Virginya Foran CFR 2022
Virginya Foran is going to compete at her first Canadian Finals Rodeo after competing at 26 rodeos, pocketing $18,162.92. Foran had a great year, winning first at Killeen, Texas Pro Rodeo this year, finished second at The Ponoka Stampede, and placed at 14 out of 26 CPRA Rodeos.
What is your background with horses? How did you get started barrel racing?
My family are not horse people, but we did buy two untrained yearlings for $100 dollars. At 12, I wanted to learn how to ride a horse, so my parents hired a lady to train both the horses and me. My trainer specialized in reining. She taught me everything I needed to know about proper horse care: how to saddle my horse, how to ride, and how to groom them. The horses we had were stubborn and bucked me off daily. Although they were challenging, I loved nothing more than riding my horses. One weekend, some kids from the barn I trained at were going to a barrel race, so I asked if I could go too. After the race, I told mom, "I'm going to be a barrel racer." That is where my dream began.
What is your main mounts registered name, and does he have any quirks?
Paleface won't get in a dirty trailer, and I can't put on his back boots until I'm about to get on him or he kicks them off, he bucks at the trailer before I run, and he runs over everyone but me.
Griffin won't let me put any kind of back boots on him, he will only go in the back stall of a horse trailer, and he snorts only when loping to the right.
What is your go to saddle, pad, and bit on your main mount? What do you like about them?
I ride in a Tammy Fischer Treeless saddle, my saddle pad is a Classic Equine treeless pad, and I run in a Kerry Kelley bit.
What is your horse’s story?
I bought Paleface from Grant and Rayel Little when he was 5 years old. I knew he was great as soon as I got on his back.
What do you do to keep a sharp mental edge in the game of rodeo? How do you stay motivated throughout the season?
I work hard everyday with my horses to keep them strong and healthy, I listen to lots of motivational podcasts, and I try to surround myself with encouraging friends. To stay motivated throughout the season, I take short breaks and stop to enjoy the day by doing things I love.
What does your feed program look like, keeping your horses in peak condition going down the road and even in the off season?
My feed program is very simple. I feed good quality hay, usually a mixture of coastal and alfalfa, and a high protein grain every morning and every night. I don’t change up their routine from staying at home to traveling on the road.
What do you do to condition your horses leading up to the season, and what does your pre CFR routine consist of?
I ride my horses everyday and spend lots of time taking them long trotting in the field. I work barrels maybe two times a week. In preparation for the CFR, I focus on keeping everything consistent. I don’t like making huge changes with either of them before my runs.
What is the best advice you’ve been given regarding life, rodeo, horses, or barrel racing?
A horse is like a pack of cigarettes, you only have so many runs on them.
What has been your most memorable run over the years, and what made it memorable for you?
My most memorable run was Hanna AB, because even though it wasn’t a big check, it was one of the most meaningful checks. Never thought me and Paleface could get a check in that tiny of a pen.
What is your favourite barrel racing bloodline, and what do you look for in a prospect?
My favorite bloodline is As Good As Nick Gets. When looking at a prospective horse, I focus on how the horse moves and what kind of temperament they have.
What is the one thing you cannot live without on the road?
I cannot live without my two dogs, Snickers and Bruno. They are both my companions and my protection. I take them with me everywhere.
What is your favourite Canadian rodeo, and why?
LeCrete would be my favorite Canadian Rodeo. The committee went above and beyond for all of the contestants. I really enjoyed my time up there this summer more than anywhere else.
Which of the other CFR Qualifiers horses would you swing a leg over if given the chance?
I would pick Lane Wills' horse.
Who has been your barrel racing/rodeo mentor, and what is something they’ve taught you?
Rayel Little has been an amazing barrel racing mentor to me. She is so encouraging and knows the industry incredibly well.
“There are too many people to list, but definitely my friends and family have been a huge support all year. Thank you to my sponsors, I cannot thank them enough. Miracle Freeze Mud, Magnawave, RE/MAX Shananne Foran, Sylvan Lake RV, Royal Glass, and Nitchke Vacuum Truck Services.”
