WPRA Circuits: Grassroots to National Finals

Summary

Sources

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The WPRA’s Circuit System serves a dual purpose: it offers a grassroots playground for its members and acts as a springboard for National Finals Rodeo qualification. For those with a keen interest in pedigrees, the distribution of money-winning horses reveals the dominance of leading bloodlines and highlights those that are regionally popular. Primarily, the WPRA’s circuits are composed of women who do not travel nationally on a regular basis but stay within the geographic boundaries of their respective circuits. Many of these women ride horses they trained from scratch or rodeo seasoned after purchasing. Some are riding horses that they or their families raised, and a few are trainers using the circuit system to build a horse’s resume. The WPRA World Standings and Circuit Standings are distinct. Only rodeos within a circuit's geographic area and a few close enough for co-approval count toward circuit standings. Not all rodeos within the circuit count, as seen with limited entry, high-added money rodeos like Fort Worth, San Antonio, and Houston in Texas. At the halfway point of the 2024 season, circuits in colder climates have held just one rodeo, while those in the southern U.S. have had several. The Southeastern Circuit, active through fall, winter, and early spring, will hold fewer events as summer heat intensifies. In contrast, the Columbia River Circuit will see increased activity in late summer. Most WPRA members compete within their home state circuits but may designate another circuit if it offers more rodeos. Competitors outside their designated circuit must attend more rodeos than local residents. Bloodlines play a significant role in the sport. The influence of Dash Ta Fame is profound, with numerous horses sired by him or his sons and daughters leading the standings. His son JL Dash Ta Heaven, notable for his NFR qualifications, has sired many top horses, particularly in the Southeastern Circuit. Other prominent bloodlines include Frenchmans Guy and A Streak Of Fling, with offspring excelling in various circuits. Frenchmans Guy, a former rodeo star, continues to leave his mark, especially in the Badland Circuit. A Streak Of Fling has also produced several top-performing horses, with his lineage found in the Great Lakes and Southeast circuits. Other leading sires such as Tres Seis, Blazin Jetolena, Slick By Design, and First Moonflash contribute significantly to the circuits' top ranks. Ivory James has three horses in the circuit standings, with two in the Prairie Circuit, including those bred by barrel racers Vickie Adams and Martha Wright. Another notable sire, Coronas Velvet, has contributed to the success of horses in the California Circuit. Many top horses were bred for performance, with only a few coming off the racetrack. Breeders like the late Jud Little and Bill and Deb Myers have multiple horses in the standings. Of the sixty riders represented, eleven bred at least one of their money-winning horses, and twelve won on horses they did not own. This snapshot of the WPRA Circuit System at the midpoint of the 2024 season provides a clear look at the dynamic interplay of regional competition, bloodlines, and the grassroots nature of the sport, setting the stage for the journey to the National Finals Rodeo. The WPRA Circuit System encompasses twelve distinct circuits, each with its unique characteristics influenced by geographic diversity and varying climates. These differences significantly impact the number and frequency of rodeos held within each circuit. In the colder climates of circuits like the First Frontier, which includes states in the northeastern U.S., the harsh weather conditions limit the number of rodeos that can be held. For instance, at the halfway point of the 2024 season, some of these circuits have managed to host only one rodeo. The limited opportunities require competitors to maximize their performance at each event to secure their standings. Conversely, circuits located in the southern half of the United States, such as the Southeastern and Texas Circuits, enjoy more favorable weather conditions that allow for a higher frequency of rodeos. These circuits often host several events throughout the fall, winter, and early spring, providing ample opportunities for competitors to participate and earn points. The Southeastern Circuit, which covers states like Florida, Georgia, and Alabama, is particularly active in the cooler months. However, as the brutal summer heat sets in, the number of rodeos decreases significantly. This seasonal variation necessitates strategic planning for competitors to capitalize on the busy months and maintain their standings during the slower periods. In contrast, circuits like the Columbia River, encompassing Washington, Oregon, and the Idaho panhandle, see a resurgence of activity in the spring and late summer. The blooming season brings a flurry of events, allowing competitors to participate in rodeos almost every weekend and even during the week in August and September. This period of heightened activity requires riders to be in peak form to take advantage of the numerous opportunities. The Prairie Circuit, covering Oklahoma, Kansas, and Nebraska, also experiences a mix of climatic influences. The circuit allows some late September rodeos to count toward the new season's standings, offering an extended competitive window for its members. This flexibility helps balance the challenges posed by the region's weather patterns. Each circuit's geographic diversity not only affects the scheduling and frequency of rodeos but also influences the types of horses that excel in these regions. The varied climates and terrains demand different strengths and capabilities from the competing horses, further adding to the uniqueness of each circuit. Competitors in circuits with a high number of rodeos must endure a grueling schedule, traveling extensively to maintain their rankings. In contrast, those in circuits with fewer events face the pressure of performing exceptionally well at each available rodeo. This dynamic creates a diverse and challenging competitive environment across the WPRA Circuit System, highlighting the resilience and adaptability of its members. The strategic decisions made by competitors regarding their circuit designation also play a crucial role. While most WPRA members compete within their home state circuits, some choose to designate other circuits where they anticipate more rodeo opportunities. This flexibility allows them to optimize their participation and maximize their chances of success, though it comes with the requirement to attend more rodeos compared to local competitors. Overall, the WPRA Circuit System exemplifies the diverse and intricate nature of rodeo competition, shaped by geographic and climatic factors that create unique challenges and opportunities for its members. Each circuit offers a distinct competitive landscape, contributing to the rich tapestry of the WPRA's grassroots playground and its role as a springboard for National Finals Rodeo qualification. Bloodlines play a pivotal role in the success of horses competing within the WPRA circuits, with certain pedigrees consistently rising to prominence. Among these, the influence of Dash Ta Fame stands out as particularly significant. As one of the most prolific sires in barrel racing history, Dash Ta Fame has left an indelible mark on the sport, with numerous successful horses tracing their lineage back to him. Dash Ta Fame's impact is evident on both sides of the pedigree. While only one of the top five horses in the current standings is directly sired by Dash Ta Fame, many are sired by his sons or are out of his daughters. His offspring have demonstrated remarkable consistency and performance across various circuits. One of his most notable sons in the rodeo world is JL Dash Ta Heaven. This stallion, known for his National Finals Rodeo qualifications, has sired numerous top-performing horses, particularly dominating the Southeastern Circuit. His lineage is a testament to the enduring legacy of Dash Ta Fame. Other renowned sons of Dash Ta Fame include Carrizzo, Woodbridge, and JL Sirocco, each contributing their own successful progeny to the circuit standings. Unique Dash Ta Fame sons, such as the late Famous Lane and Got Caught Speeding, have also sired leading circuit horses, showcasing the versatility and breadth of this bloodline. The Frenchmans Guy bloodline is another dominant force in the WPRA circuits. A rodeo star before his stud career, Frenchmans Guy has produced numerous top horses, with his lineage often found alongside Dash Ta Fame. His descendants are particularly prevalent in circuits like the Badland Circuit. Frenchmans Guy's sons and daughters continue to excel, further cementing his legacy in the sport. A Streak Of Fling is another influential sire, with multiple horses performing exceptionally well in the early season circuit standings. His progeny, along with those of his sons, have made significant marks, including the Great Lakes Circuit's leading horse MF Aces Famous Fling. The bloodline's versatility and performance capabilities are highly regarded in the rodeo community. Other notable sires contributing to the circuit standings include Tres Seis, Blazin Jetolena, Slick By Design, and First Moonflash. Each of these bloodlines brings unique attributes and strengths, contributing to the diversity and competitiveness of the WPRA circuits. Ivory James, a descendant of the influential racing sire Corona Cartel, has also made his presence felt, with three horses in the circuit standings, particularly in the Prairie Circuit. His progeny, bred by reputable barrel racers, have transitioned successfully from the racetrack to the arena, showcasing their adaptability and performance. Additionally, Coronas Velvet, another son of Corona Cartel, has produced money-earning horses in the California Circuit, further highlighting the versatility of this bloodline. The breeding programs behind these successful horses are noteworthy. The late Jud Little, a prominent breeder, has multiple horses from his program leading the standings. Bill and Deb Myers, Busby Quarter Horses, Bill and Cheryl Kennedy, and Jill Lane Quarter Horses also have significant contributions, with their breeding programs consistently producing top-tier competitors. Among the riders, several have bred their own money-winning horses, demonstrating the importance of a well-rounded understanding of breeding, training, and competition. This holistic approach to horse development is a testament to the dedication and expertise within the WPRA community. The dominance of these bloodlines underscores the importance of pedigree in the sport of barrel racing. The careful selection and breeding of horses with proven lineage contribute significantly to their success in the WPRA circuits. As the 2024 season progresses, the influence of these bloodlines will continue to shape the competitive landscape, highlighting the intricate relationship between genetics and performance in the world of rodeo. At the halfway point of the 2024 WPRA season, several horses and riders have distinguished themselves across the various circuits. Each circuit showcases standout performers whose impressive pedigrees and consistent performances have propelled them to the top of the standings. In the Badlands Circuit, which includes South Dakota and North Dakota, Nikki Hansen from Dickinson, North Dakota, leads the standings with her horse Cowboys N Ladies. This twelve-year-old mare, sired by Cowboys Cartel and out of Generals French Lady, bred by Bill and Deb Myers, has earned over four thousand dollars. Other notable competitors in this circuit include Raelin Jurgens, riding Jaces Black Bart, and Jessica Routier with Fiery Miss West. These riders and their horses exemplify the strong performance capabilities fostered by their pedigrees. Moving to the California Circuit, Kathy Petska from Turlock, California, leads with Dineromademefamous, a gelding sired by PC Frenchmans Hayday and out of Rebs Little Fame. With earnings surpassing five thousand dollars, this horse showcases the blend of Frenchmans Guy and Dash Ta Fame bloodlines. Other top performers include Ann McGilchrist’s Fling Ta California, whose pedigree traces back to A Streak Of Fling and Dash Ta Fame, and Meghann Pearce’s Hey Say Neigh, a half-brother to the National Finals Rodeo qualifier Real Claim To Fame. In the Columbia River Circuit, Teri Bangart from Olympia, Washington, leads with JL My Sis Streaks. This mare, sired by A Streak Of Fling and out of JL Twisted Sister, bred by Jill Lane Quarter Horses, highlights the impact of the A Streak Of Fling bloodline. Additional top competitors include Lacy Diefenbach with Ranger, a son of Bogie Biankus, and Julia Johnson’s Cajun Chrome, whose pedigree includes Shawne Bug Leo and Dash Ta Fame. Examining the standings in the First Frontier Circuit, which covers the northeastern United States, reveals the diversity of bloodlines among the top horses. Hannah Goerlach from Greenfield Center, New York, leads with Firen Red, sired by Alive N Firen. This horse shares the same sire as Brittany Pozzi Tonozzi’s 2007 WPRA World Champion Yeah Hes Firen. Other notable horses include Bobbie Jo Griswold’s Wranglers Trick, sired by Sonny Six Killer, and Montanna Lambrecht’s Blazin Paul T, an off-the-track Furyofthewind. In the Great Lakes Circuit, Katie Chism from Tiskilwa, Illinois, is the frontrunner with MF Aces Famous Fling. This stallion, sired by A Streak Of Fame and out of Frenchmans Sally, bred by Maubach Farms, leads the standings with over three thousand dollars in earnings. Emma Charleston, riding Cfour Slicks On Fire, and Austyn Tobey with TR Lying Badger, a descendant of the two-time National Finals Rodeo Champion TR Dashing Badger, are also among the top performers. The Montana Circuit features Ashley Day from Volborg, Montana, leading with Flash N Dynamite, a mare sired by First Moonflash. Tia Murphy’s ICan Make U Famous and Tammy Stedmen’s Leos Rare News are tied for second place, showcasing strong performances and notable pedigrees. In the Mountain States Circuit, Maggie Poloncic from Gillette, Wyoming, leads with Aint Seen Me Yet, a mare sired by Aint Seen Nothin Yet. This horse has earned nearly ten thousand dollars, underscoring her dominance in the circuit. Other top competitors include Tessa Arnold’s Ditto, a clone of Mary Walker’s WPRA World Champion Perculatin, and Cheryl Kennedy’s Papagaio, sired by Tres Seis. The Prairie Circuit features Emily Beisel from Weatherford, Oklahoma, leading with Ivory On Fire, a mare sired by Ivory James. Lindsey Muggli’s In The Nick A Time and Ivy Hurst’s Famous Dallas Jazz, with pedigrees tracing back to Blazin Jetolena and Dash Ta Fame, round out the top performers. In the Southeastern Circuit, Ericka Nelson from Century, Florida, leads with PC Cash, a gelding sired by PC Frosty Bid. Taylor Carver’s Miss Rare Perks and Cindy Patrick’s Flit Ta Heaven also stand out, with pedigrees including Rare N Famous and JL Dash Ta Heaven. The Texas Circuit is led by Katie Jo Halbert from Port Lavaca, Texas, with Miz Milania, a mare sired by Tres Seis. Tiany Schuster’s Show Mance and Preslie Reid’s Streakin French Star are also notable competitors, with pedigrees including First Smart Money and Frenchmans Guy. In the Turquoise Circuit, Shannon Griffin from La Luz, New Mexico, leads with Wood Bring Bullion, a mare sired by Woodbridge. Mariah Morgan’s Monster Express and Megan Albrecht’s JD Leo highlight the strength of their respective bloodlines. Finally, the Wilderness Circuit, covering Nevada, Utah, and southern Idaho, is led by Kailey Mitton from Wellsville, Utah, with Switching Creeks, a mare sired by Conn Creek. Sue Smith’s Diamond Center and McKenna Coronado’s This Guys Flying also showcase impressive performances and pedigrees. These top horses and riders exemplify the high level of competition and the importance of pedigree in the WPRA circuits. Their achievements at the halfway point of the 2024 season reflect the culmination of careful breeding, rigorous training, and exceptional performance. The WPRA circuits are rich with personal stories of riders and their horses, each reflecting unique backgrounds, training methods, and the challenges they face in their respective regions. These narratives highlight the dedication and resilience required to succeed in the demanding world of rodeo. In the Badlands Circuit, Nikki Hansen of Dickinson, North Dakota, has built a strong reputation with her horse, Cowboys N Ladies. Nikki, a seasoned competitor, trained Cowboys N Ladies from scratch, meticulously developing the mare’s skills and confidence. The harsh northern climate and limited rodeo schedule required Nikki to focus on winter training, ensuring her horse was ready to perform when the season began. In the California Circuit, Kathy Petska from Turlock, California, rides Dineromademefamous. Kathy’s journey with this gelding began when she purchased him as a young prospect. She spent countless hours refining his technique and building a strong partnership. The diverse terrain of California’s rodeos, ranging from coastal arenas to high desert environments, posed unique challenges that Kathy and Dineromademefamous overcame through adaptability and persistence. Teri Bangart of Olympia, Washington, leads the Columbia River Circuit with JL My Sis Streaks. Teri’s approach to training involves a blend of traditional methods and modern techniques, focusing on building trust and communication with her horse. The variable weather and frequent travel within the circuit required Teri to maintain a flexible training schedule, adjusting to the conditions of each rodeo. Hannah Goerlach from Greenfield Center, New York, competes in the First Frontier Circuit with Firen Red. Hannah, who grew up in a family of horse enthusiasts, began training Firen Red at a young age. Her background in horsemanship provided a solid foundation, but the diverse climates and limited rodeo opportunities in the northeastern U.S. demanded a strategic approach to competition. Hannah’s ability to maximize performance at each event has been key to her success. In the Great Lakes Circuit, Katie Chism of Tiskilwa, Illinois, rides MF Aces Famous Fling. Katie’s journey with this stallion began when she identified his potential as a young horse. Through consistent training and a focus on developing his natural abilities, Katie transformed MF Aces Famous Fling into a top competitor. The circuit’s mix of indoor and outdoor rodeos required Katie to prepare her horse for various conditions, ensuring peak performance year-round. Ashley Day from Volborg, Montana, excels in the Montana Circuit with Flash N Dynamite. Ashley’s background in ranching provided her with a deep understanding of horse behavior and training. She trained Flash N Dynamite from scratch, emphasizing endurance and agility to navigate the rugged terrains of Montana’s rodeos. The partnership they developed through rigorous training sessions has been instrumental in their success. Maggie Poloncic from Gillette, Wyoming, leads the Mountain States Circuit with Aint Seen Me Yet. Maggie, a dedicated rider, focused on building a strong foundation with her mare from the beginning. The high-altitude and varied climate conditions within the circuit required Maggie to implement a comprehensive conditioning program, ensuring Aint Seen Me Yet remained in top form throughout the season. In the Prairie Circuit, Emily Beisel from Weatherford, Oklahoma, competes with Ivory On Fire. Emily’s approach to training involves a combination of traditional rodeo techniques and innovative methods to enhance her horse’s performance. The circuit’s expansive geographic area and diverse rodeo environments demanded adaptability and resilience, qualities that Emily and Ivory On Fire exemplify. Ericka Nelson from Century, Florida, dominates the Southeastern Circuit with PC Cash. Ericka’s background as a former National Finals Rodeo qualifier and trainer provided her with the expertise to develop PC Cash into a top performer. The circuit’s seasonal variations required Ericka to maintain a rigorous training schedule, ensuring her horse was prepared for the intense competition during the cooler months. In the Texas Circuit, Katie Jo Halbert from Port Lavaca, Texas, rides Miz Milania. Katie Jo’s journey with this mare began when she identified her potential at a young age. Through dedicated training and a focus on developing her mare’s strengths, Katie Jo transformed Miz Milania into a leading competitor. The circuit’s frequent rodeos and diverse environments required meticulous planning and consistent performance. Shannon Griffin from La Luz, New Mexico, excels in the Turquoise Circuit with Wood Bring Bullion. Shannon’s background in rodeo and her methodical approach to training have been key to her success. The circuit’s mix of high desert and mountainous terrains posed unique challenges, but Shannon’s adaptability and strong bond with her horse enabled them to thrive. Kailey Mitton from Wellsville, Utah, leads the Wilderness Circuit with Switching Creeks. Kailey’s journey with this mare began when she recognized her potential and embarked on a rigorous training regimen. The circuit’s varied climate and rugged landscapes required Kailey to focus on building endurance and agility, ensuring Switching Creeks was prepared for any challenge. These personal stories of riders and their horses reflect the dedication, hard work, and resilience required to succeed in the WPRA circuits. Each rider’s unique background and approach to training highlight the diverse paths to success in the sport of rodeo, emphasizing the importance of adaptability, strategic planning, and a strong partnership between horse and rider.