?Just as Strong?: Debut Rodeo Qualifier Hit by Setback as Beloved Horse Suffers Season-Ending Injury

Rodeo is a game that is full of danger, but despite its dangers, people love the excitement it brings. Many heroes want to secure their name and fame in rodeo, and one of them is Taycie Mathews. She has a unique charm; and this year, Matthews has been in the spotlight. Hailing from Arkansas, she has worked her way up the amateur rodeo ranks to earn over $100,000 in profits in the Women?s Professional Rodeo Association.

Her determination and skill have led to consistent victories in important rodeos, including Salinas, California this year. However, recently, she faced something that could have made her feel down, but it didn’t. Instead, it gave her more hope and courage for the future.

A remarkable season with PopRocks

Taycie Matthews’ journey took an unexpected turn after she qualified for the National Finals for the first time. Her season took a challenging twist when her beloved horse, PopRocks, suffered a season-ending injury in early October. Despite this setback, the partnership between Matthews and PopRocks had been nothing short of extraordinary, and their achievements did not go unnoticed. The AQHA named PopRocks the Horse of the Year, recognizing his incredible season.

Amidst the excitement for the NFR, Matthews faced a new challenge: changes in her NFR team. However, her determination remained unchanged. She said, “Even though my NFR team may look different, the passion and effort will remain just as strong.” This statement reflects a commitment to the sport that she loves. Looking ahead, there is a sense of optimism in the air for Taycie Matthews and PopRocks. Despite the hurdles they’ve faced, they are gearing up for the upcoming 2024 season with renewed enthusiasm.

Impressive NFR qualification and regular season triumphs

Taycie has made waves as a 1-time Wrangler National Finals Rodeo (NFR) qualifier. In June 2023, she began her NFR journey from an impressive regular season. Since 2021, when she joined the Women?s Professional Rodeo Association, she has been a pro. Her wins during the regular season include San Antonio Rodeo, San Angelo Stock Show & Rodeo, Calgary Stampede, California Rodeo Salinas, Cheyenne Frontier Days, Washington State Fair Rodeo in Puyallup, and Farm City Pro Rodeo in Hermiston, Oregon. Taycie Matthews has earned over $100,000 in the Women?s Professional Rodeo Association.

Read More: Rodeo World?s Premier Tour Hits Los Angeles After a Stellar Championship?Run

On Oct 11, Matthews’ horse Poprocks, was crowned as the 2023 WPRA Barrel Horse of the Year by Nutrena Animal Feeds and the American Quarter Horse Association and they had an amazing year. Matthews, who was ranked 4th in the WPRA World Standings, had a season to remember. Together with PopRocks, she achieved a victory in her debut season that secured her ticket to Las Vegas for her very first.

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