Born to Ride
Madison Outhier is one fast breakaway roper… balancing her laser-focused competitive drive with her high school commitments. By Abigail Boatwright When the dust settled at the 2019 RFD-TV’s The American, Madison Outhier was the first-ever Breakaway Roping Shootout Round winner. Her 2.29-second run netted her more than $100,000. A determined Fulshear, Texas, high school sophomore, “Madi” takes roping seriously—riding every day while juggling sports and academics. But she’ll tell you she was born for this life. Madi’s dad is Mike Outhier—professional bronc rider and 4-time NFR competitor. Her mother is Kristy Outhier, one of the top women’s polo players in the world. And her grandparents are Lou and Wanda Waters—founders of LA Waters Quarter Horses in Utopia, Texas. They’re best known for owning the great Colonel Freckles, and Mike and Kristy still run the operation today. Milburn Outhier, Mike’s father, was many time IPRA World Champion Bareback Rider and Mike’s two sisters won countless accolades in high school and college rodeo in Oklahoma. Kristy says they are truly where Madi gets her love for rodeo. Madi’s younger brother, Ace, rides as well. Needless to say, horses are in Madi’s blood.
Madison and “Rooster” with their earnings from The American.
“That poor little child, she was pretty much born on horseback” Kristy said with a laugh. “But she kept loving it, and going with me to polo matches, and going to watch Mike rodeo. And at about seven years old, she started roping: roping the dummy, roping off her pony and all of that. She just always loved rodeo—all the events.” Madi counts herself blessed with the opportunity she has to learn from her family. “Both of my parents have just helped me tremendously with the horses: polo, rodeo and just all around riding,” Madi said. “It’s great to have them, and I feel very lucky to have knowledgeable parents in the horse world.” Madi and Reno
F O R T Y- F O U R
Madi and Waylon Madison has ridden since she could walk and has competed throughout her childhood.
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