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SEPTEMBER 2013
THE
S ’ R T
E R C O A R EP R NMNBHA 2013 State Finals
PHOTOS COURTESY OF POUNDING HOOVES PHOTOGRAPHY
The 2013 Finals are now in the books! What an interesting mix of rain, wind & sun Grants gave the participants! It was barrel racing at its peak, providing challenges to rider and horse alike in the adverse conditions of the arena. The ground crew of the Grants Rodeo Association worked super hard as always to provide the best ground possible for each race, which they did in fine fashion. And our entry secretary and scorekeeper worked hard to keep all the books and results in perfect order. A huge thank you to our sponsors, Perinatal Associates of NM, Old Mill Ranch Supply, Diabetes Network, and Leon & Francie LeBow! We could not have provided such great awards without their generous support. We would also like to thank Districts 1, 2 & 6 for their fundraiser donations. The members of NM NBHA are very grateful to these sponsors! Friday night was stormy but some fast times were turned in by Sheri Estrada, Keli Cox and Shannon Tidwell in the 1D; the 2D saw Bailey Harwell, Trudy Dean and
Vicki Duron dominate while the 3D had Marie Autrey, Brook Eaves and Dude Penrod pulling checks. The 4D pulled in Shyann Seng, Delaney Gonzales and Terry Daly for the Open All District Race. The Senior 1D was won by Sheri, 2D won by Trudy, Marie won the 3D and Terry won the 4D. The youth saw Delaney, Athena Omar and Cassidy Evans win checks. Saturday’s race started with a breeze and some clouds which turned into a steady rain by the time we were through for the day! This time it was Bailey Harwell that dominated the field with Keli Cox and Shannon Tidwell in the 1D. The 2D was won by Francie Le Bow, with Ruth Bitsui and Lacie Cline close behind. The 3D was extremely close with Marion Ray edging out Cookie Pickens and Christie Atwell. The 4D saw Kendra Trujillo post the winning time, with Terry Daly & Mary Jo Pope rounding out the field. The annual pole bending jackpot was scheduled to run after the barrels, but the rain dictated otherwise and reset for Sunday. Sunday morning proved to be a fine New Mexico morning, with bright sunshine and clear blue skies. We began with Zoey Cline running a fine pattern in the PeeWee race on her great gray gelding~ what a pleasure to watch our future champions! The 1D was the fastest times of the weekend, again thanks to the ground crew that never gave
ALL-AROUND
up on keeping the dirt in running shape! Kelly Wade ran a 15.975 to win Sunday and post the fastest time over the 3 days of races, with Bailey Harwell and Payton McNiel rounding out the 1D winners. The 2D winners were Keli Cox, Hayley McNiel and Jorie Harwell. The 3D was a tight race with Shawnda Elkins placing first, Marion Ray in second and Shannon Tidwell placing 3rd. The 4D was decided by Cindy Haga, with Sharon George and Bobbie Clawson following her time. The pole bending is always fun to watch, we saw Cathy Gray win the jackpot with a super run.
The average winners in the Open received a saddle certificate from Corriente Saddles, and a Wildcard for the World Championships in Perry, GA. Winners in each D also received custom buckles and pendants from A Cut Above Silver. As State Director, I would personally like to congratulate all the contestants, and winners at the NM NBHA State Finals. Everyone in attendance rode like champions, and it was my pleasure to produce this great event for the members. It is also my final race as State Director. This will be my final year, as my young horse, my granddaughter and other life pursuits are calling me their way. Of course I will see you all down the road, chasing the cans never leaves your blood! Francie LeBow