By Phillip Kitts

In the last 10 years of rodeo, the growth and development of the sport of rodeo has made leaps and bounds. The truth is, the Professional Bull Riders has really set the standard for cutting edge developments, as they have capitalized on television exposure as well as streaming services. Amongst this, they have embraces a much larger demographic. Along with these accomplishments, they incorporated the youth and family mentality that seems to go hand in hand with the sport. Not all of their approaches have been successful, but in general, they made some huge strides in bringing rodeo to the forefront.

In recent years the Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association has adopted the same approach by connecting with organizations that provide streaming options which evolved into regular spots on the cable television networks. Initially, the rodeo world seemed extremely excited at the potential these platforms were going to offer, and the sites were set on bringing the sport to the masses to reap the benefits of the sport catching up with the rest of the world.

To read more, pick up a copy of the September issue of NTFR magazine. To subscribe by mail, call 940-872-5922.

By Krista Lucas Wynn

There is no shortage of barrel racers in North Texas, and the competition is fierce. One Vernon, Texas, cowgirl is making her way to the top, all while juggling school, business and the hardships life can bring.

Shelby Oglesby got her start in the rodeo world as soon as she was old enough to sit on a horse, and she has never known anything different. Her parents introduced her to playdays and junior rodeos, where her obsession with barrel racing grew into a lifelong dream of one day making the Wrangler National Finals Rodeo.

To read more, pick up a copy of the September issue of NTFR magazine. To subscribe by mail, call 940-872-5922.

By Krista Lucas Wynn

There is more to traveling with horses than just loading up your equine partner and hitting the road. It is important to know what to bring along on the trip to keep you and your horse comfortable and safe, whether you are going down the rodeo road or just trial riding locally for the weekend. Traveling with horses can be stressful when unplanned situations arise.

A checklist of supplies can help alleviate some of the stress of feeling like you may have forgotten something important. On a short trip, the essentials to remember include brushes, curry combs and hoof picks, along with fly spray and show sheen. The most important items may be your saddle, saddle pad and a bridle or two. You may also need multiple pairs of leg wraps and overreach boots, depending on the discipline. Also, you need to have plenty of vet wrap, and a first aid kit packed in case of an emergency.

A good first aid kit can include syringes, antibiotics, bute, and banamine. If you are traveling north toward cooler temperatures, it may be wise to have horse blankets on hand. Horses who have been in the Texas heat can be vulnerable to sickness and infections if they experience drastic weather changes.

To read more, pick up a copy of the August issue of NTFR magazine. To subscribe by mail, call 940-872-5922.