Miss Rodeo Montana: Horse Matters
I have always grown up around horses and have been blessed to ride and work with some of the best. Every rodeo contestant knows that their horse is just as influential in a perfect score or run as they are. Picking out the right horse can be difficult, but when you find one that fits you, the results can be amazing.
Before I left for my freshman year of college at MSU-Northern, I had prepared all of my horses for my first college rodeo season. Included in my elite string, was a 4 year old palomino that I had raised and trained since he was a baby. He was coming along nicely in the breakaway roping and I felt he was ready for the college ranks. About a month before I left for Havre, my prized boy contracted the West Nile Virus and succumbed to his symptoms. I was devastated! Not only because I did not have a horse to rope on, but also that he was the only horse I had trained from the start and now he was no longer with me.
After that fall rodeo season, it was clear that my barrel horse just wasn't going to cut it in the breakaway roping event, so the search for a new horse was on. I had heard rumors that Topper, a handsome little tie-down quarter horse, was for sale and I jumped at the thought. After some amazing practice sessions and an instant bond, Topper was put into my name.
Last summer, I remember thinking that Topper was well trained enough that he could do anything. So I decided to use him in a barrel racing series. He was a second horse, behind my trusty "barrel horse". Race after race, Topper proved his worth and pulled me a check almost every week. He was unstoppable! And sometimes beat the times I clocked on my competitive barrel horse. Anything I ask of Topper, he gives 110%. Horses like him are hard to come by, and he now has a permanent spot in my pasture.
I can honestly say that Topper is the most well trained and well-mannered horse I have ever had the pleasure of owning. That is why I continue to provide him with the best care that I possibly can. Topper has been retired to being my "queen horse" for the year and he is loving the break but can't wait until we start roping calves again. I think he secretly likes the Show Sheen, glitter and braided tail, so maybe I will keep that up when we return to competing.
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Hanna Heckman, 2015 Miss Rodeo Montana