Each month we will interview a member and a board member for an "In their boots" profile. February's Board Member Spotlight is on Rhonda Fowler How many years have you been an ABRA member? 7 years What ABRA events are you currently competing in? Senior Barrels & Poles How old were you when you began riding horses? We had horses when I was in school, but then I wasn’t around any until my kids wanted them. Competing? 7 years How many horses do you have now? 10 Silver Te is my main stay. Ranger is my paint that has been recovering from a leg injury for a year. Gunner is my 2007 Novice Horse that Taylor, my granddaughter, rides. Black is a roping horse Rachel is trying to teach barrels. The rest of the pasture is filled with retired/trail horses bossed around by one fat miniature red roan pony. What other equine associations are you/have you ever been a member of? Malvern Riding Club, Midstate, Rockin U, South Central, 4-H Executive Equine Council What other equine disciplines have you participated in? Pleasure, speed, reining What is your most memorable barrel racing win to date? I won the Novice Horse class at Big Step Arena 6 months after my first stroke. It gave me hope that I could make a recovery. Who do you respect/admire most in the equine industry? Rosalie Turlie What is your most embarrassing equine related moment? Ranger had done so well in the practice arena. Then he turned his fast, large circle of the reining pattern into a flag run that almost wiped out the judges at an association show. What do like most about the ABRA? Time spent with family and friends Do you have any special routines/superstitions about barrel racing competitions? I just try to find my tack; kids and grandkids can find new ways to misplace theirs so they get to use mine. Where is your favorite place (arena) to compete in Arkansas? Arkadelphia and Lorance. What is your occupation/year in school? Dr. R L Fowler, NBCT Communications & Drama Instructor, Little Rock Central High School What would be your theme song to play during your competition runs? “American Ride” by Toby Keith What other interests or hobbies do you have outside of equine activities? John and I have 5 children (Rachel is the youngest) and 12 grandchildren. I am a published author and an archeologist. What is your favorite brand of boots? Tony Lama My anniversary and my birthday are both close to Christmas. To avoid a one-gift-does-all, John had one boot wrapped in birthday paper and the other in Christmas paper. February's Member Spotlight is on Maria Bextermueller How many years have you been an ABRA member? This is my first year What ABRA events are you currently competing in? Open Jackpot but hopefully Senior Rodeo soon How old were you when you began riding horses? I got my first horse when I was 8, but took riding lessons before. I got my first barrel horse at 12 and started competing with her. How many horses do you have now? 6 Names and Interesting characteristics about each? Dan- He’s my little horse with the biggest heart. He’s the boss of everyone and he deserves it! Salty- I just recently got her but have already had a lot of success together. She’s very sassy and knows that she is amazing! Paris- My first horse with some color, she’s my grey mare that’s off in training but should get her back soon. Very sweet and laid back, I always call her the beauty queen. X T Cee- My old barrel horse that used to be the meanest horse ever, now she is a broodmare that gets bullied around by the others. Martini- Our first baby, she’s small with a big attitude. Lil Rulz- Our second baby, named after my great horse Rulette. She is always in your business! What other equine associations are you/have you ever been a member of? AQHA, NBHA, Central Horseshow What other equine disciplines have you participated in? Pole bending What is your most memorable barrel racing win to date? I have a few, overall just finally owning a 1D horse. Dan brought me to the top finally after many, many bad horses. I was really excited to win the 1D series buckle at Kennedy’s. Just last month, Salty and I ran a scorching fast time at Quitman and we won the entire 1D. Who do you respect/admire most in the equine industry? I really respect Kendal Owen for her efforts as a trainer. She is very honest, works very hard, and knows her stuff! More trainers should learn to be more like her! What is your most embarrassing equine related moment? My very first run at the NBHA Youth World, I was in the alley way riding my horse General Rulette. She stopped and wouldn’t move forward, backwards, or sideways. Nothing would get her to move and the announcer makes the comment “She’s the general and she’s not gonna do it!” I was so young, it was embarrassing to me! Another year at the youth world, my horse freaked out as we were walking in the holding pen reared up and we fell backwards into a golf cart and she took off running while I lay on the ground! What do like most about the ABRA? That you can turn in any money won anywhere and it counts! And I’m really excited about all the good prizes at the end of year. Do you have any special routines/superstitions about barrel racing competitions? I have superstitions about clothing. I used to think that when I dressed up cute for a race I always did badly but when I dressed down in a t-shirt and not cute I always did pretty good. Luckily, I broke that curse. I never like to just sit on my horse so I won’t get on a real long time before my run and I never talk to anybody right before my run. Where is your favorite place (arena) to compete in Arkansas? White County Fairgrounds in Searcy, Kennedy’s in Quitman, and Hestand Stadium in Pine Bluff. What is your occupation/year in school? I work for my dad managing apartments and helping out with his business. What would be your theme song to play during your competition runs? I have a “Turn and Burn” playlist on my ipod with a bunch of fast songs but if I had to choose one it would be Take it to the Limit by Hinder. What other interests or hobbies do you have outside of equine activities? I enjoy anything to do outside like fishing and golf. I also enjoy going to the lake during the summer. What is your favorite brand of boots? Ariat January's Board Member spotlight is on Sr. Barrels Division Chairman Cindi Noah How many years have you been an ABRA member? This is my fifth year. What ABRA events are you currently competing in? Senior Barrels and Senior Poles. How old were you when you began riding horses? I started riding ponies when I was six. Competing? In 1991, I guess I had an early mid-life crisis and bought a 3 year old mare that had been trained on barrels. But trying to compete on a novice horse with me not knowing a thing…..competition didn’t last long. How many horses do you have now? Currently, I own two horses. Names? Dillon, a 15 year old sorrel gelding and Rossington, or Rossi, a 6 year old sorrel gelding. Interesting characteristics about each? Dillon will steal things, like a coat, then go off and toss it in the air like a toy. Rossi is a cutting horse that is being trained on barrels and poles. He is named after Gary Rossington, the only surviving original member of Lynyrd Skynyrd. What other equine associations are you/have you ever been a member of? In the past I’ve been a member of the NBHA and NEAHSA, currently, just the ABRA. What other equine disciplines have you participated in? In the past I spent most of my time trail riding. I enjoyed riding cutting horses while I was visiting a friend in Texas. What is your most memorable barrel racing win to date? Probably when I finally ran in the 15’s at Clark Co. Who do you respect/admire most in the equine industry? Kendra Dickson, owner of Gold Buckle Barrel Horses. She is a Christian with a remarkable talent of matching horses and riders. What is your most embarrassing equine related moment? I bought a new headstall and just had to use it at a horse show. I had to rush to get the bit on and make my run. It was a disaster. Later I found out I had put the bit on upside down. What do you like most about the ABRA? The ABRA has much to offer different age groups and riding abilities. I enjoy meeting people from around the state and have made new friends. Do you have any special routines/superstitions about barrel racing competitions? I don’t have any superstitions. Routine-wise, I say a prayer asking God to keep every horse and rider safe. I ask Him to help me do my best and to be happy with the results. Also, I like to warm up my horse before the class starts. Where is your favorite place (arena) to compete in Arkansas? I’d say White Co. Arena in Searcy followed closely by Clark Co. in Arkadelphia. What is your occupation/year in school? I am a Registered Nurse Practitioner. If I could choose another job I’d like to be an artist or a forensic psychologist. What would be your theme song to play during your competition runs? I usually don’t hear much when I make a run, but I’d say “Everybody Wants You” by Billy Squire. What other interests or hobbies do you have outside of equine activities? When I get free time, I like to read books by Patricia Cornwell, go fishing in my pond, or watch the PBR on TV. I’m a big fan of LOST and FlashForward. What is your favorite brand of boots? Justin boots or heels down riding shoes. January's Member Spotlight is on Karen Alston. How many years have you been an ABRA member? 5 years What ABRA events are you currently competing in? Right now just Sr. Poles How old were you when you began riding horses? I started riding with my Mom and friends when I was about 10 years old. Competing? I didn’t start competing until my late 30’s. I figure you are never too old. How many horses do you have now? Names? Interesting characteristics about each? I currently have 3 horses. 1. Invest In Oil (Sweetie 26 years old) I wish I had a clone of her. I love this horse. Rode her 5 years ago in the Novice Rider class. She was so much fun. Unfortunately her body gave out before her heart and love of running barrels. I had to retire her after that year due to arthritis. 2. a ladybug (Ladybug 22 years old) Four years ago I did not own this horse and was afraid to hold onto her even on the ground. Now we are competing in poles together. God is good! I have great respect and admiration for her. I think somehow we understand each other. We connect at a different level. In the pasture she is playful and fun. In the barn…..don’t go near her, man or beast. 3. Specially Tuned (Special 9 years old) He is my teenager. Very laid back and lazy until it’s feed time or he’s near an arena. He lives to eat. He is also a Houdini. He can open gates and latches. What other equine associations are you/have you ever been a member of? NEAHSA, NBHA. Currently, just ABRA. What other equine disciplines have you participated in? Barrel Racing and Trail Riding What is your most memorable barrel racing win to date? Running a 16.2 on Sweetie at Benton. Who do you respect/admire most in the equine industry? Kendra Dickson, Aubrey Texas, WPRA, PRCA, trainer. Kendra is so positive and upbeat. She is guided both personally and professionally by her faith in God. She is truly God’s vessel in the equine world. What is your most embarrassing equine related moment? My novice rider year at a show at Lorance. I was riding Ladybug on barrels and was trying running left. When we got to the 3rd barrel I was going left and she went right. I landed face first in the dirt. What do you like most about the ABRA? I enjoy being around a lot of the people I’ve met. I like that they offer poles and also that all the classes are barrels and poles (my favorite). Also, the awards banquet. I remember my first one. It was amazing to see all the different booths and awards. Do you have any special routines/superstitions about barrel racing competitions? I listen to certain songs on the way to the show. It gets me pumped up. I always thank God for the day and ask Him to keep me and my horses safe as well as every other rider and their horses. I also have to check my tack several times. Where is your favorite place (arena) to compete in Arkansas? I would have to say White Co. Fairgrounds in Searcy. What is your occupation/year in school? I am a Registered Nurse Practitioner. I wanted to be a veterinarian but at the time I didn’t want to go out of state to school. If talented enough I would have loved to be a professional singer or horse trainer. What would be your theme song to play during your competition runs? It’s My Life, Bon Jovi or Sweet Home Alabama. Some days I feel like it should be For Your Entertainment by Adam Lambert. What other interests or hobbies do you have outside of equine activities? I actually like to exercise. I also like browsing the web and watching TV, reality shows (I hate to admit it), AMW, TRUTV, and my new discovery HGTV. I like hanging out with my other animals, dogs, cats, goats, ducks, and geese). What is your favorite brand of boots? My riding shoes, Justin Sport Lacers. September's Board Member spotlight is on Jr. Jackpot Division Chairman Kathy Rowland How many years have you been an ABRA member? 6 years What ABRA events are you currently competing in? Novice Horse & Sr. Poles How old were you when you began riding horses? Competing? Riding at 5 years old and Competing at 7. How many horses do you have now? 12 Names? Interesting characteristics about each? 3J Compete on, Six - Hot Bloody, Slim - He's ADD, Wayco - too fast for me. What other associations are you/have you been a member of? Scahsa, USTRCA, APHA, NBHA, AQHA What other equine disciplines have you participated in? Team Roping What is your most memorable barrel racing win to date? 1980 When I had to bet my best friend to win the saddle. Who do you respect/admire most in the equine industry? Rosalie Turley because she can beat most people with one arm. What is your most embarrassing equine related moment? When I fall off at the 2nd barrel when Slim turned in front of it at Texarkanna. What do you like most about the ABRA? It's family oriented. Do you have any special routines/superstitions about barrel racing competitions? Pray for everybody and all the horses to be safe. What is your favorite place to compete in Arkansas? Benton What is your occupation/year in school? Self employed What would be your theme song to play during your competition runs? She's County by Jason Aldeen or Sweet Home Alabama What other interests or hobbies do you have outside of equine activities? Spending time with my family What is your favorite brand of boots? Ariat September's Member spotlight is on Novice Rider Ryan Duckworth How many years have you been an ABRA member? 1 What ABRA events are you currently competing in? Pony Poles & Barrels How old were you when you began riding horses? Competing? 7 How many horses do you have now? 1 Names? Interesting characteristics about each? Brownie. She is pretty and fast. What other associations are you/have you been a member of? SEHSA What other equine disciplines have you participated in? Keyhole and Barrel Pick-up What is your most memorable barrel racing win to date? When I ran a 16.5 in barrels at Tri-County Arena. What is your most embarrassing equine related moment? When I got bucked off in poles. What do you like most about the ABRA? You get awards at the end of the season. Do you have any special routines/superstitions about barrel racing competitions? No. What is your favorite place to compete in Arkansas? Little Rock What is your occupation/year in school? 3rd grade. What would be your theme song to play during your competition runs? Big Green Tractor What other interests or hobbies do you have outside of equine activities? Baseball What is your favorite brand of boots? Justin August's Board Member spotlight is on Rodeo Division Chairman Julie Harper How many years have you been an ABRA member? 9 years What ABRA events are you currently competing in? Senior Barrels How old were you when you began riding horses? Not sure...picture of me still in diapers horse back! Competing? Started competing at age 6 as a member of South Central Horse Show Association and Rocking "U" Round Up Club in Arkadelphia. How many horses do you have now? 12 Names? Interesting characteristics about each? 6 year old Jammer, my barrel horse, Gus, the twins' baabysitter, the 3 year olds, Lori, Annie, and Spirit, the 2 year old Tes, the yearling Gator, Dustin's horses Concho and Quincy and the broodmares, Mama Mare and her new filly June, and Jo Jo with baby due in Feb.! What other associations are you/have you been a member of? ARA, ACE, NBHA, AQHA, AHSA What other equine disciplines have you participated in? 1996-1997 rode for World Champion cutting horse trainer Donny O'Brien. What is your most memorable barrel racing win to date? 1998 Arkansas Rodeo Association Rookie of the Year. Who do you respect/admire the most in the equine industry? Charmayne James and Scamper as a team. What is your most embarrassing equine related moment? 1996 must have been my year for embarrassing moments....I have many. Pine Bluff District Fair NBHA Jackpot and Augusta, GA Cutting Horse Futurity are main ones that stand out to me. What do you like most about the ABRA? It offers something for everyone at all levels of competition. Do you have any special routines/superstitions about barrel racing competitions? I do not wear yellow when competing. What is your favorite place to compete in Arkansas? Clark County Fairgrounds in Arkadelphia What is your occupation/year in school? Marketing Director for Bryant Health Care Center What would be your theme song to play during your competition runs? Back in Black by AC/DC What other interests or hobbies do you have outside of equine activities? I enjoy spending time with my family on the river. What is your favorite brand of boots? Lucchese August's Member spotlight is on Erika Bittinger How many years have you been an ABRA member? 2 Years What ABRA events are you currently competing in? Pony Poles & Pony Barrels How old were you when you began riding horses? Competing? Riding @ 3, competing @ 4 How many horses do you have now? Names? Interesting characteristics about each? 2 ponies – Bud and Rosie What other equine associations are you/have you ever been a member of? South Central What other equine disciplines have you participated in? Keyhole & Barrel Pick-up What is your most memorable barrel racing win to date? First time I got first place Who do you respect/admire most in the equine industry? Mrs. Rosalie What do like most about the ABRA? Running Barrels & Poles & the people Do you have any special routines/superstitions about barrel racing competitions? no Where is your favorite place (arena) to compete in Arkansas? Jeanie Plamer Arena – Hot Springs What is your occupation/year in school? Starting 1st grade What would be your theme song to play during your competition runs? Cowgirls don’t cry What other interests or hobbies do you have outside of equine activities? Swimming & playing at Mimi’s house in her garden What is your favorite brand of boots? whatever kind daddy buys July's Board Member spotlight is on Lead Line Chairman Robin Mulkey How many years have you been an ABRA member? 1 What ABRA events are you currently competing in? Novice Horse and Jackpot How old were you when you began riding horses? 3 Competing? 6 How many horses do you have now? I only own one right now (besides my husband’s two) Names? Phoenix. Interesting characteristics about each? She was a twin, so she is small but has a lot of attitude What other equine associations are you/have you ever been a member of? I was in 4-H for 13 years. I was a member of the SC High School Association and a member of the Intercollegiate Rodeo Association. I have also been a member of the ACA ,ARA and IPRA. What other equine disciplines have you participated in? I started out riding hunt seat and got into jumping and did that for 14 years before I started running barrels. I have also done some basic level dressage, and fox hunting. What is your most memorable barrel racing win to date? Placing third for the year for our region in college and getting to go to the college finals. Who do you respect/admire most in the equine industry? I probably respect Sarah Floyd as much as anyone. She won the world in English riding and actually taught me most of what I know about horses and riding. I rode with her from the time I was six until high school. I still visit her when I go home. What is your most embarrassing equine related moment? I was at our state high school rodeo finals running poles, and sometime during my run I caught my shirt on the horn and ripped it completely open. What do like most about the ABRA? I like the people and it is something you can do with your whole family. Do you have any special routines/superstitions about barrel racing competitions? No not really. I go over what I want to do mentally before I run. Where is your favorite place to compete in Arkansas? I really don’t have one. I like the arena at Pine Bluff. What is your occupation/year in school? I am a supervisor in research at UAMS. I have a bachelors degree in Agricultural Sciences. What would be your theme song to play during your competition runs? “Another one bites the dust” Actually any 80’s rock song would be good to run too. What other interests or hobbies do you have outside of equine activities? I like just about anything, but mostly doing things with my kids. What is your favorite brand of boots? I like Ariats. I really don’t have a favorite as long as they are comfortable. July's member spotlight is on young gun Jacie Sullivan How many years have you been an ABRA member? This is my second year in the ABRA What ABRA events are you currently competing in? Junior Rodeo Division How old were you when you began riding horses? Competing? I have been riding for as long as I can remember. I have been competing since I was four years old. How many horses do you have now? Names? Interesting characteristics about each? • Sage –red roan gelding; goat tying and breakaway roping horse. Sage is a very honest horse. You can depend on Sage. I love him. • JT- bay gelding; back up barrel horse; JT likes to play rodeo. He has a big heart. He gives 110%. JT is very smart. He can even answer questions. JT is just a very special horse. • Yella-(ShowTime Dynamite) palomino gelding; some people think that Yella is a quirky horse, but I think he tries hard to please and do what I ask of him. He likes to have a routine and he likes to stick to his routine. Yella loves me. • Duchess (GM Golden Redeemer)- palomino mare. She turned three April 15th. My dad has her started. She seems cowy so we will probably end up roping off of her. I bought her with some of my winnings when she was a yearling. What other equine associations are you/have you ever been a member of? • Arkansas Junior Wrangler High Association • Arkansas Rodeo Association • Arkansas Cowboys Association • National Little Britches Association What other equine disciplines have you participated in? Besides running barrels, I participate in goat tying and breakaway roping. What is your most memorable barrel racing win to date? I have two. At the ACA finals last year I won both rounds. Yella ran the only 14 ran at the finals. I still remember leaving the arena and looking up and seeing the 14 on the clock above the alley and thinking YES! In May at the Junior Wrangler state finals in Benton. Yella and I won both rounds and also won the Ariat boot certificate for the fastest barrel run of the weekend. We ended up winning Reserve State Barrel Racing Champion. Who do you respect/admire most in the equine industry? Sheri Cervi and Kallen Roller What is your most embarrassing equine related moment? Once, my brothers talked me into goat tying off this paint pony that we called, Larry Dale. He had been doing well in the practice pen so I thought I would use him in a rodeo. Just as I was getting off Larry Dale he planted his front feet and chili whopped me head first in the dirt. What do like most about the ABRA? The awards banquet Do you have any special routines/superstitions about barrel racing competitions? No not really. I just try to make sure my horse is warmed up. Where is your favorite place to compete in Arkansas? Flying ‘L’ Arena (but Yella would rather have a center alley) and White County fair grounds What is your occupation/year in school? I will be in the 7th grade when school starts back. What would be your theme song to play during your competition runs? “Get Ready for This ” and “The Breeze” What other interests or hobbies do you have outside of equine activities? I like to run, spend time with friends, shopping,and do crafts. What is your favorite brand of boots? My favorite brand of boots are Twisted X and Anderson Bean boots. June's member spotlight was on 14 year ABRA member Jeanie Whitehurst How many years have you been an ABRA member? Since 1995 What ABRA events are you currently competing in? Senior Rodeo & Open Jackpot How old were you when you began riding horses? Competing? I was eighteen months old when I rode my first horse. I started competing at age 6 years old in horse shows. How many horses do you have now? Names? Interesting characteristics about each? I have 4 horses now. “Charger” – He is 28 years old this year and was my very first big horse. I had ponies before him, but he was my first big horse. He is pretty ornery most of the time. He will run you over getting into the barn at feeding time. I guess he has an excuse now since he can’t hear or see very well but in his younger days he thought he ruled the roost and tried very hard to convince me of such. Playboy’s Lil Dude aka “Hustler” – 9 yr old stallion. Each time you take his halter off to put the bridle on, he yawns real big. Sheza Scootn Playboy – 4 yr old filly out of Hustler and my grey mare “Scooter” that coliced and died when this filly was only 4 months old. She is very lovable and curious. DBR Quixote Player aka “Diesel” – 2 yr old stud colt. He seems pretty bossy in the pasture. He hasn’t been broke to ride yet. What other equine associations are you/have you ever been a member of? Razorback Barrel Racing Association, Arkansas Cowboy’s Association, Arkansas Rodeo Association What is your most memorable barrel racing win to date? Winning the barrel racing average buckle my senior year at the Benton High School Rodeo. This was my very first buckle to win. What other equine disciplines have you participated in? I competed in goat tying in high school rodeo. Who do you respect/admire most in the equine industry? My uncle Mike Langrell was the person responsible for getting me hooked on riding horses. I would go to his house on the weekends and ride horses he had for sale, showing the potential buyers how gentle the horse was. Charmayne James is also someone I admire. What is your most embarrassing equine related moment? I had several when I first started High School Rodeo. Charger would run me up the fence at the first barrel more times than not when we first started the rodeos. What do you like most about the ABRA? The fun and fellowship with other barrel racers and the prizes. Do you have any special routines/superstitions about barrel racing competitions? I never put my hat on the bed. Where is your favorite place (arena) to compete in Arkansas? Benton Fairgrounds, that is where I won my first belt buckle competing in a High School Rodeo. It was an outdoor arena at that time. What is your occupation/year in school? Community Bank Internal Auditor What would be your theme song to play during your competition runs? Anything loud and fast. What other interest or hobbies do you have outside of equine activities? I love to go camping, water skiing and boating. I also love taking pictures. What is your favorite brand of boots? Ariat June's board member spotlight was on Secretary & Open Jackpot Co-Chairman Christy Kurck How many years have you been an ABRA member? 4 years What ABRA events are you currently competing in? Senior Barrels, Senior Rodeo, Open Jackpot and riding Phoenix in Novice Horse for Robin Mulkey until she recovers from having her baby. How old were you when you began riding horses? Competing? I got my first horse for my 7th birthday. She was a green broke thoroughbred. We did not keep her very long. I began competing at NECA horse shows later that year on my pony, Little Red, when my parents forced me to go to them. I did not want to go to shows I just wanted to ride. Well, that didn’t last long and I’ve been hooked ever since. How many horses do you have now? Names? Interesting characteristics about each? We have 10 horses here but only two are mine. The rest are roping horses. Clueso is my 23 year old retiree. I won Jr. Barrels on him at the State Horse Show in 1999 and he was my college rodeo horse. The horse I compete on now is my 13 year old mare Ready. She is the queen of the barn and she lets all the boys know it. Occasionally I also get to ride my mom’s horses Blue and Charlie. What other equine associations are you/have you ever been a member of? Currently: ARA, WPRA, & BBR. Previously: ACA, IPRA, CRRA, NIRA, NECA, NEA, AQHA, WBR, NBHA, EABRA What other equine disciplines have you participated in? When I did association shows I ran poles, keyhole, flags, barrel pickup, and also rode in pleasure and reining. My first time to ever place at the State Horse Show was in Jr. Reining in 1995 and I won State in Jr. Reining in 1996. What is your most memorable barrel racing win to date? Winning the Sweepstakes, Open, and High Money trailer at the Arkansas NBHA finals in 2007. Who do you respect/admire most in the equine industry? Jackie Dube-Jatzlau, Tana Popino and locally Cheryle Laws. What is your most embarrassing equine related moment? Probably earning my frequent visitor pass at the Arkadelphia emergency room this year. The first visit was when Jacie’s horse fell on me warming up and I had a concussion and did not know where I was or how I got there, apparently that was fairly humorous to some. And then I fell off the back of my trailer trying to put a saddle up and tore all the ligaments in my ankle. What do like most about the ABRA? There is a place for everyone to be competitive somewhere in the association, from beginners to life time competitors. Not very many organizations can say that. Do you have any special routines/superstitions about barrel racing competitions? I don’t really have any superstitions. I wear yellow all the time cause it’s my favorite color. Routine-wise I just like to have enough time to feel like my horse is warmed up and ready but not enough time that I am sitting around waiting because waiting makes me nervous. Where is your favorite place (arena) to compete in Arkansas? I like Hurley’s and Foothills arenas at Clarksville What is your occupation/year in school? I have a Masters in Accounting but I have a mobile dog grooming business, “The Critter Express”. You never know where life will take you. What would be your theme song to play during your competition runs? Gun Powder & Lead What other interests or hobbies do you have outside of equine activities? When I have free time, which is very seldom anymore, I cross-stitch and read - mostly John Grishom books. I also like to follow the NFL. What is your favorite brand of boots? Luchesee May's member spotlight was on 11 year old Haydin Cooper How many years have you been an ABRA member? About 5 What ABRA events are you currently competing in? Buckaroo Barrels and Poles How old were you when you began riding horses? Competing? 2 and 3 How many horses do you have now? Names? Interesting characteristics about each? 1, Little Bit she's the Mighty B What other equine associations are you/have you ever been a member of? Midstate, SJRA, CLBRA What other equine disciplines have you participated in? Roping and goat tying What is your most memorable barrel racing win to date? When I won a saddle on my pony in 2007. What is your most embarrassing equine related moment? When I messed up on poles What do like most about the ABRA? The people that surrounds me Do you have any special routines/superstitions about barrel racing competitions? No Where is your favorite place (arena) to compete in Arkansas? Saline County What is your occupation/year in school? Going into 4th grade What would be your theme song to play during your competition runs? Cowgirls Don't Cry What other interests or hobbies do you have outside of equine activities? Swimming What is your favorite brand of boots? Justin May's board member spotlight was on Novice Rider Division Chairman Brittney Johnson How many years have you been an ABRA member? 4 years What ABRA events are you currently competing in? Sr. Rodeo, Sr. Barrels, Sr. Poles, Novice Horse, and Open Jackpot How old were you when you began riding horses? Competing? Dad rode me on my first horse when I was 2 weeks old. I started competing at 5. How many horses do you have now? Names? Interesting characteristics about each? Spanky—Mr. Personality. Very jealous of the other horses getting ANY of my attention. He won a saddle team penning at 3 before I got him as a 4 year old. He’s 15 now. Streaker--my old horse that Justin rides now. She does barrels, poles, breakaway, goats, heels, and hazes. She’s 16 and I’ve had her since she was a weanling. Chism—my novice horse this year. He’s also a roping and hazing horse and belongs to Jarrod now. Boogeyman—my 2010 novice horse. He’s an ex-reining horse, and we are doing keyhole at Southeast this year What other equine associations are you/have you ever been a member of? ARA, ACA, AHSRA, IPRA, and SEHSA What other equine disciplines have you participated in? Breakaway roping, heeling, hazing, and a little bit of goat tying. What is your most memorable barrel racing win to date? The 2004 IPRA rodeo at Huntsville. I won 1st and my best friend won 2nd—we both took home over $1000 for one run. Who do you respect/admire most in the equine industry? Other than my parents and husband, Famous—Charmayne James Local—Jamie Gibbs and Billy Warren What is your most embarrassing equine related moment? My shirt came unsnapped at the 1st barrel at an ACA Rodeo in Mt. View. I still won the rodeo though. What do like most about the ABRA? The laid-back family atmosphere, and of course, the PRIZES Do you have any special routines/superstitions about barrel racing competitions? I NEVER wear yellow in the arena, never lay my hat on the bed, and never carry $50 bills. You can thank my Dad for all of those Where is your favorite place (arena) to compete in Arkansas? Indoor—the old Opello arena. There’s no telling how much money I won there. Outdoor—Lazy “L” off of Dixon Road What is your occupation/year in school? Sales rep for Team 1 Auto Body & I’m also selling custom tack at www.lightningjtack.com What would be your theme song to play during your competition runs? I block everything out when I run, but Spanky runs harder when they play something LOUD and FAST What other interests or hobbies do you have outside of equine activities? Reading and WWE What is your favorite brand of boots? Anderson Bean April's board member spotlight was on Senior Horse Show Division Chairman Anita Robertson How many years have you been an ABRA member? This is my second year. I didn’t know what ABRA was when we joined. We just wanted to help my grand daughter get some riding time and have some fun. It has become one of the best things we have ever done. What ABRA events are you currently competing in? Sr. Poles, Sr. Barrels, and Novice Horse How old were you when you began riding horses? Competing? I rode a friend’s horse a little growing up, but didn’t really start riding until about four years ago. I joined my first state horse show association in the spring of 2007 and ABRA in Sept. 2007. How many horses do you have now? Names? Interesting characteristics about each? I have two horses now. I have a fifteen year old mare named Fancy. She tries hard but gets very hyper when you start in the arena. Joey is a fourteen year old gelding that came off the quarter horse track. He has been very hard for me to win over. I have had him about a year and I think he is just about to start trusting me. We have made a lot of progress in the last few months. What other equine associations are you/have you ever been a member of? I am a member of the Rockin U Riding Club and South Central Arkansas Horse Show Association What is your most memorable barrel racing win to date? The Barrel Bash this year in Pine Bluff. I won second in the 4D on Sat. The Barrel Bash takes a lot of work to put on, but it is a fun weekend. Who do you respect/admire most in the equine industry? Rosalie Turley she has helped me so much. She is a great teacher and friend. What is your most embarrassing equine related moment? Last year before I started going to Rosalie’s Joey and I were having a little trouble, at a couple of the association shows he would just stop and I would go sailing off. Thank God we finally got things together. What do like most about the ABRA? The GREAT people and getting to compete on my horses. The people in the ABRA all seem like family. I would like to thank all of them for letting me be a part of the ABRA. Do you have any special routines/superstitions about barrel racing competitions? I would like to say no, but I will catch myself getting the same shirt out every weekend. But as far as a routine most of the time I’m just hoping for a clean run and to be on my horse when it comes out of the arena Where is your favorite place (arena) to compete in Arkansas? I would have to say Arkadelphia, not that it is that much better than all the others. It’s just the home town arena What is your occupation/year in school? Lumber Shipping Manager for ten years What would be your theme song to play during your competition runs? Danger Zone or 8 Second Ride What other interests or hobbies do you have outside of equine activities? I love to spend time with my family and I enjoy deer hunting with my husband. What is your favorite brand of boots? Justin, I have a pair that I have been wearing for about five or six years. My girls make fun of me for wearing them. I have a new pair but my old ones are broke in. April's member spotlight was on 14 year member Tammy Pruitt How many years have you been an ABRA member? Since 1995 What ABRA events are you currently competing in? Sr. Rodeo, Open Jackpot, Sr. Barrels. I attempt Poles and Novice Horse occasionally. How old were you when you began riding horses? Competing? I was probably in diapers when I started riding. My first competition was at age 4 in the White County Fair Horseshow Princess Contest on a mean little pony named “Dynamite” and that he was. He’d shoot me across the air like a rocket. How many horses do you have now? I have 11 Names?Interesting characteristics about each? 1.) Maggie-(Bay) She’s a very special girl and she does know it. You can watch her strut and tell she thinks she’s “something”. She was an embryo transfer from my immortal Prissy Scoot. She seems to leave a lasting impression everywhere she goes just like her mother did and believe it or not she’s actually a registered paint! 2.) Jetta- (Bay) She’s my hypochondriac. When she’s at a barrel race she’s “Here for the party”. 3.) Bo- (Buckskin-AKA “Dumplin”) He has “little man” syndrome. It’s getting better with age though. 4.) Wahini (Chestnut)-She’s my wonder women. A heart the size of Texas and not a mean bone in her body. 5.) Easter-(Sorrel) He’s a Whodini…too smart. You’ll often find him grazing along side of the trailer. If he can’t untie himself he’ll just find a way to get his halter off. 6.) Mouse- (Bay) He’s just an all around kind of guy. Roping, barrels, poles, speed race. You name it he can do it. 7.) Shorty- (Bay) He has a case of “little man” syndrome too but worse than Bo. He acts like a pimple face teenager. Hopefully he'll outgrow this with age as Bo has. 8.) Teddy-(Brown) His name says it all. Just as sweet as a big ole Teddy Bear. 9.) Shekinah-(Chestnut) She came to me as a blessing after losing her sister. Her name means “Glory of God” and that she is. 10.) Clover-(Chestnut) She’s enjoying her retirement years and just being a mom. 11.) Cheyenne-(Chestnut) He is Clover’s first colt and hopefully my up and coming superstar. What other equine associations are you/have you ever been a member of? Currently-ACA, ARA, NBHA, Cowgirls for Christ, World Barrel Racing, AQHA, APHA, CAHSA. Previously-All above plus AVHSA, Midstate What other equine disciplines have you participated in? Western Pleasure, Hunter Under Saddle, Gaited (my parents raise gaited horses) What is your most memorable barrel racing win to date? I have several but here’s 2. I won the Arkansas State Show SR. High Point Saddle with a contribution from barrel racing. I placed 3rd in 1D on Clover at AR NBHA State Finals out of 400 plus entries. Who do you respect/admire most in the equine industry? I’ll have to say my mom and dad for getting me into the horses at a young age and continuing to support me with it in every way. What is your most embarrassing equine related moment? There’s several but the one that sticks out most in my head was when I was going to walk Bo up into the alley at a big jackpot at Hurley’s while the tractors were dragging. His little man syndrome kicked in and he decided to take off and took me for a tour of the arena before our run…tractors or no tractors. What do like most about the ABRA? I like the laid back atmosphere, being able to compete on more that one horse and the great year end awards we receive. Do you have any special routines/superstitions about barrel racing competitions? That depends on what horse I’m on. I do wear the same socks sometimes if I think they were “lucky”. Where is your favorite place (arena) to compete in Arkansas? I like Searcy because it is a nice facility and close to home. I don’t really have a favorite as long as the ground is safe. What is your occupation/year in school? Mortgage Loan Officer What would be your theme song to play during your competition runs? Oh this it tough. Any classic rock n roll song like AC/DC, Back in Black. I also like Chris Ledoux-Hooked on an 8 second ride. What other interests or hobbies do you have outside of equine activities? I like to shop, going to the lake, going canoeing, not much time for anything else. What is your favorite brand of boots? Any that are comfy and stylish. March's board member spotlight was on Teresa Mulkey, ABRA Assistant Secretary How many years have you been an ABRA member? Since 2004 What ABRA events are you currently competing in? Novice Horse How old were you when you began riding horses? Competing? I started riding officially with a trainer in Jr. High. My parents moved to Arkansas and I moved in with her. I was in California. I started to compete at the same time. We did everything Western from Quarter Horse Shows to Jr & High School Rodeo. How many horses do you have now? Names? Interesting characteristics about each? We have 11 horses and they area all special. I have a few favorites. My novice horse is the newest. FCS Twice the Cash – aka Parker. He is goofy and accident prone – but a lot of fun. I have an Appendix gelding I call Taco and he has the same type personality as Parker. Our old Appendix gelding, Diablos Ukulele, that we call Bay. He is the first horse I competed in Barrels on in Arkansas. He is also a great Head horse and I learned to rope on him as well. I have a filly that we raised that I will be starting this summer. I have great expectations for her. TTT Jackie Bee Jettin. We call her Jackie. What other equine associations are you/have you ever been a member of? AQHA & NBHA What other equine disciplines have you participated in? Western pleasure, trail, western riding, western equitation, stock seat equitation, bareback equitation, showmanship, barrel racing and goat tying. What is your most memorable barrel racing win to date? The first time my old mare “Lucy” placed in the 1D. Not a big win, but an accomplishment. Who do you respect/admire most in the equine industry? Carol Rose…she has made great strides in the Horse Industry, many being the first woman to do so. She was a strong youth rider in California and she believes that children are the future of the industry and she backs up that belief by supporting AQHA. What is your most embarrassing equine related moment? Showing at the Del Mar National Horse Show in a bareback equitation class and when I got up on my horse, my pants split right down the back! Had to hurry up and use safety pins to hold my pants together. Not a comfortable ride……. What do like most about the ABRA? It is a family oriented group and you get to know the members personally. Do you have any special routines/superstitions about barrel racing competitions? I warm up my horse and then I stay off until it the drag right before I am up. I tend to get a little nervous and I know my horse does too. Where is your favorite place (arena) to compete in Arkansas? I like Pine Bluff and of course our arena (Triple T Arena at El Paso). What is your occupation/year in school? I work in the accounting field. What would be your theme song to play during your competition runs? I would have to say “She’s so California” by Gary Allen. What other interests or hobbies do you have outside of equine activities? I make jewelry and love fashion and I am addicted to magazines. I sew and paint faux finishes. I love to work in the garden. I also like to cook and bake. What is your favorite brand of boots? I like my Justin gypsies for riding and I love Donald Pliner boots for work. March's member spotlight was on charter ABRA member Rosalie Turley How many years have you been an ABRA member? Charter member-helped start association What ABRA events are you currently competing in? Sr. Jackpot & Sr. Rodeo How old were you when you began riding horses? 4 months old Competing? 11 years old- same time barrel racing came to AR How many horses do you have now? 2 Names? Clark & Walker Interesting characteristics about each? Clark: Spook, lazy, & likes to work! Walker: Hyper little worker! What other equine associations are you/have you ever been a member of? Paint horse assn, AQHA, IPRA, TN State Rodeo Assn, ARA, ACA, NBHA What other equine disciplines have you participated in? Non equine: Bull riding in all girl rodeo Bareback riding, Tie down roping, Jumping, Pleasure, English flat work What is your most memorable barrel racing win to date? Winning the ARA finals in 1968 and 1988! Made it back to ARA finals in 2008 after 40 years. Made the first and last, so far! ABRA 1971 rodeo championship ABRA 1981 Horseshow championship Who do you respect/admire most in the equine industry? Jimmy Williams- One of the Best English and western trainers and teachers in the industry What is your most embarrassing equine related moment? 1. When horse couldn’t stop running out because of mud at a rodeo in AL and horse had to jump over the runway for the calves. They had to stop the rodeo to tear down the chutes to remove and horse. He was fine. 2. At a rodeo Monroe, LA, indoor pen, sun hit the horse in the face and he couldn’t see the gate and the horse hit and bent the gate. The producer was Bobby Rowe and he was upset to say the least because of slowing down the rodeo! What do like most about the ABRA? The people and runnin barrels. Do you have any special routines/superstitions about barrel racing competitions? No Where is your favorite place (arena) to compete in Arkansas? Russellville What is your occupation/year in school? Retired from Jacuzzi Brothers, currently tuning horses and giving riding lessons What would be your theme song to play during your competition runs? Any fast song What other interests or hobbies do you have outside of equine activities? Playing with Beth Ann, Chihuahua What is your favorite brand of boots? Ariat February's board member spotlight was on Tonya Wallace, ABRA President. How many years have you been an ABRA member? 5 years What ABRA events are you currently competing in? Senior Barrels, Senior Poles, Open Jackpot How old were you when you began riding horses? Competing? My parents bought me my first pony when I was 14 months old. I did not start competing until I was 16 years old. How many horses do you have now? Names? Interesting characteristics about each? I currently have 3 horses. 1.) Just a Future Leo (Cassie – 12 years old) – She rules the pasture. I can’t say what my husband thinks of her. 2.) DoDa Blue (DoDa – 12 years old) – Like a cat, very standoffish unless he wants something. 3.) I’m a Bar None Cowboy (Pokie – 3 years old) – He is as bad as a kid about putting everything in his mouth. I leave him at the trailer and come back, he has my tail light pulled out and chewing on the wires. These lights are inset in the aluminum of the trailer with a rubber boot around the light. What other equine associations are you/have you ever been a member of? National Intercollegiate Rodeo Association, Arkansas Rodeo Association, Arkansas Cowboys Association, National Barrel Horse Association, Southeast Arkansas Horse Show Assoc., MidState Horse Show Assoc., NAWA Horse Show Association What other equine disciplines have you participated in? I have tried my hand at Goat Tying and Breakaway Roping without much success. It might help if you practice a little. What is your most memorable barrel racing win to date? Melbourn, Arkansas Who do you respect/admire most in the equine industry? I really received a lot of help from Dan & Vicki Rienhardt. What is your most embarrassing equine related moment? A barrel race held at Pine Bluff Convention Center the one and only time I can remember. It is like running at Barton Coliseum except they had a few panels set up at the alleyway end for the next to run to stand behind and watch. Running out after the third barrel and my horse decides to duck behind the panels to the left where my other horse was tied, instead of running on out the alley. Needless to say, I kept going out the alley while my horse cut left behind the panel. What do like most about the ABRA? I really enjoy the friends I have made from being involved with this organization. Do you have any special routines/superstitions about barrel racing competitions? I do not have a routine, but I have been superstitious and wore the same socks the next day. Don’t ask me why I thought the socks had something to do with it, because after the second run I knew it was not the socks that brought me the luck. Where is your favorite place (arena) to compete in Arkansas? I like Hestand Stadium for an indoor arena and Jefferson County for an outdoor arena. What is your occupation/year in school? Construction Administrator What would be your theme song to play during your competition runs? One of ACDC songs or Black Betty What other interests or hobbies do you have outside of equine activities? I love to play softball, duck hunt, and dove hunt. What is your favorite brand of boots? Ariats February's member spotlight was on SAU college student Rachel Fowler. How many years have you been an ABRA member? 5 What ABRA events are you currently competing in? Junior Barrel/Poles How old were you when you began riding horses? Competing? I began riding at 10 and seriously competing at 15 How many horses do you have now? Names? Interesting characteristics about each? I have three horses. Regal is a 13 year old retiree who in his first year of barrel racing was the Novice Horse Reserve Champion, Junior Barrels Reserve Champion, and Junior Poles Champion. He is also an amazing kids horse. Dreamer is a six year old and my current college rodeo horse. She was raised on the track in Salisaw, OK. What other equine associations are you/have you ever been a member of? AQHA, Mid State, National Intercollegiate Rodeo Association (NIRA) What other equine disciplines have you participated in? Reining, Western Pleasure, Queens, Goat Tying, Team Sorting, Trail Riding What is your most memorable barrel racing win to date? The last run I made on my horse Jet we won the youth jackpot and a $335.45 check. In that run he tore a tendon in his back leg and then six weeks later broke his front leg and had to be put down. Who do you respect/admire most in the equine industry? Martha Josey What is your most embarrassing equine related moment? At a playday when I was just learning how to ride my niece and I wanted to try barrel pickup and she was scared to jump on the back, so she jumped in front of me on our pony and bounced from in front of the saddle horn, to behind it, to on it back and forth the whole way out of the arena. What do like most about the ABRA? It's a laid back atmosphere that is great for practice and training, plus it awards great prizes at the end of the season. Where is your favorite place (arena) to compete in Arkansas? Benton What is your occupation/year in school? I'm a college freshman at SAU majoring in Agricultural Science with a minor in Animal Science in the pre-vet program. I want to be an equine sports medicine specialist and chiropractor. I also work as a photographer for SAU and I'm a vet's assistant at Franks/Hayes Animal Hospital. What would be your theme song to play during your competition runs? Like It's a Bad Thing by Gary Allan What other interests or hobbies do you have outside of equine activities? Photography, Anything outdoors whether it's boating on the lake or hanging out on the riverbank, four wheeler riding or hiking, Traveling, Football What is your favorite brand of boots? Ariat |
:: ABRA Spotlight ~ "In their boots" ::
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