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Kaney Hansen, a 12-year-old from Harvard, Idaho, is set to compete in the prestigious National Junior High Finals Rodeo (NJHFR) alongside her remarkable horse, Jesse. After her initial horse got injured, Kaney had to switch to Jesse, an underestimated backup horse. Despite facing challenges and doubts, Kaney’s unwavering determination and belief in Jesse have led them to a remarkable opportunity.

When Kaney made the switch to Jesse, nobody believed in their potential. Jesse proved to be a challenging horse during training, and many doubted their ability to succeed. However, Kaney refused to give up and persevered through the difficulties.

Overcoming Doubts: Kaney and Jesse’s Unbreakable Bond

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With patience and dedication, the 12-year-old worked tirelessly to develop a deep bond and trust with Jesse, transforming their partnership into something truly extraordinary. Kaney acknowledges the significance of their bond. According to Moscow-Pullman Daily News, she states, “This is a special, special horse, and it takes a special girl to ride this horse.” The journey was not without its setbacks, but Kaney’s unwavering belief in Jesse and her own abilities allowed them to overcome every obstacle.

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The National Junior High Finals Rodeo, established in 2004 by the National High School Rodeo Association, serves as a crucial platform for young rodeo enthusiasts to demonstrate their skills and compete at the highest level. Through the NJHFR, young rodeo athletes like Kaney have a chance to shine and leave their mark on the rodeo world. Kaney and Jesse qualified for the pole bending event after competing in 10 rodeos in northern Idaho. They will be competing against the best junior high rodeo athletes from all over the U.S., Canada, Australia, and Mexico.

Competing at the National Junior High Finals Rodeo

As they prepare for the NJHFR, Kaney and Jesse will travel to Perry, Georgia, where they will join other talented contestants from across the nation. The competition will be fierce, but Kaney’s nerves are overshadowed by her excitement.

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She expressed gratitude for her parents’ guidance and support, recognizing their instrumental role in her journey. Kaney’s family, including her older sister who competed nationally in 2017, has been by her side throughout the summer, traveling to numerous rodeos and competitions.

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The National Junior High Finals Rodeo (NJHFR) is scheduled for June 18-24, 2023. It will be held at the Georgia National Fairgrounds in Perry, GA. The event will start at 8:00 am on June 19 and end at 8:00 pm on June 25. The event will feature various rodeo events, such as goat tying, pole bending, bull riding and more, for junior high rodeo athletes from across the country and beyond. The tradeshow will also showcase Western Lifestyle vendors. As the NJHFR commences, Kaney Hansen and Jesse are poised to leave an indelible mark on the rodeo world, embodying the passion, skill, and dedication that define this extraordinary sport.

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