Each year I’m astounded at how quickly the year comes to a close. Another year older, but also another year wiser — that statement is especially true as we reflect on the accomplishments of the year for both professional rodeo, divisional and aged-event athletes. By the time this issue hits your mailbox, the Barrel Futurities of America World Championships will be concluded and the National Finals Rodeo will be days away from kicking off. As we close out 2024, no matter what facet of barrel racing you’re involved in, there will be accomplishments to celebrate, lessons to reflect on and new goals on the horizon.
I encourage you to celebrate the wins, cherish the memories and be thankful for the opportunity to compete in this sport, no matter the level at which you participate, while we all look forward to 2025.
Every December, Barrel Horse News takes time to focus on the top 15 of the Women’s Professional Rodeo Association as they compete at the marquis rodeo of the year — the Wrangler National Finals Rodeo. Starting on page 26, you’ll get an inside look at the top 15 barrel racers and their season accomplishments. Beyond the achievements, we’ll also get to know their horses, including an exclusive EquiStat look into their ages-event careers and first rodeo experiences. Check out the top 15’s careers and 2024 season highlights, followed by a look into the beginnings of the NFR barrel racing horsepower in Tanya Randall’s “The Dragon Slayers.”
Another highlight of the end of the regular season of pro rodeos is the crowing of the WPRA Resistol Rookie of the Year. It’s an elite club of individuals who will never be replaced or replicated; an achievement to truly cherish. This year, it was a tight race to the finish, and Oceane Veilleux claimed the honor. Read about her story to Rookie of the Year on page 50.
While you await the January issue, be sure to check out everything Barrel Horse News has to offer online in terms of holiday celebrations and of course NFR coverage. It’s always a thrill for BHN to follow the journeys of both young hopefuls and their trainers at the BFA, as well as the stalwart rodeo competitors. We’ll be bringing you all the action from the BFA in our January issue.
From all us here at Barrel Horse News, we wish you and your family a blessed holiday season and safe travels wherever you may be going this year. I encourage you to take a moment to reflect on the blessings in your life, and we’ll meet you right back here in 2025.
We hope you enjoy this issue. Be sure to stay up-to-date online at barrelhorsenews.com as BHN staff bring you the latest news, entertainment and training tips in the industry.
Until next time, stay safe.
— Kailey Sullins
Get your copy of the December 2024 issue here.
