The 2025 Professional Bull Riders (PBR) World Finals is set to be an electrifying experience that will bring together the best bull riders from across the globe for an action-packed showdown. Bull riding fans can expect to witness the ultimate test of skill, bravery and athleticism as the cowboys battle some of the toughest bulls in the sport.
This year’s event will be a three-part affair, with the first stage taking place at Cowtown Coliseum in Fort Worth, Texas, from May 8-11. Here, 45 elite riders will compete in a series of qualifying rounds, aiming to secure their spot in the final championship round. Contestants will face off against a roster of fierce bulls in a race to earn points, with the top 15 from the Unleash The Beast standings and the top 5 riders from the Fort Worth event advancing to the grand finale.
The Ride for Redemption round, also held at the Cowtown Coliseum May 14-15, adds an extra layer of drama and excitement to the competition. Twenty-five contestants who have not already qualified, along with 15 invited riders, will face off in two additional rounds for a chance to make the big show. The top five in the aggregate will advance to the Championship Rounds.
The conclusion of this intense competition will be held at the state-of-the-art AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas, on May 17-18. Fans will experience the excitement of watching the sport at its highest level in a massive arena capable of holding tens of thousands of spectators. Twenty-five contestants will give it their all for the chance to claim the prestigious PBR World Champion title. Over the course of the finals, the PBR will award more than $2.38 million plus a $1 million bonus to the 2025 world champion.
In addition to the bull riding, the 2025 World Finals will feature Kid Rock’s Rock N Rodeo. Rodeo meets rock concert while six teams, each coached by a legend of ProRodeo, compete in a head-to-head bracket-style competition. The rodeo will feature seven rodeo events, and Kid Rock will perform live in concert.
The 2025 PBR World Finals will not only showcase the world’s best riders but also celebrate the spirit of the sport itself. Whether you are a longtime fan or a newcomer to the world of bull riding, this year’s PBR World Finals promises to be an event like no other.
Throughout the years, the Western industry evolved to include many different disciplines and facets. In the past decade, there has been an influx of supporters. But one thing that will never change is its foundation… Faith, family, and freedom! Western clothing company Rodeo Quincy was created with these ideals as its backbone.
Rodeo + Quincy
Over 10 years ago, college-aged Quincy Eldridge received the opportunity of a lifetime when winning a National Elevator Pitch Competition, which gave way to the start of a purpose the Lord had been preparing her for. The founder and owner of Rodeo Quincy grew up with a unique style and a creative mind. The cowgirl used to spend time in her youth designing her own tack and clothing to compete in at the California High School rodeos. “Honestly, I just started combining my passion when I took an old piece of leather, sanded it down, hand-drew it, and hand-painted it. Then I glued Swarovski rhinestones on it. At the time, it was kind of like the Ed Hardy era, with all the roses and the skulls. I was kind of influenced by that,” Eldridge recalled.
Her designs eventually caught the eye of Ariat International while she was competing at the National High School Finals Rodeo in Farmington, New Mexico. Working alongside the company, Eldridge created her first official line, Ariat’s Quincy Collection. After graduating high school, she continued to work with the company while attending college at California Polytechnic State University and college rodeoing. There, she had an entrepreneurship professor who encouraged her to enter a business pitch competition. That snowballed to Eldridge pitching her Western boot company idea at the national level contest in Chicago. She blew the Windy City out of the water and was crowned the 2013 National Elevator Pitch Competition Champion.
The win was a catapult for launching Quincy Tack and Belts. Eldridge began taking her designs on the road to tradeshows all across the county. She later added a boot company titled Rodeo Quincy, which matured into the timeless, chic store seen today.
Legendary Lines
Eldridge comes from a long line of not only rodeo cowboys but also Californios and Nevada ranchers. Her uncle Joe Marvel won the world in the saddle bronc riding back in 1978, with his brother Mike also qualifying to the National Finals Rodeo. Today, the Superbowl of rodeo is still as much of a family affair while she watches her husband Dakota Eldridge compete in the steer wrestling, her nephew Lefty Holman and Dawson Hay – Eldridge’s niece Lily’s husband – in the saddle bronc riding, Clayton Biglow – married to Eldridge’s cousin Annie – in the bareback riding, and Clayton Sellars – married to Lefty’s sister Billie – in the bull riding. Her grandmother Rosita Marvel was originally part of Spanish-Basque Camarillos that settled in California on a land grant from Spain. The town of Camarillo, California, is named after that side of Eldridge’s family.
Her thick Western heritage has a significant influence on her designs today. “My mom had this love for fashion. She always encouraged me not to be afraid to stand out with what I wore and how I dressed. I grew up idolizing my mom and my grandmother. And I get a lot of my style from them. But I think a lot of our style and a lot of what they’ve taught me is that it always circles back to the roots of the American cowboy,” Eldridge remarked.
Photo by Elizabeth Hays
Many of the Rodeo Quincy collections have direct ties to her family. This year, the company will have a multitude of new collections and updates to some of their most popular lines. In the spring, Rodeo Quincy is dropping their latest line, Camarillo Cowboy. The inspiration for this collection comes from her grandmother Rosita’s California vaqueros heritage. All of the pieces are named after members of the Camarillo family tree. The compilation will include a mixed media of their classic printed graphics with statement embroidery, delicate sequins and lovely lace. The collection is the perfect transition from spring to summer with articles like t-shirt dresses and denim shorts with airy chambray fabric. Their signature roses are sprinkled throughout the line with stunning pastel colors and heavy Spanish influence.
Independence Day will bring another new collection honoring Eldridge’s father’s lineage, Rancho Freeman. Additions to the Gilded Lily collection will come about in August of this year. In September, the signature Marvel Cowboy—named after Eldridge’s mother’s clothing company from the 80s—will continue to expand the compilation. Fashionistas will be able to shop their NFR looks from the Rhinestone Cowboy collection in October. The ongoing PRCA x RQ line will make a comeback in November.
Photo by Elizabeth Hays
As Rodeo Quincy continues to expand, their clothing will continue to tell the story of faith and family through fashion.
Eldridge affirmed, “It’s more than clothes; it’s our legacy that we want to live on for generations to come.”
The “Western way of life” is a statement derived from long, hard days at work, traditional customs, and the determination to see a job finished. Men and women alike can look upon the cowboys and cowgirls of the industry and see the practicality and tradition that make up their day-to-day uniform. While the clothing decisions of the Western community may seem cut and dry, the reality is its history, inspiration, and evolution are far more intriguing than what initially meets the eye. It is more than just a cowboy hat and pearl snap shirt; it’s a means to an end, a statement of who they are at their core and the values that shape their chosen lifestyle. While historically, the women of the industry receive the spotlight for the latest fashions, styles and trends, the men have a thing or two to brag about in terms of their ingenuity, toughness, class, and rugged lifestyles. It is a truly unique blend of inspiration drawn from the American frontier and combined with the practicality of the modern-day cowboy.
From the traditional hat shielding them from the summer sun to the stitched long-sleeve collared shirt and sturdy heeled boots made of beautiful leathers, skins, and fabrics. To the intricate leather works and designs making up the cowboy’s belts, boots, cuffs, and chaps that protect the working cowboy from the wear and tear of the industry. All aspects of Western fashion contribute to the man’s working way of life and desire to leave a lasting remark. The rodeo cowboy is no different. His fashion contributes to his lifestyle, masculinity, and rugged individualism. A statement of toughness and resilience, the rodeo chaps often seen proudly displayed by the rough stock cowboy are a direct result of their expression and style. Made of durable leather and featuring decorative elements such as fringe, intricate tooling, and studded designs, these “tools of the trade” are more than just protective gear but also, in a broader fashion context, are an expression of each man’s connection to the cowboy culture and rodeo lifestyle.
Pictured: Schussler with 6x NFR Saddle Bronc Rider Chase Brooks holding his new chaps by Schussler. | Photo Courtesy of Joe Schussler
Idaho native Joe Schussler, a leather professional and chap-maker for 20 years, has been active in the rodeo leather fashion scene and is a well-known contributor to many of its competitors. Schussler stated in connection to his design features and business, he aims to “refine [his] craft and art.” When asked how his creations play into the cowboy’s ride and ability to compete, Schussler expressed the idea that the colors and design features could play into the flashiness and potential score of the ride, not to mention the statement bold colors have on those in attendance. Favorite design elements of late included metallic colors and intriguing plays on fringe and leather carvings. Schussler stated, “I have my own style, but I’ve really gotten into using different color combinations to be unique in that aspect.” He continued, “I redraw all my designs; I don’t reuse patterns,” adding both a unique and specific element to each piece he creates. However, despite the fashion and bold statements each set of chaps illicit, Schussler’s designs remain functional and serve its original purpose. The leather maker primarily deals in bronc riding chaps, and as such, expressed the fact that the event requires quality equipment to both achieve a scorable ride and protect your legs. “You want to use heavier leather and ensure the fit is correct” so the cowboy can maintain his grip, keeping in mind that “the main goal is functionality [before] going on to designs.” More recently, the leather enthusiast has branched out into the business fashion end of Western culture. Schussler designs and creates briefcases and other trendy leather accessories, all with beautiful and elaborate patterns that are unique to each piece and worth taking note of.
Photo Courtesy of Ty Skiver
Bootmaker and leather crafter Ty Skiver is no stranger to the rodeo world and the statements each Western piece can make. Skiver has worked in the leather business since 1996 and is an artisan of many a cowboy’s attire, primarily the boot and chap business. His style is “a throwback to the old cowboy days” and emphasizes the art of creating a piece with prominence on tradition and quality material. Each piece is a true tribute to the Western way of life, the morals it was founded upon, and a statement of their style. Skiver is a connoisseur of the leather business and the artwork it entails, stating he prefers a variety of leathers, skins, and designs for his leather pieces. Skiver stated, “There is a method to my patterns and the [designs] on my chaps,” continuing with the idea, “It does affect how good a guy does look while riding.” Functionality and practicality remain key features in all of Skiver’s designs, with many clients expressing that more flare is given due to the layout and elements of each piece. According to Skiver, “I like my stuff being a throwback” in recognition of the cultural, historical, and fashion elements that reflect the cowboy way of life – a fundamental traditionalist who embodies a cowboy’s grit, style, and class in each component of his work.
Western fashion goes beyond the women of the world and their choices in hair, makeup, and fur. Rather, it is embodied in the styles of the men, the craftsmanship of their clothes and equipment, and above all, the diverse purpose each item represents. It is a rugged and functional world that has evolved from the original needs of the cowboys and ranchers. Today, the roots of those needs can still be seen and felt in connection to the declarations made by the modern-day cowboy. The bold patterns and colors, in conjunction with the art and design, make for a truly unique take on Western couture. Influenced by many walks of life, cultures, and designs the Western world of fashion remains ever-evolving and on a constant status of change. However, that change is suffused deeply in its historical roots, traditions, and always – its functionality. A beautiful and effective statement for the men and women striving to leave a lasting effect and legacy for the industry.
The ideals of the cowgirl spirit start with the grace bestowed on her by the Lord, and her determination to greet a challenge with hard work and grit. Mother, wife, singer, songwriter, worship leader, stock contractor and inspirational speaker LeAnn Hart exemplifies the definition of the cowgirl through her love for Jesus and her willingness to allow Him to guide her through life.
Hart grew up on a dairy farm and rodeoing in South Louisiana. Her church upbringing intensely molded the cowgirl’s life.
“I’ve heard so many people give their testimonies and say that they were drug to church, and it’s always in a negative tone. For me, I’ve thought about that and I’m like, ‘I am so thankful that I was raised in church’ because I was raised with foundation and routine and tradition. It helped me as I grew to have discernment for what was good and what was not good – what was God and what was not God,” recalled Hart.
The music playing on the farm’s radio also profoundly inspired Hart. She recalled always singing when she was growing up. At 17 years old, Hart auditioned to perform at Dollywood, where she got a spot in “The Life and Times of Dolly Parton.” The role allowed her to experience what it was like to perform on stage. The opportunity highlighted her strong gift of not “conforming to the patterns of the world.” Being in an industry that wanted to build performers into something admired by society, Hart chose to hand over her desires to God and live a life not of this world.
Hart later went to try her hand in Nashville as a singer, but it wasn’t until she started dating her husband, PBR World Champion J.W. Hart, that she was welcomed into the songwriting world. There, she was able to grow her writing abilities and tell the stories that the Lord had put on her heart. One of her favorite songs from that time in her life was “Where Jesus Is.” While grateful for the experiences she gained in Music City, Hart’s discernment from God revealed to her that she was “forcing something that was just not going to prosper.” It wasn’t until she traded in the music scene for ranch life that her song was recorded for Joey & Rory’s “Album Number Two.”
Hart’s knowledge gained from Dollywood and Nashville propelled her into ministry endeavors. The cowgirl has laid this purpose on the foundation of “greater is he that is in Me” (1 John 4:4). In 2024 alone, she spoke or led worship at over 100 events. Hart’s goal is for people to experience the effect Jesus can have on their lives. She recalled, “I want them to know ‘that girl loves Jesus,’ that ‘she’s different,’ that ‘the joy that she carries is Him.’ That’s what keeps me ticking. A lot of people will say often, ‘Girl, how do you do what you do?’ And I always say, ‘Oh, I’ve got supernatural health. I’ve got Jesus.’”
Photo Courtesy of Wrangler & by Chris Douglas
Aside from her ministry, Hart spends a lot of time working on J.W. & her ranch in Oklahoma, raising bucking bulls and children while also training J.W.’s PBR team, the Kansas City Outlaws. Working in male-dominated industries has proven to Hart that “it’s so important for you to have your own personal disciplines. For me, it just starts with integrity, being able to be honest with yourself, and knowing your own limitations. You could probably do just as much as your husband does in a lot of ways, but you don’t have to do everything. There also has to be a limit because you’ll stretch yourself so thin. You have to be self-disciplined in the truth, know who you are, and give yourself grace.”
In typical bull-riding-love-story fashion, J.W. and Hart fell in love at a PBR event. The couple married in 2005. In the last 20 years, they have gained six children – Junior, 7; Elsie, 9; Chrystal, 11; Sapphire, 12; Wacey, 15; and Mackayla, 16 – and started a stock contracting company, Hart Cattle Co. While many of life’s challenges have come their way, the two have constantly kept God at the center of it all. Hart said, “I always tell people that he’s the grit to my grace, and I pray I’m the grace to his grit. J.W. had said he truly believes God took a rib from him and created me and that’s truth. And when you seek the things of the Kingdom, you’ll consistently be refreshed. But if you are looking for things on this earth and you’re looking to be fed from the things on this earth, it will starve you. And it will starve your marriage. It will starve your mind. It will starve your soul if you’re constantly looking for that. Seek the things of the Kingdom, look to heaven, and He can renew anything that we turn over to Him.”
Hart proceeded by explaining how this focus can also affect the ways you look at life. Hart expanded, “I don’t think it would be fair to say that it’s not going to be hard at times. We need more people in this industry who are first seeking the Kingdom instead of self-seeking. When you’re consistently turning your eyes to Jesus and you’re trusting Him to keep everything together – you put Him between you and even your own thoughts, you put Him between you and your marriage, maintaining what God’s given you – it’ll always be worth it. You don’t have to do it. You get to do it. If you look at it like, ‘This is the life I get to live.’ You’ll get jacked up for it. You’ll get motivated by it, and you’ll start to see the value. You start to see the gold, even when the grass is still brown and it’s not green in springtime yet, because you already know that the green grass is coming. And you’ll always have that to look forward to because God’s faithful in every season.” Hart continues to exemplify the cowgirl way with her unbridled love for Jesus and the Western way of life.
Photo Courtesy of Wrangler & by Chris Douglas
Rodeo Life readers can follow the Hart family at @jwandlee on Instagram or LeAnn Hart on Facebook. To book LeAnn for speaking engagements, go to leannhartminitries.com.
In the daring world of fashion, Western fashion influencer and stunt woman Cara Smith has a style everyone can’t help but fall for. The content creator found her stride in 2022 after a stunt injury left her sidelined from work. During that time, Smith began to dabble with video creation by styling Western outfits. During the following six months of recovery, TikTok became her creative outlet. Her page @tx_cara grew quickly as she became the bridge between those new to the Western fashion scene and those born in the industry. Between Instagram and TikTok, she has over 400,000 people watching her styling advice and outfits.
“I want to share outfits that inspire people to find their own way in fashion through what I share,” Smith said.
Daring to Do it
While growing up in the Lone Star State, Smith never considered herself a part of the Western industry. It was her love for the performing arts that slowly led her toward Western fashion content creation. Smith originally studied theatre at the University of Texas in Austin. It was there that her eyes were opened to Western fashion by her friends and classmates. After graduating, Smith started building her career as an actress and singer. She lived in Los Angeles, Chicago, New York, and even on cruise ships traveling the world. Smith’s excursions opened her eyes to a multitude of styles from different shores.
In 2018, Smith moved to the City of Angels, where she worked at Disneyland. Her time at the Happiest Place on Earth unlocked the opportunity for Smith to delve into stunt work. She went from portraying Belle for meet-and-greets to battling it out in a live-stage show as Marvel’s Black Widow. The 31-year-old’s background in competitive dance allowed her the ability to quickly pick up the sudden and fluent movements of stunt fighting. Smith recalled, “I just started to learn and train and network and then started working. I was still pursuing acting and still am. I started to just find my way in stunts because there are some people who are all-around stunt men and stunt women. They do fights and weapons and fire and driving and all the different things, but that didn’t quite feel like me. So, I just kind of found my own way in it and found the things that I specialized in.” As a stunt woman, she developed strong skills in fight choreography, falls, and wire work.
Photo by @disneystrength
For Smith, the stunts that she enjoys the most are the ones that burn her brain with challenges. Feats like being set on fire caused her to have to take control and calm her overthinking mind. This taught her how to turn off the noise in her head – the what-ifs that can follow the fight-or-flight response – in order to safely and effectively complete the hot task at hand.
“There’s a lot to consider. Being clear-headed and focused and being able to manage your mind is of utmost importance,” she declared.
Fashion with a Kick
Working on various film and theatre projects, Smith also learned the technical side of the industry – what makes visually alluring videos. “I know how to move in front of a camera; I know angles; I know how to find my light, and that’s all from my theater background and my film training. I know how to tell a story and that’s what I feel like I do in my videos,” Smith said.
As someone who wasn’t born and raised in the Western industry, Smith’s goal is “to connect girls who are not in the Western world at all, who are interested in dipping their toe into that fashion or that world. I really try to be that bridge in between.” When creating outfits, she pulls influence from different styles to keep looks versatile. Statement pieces like cowboy boots, turquoise jewelry or a cowboy hat can add a little bit of Western flair to a look without it being overpowering for someone still new to the style.
Overall, Smith strives to bridge the gap between those heavily engulfed in Western fashion and those looking to wade in. Many of the items used to create her outfits are linked on her Liketoknow.it or her Amazon storefront for those beginning their Western fashion journey. “There are some women that want to step into the Western fashion world right now, but they may not want to invest in a high quality, authentic piece because they don’t know if they if this is their fashion for the long term,” Smith said.
Photo by Nichole Stephens
For those looking to delve deeper, she tries to showcase genuine, heirloom-level articles of clothing. Pieces like eye-catching jackets, quality shirts for layering, iconic denim or authentic leather items can create a multitude of classic, elegant outfits.
No matter where you’re at in your styling journey, there are some items that never lose their spark. Smith loves to incorporate different textures like suede, lace, or denim. She believes “a lot of the roots in Western fashion just don’t go out of style. I feel like Western fashion has its pillars of pieces and styles within it, and they don’t change, which is super cool. I feel like the styles change around it, but a lot of the pieces themselves stay consistent.”
When styling outfits, Smith looks back at history and different genres of fashion to inspire her. Playing with looks from various cultures and style categories helped her to build creative and unique looks. The simple techniques of layering, trying different textures and accessorizing can make a huge difference in the final outcome of the look, no matter where the inspiration comes from. “Any and all of those things are always a part of my outfits,” Smith said.
Regardless of where you come from or what your goal is with styling an outfit, Smith advises women to “stay authentic to yourself and just keep going because you’ll eventually find your groove and you’ll find your people.”
The word “cowgirl” represents more than just boots and a cowboy hat; from the boardroom to the arena, there are women across the country who embody the principles and values of Western culture in their everyday lives. The Cowgirl Gathering was created to offer these women the opportunity to connect, as well as showcase the rich, unique lives of women in the Western world. This year’s event, which will be held from April 25 through May 11, will feature all-women rodeo competitions, fashion showcases, Western art, networking opportunities, and much more in the historic Fort Worth Stockyards.
The event is hosted by the American Paint Horse Association and Marked for Greatness Properties. Kathryn Allen came to the event with a background in events and nonprofit work, and a love for all things Western. After securing her first position with the American Paint Horse Association, Allen moved into her current role, which includes leading the organization of the Cowgirl Gathering. “After getting involved with the industry, I quickly fell in love with all things Western and equine,” Allen shared.
Photo by Dylan Davidson
The inaugural event was held in 2020. While that year and several following it proved to be difficult due to COVID-19, the Cowgirl Gathering filled a void in the industry. Women in Western sports, from rodeo to reined cow horse, were topping leaderboards with increasing frequency, and also representing Western values in their lives on the ranch, as mothers, entrepreneurs, artists, and businesswomen. The organizers also saw an opportunity to further showcase this on a national stage. “Women athletes, and women in the Western industry, weren’t getting the recognition and celebration they deserved,” Allen shared.
The inaugural event was a huge success. “The very first gathering was held in November of 2020, and it was incredible. Our barrel race that year actually ran for 24 hours straight,” Allen recalled.
Knowing they were onto something valuable, the organizers decided to move the event to May, partnering with the Women’s Rodeo World Championships. Barrel racing, breakaway roping, and team roping competitions are held throughout the event, which is now the last chance qualifier for the Women’s Rodeo World Championships. This year, the team roping and breakaway competitions will be held at the Kerry Kelley Arena in Weatherford; the barrel racing will be held at Arena 377 in Stephenville.
Photo by Dylan Davidson
The all-women team roping event has a $10,000 payout, drawing in top competitors from the U.S. and Canada. The highly-competitive barrel racing and breakaway roping also give women the opportunity to win top prize money. “It’s giving them the chance to earn more money and recognition, which is the whole goal,” Allen shared.
Art is another focal point at the Cowgirl Gathering. A juried show and showcase are hosted in partnership with the Cowgirl Artists of America. This year, the art showcase will be moving to an entirely online platform, opening the door for more women to participate. “We wanted to open the door and provide more artists with the opportunity to share and promote their artwork on a larger platform,” Allen said.
During the first weekend of May, the Cowgirl Artists of America will host live demos in the Stockyards, and artists will also speak about their work, building a life as an independent artist, answer questions, and more.
Photo by Kaycie Timm
Western fashion will also be on display throughout the event. The Fort Worth Stockyards is the heart of Western fashion, making it a perfect location for showcasing cowgirl style. From traditional boots and hats to more elevated takes on corporate cowgirl and street style, the Cowgirl Gathering will showcase the variety of forms Western fashion can take on. Many popular Western wear brands will be represented. Western fashion will be featured throughout the event, and fashion lovers will also have the opportunity to attend the Cowgirl Gathering Fashion Show on May 3 in the Stockyards Station. Allen shared, “We will celebrate the many hats that the cowgirl wears, whether that’s corporate cowgirl or a ranching cowgirl.”
The Cowgirl Conversation, which will be held on May 3 from 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m., will feature speakers from throughout the industry. Women like Erin Taormino, who was just crowned the first female winner of the World’s Greatest Horseman, clothing entrepreneur Amanda Kimes, and journalist Janie Johnson Finlay are just a few women from the long list of top-notch speakers featured in past years.
Photo by Kaycie Timm
Marketing, performance horses, rodeo, storytelling, veterinary medicine, music, design, and much more will be covered by the featured speakers at this year’s event. Allen is especially excited about this year’s Cowgirl Conversation and has seen a lot of inspiration come from putting women in the room with leaders whom they look up to. Empowerment, individualism and tenacity — three pillars of the cowgirl spirit the Gathering focuses on — are apparent in every panelist’s story, and attendees often walk away feeling motivated to chase down their own dreams.
“I think that so often, we see an interview or social media, and we immediately put that person on a pedestal, and put separation between ourselves and them. Getting to sit in a room and hear someone’s story, and learn that they are just another human, another girl who had a dream, is valuable. They had fears and hesitations, and they overcame that,” Allen shared. “There’s a different relation and connection. It sparks conversation and hopefully builds more self-confidence in the attendees.”
The Cowgirl Gathering draws women from within the industry, but also offers the opportunity for those who are interested in becoming involved — or who just want to learn more about the Western world — to connect with the community. The event brings in women from across the country and also catches a few who happen to be visiting the Stockyards.
Bringing different communities of women together, with varying involvement and skill levels, is beneficial on many levels. Throughout the event, women learn about one another through conversation and also offer inspiration to one another. “This is one of my favorite parts,” Allen shared. “We bring in so many people from different backgrounds. We have aspiring athletes, those who want to be more involved in rodeo, corporate cowgirls and women interested in the equine world.”
Businesswomen and entrepreneurs, many of who live in the city, are also well-represented. “Women come who are young professionals, but they still have that spirit of a cowgirl. We bring in a lot of young women who are looking for a network and a community to inspire and motivate them,” Allen added.
Women who make their living as cowgirls will also be in attendance. “We also bring in a good crowd of women who are already in the Western industry, and they’re looking to deepen their connections and network,” Allen explained.
For those who cannot attend in person, the Cowgirl Gathering and Cowgirl Artists of America art showcase will be viewable online for the whole month of May. Tickets for the in-person event are available online at cowgirlgathering.com, and Rodeo Life readers can also pick theirs up at a discount using the code Rodeo15 at checkout.
Daniel Wilder said his journey into the world of rodeo was shaped by his family, his fierce competitiveness and his passion for the sport. As a member of Team Cavender’s for the past two years, Wilder said he has witnessed firsthand the value of being part of a team that emphasizes growth, camaraderie and success.
“Just growing up through junior rodeo, I looked up to people like Jordi Edens Mitchell and Riley Webb,” Daniel says. “Then my sister Anna got on Team Cavender’s, and she referred me when it was time for her to graduate. That’s how I got on the team.”
Wilder said being part of Team Cavender’s has allowed him to compete alongside some of the most driven and talented young athletes in the rodeo world.
“What I love most about Team Cavender’s is how tight-knit everyone is. It’s a group that really pushes you to be the best version of yourself,” Wilder said. “A lot of youth teams are competitive, but Cavender’s really takes it to another level.
“We have three people going to The American this year, which motivates me to stay on top of my game,” he added. “It’s not just about the competition; it’s about being around athletes who truly care about each other’s success.”
Photo by Jennings Photography
Wilder said one unique aspect of Team Cavender’s is that it is not only about rodeo. Team members also get exposure to the business side of the industry.
“We got to be around people who work at Cavender’s, not just the rodeo side,” he said. “I think that’s cool because we learned a lot about how the business operates as a whole. I think the relationships and connections we’ve made through Cavender’s will be valuable for us, whether we go professional in rodeo or take a business route.”
Wilder, who will attend University of Tenessee-Martin on a rodeo scholarship in the fall, said he is exploring both his athletic and academic future.
“I’m just taking it as it comes,” he said. “I want to rodeo for as long as I can, but I’m also leaning toward the business side, especially since I come from a farming background. After college, I’ll likely return to the family farm, but I’ll still be involved in rodeo, training horses and competing when I can.”
Wilder’s passion for horses is something he said runs deep in his family. His great-grandfather, Lowe McDaniel, introduced the family to Tennessee Walking Horses. Over time, his family transitioned into breeding and raising American Quarter Horses, which eventually led them into rodeo.
Wilder said his mother was a barrel racer, and his grandfather played a huge role in teaching him and his sisters how to ride and compete.
“My grandfather was a huge influence on me,” he said. “He’s the most competitive man I know, and he taught us the value of being the best at whatever we do.”
Wilder said he inherited his grandfather’s competitive spirit, which has served him well in the rodeo arena. He has excelled in several events, including team roping, tie-down roping, steer wrestling, and reined cow horse.
“Growing up with my sisters, we would practice together, and it was always a competition,” he recalls. “That helped me push myself and get better.”
As Wilder continues to build his future in both rodeo and business, his deep-rooted passion for the sport and his family’s legacy remains at the heart of his journey. Whether competing professionally or pursuing business ventures, Wilder’s commitment to excellence and his love for the sport will undoubtedly guide him toward success.
Atlanta, Kansas, cowgirl Baylee Barker said her relationship with American Hat Company stands out as one of the defining moments of her rodeo career. Barker said it all began in an unexpected way during the National High School Finals Rodeo.
“It was freshman year of nationals, I believe,” Barker said. “I was just walking around, and I always thought it would be cool to be sponsored by American, but I didn’t think much of it.”
After a brief conversation with a representative, American Hat Company surprised Barker by following her outside the event and asking, “Hey, do you want to be an ambassador?”
That moment marked the beginning of a rewarding partnership with the brand.
“I’ve been an ambassador for a couple of years now,” Barker said. “The best part is that we, as riders, put in the work to earn our sponsorship. We meet the requirements, and American gives back to us. Getting a free straw hat every year is a great perk, but it’s the loyalty that means the most to me. They treat us well, and it’s cool to see that, even as younger riders, we get the same kind of attention and support that the pro rodeo athletes get.
“It’s not just the product, but the people behind the brand,” she added. “The brand has supported me in my journey, and that’s something I value a lot.”
Barker said her journey into the rodeo world began at a young age. Growing up in Kansas, she quickly found her passion for the sport.
“I started rodeoing when I was probably three,” she said. “I did all the things that one to six age group can do—rode sheep, ran barrels, did goat tying. I rodeoed up until about 7 years old before I took a break to play junior high club volleyball.”
Barker said it was not long before rodeo found its way back into her life.
“When I was 10, one of my friends was roping, and I told my mom, ‘I kind of want to get on a horse and rope.’ Since then, I’ve stuck with it and been very accomplished,” she said.
A recent recruit to the Vernon College rodeo program, Barker said she has big goals on the horizon, with aspirations to succeed in both rodeo and her future career. She said she plans to study nursing and wants to pursue a career in the medical field, specifically as a neonatal intensive care unit nurse.
“I want to be a NICU nurse because I love babies and kids,” she said. “It’s rewarding to be able to send a NICU baby home.”
In addition to her rodeo and academic pursuits, Barker said she is also focused on making the most of her time at college. She aims to attend the College National Finals Rodeo with winning in mind.
“I look forward to making it to the college finals and winning before I’m done with college. It’s something I’ve always wanted to do, and I believe I have the work ethic to make it happen,” she said.
Despite the challenges of balancing rodeo with her academic goals, Baylee remains dedicated to both.
“I want to give my best effort in both areas. If I can, I’ll continue to compete in pro rodeos after college, but I’ll have to see how it all fits into my career path,” she added.
Barker also reflected on the pride she has in representing Kansas in the rodeo world.
“Kansas doesn’t get as much recognition as other states in rodeo, but it’s cool to represent it,” she said. “It’s been a huge part of my journey, and I wouldn’t be where I am today without the support of my family, especially my parents and my Uncle Dave.”
No matter where her journey takes her—whether in the rodeo arena or the hospital—Barker will continue to proudly represent Kansas and American Hat Company.
Mackenzie Mayes said her family has always been friends with Stan Redding, American Hat Company’s national sales manager. She said her professional relationship with the hat brand started while she was in high school.
“I was at a rodeo in the stockyards in Fort Worth, and I talked with Stan while I was there,” she said. “I’ve been sponsored by them ever since, and I am so thankful for the people there and the opportunities they have given me.”
As a third-generation cowgirl from Winnsboro, Texas, Mayes said she is never short of people around her who have helped her grow into the horsewoman she is now.
“My whole family rodeos and trains horses, really,” she said. “My grandma has been to the NFR in the barrel racing, and my dad has made the NFR as a calf roper, so I really have the best of both worlds being a barrel racer and a breakaway roper.”
Mayes was not exaggerating when she said rodeo is a family affair. Her grandmother, Nancy Mayes, qualified for the National Finals Rodeo in 1983 and was later inducted into the Texas Rodeo Cowboy Hall of Fame. Her father, Jim Bob, was a two-time NFR qualifier in the tie-down roping.
Mayes said she runs barrels on Chicado Moon, a 2018 AQHA mare by Guys Canyon Moon, and out of Chicados Bully, owned by her great-aunt, Naoma LeBarron. Mayes added her horse is more affectionately known as “Rousey” after the cage fighter Ronda Rousey.
“My aunt bought Rousey from Jolene Montgomery when she was two, but she had an injury that put her out of use until the start of her four-year-old year,” Mayes said. “Once we got her back up, she took to barrels so fast, but she bucked a lot of people off.
“My aunt had sent her to a family friend, and she bucked the lady off and broke a few of her ribs,” Mayes added. “After that incident, my aunt sent her to me, and I started hauling her. The rest is history, really.”
Mayes, currently a business administration student at Northeast Texas Community College, said she decided to take a step back from college rodeo to focus on her rookie year in the WPRA.
“I decided not to college rodeo this semester, so I can go to some pro rodeos for now,” she said. “I am planning on transferring to Texas A&M Commerce next fall, and I’m going to pick up college rodeo there.”
With a brother-in-law who was a top salesman for the medical company Johnson & Johnson, Mayes said she plans to pursue a similar career.
“He is going to help me get a foot in the door after I graduate, so hopefully it will all work out,” she said. “A sales work schedule would allow me to still have days to rodeo and work.
“My whole life revolves around rodeo,” she added. “I don’t see life going any other way.”
Abby McCreary, a breakaway roper from Canyon, Texas, said she heard about Team Cavender’s when Jeff Howell, from the Cavender’s in Amarillo, Texas, encouraged her to apply.
“We were just in Cavender’s to shop one day, and he said, ‘Hey, have you applied for Team Cavender’s?’” she said. “He put me down as a reference and told me I’d be a great fit.”
Though the application process was delayed for a year, McCreary said she finally joined the youth team and has enjoyed every moment.
“Summit was a blast. I had so much fun with everyone. The team bonding and listening to all the speakers was amazing,” she said. ‘It was a different experience than anything I’ve ever had before.”
McCreary’s journey into the world of rodeo began at a young age. A third-generation rancher, she said her passion for roping runs deep.
“My granddad owns a ranch, and my dad ranched a little bit, and we still kind of do, but it’s hard with how much we travel for rodeo,” she said.
McCreary said her father, Kevin McCreary, introduced her to roping early on. “I’ve been a breakaway roping off a horse since I was 5,” she added.
While rodeo is McCreary’s primary focus, she said she is also active in other sports and youth clubs. She participates in basketball, golf, track, and cross-country. She is also an officer in FFA and is involved in Family, Career and Community Leaders of America (FCCLA).
Balancing so many activities requires discipline and time management, but McCreary said she handles it well.
“It’s pretty stressful, but my coaches are super great about it,” she says. “They know that rodeo comes before anything else, and they understand when I need to miss practice.”
Despite the hectic schedule, McCreary is determined to pursue both her education and her passion for rodeo at the next level. She plans to attend West Texas A&M University, where she will join the rodeo team while studying animal science. The proximity to home is a huge benefit, she added, as it allows her to continue roping with her father.
“I kind of get to take my coach with me to college with my dad being right here to help me,” she said.
She is glad to be close to home so she can continue to support her younger brother, Cutter McCreary, who is just 11.
“He just started team roping,” McCreary said. “It’s funny because I try to give him tips on his rope swing, and he doesn’t listen to me. But that sibling love always shines through, even if we roll our eyes at each other.” This close-knit dynamic is a big part of why McCreary enjoys rodeo. She is grateful for the time spent with her family, even when it is in a cramped horse trailer for weeks at a time.
McCreary said her mother, Jamie McCreary, has never competed in rodeo, but she plays a vital role in the family’s success.
“My mom is great. She makes sure we have everything we need, like food and blankets, and keeps track of all the videos and times at the rodeos,” McCreary said. “We call her our bleacher babe.”
McCreary is considering a career in veterinary medicine, potentially in equine medicine, but she is still organizing the details of completing her education and chasing rodeos.
“I’ve always wanted to be a vet, but I have not decided yet,” McCreary said. “Rodeo and vet school could be a full plate, so I’m going to take my time figuring it out.”
A rodeo to remember through imagery. My experience capturing all angles of this deep Western tradition was like no other. While the photos best tell the story, the writing paints the pictures.
I didn’t know what exactly to expect walking into Petco Park, home of the San Diego Padres, on Friday, January 10 at 5 p.m. A chameleon of a stadium, the field had been filled with dirt. It transformed into a makeshift rodeo arena for three days, looking entirely different from a concert I had shot on the same grounds just a week prior. Being the first rodeo I’ve ever been to, let alone photographed, this assignment was such a fun challenge.
The opening ceremony commenced with skydiving, the Pledge of Allegiance, and an amazing fireworks display. I spent that first day relatively stationary, focused on dialing in camera settings while looking for when to anticipate the best moments. The loud pounding of hooves rushed by me continuously, only feet away from the gate, as dust and dirt were thrown at my camera lens.
Saturday went a lot smoother. I utilized a monopod for stability to keep the fast-moving subjects in focus. Bareback riding, tie-down roping, breakaway roping, saddle bronc riding, steer wrestling, team roping, barrel racing, and bull riding – the many events of the rodeo that I learned about through each photo taken.
Upon entering the arena on Sunday, I overheard another photographer mention that animal rights activists were outside the entrance. Having never taken photos of a protest either, and very much wanting to, I immediately headed that way. A 5-minute walk around the stadium later, I found a bustling intersection of people holding signs and yelling emotionally charged chants at the long line of rodeo fans entering the venue.
Repetitive chats were exclaimed over a megaphone. The protesters approached me with some hostility after seeing my camera pointed at them. They wanted opinions; I simply wanted to take photos. As a documentary photographer and photojournalist, I am merely a revealer, a fly on the wall of reality. Once they realized I was friendly and indifferent toward their attack of questions, I was able to easily blend into the scene. Peering between the buildings, natural light perfectly illuminated faces, signs, and those in line. At 2 o’clock, the rodeo had just begun, and it was time for me to get back inside, leaving the quarrel behind.
At this point, I had a much better understanding of the sporting events and where to ideally position myself for them. The rodeo started earlier in the day, allowing me to play with the sunlight casting down on the subjects in the middle of the stadium. This also made for great opportunities to capture the excitement of crowd reactions at golden hour. Trick-roping acts, trick riding, and rodeo clown antics made for great entertainment between the harrowing competition.
Later that evening, the champions of each event posed for portraits with their awards. This year’s winners are:
Bareback Riding – Bradlee Miller
Tie-Down Roping – Riley Webb
Breakaway Roping – Jackie Crawford
Saddle Bronc Riding – Ryder Wright
Steer Wrestling – Will Lummus
Team Roping – Rhen Richard & Jeremy Buhler
Barrel Racing – Jordan Driver
Bull Riding – Jordan Spears
This has been one of my most thrilling photo projects to date. I’m very grateful for the opportunity to cover my first rodeo. I have hopes to do more soon. Many thanks to Outriders, C5 Rodeo, and Petco Park for an outstanding San Diego Rodeo!
Captivity: A condition of restricted freedom of movement or thought caused by personal choice or due to forces beyond one preference; to be under the control of something or someone, and or under the control of an impregnable condition by a power or agency outside of ones’ own ability to alleviate; a condition whereby ones’ personal freedom of movement or choices, are limited if not absolutely denied.
The Divided Kingdom
The Old Testament books of Samuel, Kings, and the Chronicles record Jewish life under the leadership of their first sitting king, King Saul, followed by King David, then David’s son Solomon, and subsequent kings, all of whom led Israel into continuous victorious battles against their enemies, the enemies of the Lord God, Jehovah.
Notwithstanding God’s faithfulness to Israel for all He had done for His people, Israel often turned against the Lord and even against one another and eventually formed two separate “kingdoms.” The division began when the tribe of Judah, from whom King David was descended and included the small tribe of Benjamin, allied together, forming the “Southern Kingdom,” also referred to as “Judah.” Then, nine tribes formed the “Northern Kingdom” and appointed their own “king.” The lone tribe of Levi that God had appointed to be the “Levitical Priesthood” were scattered throughout both kingdoms; however, they only exercised a failing, compromised, weak form of ministry as “priests” of the Lord. This sad situation in Israel’s history is referred to as the era of “The Divided Kingdom.” The Southern Kingdom, under King David, followed by his son Solomon, remained faithful to the Lord. Unfortunately, however, there were subsequent kings who failed to whole-heartedly follow the Lord God by committing much idolatry. The Northern Kingdom, in particular, comingled with some of their former enemies and worshipped the gods of the very enemies they had defeated and whom God had deposed from Cannan Land – the very land given by God to Abraham and his descendants forever! After many years and with many prophetic warnings for the Israelites to repent and turn back to the Lord, the Lord raised up one more man, the Prophet Jeremiah, who for some 23 years continued pleading with the Jews to cease their idolatrous ways. God finally instructed Jeremiah to cease His warnings, and God, having no alternative, brought forth His judgment upon His people, Israel.
The Judgement of Captivity Announced
Babylon: One of the most famous cities of early civilization and the capital of southern Mesopotamia, including Assyria. It was located on the Euphrates River about 55 miles (88 km) south of Baghdad, near the modern town of Al-Hillah in the present country of Iraq. While under the Nebuchadnezzar dynasty, it was the largest city in the world, covering approximately four square miles (10 square km.) In 539 B.C., the Persian Dynasties, under Cyrus II, attacked Babylon, which fell quickly and almost without resistance.
Jeremiah 25:1-21 gives us the prophecy concerning the “captivity,” while in 2 Kings chapters 17 & 25, we find the background and the events leading to what has been typically referred to as “The Seventy Years Babylonian Captivity.” We read in Jeremiah 23:1-8 of God’s great love and compassion for Israel and His intention to restore them to their land once He had chastened them. Even more wonderful news was included in the future restoration in that a King, a Ruler of His people, would come through the linage of the tribe of Judah (King David) and referred to as “The Righteous Branch,” as also recorded by Isaiah chapters 4, 11, & 53; Acts 13; Romans 15:12; Revelations 22:16, Jesus Christ the Lord!
God used both the treacherous and highly feared Babylonian Empire – the Chaldeans – and then the Assyrian Nation to chasten and bring judgment upon Israel. The Babylonians entered Jerusalem, where the Temple of the Lord had been built by David and his son Solomon, and they completely destroyed it. They removed all the precious valuables, including the golden utensils and accessories in the Temple that were used by the priests in service to the Lord, and placed them in the temples of their own heathen gods. They leveled Jerusalem to the ground, burning it with fire and killing men, women, and children, as well as all livestock. The Jews who remained alive and strong enough were taken into captivity while leaving only the incredibly old and feeble behind. Thereafter, and for the next 70 years, men, women, and children were held captive in the capital city of Babylon.
Interestingly enough, one of those children taken captive was named Daniel, yes, the same Daniel of the book of Daniel!
In 2018, Smith moved to the City of Angels, where she worked at Disneyland. Her time at the Happiest Place on Earth unlocked the opportunity for Smith to delve into stunt work. She went from portraying Belle for meet-and-greets to battling it out in a live-stage show as Marvel’s Black Widow. The 31-year-old’s background in competitive dance allowed her the ability to quickly pick up the sudden and fluent movements of stunt fighting. Smith recalled, “I just started to learn and train and network and then started working. I was still pursuing acting and still am. I started to just find my way in stunts because there are some people who are all-around stunt men and stunt women. They do fights and weapons and fire and driving and all the different things, but that didn’t quite feel like me. So, I just kind of found my own way in it and found the things that I specialized in.” As a stunt woman, she developed strong skills in fight choreography, falls, and wire work.
Wilder said he inherited his grandfather’s competitive spirit, which has served him well in the rodeo arena. He has excelled in several events, including team roping, tie-down roping, steer wrestling, and reined cow horse.
The Divided Kingdom