Where are you from? I was born and raised in Kentwood, Louisiana and I know reside in Gladewater, Texas.

When did you start barrel racing? When I was nine.

Are you involved in any other equine events? I also Break-a-way rope. That is so much fun.

Who or What got you started barrel racing? My next door neighbor actually got me started. Both of his girls rode horses and they would pick me up and take me to horse shows. But it was my mother-in-law Deb Mohon who inspired me to rodeo.

What was the name of your favorite horse and tell us a little about it. My favorite horse is my yellow mare Belle. I started riding her in March of 2002. She has a huge heart and gives me 120% every time we go down the alley. She also has a great personality. She was injured in June of 2003. Now it is December and I am starting to ride her again.!

What are some of the events that you have won (or races that stand out in your mind)? Probably my most memorable is when I won the pro rodeo in Longview, Texas. I can remember Kelly Kaminski ran a 17.89 and had a pretty nice run. I came back in slack and ran a 17.66. It is a great feeling to run against some of the nicest horses and win.

Over the years have you noticed any changes in barrel racing what are the good or bad you’ve seen? The 4- D and 5-D formats have really changed barrel races. I like the 4-D for when you are hauling a young horse. You can haul them and still have a chance to win money. I don’t like the 5-D though. It splits the money up even more.

What is do you think of an equal pay out 4d? I don’t like equal payout. Give those horses that out run everybody more. They deserve more. If everything is equal then what is the incentive to get better.

Do you think of yourself as a professional barrel racer? Yes. I have been real fortunate to pay my bills running barrel and training horses.

Who is your favorite barrel racer or barrel racers? My all time favorite barrel racer is Deb Mohon. She has inspired me since the late 80’s. She was an awesome barrel racer. She helped me so much. I owe my whole barrel racing career to her. Even though she is gone now she is still and always will be my favorite.

Do you have any advice for anyone just starting out in barrel racing? Never give up your dream. Always strive to get better. Hang around people who win. If you have a question ask. Always be grateful for advice but that doesn’t mean you have to use it. Only use advice that comes from someone who has success. Not from those that can’t even get their horses to do right. And most important, always have good sportsmanship. Even if you are not happy with all situations sometimes it is better to keep it to yourself and go on with it.

Do you think barrel racing should be limited to women only? I think it is okay that men run at barrel races. Barrel racing is a family sport. Even though rodeo is also a family sport I believe it should be limited to women only.