Kellie Collier WNFR 2017
Kellie Collier just came from the Canadian Finals Rodeo, finishing tenth in the standings after $25,921.03 won in the 2017 season on her horse Muffin.
Collier is headed to Vegas in 13th position with $83,337.95 won after 99 rodeos, and will be running LoLo (Streakin Easy April, by Streak of Fling out of a Doc O Dynamite mare, Easy April Lena)
I had chatted with Kellie a bit heading into the CFR. To read about her CPRA season, and her horses, click here.
What are you most looking forward to in Las Vegas?
I am of course looking forward to running down the alley in the Thomas and Mack. It’s been a life long dream and goal, and I can’t wait to experience that adrenaline rush.
What was your most memorable moment on the road in 2017?
There were a lot of ups and downs on the road this year. It’s definitely not for the faint of heart. But my most memorable moment would probably have to either be winning Denver or winning Stephenville (which punched my ticket to the NFR).
What has been the best advice you’ve been given regarding barrel racing or rodeo?
The best advice I have ever been given is, that you have to learn how to lose before you can win. Another very important piece of advice I have been given is, if you do good or bad your still headed to the next one.
If you were just starting out now, who would you train under, what clinics would you be taking? Who do your morals line up with?
I honestly believe I have grown up with one of the best coaches and mentors some one could ask for and that’s my mom Kathleen. She taught me a lot. On the other hand there is some very respectable people out here on the road that have helped me along the way. Too many to name, but amazing amazing people. Also, if I could give any advice to someone looking for mentors, just ask questions and don’t be afraid to talk to the ones that have been there and done that!!
When shopping, what areas of conformation turn you off? What points of conformation do your prospects absolutely must have?
My three horses are all different in conformation. So to me, conformation is different in every style of barrel racing. I wish I could look into a horses heart and tell if they wanted it and love it as much as I do.
What would you like to see be done in the industry to better rodeo as a sport?
I believe that everyone is doing a very good job of keeping horses and athletes safe to the best of their ability. And to see the try in the committees this year is outstanding.
Kellie would like to thank her sponsors, Top of Texas, ASCO, Tireworks, CSI saddle pads, Biome, Professional choice, Panhandle/RockandRoll Denim, JW Brooks Custom Hat Company, MVP Supplements, and Mobile Veterinarian Practice.
