Team Roper Kolton Schmidt
I generally stick to interviewing barrel racers, talk about barrel racing, or talk about my own personal stuff. {riveting stuff right there, I know, I know} Not something most men enjoy reading.. So! I figured I would change it up a bit; I will try to interview a man every now and then, and step out of the usual barrel patch. This time, I am heading into the rope pen!
He still holds the record for being the youngest competitor in the Team Roping at the CFR at the young age of 17. The 3 time Canadian Finals Rodeo Competitor, and 2013 CFR Team Roping Champ, is fresh out of college and ready to take on the world. Kolton Schmidt of Barrhead Alberta, had been attending South Eastern Oklahoma State University in Durrant Oklahoma taking Business Communications Classes, but is now back on Canadian soil, and is excited for the 2015 season!
What are your goals for this year?
“Canadian champion and have some success South of the border.”
Are you going to any RFDTV The AMERICAN Qualifiers?
“I will be this year for sure. I am out of school so I am able to be more mobile and fit in the qualifiers without missing school.”
Are you planning on hitting the TR World Series in Las Vegas?
“I believe so. I’m sure thinking about it!”
What about going to any of the PRCA rodeos South of the border?
“For sure! Going to be North and South of the border.I’m going to go to Sisters and hopefully Reno and then go over the “Fourth”. When middle of August comes around, I’ll be heading to the Northwest for rodeos till the middle of September. I will try and make the circuit finals in that circuit.”
Tell me about your favourite run, and who was your heeler.
“My favorite run would be from Ponoka last year we were 4.5 or 4.7 in the second round I believe. It sure felt cool in that arena. I was with my current partner, Rocky Dallyn. He’s a living legend for Team Roping her in Canada, and I’m sure pumped to get to have him as my partner.”
I like when people share their “Mental Game” tips. What are some of yours?
“Don’t over think anything. The reason we practice is to make muscle memory. Let that do its work. Always believe in yourself and what you’re doing.”
How did you get into roping?
“My whole family has done and does it. My Grandpa, at 70 some years old still comes and ropes with us every day. I love our family and the life we live.”
Who is your idol?
“My Grandpa, he’s such a good man and a truly good person. My Dad always said you rope good, people will talk about you. You’re a good person, and people will remember you!”
What are your plans for after Rodeo at this point?
“Might be bad to say but I have none. Nothing I want but to make The National Finals Rodeo and Rodeo for a living, so no plans until I need one.
Do you prefer Jackpotting or Rodeo, and why?
“I prefer rodeo no other sport in the world like it. One chance good or bad you get one. It is truly a challenge.”
Do you prefer to Head or Heel more?
“I prefer heading in large situations. I’m a quarter back and control our run.”
Do you like to practice more on live cattle, rope machine or dummy, and why?
“I like to practice on slow live cattle. It’s real and true for your horse but gives you the purpose of slowing things down for your horse!”
If you could give one piece of advice it would be?
“If you’re going to do something be all in and get after it. Find good people that believe in you more than you do to be behind you, and the opportunities in whatever you pursue are endless.”
Whose been your favourite horse?
“Moon, he’s a new purchase of mine but he’s been amazing! And Badger who was the 2014 Canadian Head Horse of the Year. I can’t pick one I’m lucky to have both on my team!”
What is your favourite drink?
“Some cold Dr Pepper!”
What is your favourite Rope?
“GT4 by Rattler is my favourite. Rattler and Classic make the best ropes in the world. I get to endorse them and it sure is nice getting to use the best ropes there is everyday. I wouldn’t be here today with out my great sponsors. CVS Controls, Academy Fabricating, Lincoln County Oilfield Services, Frontier Saddles, Wrangler and Classic Ropes. They are all great to me and I could never do enough for them.”
All the best to Kolton down the road this year!
