Every rodeo kid has that one line they’ll hear forever —
the advice that shows up in the alley, in the box, in the chute.

Breathe. Settle in. Commit.
Control what you can control.
And from JB Mauney:
“Champions aren’t made when the lights are on — they’re made when nobody’s watching.”

AHSRA is built on moments like these —
wisdom passed down from people who care.

What’s the best rodeo advice YOU got growing up?
Share it below — someone needs to hear it. 🤠💬

Not a member yet? Join us today:
https://albertahsrodeo.com/become-a-member/

⭐ WHY I RODEO — LUXTON NICHOLSON

District 1 Junior High Student Secretary

This week in our Why I Rodeo series, we’re excited to feature another one of our amazing AHSRA Junior High Student Executive members. Meet Luxton Nicholson, the D1 Junior High Student Secretary, and hear her story in her own words:

“I am in grade 8 and I started high school rodeo in grade 5.

I had been riding since before I could walk. When my parents asked if I wanted to rodeo I was all over it. My first barrel run was the spark. I was happy crying at the trailer after.

I compete in barrel racing, pole bending, breakaway roping, ribbon roping, and goat tying. It is really hard to pick a favorite event, but barrel racing is the most competitive for me.

I wanted to be a secretary for D1 because I saw how good the previous secretary was and how much fun they all had.

The whole AHSRA family is amazing! The teams that go to nationals, Canadians, and silver state are such tight families. You have some tough luck, people are always there.

Rodeo has taught me so much. The most valuable thing is that you have your ups and downs and at your lowest and your highest you can always work towards something.

I look up to my aunt Ashley. She is a amazing breakaway roper. She has taught me so much. I also look up to Lisa Lockheart. She is a amazing jockey and a great example of resilience.

My favorite memory so far has been when I won high river in barrel racing for the second time. I was so excited and grateful for the buckle I won.

I love being a part of district 1. We are competitive, nice, and an overall great district. Contestants and parents are always there for you.

I hope to make it to provincials and try my hardest in every run. After that is would be great to go to nationals or Canadians!”

#WhyIRodeo #AHSRA #District1 #JuniorHighRodeo #BarrelRacing #BreakawayRoping #PoleBending #GoatTying #RodeoFamily #FutureOfRodeo

⭐ ⭐ WHY I RODEO — BRYNN FREEMARK

District 2 High School Student Secretary

“I’m in Grade 12 this year, and I’ve been around AHSRA since grade 4, when my older brother joined. My rodeo journey began in kindergarten, competing in junior rodeos with my family.

I compete in breakaway roping, barrel racing, and team roping. I love the science and precision in breakaway, and how good it feels when everything clicks. Team roping is one of my most fun events because of the teamwork and partnership. In barrel racing, I admire the horsemanship it takes to build a great horse and how rewarding even the small wins are.

I took on the role of D2 Student Secretary because I’m passionate about being a voice for students. I believe being involved in the big things can make a difference, and I want to help make rodeo fun for everyone.

Being on the executive has taught me how to be part of important conversations, how to work as a team, and how much responsibility and time management matter.

My favourite part of AHSRA is the friendships and connections. You’re always supported, and someone is always looking out for you. It’s also an important stepping stone into bigger rodeo associations.

My biggest supporters are my family. My parents always guide me, my brother pushes me when I need it, and my sponsors support me every step of the way.

My most meaningful memories aren’t the big wins — they’re the regular season rodeos where the community is strong and everyone is learning and cheering each other on.

District 2 has always felt like home to me. I’ve been involved for so long, and I’m proud of the people and the support that prepares you for the next step.

My advice to younger members: be patient. Success comes from showing up in small ways every day. Set your goals, and take little steps toward them.”

#WhyIRodeo #AHSRA #District2 #BreakawayRoping #BarrelRacing #TeamRoping #YouthRodeo #RodeoFamily

Your mentor matters. Their words can teach you, but their character is what changes you.

Whoever is around you the most is contagious — their habits, their mindset, their energy.
The right people will lift you higher without even trying.

Every rodeo kid has someone who has lifted them up, believed in them, or taken a moment to help — a parent, a volunteer, a friend, a coach, or a fellow competitor.

Drop their name below and give them a little appreciation. 🤠❤️

Not a member yet? Join us today:
https://albertahsrodeo.com/become-a-member/