Julie Leggett CFR 2015
Our 8th position barrel racer comes from Kamloops, BC and this is her second year qualifying for the Canadian Finals Rodeo. Last year Julie Leggett and her gelding FDI Cash to Burn (Judge Cash X Burnit Brownie) aka “Ice” ended up fourth, earning them a berth at the Calgary Stampede. This year they chased 36 rodeos and took home $18,510.78. Ice will be her main mount for this years CFR. Their biggest rodeo win this year was the Cloverdale Invitational Championship.
Does Ice have any quirks, and how would you describe his style?
He is a very dominant and bossy gelding, very smart with a huge heart. He loves the energy of a big loud crowd and tries much harder when the crowd cheers for him. He also loves to have the support of a buddy from home with him in the trailer and on the road. He is easy to ride and has a smooth and correct style.
Has your routine changed with your horse as you prepare for CFR?
Ice has been off recovering from an injury since the end of July, so for the past month I have been working to get him fit again with Edmonton as our goal. Fortunately my young six year old horse French Guys Effort stepped up and won me quite a bit of money in Aug and Sept, giving Ice an opportunity to rest and recover.
What has been your favorite Canadian rodeo this year and why?
There are many good rodeos and rodeo committees. One of my favourites though is Maple Creek, because the ground is outstanding and it’s a really good horse race!! Olds was also a very good new rodeo with a committee that made it fun and tried really hard to make the ground good. It was also the first pro rodeo my young horse won, which made it really special.
What is the best piece of advice you were ever given regarding barrel racing?
There is a lot of very good advice out there, but I would say that the most helpful for me lately, having a horse that is getting a little older, is to take the best care of your competitive partner that you possibly can.
With all the miles made, varying ground conditions, and expenses, what kept the CFR dream alive for you?
My horse has kept my CFR dream alive. Knowing he has the ability to be compete at this level keeps me going. If it weren’t for him I wouldn’t be living my dream. I have a charm on a necklace that sums it up….” Ice is my Hero”
What is your favorite part about the sport of Rodeo, and why?
My favorite part about rodeo is the people. My travelling partner Katie Garthwaite is my best friend. It is such an awesome thing that we both qualified for the CFR this year. It’s been so fun and so rewarding . I’ve met so many good people along the way. I also like the competition. I put myself through university as a jockey on the racetrack. It’s thrilling, the racing aspect of our sport.
What has been your favorite memory or moment on the road this year?
My favorite memory of the year was winning Cloverdale, and being interviewed by Bob Tallman. I’m a bit shy when it comes to public speaking, but he is such a good announcer and he made it fun.
What are your favorite pair of cowboy boots & favorite lipstick, lip gloss or lip chap?
I love my Justin black Ostrich boots. And I’m a fan of bright Jewel tone colours. I love to match my shirt with my horse’s sports boots. It’s fun to dress up in bright colors when your horse is a grey.
