In deep concentration, senior Ashleigh Young and freshman Katherine Mackenzie stay focused on not only themselves, but their horses as well. When it’s time for the completion to start, they take a deep breath and push themselves into the arena.

“I want to be the best that I can be, but also to be a leader to others and help them out as much as I can,” Young said.

Participating in the district rodeo team, Young and Mackenzie both dream of becoming professionals.

“I am very passionate about rodeo,” Young said. “It has helped me be a better person with discipline and social skills.”

Both girls compete in barrel racing and goat tying.

“I’m pretty good at goat tying, but (for) barrel racing I don’t have that fast of a horse,” Mackenzie said.

While Young has had four years of experience, Mackenzie just joined the team.

“Katherine definitely has the ability to compete on a professional level outside of high-school,” said Mackenzie’s trainer Tracy Stearns. “She puts in extra work.”

Mackenzie trains 25 hours a week and still manages her schoolwork.

“I am at my barn every night riding except for Tuesdays when we have meetings,” she said.

Both girls said rodeo should be considered as a sport.

“I definitely think rodeo is a sport,” Young said. “You have to practice a lot and stay focused just like any other sport.”

Young was last year’s champion in ride up and walk up goat tying and made top ten in barrel racing.

“I have won 25 buckles, equipment for my horses and a lot of money,” said Young. “I don’t have a trainer; I taught myself (how) to do everything.”

Young said her goals for rodeo include winning a scholarship for college and sharing the enjoyment of riding with others.

“I help and train kids a lot and will always do my best to help people succeed,” Young said.

As for Mackenzie, Stearns said she looks forward to watching her compete on the college level.

“She has become my colleague,” said Stearns. “I watch her progress and surpass the expectations that are set for her.”