little his dad competed in team roping and has had lots of success including being the 1992 USTRC #10 Preliminary and Shoot Out Champion. His dad likes to remind Jesse that when he was 3 years old he could rope a big set of rawhide horns and that Jesse refused to rope the horns for free, demanding a quarter.

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Jesse also told tales of roping to his kindergarten teacher, leading to her telling his dad that Jesse had a wild imagination. He told his teacher that he rode his horse and roped steers by himself – clearly something that a kindergartener couldn’t do! Jesse’s dad couldn’t help but laugh as he told the teacher that all of what she had heard was in fact the truth. Whilst roping is a huge part of the Stipe’s family, the focus is on Christ. Jesse has always believed the saying “work like it depends on you and pray like it depends on Jesus.” It is with this mindset that Jesse lives his life and works toward accomplishing his goals. Jesse has had two examples of great fathers in his life in his grandpa and his dad, and he is continuing in their footsteps with his own two children Addy, 6 and Jeyton, 3. Addy and Jeyton are truly blessed to have a dad that loves them so much and he pulls out all the stops to make sure that they are taken care of. Jesse, his wife Ashley and their two kids live in Salina, OK, and Jesse feels blessed to have his biggest fans to come home to every night.

While roping is a huge part of the Stipes family, the focus is on Christ. Jesse has always believed the saying “work like it depends on you, and pray like it depends on Jesus.”

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r (mother) by: Cheryl duPerie ister) & Lydia duPerier (s

Callie duPerier

Commitment, Time & Sacrifice After Callie graduated from high school she had to make an important decision. She could either go to college and play volleyball or hit the road and try to make the NFR. Even though Callie never made it to nationals like she wanted to do, she accomplished going to every WPRA approved barrel race with her father to become the 2010 World Champion Junior Barrel Racer. Rodeo Athletes Magazine / July 2015

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er very first horse was a Paint Horse named Cimmaron. She would only ride him around for pleasure and never had an interest in rodeo until some of her friends invited her to one of their 4-H rodeos. That is when her dream began and her love for rodeo was sparked. Her father then bought a 4-H horse named Mouse that did every event you could imagine. Since Callie was new to rodeo they hauled Mouse in a deer trailer and suburban. Mouse was very consistent but lacked speed. She ran an 18 second barrel pattern and a twenty-four second pattern in the poles. Once Callie got into ninth grade she decided she wanted to high school rodeo. She rode Mouse for three or four of the rodeos and finished dead last every time. Her dad then decided it was time to step up and get a horse that could compete at a higher level. Trip purchased a few horses from a man in Florida that was all trained in the poles and barrels. Barrel racing was not the only thing she loved. She also played a wide variety of sports with volleyball being her other passion. At times high school rodeo conflicted with volleyball and Callie had to choose between the two. There was one time when she couldn't make a decision and attended both. She went to her volleyball tournament in the morning and pulled her hamstring. Callie was concerned this would affect her but she persevered through the pain and won the barrels for her region with her dad literally carrying her back to the trailer. This was just one of the times as a mother I was worried out of my mind. The two worst incidents that happened were when one of Callie's horses slipped at the first barrel and landed right on top of her, but luckily she managed to get away safely. The

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other time that really startled all of us was when Callie and her horse were heading to the first barrel and her reins snapped. The horse took off the other way through the alley and towards the highway. Luckily, a brave man jumped out in front of the horse and got him to a stop. At this point, I was in tears and ran over to check on Callie and asked her if she was sure that rodeo was still what she wanted to do. Even with me persuading her to try something else, she wouldn't give up and got right back on her horse. After pushing through all her trials, Callie ended up qualifying for state every year but never made it to nationals. Our family truly enjoyed going to state with her for those years. Especially Callie's younger sister, Lydia, and older brother, TJ, who supported her no matter how well she did. We all loved being together in the trailer and getting to spend time with one another. TJ, Lydia and Callie loved going out to the rodeo festivities and occasionally would go bowling and to the movies. Even though Callie never made it to nationals like she wanted to do, she accomplished going to every WPRA approved barrel race with her father to become the 2010 World Champion Junior Barrel Racer. After Callie graduated from high school she had to make an important decision. She could either go to college and play volleyball or hit the road and try to make the NFR. It was a hard choice for her to make but we all supported her in whatever she wanted to do. She ended up choosing volleyball and went to Schreiner University in Kerrville, Texas where she was an outside hitter on the volleyball team for three years. Callie's shoulder was torn up and she started missing rodeo by her 3rd year of college. So she called her dad and asked if she could take off from college and begin her rodeo career. Callie came home from college and started to ride her horses again and

Being a barrel racer takes commitment time and sacrifice. It is not easy being away from family and friends for up to two months. Callie duPerier, a twenty-two year old determined girl, does this for her passion. She has always had a strong love for horses ever since she was young.

got them in shape so she could fill her permit. She filled her permit in 2013 on her old high school pole horse and got her pro card. In 2014, Callie hit the road with the horse her father bought named Rare Dillion. Callie hauled with Jana Bean, which made me feel more comfortable knowing she would not be by herself and she was in good hands. Callie has always been so close to our family and a homebody that she missed us and at times was ready to come home. To make things better for Callie, our family and Callie's boyfriend, Kaleb tried to fly out as much as we could to see her. When Jana and Callie were in Salinas, California during the summer of 2014, we flew in to have a mini family vacation. We stayed by the beach and went sight seeing on the days that Callie and Jana did not run. We were able to go out on the water and see whales and sea lions. I think it helped us all out by getting to see each other. Not only did Callie miss us, we missed her tremendously as well.

After the 2014 season was over, Jana ended up making the NFR and Callie ended up third in the rookie standings and 25th in the world, going to the maximum of one hundred rodeos. We were all very proud of her and knew she would be back at it again the next year. This year Callie has been pushing hard towards her dreams and has had an amazing start. She achieved her goals of riding at the San Antonio and Houston rodeo. Both Trip and Callie have been trying their best to keep her horses in shape and sound so they have the best shot at making it to the finals. She has already attended around 45 rodeos and is sitting fourth in the world standings. We are all hoping she and her horses can push through the rest of the season and achieve Callie's dream of making it to the NFR. Rodeo has had such a big impact on Callie's life and I can see that in her everyday. Even if she doesn't do as well as she wanted t, she keeps her head up and a smile on her face. We are so proud of her and no matter what happens in the end, she will always be a champion to us. Her bond with her horses is inseparable and I know that her memories of rodeo will last forever. Rodeo Athletes Magazine / July 2015

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This year Bloomer Trailers has chosen 33 athletes from 13 states after a careful selection process. They host a team meeting for members and their families for a weekend in April in Salado, Texas. Bloomer Trailers along with some Bloomer Pro Team Cowboys and Cowgirls teach each athlete that goes through the program about many aspects in the professional world of rodeo as well as handling life situations. The team meeting prepares the athletes in several areas including; interviewing for television/radio, professional photo shoots, obtaining sponsors, live filming and the professional side of rodeo. Randy Bloomer host the meeting along with photographers and production teams, guest speakers and trainers including Bloomer Pro Team members Stran Smith, Tuf Cooper, Charly Crawford, Chandler Bownds and Marty Yates. Broadcasters and TV personalities Jennifer Smith and Alexis Bloomer and NHSRA Sponsor American Hats President Keith Mundee. Team members also work with companies such as Justin Boots, Panhandle Slim, Rock and Roll Denim, Cinch Jeans and Cruel Girl Jeans.

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Rodeo Athletes Magazine / July 2015

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by: Connie Larson

Beau Clark

Beau Clark is a natural leader, enthusiastic and gifted athlete who never loses sight of his goal once he sets one and is dedicated to succeed. Beau competed at his first WNFR in 2012 and is currently the Assistant Rodeo Coach at Montana State University. Rodeo Athletes Magazine / July 2015

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hether it’s the football field, basketball court, track field or the rodeo arena, Beau Clark is one gifted athlete who came from a family rich in rodeo history who was goal oriented from the start. Beau began his career as a roper and won his first saddle by winning the Junior Break-away Championship at the Northern Rodeo Association in 1996 . . . jumping forward to 2012, Beau Clark competed at his first WNFR in Steer Wrestling. This Bozeman, Montana man met his goals head on and it all started with enthusiasm and desire instilled as a youth by his family, friends, coaches and his sixth grade teacher, LeeAnn Fellows who is his biggest fan. Beau Clark and his two younger siblings, Joshua and Sara Kay learned early on from their parents, Mike and Connie one valuable lesson known as the “ten mile pout rule”. Rodeo and other sport competitors realize that you don’t always win. So if you have a bad go or just missed placing, you could pout for ten miles after heading back down the road but then it was over and you could look forward to the next rodeo. Beau committed to playing football, basketball and compete in track and field while attending Belgrade High School and was the recipient of many awards including Athlete of the year plus beau served as captain of the team in all three sports. Because of this commitment, Beau did not compete in High School or College Rodeo even though the Gallatin Valley area of Montana is brimming with rodeo activity. Armed with an Agricultural Business Bachelor’s degree, obtained from Montana State where Beau played football as a defensive lineman. With his degree in hand, Beau started his

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career in farm and ranch insurance and on the side volunteered his time through coaching opportunities. In 2006 Clark began steer wrestling and realized that out on the road and at the rodeos you had a whole new circle of friends that treated each other like family. Beau Clark is on a quest to qualify for another WNFR in 2015 and is currently the Assistant Rodeo Coach at Montana State University.

One Valuable lesson that all the Clark kids learned was the “ten mile pout rule”. Rodeo and other sport competitors realize that you don’t always win. So if you had a bad go or just missed placing, you could ‘pout’ for the first ten miles as you started back down the road but then it was over and you could look forward to the next rodeo.

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ld e ﬁ e n e B s i ll y h P by:

Alexa Lake

Determined & Challenged from the Beginning

Alexa has been riding horses just about since she could sit up.. definitely shortly after she started to walk. Her first and only broken bone thus far and we hope God willing will ever be, was at the age of 2 when she fell off of Shorty, her Shetland pony. Alexa was bored being led on Shorty so she decided she would stand up in the saddle before anyone could stop her and down she went breaking her fall with her right arm. She didn’t cry from the pain of a clean break but asked in the ER when she could next ride Shorty. She began

asking in the ER and telling everyone she had to go and get back to see about Shorty. She was back in the saddle the next day, cast and all. Shorty was cantankerous, like most Shetlands and taught Alexa much about horsemanship, especially the patience that is sometimes needed. Although, Alexa was just 2, she would get so mad, upset and cry “Shorty is not minding me again and I don’t know what to do”. The solution was a little burrow named Winnie. She rode Winnie up until she was about 4 when her Uncle had a very broke cutting bred horse, Pilgrim that he would let Alexa ride. After we moved to south Texas Alexa began competing & taking English, Hunter Jumper,

Hunter-under -Saddle riding lessons and competing at the age of 4 in a class with older riders than her but she loved to get back to whenever she could and ride Pilgrim. At the age of 7 we moved to Houston where Alexa began taking Polo lessons at the Houston Polo Club. It took some convincing but mostly the instructor had to observe Alexa riding before she was accepted as they didn’t take riders under the age of 12 at that time. Alexa would say she wanted to be the world’s best Polo player. Alexa even put herself on a waiting list for boarding unbeknownst to us. I asked her what horse she thought she was going to board there since we didn’t own one and she said “ Pilgrim”. She went Rodeo Athletes Magazine / July 2015

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on to tell me she bought him from her Uncle for five dollars and she was moving him to Houston. She was so sure of herself and said it so matter of factly, I thought well, her uncle is giving her this horse because he knows how much she loves riding. Upon her next family visit to the ranch to see her Grandmother I received a phone call from her Grandmother who said “ I am so tickled at Alexa, she came in a little while ago crying and said “Grandma, don’t you remember when Uncle Bubba sold Pilgrim to me? Grandma, he won’t let me take Pilgrim to Houston because he says he is too much horse for me. Grandma please make him do it, … Pilgrim is my horse and I can ride him, come on Grandma, you are his mother he has to listen to you and will you give him the five dollars please?”. We laughed until we cried. Needless to say Alexa didn’t get Pilgrim, but she received a very cute little Welsh B Pony instead who she named Sally and she later trained in Barrels, Straights and Poles. Alexa came into this world already somewhat challenged with a Patent Ductus Arteriosus, which is a persistent opening between two major blood vessels leading from the heart. The opening, called the ductus arteriosus, is a normal part of a baby's circulatory system before birth that usually closes shortly after birth. Alexa’s remained open for 33 days and then closed spontaneously...thankfully. Late one afternoon at the age of 2, Alexa wanted to go in the backyard and play on her playset, I said she could but then it started to rain. Her older brother Christopher told her to get her raincoat. He helped her put her raincoat on and she was so excited, then I heard thunder and of course said “No Alexa you cannot go outside now, do you hear the storm?”She immediately opened her mouth, started to cry but nothing came out, and I watched her turn blue then fall over. Her doctor laughed and said “well, good news is, she is now breathing, and little Alexa is very strong-willed, I suggest you buy the

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famous book now.” Alexa’s strong will has shown through in virtually every aspect of her life as there are so many examples of Alexa’s determination from making the Volleyball team in junior high, to making the Cheerleading team when she couldn’t even do a cartwheel when she went out for the team, to the journalism team, school news announcer, Fort Bend County Rodeo Queen, ice skating, college and obtaining her real estate license; just to name a few. Another very strong-willed story that comes to mind was when Alexa hung up her snow skis and decided she would learn to snowboard. She left snowboarding school without permission at the end of the day to go up a double black diamond mountain because they hadn’t skied that mountain before. She was not in her class and her instructor didn’t know of her whereabouts when I went to get her at the end of the day…no one knew where she was and then one of her classmates said “ I think she was going up that mountain because she kept talking about it. We found her on a lift by herself and had to have it shut down to bring her down safely, thankfully. Throughout all her activities and adventures her love for her horses and in particular barrel racing has always come first. The strong bond she develops with each and every one of them has been evident and by her account almost to a fault. Something that has always resonated for me was all throughout Alexa was first committed to her horses. She always got herself up and out to the barn to take care of the horses first thing in the morning, after school and in the evenings. She always had a tremend o u s sense of responsibility a n d fully e m braced it which

told me as her mother that I need to fully support this, as it has far more meaning and value in her life than just a ‘hobby’. In the 3rd grade I loaded up her first barrel horse the late “AJ” in the trailer , then gave him a flake of alfalfa, he rejected it and I was certain he must be very sick, although he was just going to the vet for a routine visit. He had never rejected alfalfa to the best of my knowledge. I called Alexa’s school and asked they bring Alexa to the phone to tell her about the incident and she promptly asked if I gave him his cookie first, which of course I had not. Alexa’s success as a barrel racer is in large part due to the strong bond she develops with her horses, the love & support she has from so many wonderful friends and especially her #1 fan, her mom. Last but certainly not least her faith & love of God and all of life’s experiences, the good, bad, ugly & challenging ones too that have molded her into the caring, loving, young woman she has become. Her strong-will & determination I believe she was born with and I thank God every day she has all those qualities and more. Alexa’s #1 horse for the past 3 years is Sure Down Dash aka Viper and her #2 is Streakin Like a Hank a k a Marilyn. It is with Viper that Alexa

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FROM ONE GENERATION TO THE NEXT

With roots dating back to 1876, Burns Saddlery has a legacy of custom, handmade goods proven to stand the test of time, both in story and quality. These are products worth passing on.

Burns Custom Ranch Saddle with full tooling and chocolate gator seat 2015 Spring line of grosgrain ribbon trimmed Burns Custom Hats

BURNS CUSTOM HATS

BURNS CUSTOM SADDLES

Steps in the hat-making process. Above: steaming, Right: sanding. Below: shaping the crown.

Head Saddle Maker Matt Wanner in action. Wanner is a true artist, as it is very hard to get him out of his “zone” when he is making a saddle. Wanner’s tooling is something you don’t see every day.

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A Burns saddle is bench made by a skilled craftsmen right here in the USA. Each saddle is individually made with the highest quality Hermann Oak leather and the utmost attention to details. Even though you won’t see it, each layer of a Burns saddle is bowlingball-smooth and finished as if you would. Next, saddle makers spend extra time on the seat position, carefully ensuring the correct location of the seat pocket to provide even weight distribution along the horse’s back and balance and comfort for the rider. There are two separate methods of installing the rigging to ensure that they are set perfectly square with the tree. Using the traditional nail and string method checked by a laser level guarantees the riggings are correct. Burns pays particular attention to the leg swing on their saddles, making sure you get the appropriate positioning for whatever your riding application may be. Tooling, carving, dyes, and all painted backgrounds are carefully done by hand. Stop by Burns Saddlery in Salina, Utah and see firsthand the workmanship going in to every Burns Custom Hat and Burns Custom Saddle. It happens every day right in the store, 95 West Main, Salina, UT.

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tscher by: Lee Ann Ke

Jordan Ketscher In 2014, with his B.S. degree securely tucked in his portfolio he decided to hit the road full time in pursuit of a future qualification to the National Finals Rodeo. After spending the winter entering rodeos in Texas, Arizona, Colorado and New Mexico he went back home to California for the spring run. 58 |

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he Western way of life is all Jordan has ever known, and he is just fine with that. Growing up as a member of the fifth generation of cattle ranchers in the foothills of the Central Valley of California has enabled him the opportunity to be interactive with cattle and horses from an early age. Mounted on “Shorty”, (older brother Blaine’s heel/calf horse), Jordan’s first exposure to roping calves was at the annual brandings held in the fall. When not helping out on the ranch, most weekends were spent attending junior rodeos throughout the state of California. Where, in addition to winning awards in the timed events (goat tying, steer stopping, breakaway and team roping) he won his fair share of championships in the calf riding. Jordan’s first two years of high school were spent at a public high school in Sanger CA. During this time he also competed in high school rodeo, which often times required missing several days a month in order to travel and compete. As with pretty much any public school, this was not acceptable to them and the decision was made to transfer to Hallmark Charter School beginning his Junior year and continue his education on a home school basis. Jordan had held a long standing summer job as a rider at a local race horse training facility, Silver D-Bar Training Center that he was able to continue with the implementation of his home school schedule. His mornings were spent working and afternoons spent practicing his high school rodeo events, cutting, team roping, tie down roping and steer wrestling. Although cutting didn’t much appeal to him at first, with the support and guidance of Bill and Sally (Marvel) Freeman he learned to appreciate the sport and became successful at it, qualifying for

California High School Rodeo Association’s (CHSRA) Challenge of Champions and State Finals multiple years. In addition to cutting, he also qualified for CHSRA’s premier events in steer wrestling, tie down and team roping, earning the title of Challenge of Champions All Around Cowboy in 2008. Outstanding performances at state finals lead to two trips to Springfield Illinois to compete at the National High School Rodeo Association Finals, finishing 5th in the team roping on one occasion. With offers from numerous universities and colleges, Jordan chose to continue his education close to home at California State University Fresno, where he earned his B.S. degree in Ag. Business in 2013. While in college he competed in the National Intercollegiate Rodeo Association sometimes as the only contestant on the men’s roster from Fresno State. He had much success in the college rodeo arena earning regional titles in tie down roping, steer wrestling, team roping and All Around Cowboy. He qualified and made the trip to Casper, Wyoming to the College National Finals all four years, collecting many go-round awards along the way. In 2014, with his B.S. degree securely tucked in his portfolio, he decided to hit the road full time in pursuit of a future qualification to the National Finals Rodeo. After spending the winter entering rodeos in Texas, Arizona, Colorado and New Mexico he went back home to California for the spring run. In June, after Reno he and his tie down horse, “Rambo” jumped in the rig with fellow Californian, Ryle Smith, whom Jordan had known since junior rodeo. Over the next few months the two California tie down ropers logged many miles and hours over no less than seven states. Despite being out of state the majority of the year both Jordan and Ryle qualified for the California Circuit Finals held in Lancaster, California in October.

He got a huge boost when he won the short round and placed second in the tie down average at Fort Worth. Along with the Fort Worth win he qualified for and competed in the semi-finals of The American. Since returning home to the West Coast his spring run has been lucrative, picking up checks consistently along the way.

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Renewed and refreshed Jordan headed out in the early days of 2015 determined to move another step closer to his goal. Spending the winter months based at Logan Performance Horses in Granbury, TX enabled him to compete in the larger winter rodeos and even show a few tie down horses at the larger Quarter Horse shows in Texas and Louisiana. He got a huge boost when he won the short round and placed second in the tie down average at

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Fort Worth. Along with the Fort Worth win, he qualified for and competed in the semi-finals of The American. Since returning home to the West Coast his spring run has been lucrative, picking up checks consistently along the way. When not on the road competing, Jordan likes to work on the ranch and with the cattle. There are always fences to be fixed and cattle to be checked during calving season. With his own growing herd, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s always a

welcome text from home that includes a picture of a new calf. Along with spending timewith the cattle he is constantly working on making his next calf roping or heel horse. Another thing he enjoys is helping junior and high school rodeo kids better their roping skills. Jordanâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s plans are to continue in the pursuit of earning a qualification to the National Finals Rodeo and building his own herd of beef cattle.

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by:

Reid Barker

I guess you definitely could say â&#x20AC;&#x153;Bull Riding was bred in to Reidâ&#x20AC;? and it just so happened that Reid loved the sport with a passion. 62 |

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hen Reid called me he was about to leave for Silver City, NM and he wanted me to help him write ‘his story’ as a Mom. His Mom! I really felt over-whelmed at the thought of this, but yet I never doubted that this day would come; that someone wanted Reid to tell his story, but here we are and I could not be more proud. Many people say, “Bull Riding was bred in to Reid.” His Dad, Tiger Barker, was a good bull rider himself. He was a Youth Rodeo Champion, High School State Champion, High School National Top 5, College National Finalist and Pro Rodeo Competitor. He was and will always be Reid’s bull riding coach. On my side my Dad, Gerald Foltyn was a High School National Steer Wrestling Champion; my brother, Lane Foltyn was a multi-level Champion Bull Rider. Cousins Justin & Clayton Foltyn have made their names in the Roughstock world. I guess you definitely could say “Bull Riding was bred in to Reid” and it just so happened that Reid loved the sport with a passion. I think Reid’s first word was “BULL”. Not Mom or Dad, but bull. His Dad judged Bull Ridings constantly after he retired from riding and we took Reid to every event. He loved playing with his fences and bucking bulls; he made chutes out of anything he could find from old VCR tapes to Lego sets. I remember going into his room and he had an entire rodeo arena created across the floor so he could play with his bucking bulls. Reid loved to ride things. Anything. Especially our Labrador, the arm of our sofa and even the occasional horse. Riding was definitely in his blood.

Around age 5 Reid started competing in the Calf Riding at local rodeos; friends would ask me constantly, “Aren’t you scared to let your baby ride?” You know, I Prayed a lot, and I still do, but I knew how much Reid loved it. People would tell me that because I grew up with roughstock riders in addition to Reid’s Dad being a roughstock rider, that I was used to it, but I’m not sure that applies when it is your baby getting on one. I remember the first time Reid ever got on a calf very distinctly. I was in the stands and tears were running down my face, but he gave it his all and afterwards I couldn’t have been more proud.

Reid’s Spring of 2014 was very eventful – he was doing very well riding bulls and in May, Reid and Shelby Vizza, his long term girlfriend married.

Around age 8 Reid transitioned to Steer Riding and that was the time when we started seeing his true talents shine. He was able to use the technical teachings he was getting and his natural ability started to flourish. Reid was very fortunate in the fact that his Dad and great mentor/Stock contractor, JD Nix, worked together to make sure Reid always had the best and most appropriate animals to get on at every stage of riding Reid progressed to. Through countless hours of practice with his Dad and JD, at age 10, Reid won the CTYRA (Central Texas Youth Rodeo Assn) Steer Riding Championship and the TYRA (Texas Youth Rodeo Assn) Steer Riding Championship titles. In seventh grade Reid was won the National Jr High School Rodeo Championship title – winning was becoming a familiarity to us, but each time it felt even more special than the last. During eighth grade Reid had a disappointing performance in the National Finals after he was bucked off in the second Go-Round and wasn’t high enough on one bull to make the Short-Go. The result hit Reid hard because he had become so accustomed to winning, but with a Rodeo Athletes Magazine / July 2015

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little encouragement he soon learnt that the next rodeo was just around the corner. During his Freshman year in high school Reid he won second in State and went on to win sixth at the High School National Finals Rodeo in Farmington, NM. His Sophomore and Junior years were plagued with injuries that coincided with High School Association Rodeos, but Reid did get invited to compete at the first ever PBR Jr Event in Las Vegas during the PBR Finals in his Jr year of High School and won the event. During his senior year of High School Reid won the Texas State High School Championship title, but then suffered another setback at the National High School Finals Rodeo in Gillette, Wy that year after battling a major groin muscle problem. Reid took ice baths daily just trying to make it through the Finals, but his perseverance paid off as he went on to win fourth in the Nation that year. On our way home from the High School National Finals in Gillette, Reid competed as a Rookie at the CBR Bull Riding in Cheyenne, Wy. He placed fourth, still whilst battling through the troublesome groin injury. It showed such huge character and determination despite him being just 18 years old. Upon graduation from High School Reid received a full rodeo scholarship to attend Wharton Junior College and attended Wharton for 2 years, qualifying for the College National Finals Rodeo his Freshman year even though he was still being plagued with groin muscle problems. His first college NFR didn’t quite go as planned and Reid faced another setback, but once we reminded him that the next rodeo was fast approaching he was quickly

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able to put it behind him. That summer Reid came home and I scheduled an appointment for him with a Physical Therapist who focused on sports injuries. Jody Brown worked with Reid and taught him how to correctly use his muscles and the importance of stretching on a daily basis since he was now susceptible to groin injuries. That was probably one of the best things we could have done for Reid and his impending career. I wish we had done sooner! That Fall, after much discussion, Reid decided to hold off on college and focus solely on his bull riding. My stand with Reid was as long as he was focusing on bull riding and treating it as his ‘career’ I was fine with it. The minute he was not seriously focusing on bull riding he was going back to school! Reid ended that year in the top 40 which qualified him to get to compete in all of the big winter rodeos the following season, so I guess you could say my tough love technique worked a charm. Reid’s Spring of 2014 was very eventful – he was doing very well riding bulls and in May, Reid and Shelby Vizza, his long term girlfriend

married. They had a beautiful, outdoor, country wedding and it fit their outgoing personalities perfectly. Reid had a great beginning of the summer, placing at many rodeos and winning the Reno Extreme and the Prescott Rodeo. In July, at the Casper, Wy Short-Go, Reid experienced the scariest injuries of his career after he collided with the bull’s horn and then also with the bull’s hoof. He had fractures to his eye socket and a concussion which meant he was back in Texas for a couple of months and was pretty much going to be the end of 2014. Luckily, despite the injury, Reid was high enough in the World Standings that he earned his first NFR qualification! Whilst Reid was home recovering from his injury at Casper, he and Shelby had a beautiful baby daughter, Tinley on October 20. Even though Reid was injured, it was a blessing in disguise as he was home to share the amazing experience of Tinley being born. Bull Riding and Rodeo in general is a very tough sport in my opinion. The emotional, physical, mental and financial stress is tough, and sacrifice is huge. Not just for the athlete, but also for their entire family, so thankfully Reid has been blessed with a very loving and supportive family throughout. We are all so very proud of him. He is ‘Living his dream!’

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by:

Payson Smith

Chatting along the way as usual, Payson had made a new friend. When he said thanks and jumped off the cart sending Joe on his way, everyone looked at him wide eyed and asked, "how did you get a ride from Joe Beaver?" Payson laughed and said, "Dang, I knew that guy looked familiar." Payson has never met a stranger and loves life.

s a youngster following his brothers around you could tell Payson was bound for greatness. His smile and charm were quick to win over the Jr. Rodeo world and it wasn't very long before he was adding shiny belt buckles to his wardrobe. Payson is the roper of the talented family and made it very clear early on that although he maybe following in his older brothers footsteps, he was defiantly taking them down his own path. Being a mighty fine mutton buster in his pint sized 5-year-old

career, things took a change the family was not prepared for. You start out riding sheep, then calves, then steers, and then rough stock. Not Payson, chaps on glove tied, rope set... Payson made an announcement. "Today is not a sheep riding day!" Payson, leaving his support system dumbfounded, turned and walked away for the wild wooly sheep never to return to that end of the arena until much later when he decided to begin bull fighting which he still does on occasion. Payson to small to rope with the older boys spent many daylight hours with Bite Size, a very old and loyal Shetland pony. Bite Size would stand all day

long and eat grass-allowing Payson to perfect his roping skills on the goat staked in the yard. It didn't take long for Payson to master the art of roping right there in the front yard. Payson has continued to perfect his skills while spending countless hours playing on the road. Living in the country there is a lack of hard ground to rope the dummy on. This lead to the "Playing in the Road Gang." The asphalt was the only place the fastlane roping dummy would work. The â&#x20AC;&#x153;Gangâ&#x20AC;? has won many championships and the neighborhood knows they need to slow down and sometimes wait for the championship dummy roping run to be completed. Rodeo Athletes Magazine / July 2015

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Payson has a clear determination that sets him apart from many competitors. His first year in High School Rodeo he followed in both his brotherâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s footsteps winning the Idaho State Rookie All Around Cowboy. The morning of the final cow cutting go, Payson was leading the competition. While getting ready at the hotel he asked his parents, Lynn and Valorie Smith, if his brothers had won a state championship their first year. When the answer was no, he knew he had a new goal and went to sleep that night the Idaho State Champion Cow Cutter. Once again setting his own trail on this rodeo road. When he was 14-years-old, his brother, Wyatt, was determined to make him a bulldogger. Payson wanted to, but wasnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t so sure he liked the idea of hitting the ground. Wyatt, a great teacher who will work day and night to see people accomplish their goals, helped Payson for hours and hours one night in their backyard arena. Wyatt knew that for Payson to jump his first live steer, would be a game changer. As the sun was creeping down behind the mountains, Wyatt told Payson he was going to jump a steer and he was going to do it that night. Payson ran by a few more and before he knew it, it came as natural to him as team roping did. He crawled off and threw his first steer. His brothers and dad were filled with pride and knew that he would improve with every steer since then, and he has. He is headed to the National High School Finals Rodeo in July as a steer wrestling qualifier for the first time; and quote me, it won't be the last. Payson has a huge heart and even bigger smile, he can always be found trying to bring light and laughter into any situation. His happy go lucky style even got him a golf cart ride with World Champion Roper Joe Beaver. Joe stopped at the Jr. High Finals a couple years ago and asked if Payson and his friend needed a ride back to his trailer and they gladly accepted. Chatting along the way as usual, Payson had made a new friend. When he said thanks and jumped off the cart sending Joe on his way, everyone looked at him wide eyed and asked,

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"how did you get a ride from Joe Beaver?" Payson laughed and said, "Dang, I knew that guy looked familiar." Payson has never met a stranger and loves life. The most important thing to Payson is family. He loves spending time with his brothers and loves the sound of them pulling into the driveway; even if it's just for a short period of time. As all of the boys are close to their Grandma Ree, Payson is considered the favorite. Around the time their Grandpa Gene died, Payson was born. Ree had him every day, keeping her company, busy, and very young. They became best friends and to this day, she holds Payson very close to her heart; as she does all of her grandkids. Wyatt, Garrett and Payson have spent countless hours working together to ensure are all ready for whatever level of competition they have next. Garrett and Payson can often be found at goat tying practice to keep their hands fast for the calf roping. There is a high level of competitiveness among these three outstanding cowboys but also an unbreakable bond of loyalty and love. They are each other's toughest critic and biggest fans all wrapped up into one. Payson is proving more everyday that he will be ready to load up with the "Recking Crew" when he

A similar path, yet walked in his own footsteps. Payson Smith, just 16 years-old, has always looked up to his older brothers, Garrett, 20, and Wyatt, 26. gets his permit. Not because he is just the brother but because he is talented hard working and earned his spot. He is looking forward to playing football this fall and continuing to take his own path paving it all the way to his own name in lights. He would like to let everyone know that his success is not his own and he is very thankful for all of the help and support he has received along the way. Keep an eye out for youngest yet stickiest Smith, Payson is determined to "Go Big" because Going Home is not an option!

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by:

Kelly Tovar She takes the best of care of them. Kelly first priority has always beenher husband and her son. I think the Lord blessed her with Edwin at thistime because Tucker graduates this year. 70 |

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elly started riding when she was about 3 years old. She loved it; herfirst horse was a old roping horse she bought with her piggy bankmoney from her uncle. He was a great horse for to learn to ride on.When Kelly started to school she did not like it at all, it was a dailybattle just make her go! To win the all the around in the youth rodeosshe needed to rope breakaway, her uncle made her a deal that if shewould practice and rope the dummy so many times she could rope hiscalves. So she roped everyday practicing and working hard. The dayfinally came for her to actually rope off her horse he changed the rulesand said if you're gonna rope my calves you have to go to schooleveryday……. Well she just rode out of the box stepped off and saidwell I guess I won't be roping your calves then!! Kelly has always had amind of her own and knows exactly what she wants. She said shedidn't wanna rope anyway she wanted to run barrels!!! Home schoolwould have fit her perfect, but back then that wasn’t an option. Werode every day after school Kelly always took it very serious and workedhard always trying to improve. When she was 8 she started riding amare called The cheerleader aka CL. They fit like a glove it was so fun towatch her run. She only wanted to run barrels but she did run a fewpoles and tied goats some only because she had to.

There was a fewtimes I made her ride a calf, we knew she didn't have a future in bullriding!! When Kelly was 9 she ran at the prison rodeo in at Huntsville and at therodeo in Austin that was so exciting for us.i honestly can't remember ifshe won a dime, CL was a turning point for her because she loved towin. Kelly always rode very well she just had a natural seat on a horseand loves horses and really all animals.

There was a fewtimes I made her ride a calf, we knew she didn't have a future in bullriding!!

After her and Joe married shecontinue to run barrels and then they had their son Tucker.Kelly bought a mare called Libby and what a sweet mare she was.

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her husband and her son. I think the Lord blessed her with Edwin at thistime because Tucker graduates this year. Kelly has the determinationand the skill to be a winner. I still get nervous when she runs. Her goalhas always been to make the NFR. She has had some nice horses but Ithink Edwin and Harvey will make her dreams come true. Her family isbehind her 100 percent in helping her get there.

When it came time to put her down it was just terrible. Kelly said, I willnever find another Libby, but she bought Scooter now he has a mind ofhis own too so they were a fit. We have been blessed to have traveltogether and run barrels. It has always been so much fun. She hasimpressed me with her skills and also the love she has for her horses. She takes the best of care of them. Kelly first priority has always been-

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r e t x a B t t e r r a G by:

INNOVATION MEETS Sports Entertainment Industry

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oday we live in a world where technology demands a large amount of athletesâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; and sponsorsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; time to get their name and product out to the public and potential buyers. Rodeo Athletes Inc.has created the first of its kindwebsite where social media, athletes,sponsors, colleges, universities, agents, events, and the largest endorsed product store-front in the western industryare all tied together.

In the Immersion Ageof Rodeo Athletes Inc. whereRodeoAthletes.com allows The Sponsor and Athlete to maximize their social media reach and minimize their time spent. This allows them time to connect directly in a two-way dialogue with their consumers and fans without intermediaries or solely about product or services, but about topics that are simultaneously relevant and interesting to both fans and sponsors. Rodeo Athletes Inc.is continuing to teach sponsors and athletes to create and distribute their own high-quality content.By the same token, the customer will engage the brands content, contributing, and consuming.Social media will become a conduit rather than a like or follow button. It will become part of their network within which the brand/athlete and the consumer speak to each other. It is the air wave. As with the Digital Age of marketing, the measures are precise, the brand or athlete knows instantly what is popular and important with its engaged consumersand fans; also, it knows what they like and what they share, which deepens the relationship between fan and brand. They genuinely like each other. It is like a two-way laser, targeting between the brand, athlete and individual consumer; actively pointing at each other. David Ogilvy may have predicted this future by saying, "What really decides consumers to buy or not to

buy is the content of your advertising.â&#x20AC;? How RodeoAthletes.com works, is athlete sponsors, universities, events, and agents build their own profile on the site which will allow them to engage and speak to one another; but most importantly, it allows them to speak directly to their customers and fans by helping them find what they are looking for to improve their talents and lives. Athlete Profiles: Athlete Profiles will allow the athlete and their fans to speak to each other as well as let The Athlete to show off the products they endorse with videos and their own store linked to the products they endorse. The site will also allow athletes to seek out an agent to help them align with sponsors and potential sponsorships offered to athletes in the industry. With that being said, the greatest thing the site will offer, is that an athlete will be able to post on one site and it will go out to all of their social media platforms with a custom sponsor or athlete signature. This allows the athlete to promote their sponsors at the level which their sponsors demand for said sponsorships. This site will also help the youth athletes promote their talents and achievements to colleges and universities across the world with complete profiles to share to potential schools and sponsors as they expand their competition level. Sponsor Profiles: Sponsor Profiles allow the sponsor to have their own store on Rodeoathletes.com as well as have their products tied to the sponsored athlete and theirpersonal profile and store. This will give the sponsor maximum exposure of their product. The site will also be the one-stop social media post for the sponsors, allowing them to spend more time in direct dialog with their customers and promote their products the way it will be needed in the Immersion Age.

College / University Profiles: College/University Profiles will open up the largest scouting talent site in the world allowing colleges to pinpoint the quality and specifications they want to recruit to their school as they do their best to win national titles in the Intercollegiate Rodeo Association. With this site, schools will be able to find athletes by age, state, GPA, accomplishments and sponsors. This will allow schools to spend less money on travel and recruitment, and more money on scholarships to the athletes that they recruit. Agent Profiles: Agent Profiles will give agents access to sponsors and athletes around the world, and allow them to broker deals for their clients in ways that have not been accessible; ever before in the sports entertainment industry. Agents will be able to research sponsors before submitting their clients to them as well as research the credentials of potential athletes without communicating until they feel they are a good match for them and their sponsors they work with. Event Profiles: Event Profiles will open up the largest athlete information package in the sports industry with live feed for all of the athletes competing at their event each night from photos, bios sponsors, and endorsed products to help the announcers promote the athlete as each athlete deserves while competing in foreign cities across the world. The events will also be able to book, sell and promote ticket sales to attending fans and athletes with PDF e-mail;booking conformation tickets helping events save on printed tickets, which will allow them to go green. Events will also be able to host products on their store front, allowing them to sell event memorabilia year-round to attending and non-attending fans. Events will also be ableto utilize social media the way events demand on all platforms on one easy posting by managing members of the event. Rodeo Athletes Magazine / July 2015

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