This month's issue includes recaps from RodeoHouston and Austin, a member spotlight on Casey Mathis and Josie Conner shares her Every Buckle Has a Story with our readers about her 2022 WPRA Breakaway Roping Rookie of the Year buckle.
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April 2023
Next Generation
Williams Wins RodeoHouston
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CONTENTS
News
431 S. Cascade Colorado Springs, Colo., 80903 PH: 719 - 447 - 4627 FX: 719 - 447 - 4631 Please contact the WPRA office for all correspondence regarding the WPRA News.
Jimmie Munroe WPRA President Ann Bleiker (719) 330-4293 ableiker@yahoo.com Managing Editor Paige Louis Thomas (719) 633-7700 paigeink@gmail.com Graphic Designer Allie Bohus Josie Fladager Tim Gentry Ted Harbin Joe Kusek Kristen M. White Contributing Writers WPRA Office (719) 447-4627 (877) 977-2462 Fax: (719) 447-4631 www.wpra.com
On the Cover : Hali Williams, the daughter of eight-time PRCA World Champion Team Roper and ProRodeo Hall of Famer Speed Williams, captured her biggest win of her professional roping career thus far at RodeoHouston. This is the first year that all money won by breakaway ropers counted toward the world standings and with the win, Williams extended her lead as the top roper in the WPRA. Photo by Impulse Photography, Mallory Beinborn President’s Corner......................................................................................................................6 In The News.................................................................................................................................8 Taking Care of Business............................................................................................................9 2023 WPRA ProRodeo and Rookie Standings......................................................................10 2023 ProRodeo Breakaway Standings.................................................................................. 11 RodeoHouston: Hali Willliams .............................................................................................. 12 RodeoHouston: Jordon Briggs............................................................................................... 14 Junior Standings...................................................................................................................... 15 2023 PRCA/WPRA Circuit Standings...................................................................................... 15 Business Of.............................................................................................................................. 16 Winner Circle............................................................................................................................ 18 Rodeo Austin: Amanda Welsh............................................................................................... 20 Rodeo Austin: Sawyer Gilbert................................................................................................ 21 2023 WPRA Roping World Standings.................................................................................... 22 Futurity/Derby Standings....................................................................................................... 23 San Antonio Breakaway: Shelby Boisjoli...............................................................................24 Every Buckle Has a Story: Josie Connerr...............................................................................25 Scottsdale Breakaway: Lakota Bird....................................................................................... 26 2023 PRCA/WPRA Breakaway Roping Circuit Standings.....................................................27 Scottsdale Barrel Racing: Casey Mathis................................................................................ 28 20 25
WPRA News does not endorse and is not re- sponsible for the contents of any ad in this publication. Neither that information nor any opinion which may be expressed here constitutes a solicitation for the purchase or sale of any securities. Opinions expressed in letters to the editor and commentaries are those of the authors and not necessarily those of WPRA NEWS. WPRA News (ISSN 1093-9202) is pub- lished monthly by the Women’s Professional Rodeo Association. Subscriptions are $45 a year. Postmaster: Send address changes to WPRA News , 431 S. Cascade, Colorado Springs, Colo., 80903 WPRA News is designed to provide cur- rent news and results to the members of the WPRA and WPRA All-Women Rodeo. Direct all editorial and advertising corre- spondence to WPRA News , 431 S. Cascade, Colorado Springs, Colo., 80903 Trademark 2017 WPRA NEWS Published by the Women’s Professional Rodeo Association Printed, produced and read in the U.S.A.
4 WPRA NEWS APRIL 2023
PRESIDENT CORNER A s the weather slowly begins to warm up so does the action inside the WPRA. What exciting finishes we had at some of the largest winter rodeos including San Antonio, Houston and Austin. With different winners at all three of these major rodeos it really shows the depth of talent we have within our Association.
The last week of March we also announced our sixth class of WPRA ProRodeo Hall of Fame inductees, and I am honored to congratulate Sherry (Combs) Johnson and Fay Ann Horton Leach. Sherry will be inducted in the barrel racing category with her 1962 barrel racing world title that she won aboard her great horse Star Plaudit “Red,” which was part of WPRA’s first class in 2017. Fay Ann will go in as a WPRA notable recognizing her devotion to the Association during this 75th Anniversary year as well as her nine consecutive qualifications to the NFR. I would also like to congratulate all the other inductees on behalf of the WPRA that make up the Class of 2023. This year’s inductions will take place on Saturday, July 15 at 10 a.m. in Colorado Springs, Colorado. For more information check out www.wpra.com. I would like to take this time to wish each of you a very Happy and Blessed Easter. Be sure to take time to give thanks for all your blessings that God has bestowed upon you. For we are nothing without him.
We held our Spring board meeting in March in Colorado Springs, Colorado, and had very productive meetings. We welcomed new directors to the board including Nicole Bice (Badlands), Sheena Robbins (California), Jenna Duhon (Turquoise) and Christi Braudrick as one of our new roping directors. Christi joins Lynn Smith, who was re-elected as roping director, to begin a new chapter of two roping directors on our board. Melora Potter (Great Lakes) and Cindy Gillespie (Prairie) were also re-elected during this election cycle. These ladies along with the rest of the board are here to assist you so please reach out if any of us can be of assistance to you. I would like to thank Kaylee Gallino (Badlands), Katie Pascoe (California) and Lacy Wilson (Turquoise) for their service to the board during their election cycle. We appreciate their time and dedication to the Association and their respective members.
6 WPRA NEWS JANUARY / FEBRUARY 2023
USE FOR 2023 Women’s Professional Rodeo Association PESI Calendar of Events and Bonus Money Schedule
SUBJECT TO CHANGE 2023 PESI SCHEDULE
Futurity, Derby & Open Races March 3–5
$2,500 C-N California Barrel Futurity
Tulare, CA
April 1–3
$10,000 Sand Cup Futurity, Derby, Open
Moses Lake, WA
April 21–23
$2,500 Heber City Futurity & Open
Heber City, UT
April 28–May 1 $2,500 Idaho Barrel Futurity
Nampa, ID
June 1–4
$5,000 Yeti Classic Futurity, Maturity
Big Piney, WY
June 9–11
$2,500 Run At The Rose Futurity
Montrose, CO
July 6–9
$5,000 Glacier Chaser Classic Futurity, Derby, Open Kalispell, MT
July 22–24
$2,500 WWP Summer Bash / Breeders Challenge Ardmore, OK
August 18–20
$5,000 Barrel of Gold Futurity, Derby, Open
Helena, MT
Sept. 21–24
$5,000 West Fest Futurity, Derby, Open
Rapid City, SD
October 6–8
$10,000 Ritchie Waterers Open Barrel Race
Winona, MN
Nov. 23–25
$10,000 Fiddler’s Turkey Run Open
Ocala, FL
WPRA Rodeos May 29–June 3
$1,000 Old Fort Days Rodeo
Fort Smith, AR
June 1–3
$1,000 Flint Hills Rodeo
Strong City, KS
June 1–3
$1,000 Pioneer Days Rodeo
Clovis, NM
July 11–15
$1,000 Central Wyoming Fair and Rodeo
Casper, WY
July 19–24
$1,000 Spanish Fork Fiesta Days Rodeo
Spanish Fork, UT
August 5
$1,000 Gerry Volunteer Firemen’s Rodeo
Gerry, NY
August 2–5
$1,000 Big Sky Pro Rodeo
Great Falls, MT
August 9–12
$1,000 Sikeston Jaycee Bootheel Rodeo
Sikeston, MO
August 21–23
$1,000 Range Days Rodeo
Rapid City, SD
September 1–4 $1,000 Ellensburg Rodeo
Ellensburg, WA
Sept. 22–24
$1,000 Sheriff’s PRCA Rodeo
San Bernardino, CA
Sept. 22–24
$1,000 Cowboy Capital of the World PRCA
Stephenville, TX
NFR Open, 12 Circuit Finals, WPRA World Finals, National Finals Rodeo July 12–15 $1,000 NFR Open (formerly RAM NCFR)
Colorado Springs, CO
$12,000 Circuit Finals November 9–12 $8,000 WPRA World Finals
Waco, TX
*Information is subject to change as event information is received ©2023 Women’s Professional Rodeo Association
11/25/2022 | WPRA0079
IN THE NEWS 2023 ProRodeo Hall of Fame Class Announced By Ann Bleiker The Class of 2023 ProRodeo Hall of Fame inductees were announced on Monday, March 27 and will mark the 44th annual induction. A total of 11 will be inducted including two representatives from the Women’s Professional Rodeo Association (WPRA) on July 15. The WPRA is celebrating 75 years in professional rodeo this year and both inductees from the WPRA have been instrumental in the foundation of the Association as well as advancing the sport for women. Sherry (Combs) Johnson, the 1962 WPRA World Champion will be inducted into the WPRA Barrel Racing category, while Fay Ann Horton Leach will be inducted as a WPRA notable. Johnson and Leach will join the following on the PRCA side – Cody Wright (Saddle Bronc Riding), Luke Branquinho (Steer Wrestling), Doyle Gellerman (Team Roping), Butch Knowles (Notable), Tom Feller (Notable), Kenny Clabaugh (Contract Personnel), St. Paul Rodeo (Committee), Cowtown Rodeo Inc. (Committee) and Night Jacket #408 (Livestock) owned by J Bar J. Bryan McDonald will also be honored with the Ken Stemler Pioneer Award during the Cowboy Ball on July 14. Sherry (Combs) Johnson will join the hallowed halls alongside her world champion horse Star Plaudit “Red,” who earned induction in 2017 the first year WPRA members were officially included and will also join her sister Florence Youree, who was inducted as part of the Class of 2019 in the notable category for the WPRA. “I am in shock,” stated Johnson upon learning of her induction into the ProRodeo Hall of Fame. “I knew when Jimmie (Munroe) called me that she wasn’t fibbing, but it is still just so hard to grasp. It is such a blessing to be put in the Hall with my horse Red and my sister. It definitely brings my career around full circle. “When I got my card and went to the first NFR in Clayton (N.M.), I would have never dreamt of this day and what the Association has become. It is just truly a great day.” Johnson was born on August 16, 1938, in Duncan, Oklahoma, but has made her home in Addington, Oklahoma. During her career she qualified for 12 National Finals Rodeos, the first coming in 1959 at the first GRA (predecessor to the WPRA) Finals in Clayton, N.M. and the last in 1991 under the bright lights of Las Vegas, a span of four decades (1959-68, 1970, 1991). She won her first WPRA world title in 1961 in the all-around category, but the highlight of her career would come in 1962 when she won the barrel racing world title aboard Star Plaudit “Red.” Star Plaudit holds a very unique record in the world of professional rodeo, one that is not likely to ever be duplicated. The bay gelding won two World Championships in the sport in a single year and contributed to a third, at the age of 12. Red carried his owner Johnson to the GRA World title in the barrel racing and close family friend Tom Nesmith to the RCA world title in the steer wrestling and helped the Oklahoman also claim the RCA All Around championship, all in 1962. While Red is considered Johnson’s once-in-a-lifetime horse, she also trained six other horses that carried her to the NFR and an additional three that carried other competitors to the “super bowl” of rodeo. The National High School Rodeo Association is also celebrating 75 years in 2023 and Johnson made her mark there as well winning the all-around title, barrel racing and breakaway roping titles in 1955. Johnson gave back to the WPRA serving on the Board of Directors from 1963-1971, including a stint as the Vice President. She was named Coca-Cola Woman of the Year in 1997 and was inducted into the
National Cowboy and Western Heritage Museum in Oklahoma City in 2005. Fay Ann Horton Leach led the Girls Rodeo Association (GRA-now WPRA) as a founding member, competitor and board member. One of the 38 women who met in San Angelo, Texas, on February 28, 1948, to form the very first professional sports association created solely for women by women. “This is quite an honor. I don’t know that I truly deserve it but know it is a big deal,” said Leach, who makes her home in Kilgore, Texas. “We worked very hard in the early years for the Association but never really got to reap the benefits but they are now. I am so thankful the girls now can expect to make some money as we were lucky to run at $20 day money. “I love to see the progress the Association and the sport of rodeo has made.” Although a founding member it would be a few years before she transitioned from the amateur ranks to the GRA after receiving encouragement from Wanda Bush, who was inducted into the ProRodeo Hall of Fame in 2017. While Leach never won a world title in barrel racing she was always in the mix qualifying for nine consecutive NFRs (1959-1967). She would finish third in the world in 1962 behind Johnson and Bush. Like many cowgirls during this era, they competed in many different events with calf roping being one of Leach’s favorites. In fact, she broke her mentor’s streak of six consecutive titles in calf roping when she beat Bush for the world title in 1957. She would add three more of those titles in 1959, 1963 and 1971. She won the all-around in 1960, the flag race world title in 1964 and one that might surprise everyone was her bull riding title in 1966. In the mid-1960’s Leach was elected to the GRA Board of Directors and served stints as both the calf roping and barrel racing director. It was during this time when Florence Youree, WPRA’s first notable inducted into the ProRodeo Hall of Fame, achieved her goal and the Board’s goal of getting the barrel racing as a standard event at the NFR. In 1967, Fay Ann married Billy Leach, who competed in the RCA roping calves and steer wrestling. Together they would get into a new business of making ropes – Billy Leach Ropes. The Billy Leach Ropes business grew to where they were turning out 150 ropes a day and it was what brought an end to Fay Ann’s time on the road. After 20 years the couple sold the business. In 2011, she was inducted into the Texas Rodeo Cowboy Hall of Fame under the category of Trailblazers and now she will be immortalized in the ProRodeo Hall of Fame for her dedication to building a strong foundation for the women in rodeo. Full information on the PRCA inductees can be found at www. prorodeo.com. The 2023 ProRodeo Hall of Fame Inductions are scheduled to take place at 10 a.m. MT on July 15 in Colorado Springs, Colorado.
8 WPRA NEWS APRIL 2023
TAKING CARE OF BUSINESS
WPRA 2023 Holiday Schedule Holiday Day of Week From the Corner Office
Did you Know The word “colic” means pain from the abdominal cavity. Although most often it is the digestive organs (such as the small intestine or large intestine) that cause this pain, there are many other organs that could be causing colic. Examples of these are kidneys, spleen, and ovaries.
Date
Memorial Day
Monday Tuesday Monday Thursday
May 29
Independence Day
July 4
Labor Day
September 4 November 23 November 24 December 22 December 25 December 29
Thanksgiving Day
Day After Thanksgiving Friday
Christmas Eve Christmas Day New Year’s Eve
Friday
Monday
Friday
Rule of the Month As rodeo season gets busier, please remember that all rodeo entry fees must be paid the Tuesday following the end of the rodeo by 3:00pm Mountain Time (whether turned out or competed.)
2024 Holiday New Year’s Eve Day
Monday
January 1
There are a few different ways you can pay: • Pay online on your WPRA Member Portal (you can add a credit to your account at any time to go towards future fees) • Pay the secretary at the rodeo • Call the WPRA office All entry fees not paid on time will incur a $50 late fee. Please refer to Rule 9.2.4. in the 2023 WPRA Rule Book Saddle Rotation program correction note: It has come to our attention that in the January 2023 WPRA News we did not have
the accurate image for the Reserve World Champion saddle which was won by Jordon Briggs. This is the correct image that should have run. We apologize for the oversight and we appreciate Bob Marshall Sports Saddles for their support of the WPRA Saddle Rotation program donating this beautiful saddle.
“The world is changed by your example, not by your opinion.”
APRIL 2023 WPRA NEWS 9
2023 WPRA PRO RODEO STANDINGS Unofficial Standings as of March 27, 2023 *2022 WPRA World Champion 1. Jordon Briggs Tolar, TX $87,895 2. Jackie Ganter Abilene, TX $49,193 3. Brittany Pozzi Tonozzi Lampasas, TX $43,036 4. Sissy Winn Corpus Christi, TX $40,658 5. Kassie Mowry Dublin, TX $39,982 6. Molly Otto Grand Forks, ND $38,622 7. Margo Crowther North Fort Myers, FL $32,449 8. Jessica Routier Buffalo, SD $31,867 *9. Hailey Kinsel Cotulla, TX $30,557 10. Lisa Lockhart Oelrichs, SD $29,819 11. Kelly Allen Stephenville, TX $25,446 12. Jimmie Smith-Tew McDade, TX $25,316 13. Ilyssa Riley Hico, TX $24,743 14. Sara Winkelman Big Lake, MN $22,914 15. Bayleigh Choate Fort Worth, TX $22,098 16. Emily Beisel Weatherford, OK $21,887 17. Taycie Matthews Wynne, AR $21,608 18. Amanda Welsh Stephenville, TX $21,308 19. Erin Wetzel Plant City, FL $20,446 20. Shannon Griffin La Luz, NM $17,785 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9.
RESISTOL ROOKIE STANDINGS 1. Kalli McCall Lufkin, TX
$9,571 $7,335 $6,453 $6,052 $6,011 $5,839 $3,603 $3,210 $2,931 $2,770 $2,503 $2,353 $1,664 $1,398 $1,333
Rainey Skelton Acey Pinkston Sophie Nolen Victoria Procter
Llano, TX
Stephenville, TX Stephenville, TX
Ledbetter, TX
Jetti Lorenz
Madisonville, TX
Grace Gardiner Rachel Werkmen
Paradise, TX Wellsburg, IA
Kaycee Killingsworth
Thrall, TX Ocala, FL
10. Susie Parisee 11. Karli Cowie 12. Trinity Beauvais 13. Lauren Tremblay 14. Rebecca St. Martin 15. Madison McFall
Mankota, SK
Afton, OK
Hayward, WI Houma, LA Columbia, TN
Where The Elite Compete SM
Hailey Kinsel, 2022 WPRA World Champion Barrel Racer, Photo by Kenneth Springer
Bayleigh Choate, 2022 WPRA Resistol Rookie of the Year, Photo by Kenneth Springer
10 WPRA NEWS APRIL 2023
2023 WPRA PRO RODEO BREAKAWAY STANDINGS Unofficial Standings as of March 27, 2023 *2022 WPRA World Champion 1. Hali Williams Comanche, TX $90,224 2. Joey Williams Volborg, MT $44,731 3. Cheyanne Guillory Kingston, OK $39,379 *4. Martha Angelone Stephenville, TX $36,916 5. Tiffany Schieck Floresville, TX $33,478 6. Erin Johnson Fowler, CO $32,445 7. Sarah Angelone Lipan, TX $27,759 8. Samantha Fulton Miller, SD $23,696 9. Sawyer Gilbert Buffalo, SD $22,920 10. JJ Hampton Stephenville, TX $22,734 11. Josie Conner Iowa, LA $18,725 12. Ashley Goforth Azle, TX $18,663 13. Jordan Jo Hollabaugh Canyon, TX $18,457 14. Jackie Crawford Stephenville, TX $17,767 15. Kelsie Domer Dublin, TX $17,700 16. Madison Outhier Fulshear, TX $15,390 17. Taylor Hanchey Carmine, TX $15,351 18. Shelby Boisjoli Stephenville, TX $14,198 19. Shai Schaefer Lake Creek, TX $13,446 20. Heather McLaughlin Ernelle, AL $13,224 RESISTOL ROOKIE STANDINGS 1. MaryBeth Beam Poetry, TX 2. Bethany Stallons Emelle, AL 3. Jade Kenney Canyon, TX 4. Braylee Shepherd Nephi, UT 5. Erika Frost Randlett, UT 6. Ashley Henderson Uriah, AL 7. Kayley Kennemer Anderson, AL 8. Kenzie Kelton Mayer, AZ 9. Emily Gately Escondido, CA 10. Elisabeth Erickson-Noe La Junta, CO 11. Quincy Sullivan Peralta, NM 12. Anna Dietrich Malvern, AR 13. Della Bird Willston, FL 14. Rylee George Oakdale, CA 15. Tabitha Owens Grady, AL
$4,526 $4,080 $4,017 $3,863 $3,638 $2,985 $2,340 $1,926 $1,527 $1,460 $1,154 $1,123 $1,110 $1,061
$932
Where The Elite Compete SM Martha Angelone, 2022 WPRA World Champion Breakaway Roper, Photo by Jackie Jensen
Josie Conner, 2022 WPRA Resistol Rookie of the Year, Photo by Jackie Jensen
APRIL 2023 WPRA NEWS 11
MONUMENTAL WIN Williams Wins RodeoHouston Title, Extends Lead in World Standings By Joe Kusek T he messages just kept coming. Hali Williams would answer one and two more would pop up on her cell phone. Good news, big news, was traveling fast. Williams won the $50,000 Championship Shootout for breakaway roping at RodeoHouston.
The cowgirl from Comanche, Texas earned $56,250 at NRG Stadium, Feb. 28-March 19. It more than doubled her season earnings coming into the event and extended her lead in the WPRA world standings. “Oh man, it’s awesome,” Williams said of the biggest WPRA check of her young career. “When you’re competing, you’re just trying to make good runs. The feeling is indescribable. I don’t know if it still has sunk in yet. “It does mean a lot.” Williams, aboard her horse Red Light, won with a throw of 3.6 seconds in the Championship Shootout Round. “Usually 3.6 doesn’t place,” said the daughter of eight-time team roping world champion and ProRodeo Hall of Fame member Speed Williams. “If it went like that, I didn’t expect to win.” Williams was the first one out and had to watch the others throw their loops. Two-time National Finals Breakaway Roping qualifier Joey Williams was the first to try to beat the time and while tit briefly looked like she had done it a broken barrier would crush her hopes ending in a time of 12.5. Cheyenne Frontier Days champion Tiffany Schieck would also incur a speeding ticket with a 12.5. Then 17-time WPRA World Champion (three of which are in breakaway roping) J.J. Hampton took a no time. “Winning was like walking on a cloud,” said Williams, who was a WPRA rookie in 2022. The Texas teenager estimates she had 150 congratulatory messages from family and friends. More on other social media platforms. “I tried to respond to all of them,” said the 19-year-old. “I remember sending texts to people and them responding. I appreciate it so much.” Some of the messages went straight to her heart. “I was getting super sweet messages from girls 14, 15, 16 years old, saying they were going to start roping because of me,” added Williams. “I don’t think I’m a role model. I’m not up there yet.” After missing her first calf, “I missed terribly. I lost my hat, everything went wrong. I just had to forget about that run,” Williams managed with a laugh. She rebounded to win the second round of Super Series 5 with a time of 2.9 seconds to earn $3,000 and the chance to move on. She was 13.3 in the Super Series Semifinal 2 to place fourth and keep roping. Williams delivered a throw of 2.5 seconds to place fourth in the championship round and get the opportunity to catch $50,000. “In Houston, there is room on the left side, not much room on the right. Ninety percent of the calves go left or straight. I had a calf that went straight,” said Williams. “The biggest drama was watching everybody else. Did that just happen? I was loosening up my horse and they shoved me toward interviews.” Williams understands the money won was the result of work done
by breakaway ropers before her. “For sure,” she said. “The generation before us … Jackie (Crawford), LD (Lari Dee Guy), JJ, Hope Thompson … all laid the groundwork before us. How can you not be thankful?” Williams came close to never riding Red Light. The seven-year-old sorrel gelding out of Shiney Night Light and sired by Stylish Rey Gay, was Williams first big investment. She purchased the gelding from Nick Travaglia that was trained by Jim Bob Fritz. A couple of years earlier, Williams had given up softball to concentrate on roping. “I miss the hitting,” she said. “We had been looking at horses for two months,” Williams continued. “We tried him and I fell in love with him.” She had the horse checked over by Charlie Buchanan, DVM of Signature Equine Hospital in Stephenville, Texas. “How bad do you want the horse?” Buchanan asked Williams. “He needs surgery.” Williams paused. “For my dad, that’s a big no-no,” she said. “You don’t buy a horse Hali Williams won $56,250 inside NRG Stadium during the 2023 edition of RodeoHouston. The young roper would have never dreamed that a run of 3.6 seconds would land her in the winner’s circle that came with a $50,000 payday but that is exactly what happened. Photos by Impulse Photography, Mallory Beinborn
12 WPRA NEWS APRIL 2023
dog. He follows me around,” she said. “He picks my pocket. He is into everything.” While Red Light might act like a dog, he is not a big fan of Kaleb, Williams’ eight-year-old border collie. “They don’t like each other,” she said with another laugh. Williams is flashing the same roping skills as her father who revolutionized team roping. But she still tips her cowboy hat to dad. “I’ve got a long ways to go,” she said of matching him in the arena. “He used to be a tie-down roper. I might have to sharpen my runs. He could still wipe our butts.” The money at RodeoHouston puts a first gold buckle clearly on her radar. “We all have eyes on the gold buckle,” said Williams, who also placed third at Fort Worth and San Antonio this year. “It’s a great start in leading the world. “I’m kind of a pedal to the medal, to be honest. So for sure, we’ll keep going. You want to keep winning. You have to stay sharp. When you take a break is when you get dull.” Williams doesn’t have to look far to understand what a big lead in the regular season means. She saw that firsthand with good friend Martha Angelone, the 2022 world champion. “Martha is like a big sister to me,” Williams said. “I told her last year I’m going to be you next year. “She just laughed at the time but now she told me, ‘Now I will be doing the chasing.’ ” The $50,000 will go a long way the rest of the year. “It will help pay for some fuel this summer and hopefully I can buy another horse to add to the herd,” she said. And while the win still seems surreal, there is a physical reminder at home. “The buckle is on the kitchen counter,” she said. “When I come down for breakfast and see that, it reminds me that in fact that buckle in mine.”
that needs surgery.” After some conversations between Speed Williams and Buchanan, her father relented after Buchanan told them he had a 98-percent chance of a successful surgery. Hali took the gamble. “I wrote that check as fast as I could,” said the daughter. “He’s a consistent horse. He never cheats me. He waits until I throw. Red Light gives me a clean shot every time.” And Williams got more than a roping partner. “Red Light is like a Hali Williams is currently ranked No. 1 in the WPRA ProRodeo Breakaway World Standings and plans to keep pushing to see what new heights she can reach this year. She would love to add to the family legacy and win her first WPRA world title to add to her dad’s (Speed) eight PRCA gold buckles. Photo by Kenneth Springer
APRIL 2023 WPRA NEWS 13
BACK-TO-BACK Briggs Tops Field in Houston for Second Straight Year By Kristen M. White J ordon Briggs knows that when you try to make plans, life often has other ideas in store.
But also, sometimes the things you hardly dared to think about in your wildest dreams can come true. It’s the second one that came to fruition for Briggs this year. After winning Rodeo Houston in 2022 and punching her ticket to the Wrangler National Finals Rodeo, she was excited to return to Houston and had high hopes of doing well - knowing just how tough the competition would be with plenty of other women having the same hopes. And in 2023, Briggs again came out on top, winning Houston for the second year running. She still can’t quite believe it. “Before I got there, I had huge expectations on myself, but I just
Jordon Briggs defended her title in Houston after stopping the clock in 14.73 seconds in the Championship Shootout round. Ironically enough that was the exact time she ran earlier in the day to advance to the Finals. Photo by Impulse Photography, Mallory Beinborn
She was second in the third round, in 14.90 seconds, solidifying her spot in the semifinals. It was then that she and Rollo clocked the fastest time of the whole event - 14.35 seconds - to get her into the final round. The Championship Shootout round was neck-and-neck, and when it was all said and done Briggs was at the top, in a time of 14.73 seconds. Molly Otto, who had given Briggs quite a run during the rodeo, finished in 14.75, with Jessica Routier hot on their heels in 14.79 seconds. “Molly had dominated through her set and the semis and I knew she was a force to be reckoned with,” Briggs said. “All the horses that were there knew how to run on tough ground and really deserved to be there.” With more than $87,000 already to her name for 2023, Briggs knows she’s in good position for another NFR run, but also said she knows not to count her chickens. Last year, she didn’t know until late in the season that there was a minimum rodeo count of 25 to make the NFR, so she got her rodeos in and breathed a sigh of relief, but knows this year will be different. “I want to get my circuit rodeo count in so I can go to circuit finals,” Briggs said. “My husband and I enjoyed Reno so much, and the Fourth of July run, and we’ll see what happens after that. We’ll take time to come home and rest too. “Last year I had an amazing year, and I will never take that for
told myself I needed to get through the semifinals and make it back, remembering that second and third place pay really well too!” she said. “I was trying not to put that pressure on myself … last year I was an emotional wreck when I won and this year, I think it was just so surreal. It’s such a blessing to have a horse that likes Houston.” Her trusty ride, Rollo, does seem to love the unusual setup in Houston. Held in a football stadium, Briggs said she knows how intimidating the whole thing is because the arena is so big compared to the barrel pattern, with no fences in sight. Rollo, however, doesn’t seem to notice, or he doesn’t care if he does. “He focuses on the pattern,” she said. “Even though I might not have all the confidence in the world sometimes, Rollo always does. He’s like, ‘I know it’s a hard setup or the ground sucks, but don’t worry mom - I’ve got this.’” Briggs noted that this year’s ground was new at Houston, and all the runs were a little trial and error. Although some of it was rough, she thanked the ground crew and committee for working hard to improve the conditions as much as they could. She noted that Houston “takes great care of us - the hospitality is amazing - and when you step into that arena you get goosebumps. You’re just grateful to be there.” Briggs competed in the first Super Series in Rodeo Houston, and she started things off with a bang, winning the first round in 14.93 seconds.
14 WPRA NEWS APRIL 2023
2023 JUNIOR DIVISION STANDINGS Unofficial Standings as of March 24, 2023 1. Merrick Moyer Woodward, OK
$8,560 $4,955 $4,797 $4,147 $3,647 $2,916 $2,150 $1,863 $1,673 $1,650 $1,498 $1,199 $1,114 $1,113
2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9.
Makayla Maddie Hailey Thompson Patton Ann Lynch Kara McDonald Jada Sanchez Brynn Hinton Kaitlyn Sims Adalynn Homer
Auburndale, FL Columbia, MS Crawford, TX Brunswick, GA
LaBelle, FL
Waxahachie, TX
Elkton, FL
Palm City, FL
10. Brielle Washatko 11. Emma Hite 12. Jalee Wilcox 13. Kaylee McGraw 14. Adriene Steffen 15. Kelsey Kennedy
Antigo, WI
Vero Beach, FL Clewiston, FL
Ocala, FL Sisters, OR
granted,” she added. “We’ll see how this year shakes out, but I’m so grateful for these limited rodeos that give us these chances, and for all the committees stepping up and adding money so we can continue to do what we love to do.” Jordon Briggs and Rollo have found a home in Houston winning back-to- back titles. With the win Briggs vaulted to No. 1 in the world standings after adding $58,000 from her win inside NRG Stadium. Photo by Impulse Photography, Mallory Beinborn
Belle Grand, FL
$992
honoring those who paved the way.
Since 1979, over 300 cowboys, cowgirls, livestock, and rodeo committees have been inducted into the ProRodeo Hall of Fame & Museum of the American Cowboy. Visit the only place in the world dedicated to the colorful history & equally colorful legends of professional rodeo. www.ProRodeoHallOfFame.com
APRIL 2023 WPRA NEWS 15
2023 PRCA/WPRA CIRCUIT STANDINGS BARREL RACING Unofficial as of March 27, 2023
BADLANDS 1.
5.
Theresa Stannard
$240
11. Alex Odle
$88
5.
Jimmie Smith-Tew
$8,344
Bobbi Olson
$4,191
6.
Nicole Davidson
$70
12. Mackenzie Scott
$76
6.
Jordon Briggs
$7,947
2.
Nikki Hansen
$3,397
Joanna Reid
$70
7.
Keyla Costa
$7,897
PRAIRIE 1.
3.
Taylor Hanson
$3,275
Kristine Roy
$70
8.
Natalie Bland
$7,122
Paige Jones
$2,344
4.
Ellie Bard
$3,027
9.
Ilyssa Riley
$6,606
GREAT LAKES 1.
2.
Emma Charleston
$2,151
5.
Cindy Baltezore
$2,505
10. LaTricia Duke
$6,062
Lindsay Leverington
$1,711
3.
Michelle Darling
$1,777
6.
Jessica Routier
$2,420
11. Rainey Skelton
$6,015
2.
Lauren Tremblay
$1,664
4.
Lindsey Muggli
$1,751
7.
Hallie Fulton
$2,069
12. Jetti Lorenz
$5,839
3.
Austyn Tobey
$1,231
5.
Suzanne Brooks
$1,407
8.
Cydney Peterson
$1,608
13. Janet Staton
$5,697
4.
Jillian Zaun
$870
6.
Taylor Johnson
$1,151
9.
Alyssa Gabrielson
$1,519
14. Sharin Hall
$5,691
5.
Stephanie McCready
$757
7.
Ryan Ivy
$1,002
10. Heidi Gunderson
$1,461
15. Victoria Procter
$4,511
6.
Aubrey Sprouse
$513
8.
Kallie Gates
$821
11. Lori Nelson
$1,211
TURQUOISE 1.
7.
Sissy Warren
$416
9.
Emily Beisel
$817
12. Molly Otto
$1,117
8.
Bailey Stuva
$346
10. Tracie Couch
$643
Casey Mathis
$7,964
13. Lexi Thyberg
$1,088
9.
Sara Winkelman
$268
11. Emily Griffin
$389
2.
Tara Seaton
$5,215
14. Lakken Bice
$973
10. Jesse Alsup
$179
12. Sadie Wolaver
$234
3.
Sabrina Ketcham
$3,597
15. Kristi Steffes
$940
11. Sharon Ann Munn
$155
13. Kylie Nemecek (R)
$95
4.
Sarah Kieckhefer
$2,556
CALIFORNIA 1.
12. Laurie Cooper
$112
14. Sherrylynn Johnson
$82
5.
Kortni McConnell
$1,548
Payton Schoeppach
$3,794
13. Payton Jacques
$107
15. Summer Nicholson
$76
6.
Madison Bean
$1,318
2.
Kathy Petska
$3,007
14. Lacinda Rose
$45
7.
Mariah Morgan
$1,150
SOUTHEASTERN 1.
3.
Hayle Gibson
$2,768
8.
Jana Bean
$1,098
MAPLE LEAF No standings at this time
Margo Crowther
$16,879
4.
Sheena Robbins
$2,657
9.
Bailee Switzer
$1,075
2.
Nicole Love
$15,804
5.
Vicky Cook
$2,411
10. Doskie Edwards
$1,015
3.
Taylor Carver
$12,992
MONTANA 1.
6.
Shelley Holman
$2,203
11. Carly Longo (R)
$1,008
4.
Ashley Parks
$11,175
Hailey Garrison
$3,021
7.
Tonia Forsberg
$2,178
12. Kailee Murdock
$910
5.
Erin Wetzel
$10,421
2.
Cierra Erickson
$1,737
8.
Cathey Vallerga
$2,029
13. Shannon Griffin
$854
6.
Chloe Gray
$10,013
3.
Abigail Knight
$755
9.
Alanna Bobsin
$1,856
14. Nicole Demers
$767
7.
Cindy Patrick
$8,642
4.
Tisha Larsen
$642
10. Shelby Bates
$1,684
15. Kirstin Carlson
$743
8.
Kristin Hanchey
$6,884
5.
Tia Murphy
$529
11. Sherri Jones
$1,562
WILDERNESS 1.
9.
Dallas Sawczak
$6,027
6.
Ashley Day
$250
12. Leia Pluemer
$1,360
10. Sarah Rose Waguespack
$5,402
Macee McAllister
$2,000
MOUNTAIN STATES 1.
13. Shannon Clawson
$808
11. Sally Young
$4,356
2.
Sara Cheeney
$1,428
Brittany Pozzi Tonozzi
$10,925
14. Katie Pascoe
$753
12. Bobbie Jo Alcazar
$3,471
3.
Jennifer Kalafatic
$1,389
2.
Kim Schulze
$3,997
15. Syd Overmyer
$706
13. Alex Dollar
$3,252
4.
Kailey Mitton
$1,324
3.
Shali Lord
$2,683
COLUMBIA RIVER No Standings At This Time
14. Wendy Culberson
$3,156
5.
Sue Smith
$1,158
4.
Kelly Yates
$1,403
15. Angie Hammock
$3,077
6.
Stacy Glause
$857
5.
Taryn Boxleitner
$614
7.
Marquel Moser (R)
$589
TEXAS 1.
FIRST FRONTIER 1.
6.
Kelcey McNamee
$439
8.
Jessica Miller
$571
Incarnata Tesiero
$690
Kelly Allen
$12,895
7.
Mejrusa Rustemovic
$316
9.
Leslie Schur
$265
2.
Jennifer Romriell
$600
2.
Jackie Ganter
$12,135
8.
Kachena Lesmeister
$263
3.
Kerri Frazier
$510
3.
Stephanie Fryar
$11,798
Jenna Pruitt
$263
4.
Bobbie Jo Barber
$330
4.
Tiany Schuster
$9,655
10. Loralee Ward
$219
16 WPRA NEWS APRIL 2023
BUS INESS
DIRECTORS & SPOKESWOMEN
PRESIDENT Jimmie Munroe 254-722-5128 jmunroe@wpra.com VICE PRESIDENT Heidi Schmidt Belfield, ND (701) 928-0260 Heidi.schmidt@wpra.com BADLANDS Circuit Director
Caldwell, ID 208-870-5256 rainy.robinson@wpra.com Spokeswomen Lexi Burgess Megan Sprague Abby Sutfin
406-650-8458 Dillon.McPherson@wpra. com Spokeswomen Cierra Erickson Jill Ferdina
Michelle Darling Ari Anna Flynn Korrina Hughes Tracy Nowlin Beau Peterson Tana Poppino SOUTHEASTERN Circuit Director Bricklee Miller Starkville, MS 662-418-3963 bricklee@wpra.com Spokeswomen Brandi Geiger TEXAS Stevi Hillman Kelly Kaminski Shelley Morgan Kylee Scribner Jimmie Smith Tew Kelly Tovar Martha Wright TURQUOISE Circuit Director Jenna Duhon Phoenix, AZ 602-615-7663 Jenna@wpra.com Spokeswomen Barb Johnson Toni Karr Circuit Director Lois Ferguson West, TX (254) 744-2878 Lois.Ferguson@wpra.com Spokeswomen Stephanie Fryar
Sarah Kieckhefer Stacey Padilla Tibba Smith Carly Todd
Jennifer Belkham Carole Hollers Brandi White Halley Kleeman Brenda White California Liz Hirdes Toni Miller Columbia River Tayler Bradley Lynn Rodriguez First Frontier Katie Wenger Sheri Nastri Great Lakes Whitney Locken Montana Cierra Erickson Jacey Fortier Megan Small Mountain States
WILDERNESS Circuit Director
Lindsay Kruse Darae Larson Laura McPherson Valee Miller Katie Rasmussen Maria Taylor MOUNTAIN STATES
Julie Herman Bluffdale, UT 801-548-4797 Julie.Herman@wpra.com Spokeswomen Meka Farr Kali Jo Parker Amberley Snyder Melissa Taylor Terri Wood Gates ROPING DIVISION Director - R1 Christi Braudrick Caddo, OK 918-207-9757 Christi@wpra.com Director - R2 Lynn Smith Elfrida, AZ 520-678-6702
FIRST FRONTIER Lead Spokesperson Eileen Lang-Kramme
Pilesgrove, NJ 856-364-7130 Eileen.lang.kramme@wpra. com Spokeswomen
Nicole Bice Killdeer, ND 605-553-4546 Nicole@wpra.com Spokeswomen
Circuit Director Carla Johnson Laramie, WY 307-761-1800 Carla.Beckett@wpra.com Spokeswomen Shali Lord Melanie Luark Wendy McKee Kelcey McNamee Brittany Pozzi Tonozzi Kim Schulze Mackenzie Scott Shelly Risner Vossler PRAIRIE
Jody Stockton Dawn Powell Beth Borowy Kris Roy Kristin Weber
Lakken Bice Hallie Fulton Nikki Hansen Cally Kindred Lisa Lockhart Jessica Routier
GREAT LAKES Circuit Director Melora Potter Marion, KY 270-704-0865 Melora@wpra.com Spokeswomen Sandi Brandli Ronda Casey Cassy Hooks Lindsay Leverington Sissy Warren Conny Winkers MONTANA Circuit Director Dillon McPherson Wolf Point, MT
Erin Johnson Charity Hoar
Prairie
CALIFORNIA Circuit Director Sheena Robbins Fresno, CA 559-940-2638 Sheena@wpra.com Spokeswomen Vicki Cook Kris Gadbois Katie Pascoe Kathy Petska Christina Porter COLUMBIA RIVER Circuit Director Rainy Robinson
Christi Braudrick
Southeastern
Lindsey Pender
Lynn@wpra.com Assistant Directors Jennifer Casey Lari Dee Guy Event Directors Team Roping TBD Tie-down roping Kari Nixon Spokeswomen Badlands Sadie Dale
Texas
Jackie Crawford Jordan Fabrizio
Circuit Director Cindy Gillespie Ransom, KS 785-731-5306 Cindy@wpra.com Spokeswomen Jeanne Anderson Emily Beisel Jamie Chaffin Emma Charleston
Turquoise Leigh Ann Billingsley Kayse Mahoney Nicole Baggarley Wilderness Codi Anne Judkins Codi McPherson Shelli Scrivner
PROCOM TURNOUT/RELEASE DEADLINES Procedure: A contestant wishing to make a notified turn out or release must notify PROCOM no later than three hours prior to the performance/slack of which she is turning out, unless an earlier deadline applies (see follow- ing). Morning Slack: A contestant desiring to make a notified turn out or release for a morning section of slack must so notify PROCOM no later than the turn out deadline of the previous evening’s performance or 5 p.m. (Colo- rado Mountain Time) of the day prior to such section of slack if there is no performance the previous evening. It is important to remember that all times are based on Mountain Standard Time. The only official turnout or release is through PROCOM. Notifying the rodeo secretary is not official. PROCOM HOURS Entries and Call Back
DEADLINE FOR PAYING ENTRY FEES: 10.5.4 Contestants competing at the rodeo must pay entry fees to the rodeo secretary at the rodeo or entry fees must be received in the WPRA office by 3:00 PM Mountain time, Tuesday following the end of the rodeo. 10.5.4.1. Contestants turning out of a rodeo must have entry fees paid in the WPRA office by 3:00 PM Mountain time, Tuesday following the end of the rodeo.
CANADIAN INFORMATION C.P.R.A. Office (403)250-7440 Canadian Rodeo Entry System (800)661-8523 (403)250-7666 CRES Administration (403)250-7299 To enter CPRA rodeos, a current October 2014CPRA membership is required.
WPRA CREDIT CARD POLICY The WPRA will accept Visa/Mastercard/Discover/ Amex for the following: Dues • Fines • Entry Fees There will be a $10 charge on each transaction.
Mon. - Fri. 8:30 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. MT Weekends 8:30 a.m. until last deadline ProCom numbers: (800)234-PRCA (7722) ProCom Local & Trades Line: (719)548-4800 Online ProCom Entry – through WPRA Portal portal.wpra.com
HEADQUARTERS 431 S. CASCADE
COLORADO SPRINGS, COLO. 80903 (719) 447-4627 • FAX: (719) 447-4631 WWW.WPRA.COM BUSINESS HOURS: MON. - FRI. 8:30 A.M. - 5 P.M.
APRIL 2023 WPRA NEWS 17
WINNER’S CIRCLE Here is a brief look at some of the winner’s or highest placing WPRA member from the rodeos over the past month. Congratulations to all the winners and a big thank you to all the rodeo committees and volunteers that provide this opportunity to the members.
ASHLEY GOFORTH | Montgomery, AL | Photo by Darlena Roberts
CHELSEA MOORE | Goliad, TX | Photo by Williams Kierce
CHLOE GRAY | Montgomery, AL | Photo by Darlena Roberts
HANNAH LEE | Goliad, TX | William Kierce
JIMMIE SMITH TEW | Waxahachie, TX | Photo by ClickThompson
JIMMIE SMITH-TEW | Tucson, AZ| Photo by Kent Soule
18 WPRA NEWS APRIL 2023
Making you the envy of the barn
WhinneyLite Brazilian Saddles by WhinneyWear
www.whinneywear.com
KEYLA COSTA | Belton, TX | Photo by William Kierce
LONI KAY YATES | Waxahachie, TX | Photo by ClickThompson
Congratulations to Stevi Hillman for drawing the 2022 NFR Whinneylite Qualifier saddle
NICOLE BAGGARLEY | Goliad, TX | Photo by William Kierce
APRIL 2023 WPRA NEWS 19
SWEET COMEBACK Welsh and Fire Fly Back In Winner’s Circle By Ann Bleiker B arrel racer Amanda Welsh had a dream season in 2021 qualifying for her first
Wrangler National Finals Rodeo aboard Frenchman Fire Fly that was raised and trained by her father. She finished that year ranked seventh. Her dream quickly changed to a nightmare a month after the NFR when Fire Fly fell at Ft. Worth the end of January cracking the cartilage in his stifle. It would be a season ending injury and one that Welsh prayed he would come back from. “Dr Hays said he would be 80-85 percent,” noted Welsh. “I just prayed that he had complete healing. As long as we didn’t rush things and did the things Dr. Hays told us to do, I was hopeful he would comeback pretty close to 100 percent.”
Amanda Welsh is overjoyed to have her main mount, Fire Fly, back and the duo returned to the winner’s circle at Rodeo Austin. Fire Fly sustained a season ending injury in January 2022 but looks to be back ready to carry his jockey to new heights in 2023. Photo by Rodeobum.com, James Phifer
Welsh followed the directions to a T and gave the gelding the time he needed for healing. The results of that patience paid off at Rodeo Austin in March of 2023 when the duo took home the barrel racing title. “You know it was pretty amazing and very emotional as everyone who has seen it on TV knows,” stated Welsh, who now makes her home in Stephenville, Texas, moving from Gillette, Wyoming. “It is just when they get hurt, you don’t know exactly where they will come back or if they will. “One run he would be good, and the next run would be a little bit off. So, we were just playing it by ear. For him to come back and win Austin…that was the first time either one of us had been there. It was just a blessing. I don’t really know how to put it into words. I think Fire Fly deserves the world and for him to go out and win Austin, just really made my heart happy.” It made a lot of people’s hearts happy to see this duo back in the winner’s circle. Each run in Austin they kept getting faster and faster. Finishing eighth in the first round in a time of 15.08 seconds, to winning fourth in the second round with a 14.97 and then turning in a rodeo best in the Finals in 14.88 seconds, it was a solid win for Welsh. “It gave us both a big confidence boost to run where we did with all those great horses,” stated Welsh, who is ranked 18th in the world as of the end of March with $21,308 of which $13,522 came from the capital city. “Before Austin, I was battling back and forth with my thoughts if he was really ok or not as seemed like we had just been
about a half second off everywhere we went. “I had to remind myself that he is not in the shape he was when we made the NFR. I was getting frustrated. He really stepped up in Austin and I feel like he knew it was time to take care of business.” Welsh is overjoyed to have her main guy back in the winner’s circle and is definitely not going to take that for granted heading into the rest of the season. “There is no sense running him in the pens he didn’t like back in 2021,” noted Welsh about plans for the 2023 season. “He is 13 this year and I need to really focus on where he runs the best and go to the rodeos he excelled at. They only have so many runs in them, so I will try to save those for where he does the best.” Although the NFR is always the end goal, Welsh isn’t going to put too much pressure on herself or her horse this season. “It would be another dream come true,” stated Welsh when asked what it would mean to earn another trip to the NFR. “Getting him back was my goal for this year. I knew it would be a little harder as we lost all our qualifications but also knew if we could get to the point where he was running with the other horses and go to where he excelled in the past, that we could capitalize on that. “All my chips are on Fire Fly for this year and will just see where he takes us.”
20 WPRA NEWS APRIL 2023
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