PAGE 8
News Advertiser
www. NewsAdvertiser.com
November 3, 2021
Barrel Racing Siblings Taking the Sport by Storm Michelle Pinon News Advertiser Paiten and Cooper Axten have been riding horses since they were barely out of diapers, and now they spend the better part of the year participating in barrel racing competitions throughout the province. Paiten, 10, and Cooper, 7, competed in 35 jackpots and rodeos between April and September of 2021. Parents Mark
Cooper Axten. (Michelle Pinon/Photo)
Weekly Crop Market Review
Paiten Axten. (Michelle Pinon/Photo)
and Margie couldn’t be any prouder of their hard work and dedication to the sport. Both Paiten and Cooper compete in the pee wee category and had to qualify to compete in the final competition of the year that was held in Rimbey. They had to place in the top 8 to compete, and both were very happy with that accomplishment. They trained hard in preparation of the Wildrose finals that was held over Thanksgiving weekend. Cooper was the youngest competitor with oldest horse and the only boy in the competition. Cooper’s 27-year-old trusty stead Rocket and he love the excitement and energy they get off of the crowd. Cooper said his pre-competition habit of eating a Mars bar also helps to spur him on. Paiten rides both 20-year-old Slider, and 18-year-old Jimmy in competitions. Paiten said her coach helped prepare her for the final competition, and she made sure to practice every day in preparation of the event. Paiten said she was happy with her efforts and placing 5th overall. She added that, “It’s not always about winning.” While she loves competing, she has come to realize that you don’t have to go to every single competition. She has made friends along the way and is learning more and more about herself and appreciating the opportunities her parents and the sport itself have given her. Growing up on the Lavoy area farm, Margie said it has plenty of space for them to ride, which she feels is a big plus. Paiten also competes in gymkhanas and is already looking forward to next spring. In the meantime, she and her brother are busy playing hockey, and will also acquire many more skills on and off the ice, that will no doubt contribute to their future success in the arena of life.
