2015 Super Stakes Futurity Champion Jordie Likes
Valleyview Alberta resident, Jordie Likes is your 2015 Super Stakes Futurity Champion on her mare Heavensent King Girl, taking home the check for $23,400.
The 22 year old began riding horses when she was six, and started off on a different path. She rode English, and didn’t start barrel racing until she was thirteen. “I fell in love with it, it was definitely my calling.”
Jordie then competed in the High School Rodeos, and once she graduated, continued her love of barrel racing competing at jackpots.
Since the big Win happened over the Thanksgiving weekend, I decided to wait a day and let it all sink in for Jordie before bombarding her with questions.. Well I was only able to hold off for a day. Here’s what she had to say.
Do you ride with anyone in particular that helps you out a lot?
I ride with past CFR Qualifier Jodi Hollingworth a lot. I was able to go to Texas and stay with Jodi this spring February to April, and got to bring Marsha with me. Jodi has always helped me with barrel racing whenever I have needed it. I took Marsha to her first Jackpot in Texas and I also got to swim her twice a week while I as there.
How is Marsha bred?
Heavensent King Girl aka Marsha is all cow bred. Her Sire is Heavensent Taco King and Dam is Hankins Last Dry Jac.
When did you purchase her?
We bought Marsha in at the 2011 CBHI Sale in Thorsby AB, as a yearling from Gwen Brodersen. My mom Tanya Likes is the one that picked Marsha at the sale. She said she couldn’t stop walking by her stall and that she was taking that horse home no matter what. We paid $3,100 for her as a yearling.
What bit, saddle and pad do you use on her?
I use a Dee Butterfield Short Shank Chain Bit. I switch between a Tammy Fisher treeless and a Marlene McRae Carbon Fiber saddle.
I prefer to use the Tammy Fisher treeless on her because as tiny as she is, she’s a power house and the treeless helps me stay centered. I use a 5 Star pad always, and Professional choice VenTECH Elite Sports boots.
What kind of exercises do you do with her to keep her fresh and working well?
I long trot her and do barrel work afterwards. I do lots of slow work as she likes to rush things so I always try and slow things down so she can build her confidence and keep her focus on her job. Marsha has a very unique style she very catty.
Does Marsha get any special feed or supplements?
Marsha gets an alfalfa / timothy/ brome mix and alfalfa cubes. She gets Hoffman’s Horse Ration with Noni and Palladon mix into the ration. I give her Chill Calming Formula by Omega Alpha and Oxy 02 Lung Care Performance Paste before I run her.
What went through your mind before you made your Super Stakes run?
I just tried to stay calm and focus on only my run and what I needed to do to make a winning run. I kept thinking I can do this, I know my horse, We’re a great team.
What are your goals for 2016?
Next year I want to get my Amateur Rodeo cards, qualify and win the finals, and go on to get my Semi Pro card! I would also like to Derby Marsha next year, lead the standings and make her Derby year a success as well.
What do you plan on doing with the big money you won?
The money will be spent on my horses and to help me pay for next season! I’m looking at buying another horse to futurity!
What are your winter riding plans?I’m giving my girl time off, she deserves it. I plan to start riding again in a couple months, we may be going down to Texas or Arizona but we aren’t positive yet!
I have to ask, what are your favorite pair of cowboy boots, and your favorite lipstick?!
I wear Ariat cowboy boots they are my favorite brand. I like Mirabella lipstick!
Sponsorship Shoutout!!
“I would like to thank my sponsor Knight Measurement, & my parents Greg and Tanya Knight for everything they do. I wouldn’t be where I’m at today without them!”
Jordie is a very sweet girl, and I wish her and Marsha the best of luck in the future! With her positive attitude, I believe they will achieve great things
