Category Archives: profile

The Best of the Best in Ohio on the News!

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Thanks again to our third place finisher Barbara Jimison for being an awesome PR rep and getting the Channel 13 news to the Best of the Best in Ohio last week! Check out the awesome video coverage by clicking right here. 

And now, here’s the second part of our interview with Anne Johnson! 
What does this win mean for you in your career?

This win gave me more confidence, and I plan on hitting some of the bigger shows next year. I’m even considering getting my WPRA permit and seeing how we can do on that circuit.

We hear you’re running the Sweepstakes at the Congress. What’s your gameplan for that pen?

The great thing about my mare is that surrondings and footing never really seem to bother her. I plan on just riding and working her as usual.

What bit do you run in?

I run and ride her in a hackamore. She is extremely well broke and sensitive so she responses to the slightest of pressure. And I believe in riding a horse in the softest bit possible.

What saddle do you run in?

I run in an NBHA trophy saddle I bought off of Dave Burgess about 7 years ago. I have had a whole bunch of other saddles but that one is my favorite. It’s really well made and fits perfectly. I finally won one of my own this year!

Does Jules need any tuning throughout the week?

No. She knows her job and does it well so the only riding I do during the week is to keep her in shape. We do a lot of trail riding so we don’t get bored.

Has she needed any major vetting?

Last September she got a really bad infection in one of her back legs. It swelled up to twice its normal size, and she wouldn’t stand or eat for days. We thought we were going to lose her. I really thought her racing career was over. I had picked out a stud and was ready to breed her. But my vet had told me not to give up yet. Around March it started to look really good so I started riding her again and took her to her first show at the end of April. We won by 5 tenths of a second! I have worked very close with my vet, Dr. Brandy Snedden of Flying Horse Vet Services, to keep her in tip top shape but other than those few months, she has never taken a lame step. She is one tough mare!

Best of the Best in Ohio Winner Anne Johnson

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Anne and Jules during the calcutta (Congrats to Mari Beth Guido for her winning bid!)

Anne Johnson smoked the competition on her breeding stock Paint at the Best of the Best in Ohio Barrel Race, after she won the Open that same night. We’ve got her here on The Barrel Racing Blog to talk all about her awesome run, what the competition was like, and even some of her secrets to success! Stay tuned over the next two days. Plus, we’re busy counting all the money raised for United Cerebral Palsy, and we’ll have those figures ASAP! 

Why did you decide to run the Open Friday night?

I have never ran at the WB before and I really wanted a chance to get in the arena to check things out before the big race. And the more runs Jules makes the faster she gets so I knew my second run would be faster than the first.

After your win in the Open , how was your confidence going into the Best of the Best?

Getting that first run out of the way really helped. My horse seemed to like the ground and the pen so I felt like I could just go out and have fun!

Walk us through your run, barrel by barrel. How did Jules work and what was each turn like?

It’s really tough looking back on my run because after I turned first barrel I knew I had a good one going; it was all about pushing her after that. She worked just like she always does, down in four-wheel drive position…but even this run surprised me. She really ran her heart out. I think she wanted the title as much as I did.

Did you think your time would hold?

It was really hard to tell. The competition was so tough, however extremely supportive. One good run can change everything, anyone that has ever ran a 4D knows that. So basically I just stood next to Hannah Shirey and Justin Theado and waited it out. It was nice to be amongst friends back there.

What was the best part of your win?

I guess knowing that we could do it. Anyone who puts time in on a horse knows that there is no better feeling than a win, a goal reached or problem conquered. And all the support from everyone.

Meet the Best of the Best in Ohio: Penny Baker

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And here’s our last interview! Meet Penny Baker in Shilohs Matrix, who will be smokin’ down the alleyway tonight at the Best of the Best Barrel Race in Ohio on her homebred and trained horse. 

Tell us about the horse you’ll be running in The Best of the Best in Ohio Barrel Race. (Name, bloodlines, style, age, owner, any other fun details.)

My horse’s name is Shilohs Matrix. His bloodlines are Special Effort and A Sharp Leo on the top side, and Easy Jet, Hoodwink and Sugar Bars on the bottom. His style is just quick and powerful. I’m the owner.

What is the biggest race this horse has won?

The biggest race Matrix won was the first go at the Jackson Flyer Futurity. He fell the second go.

What is your biggest win as a barrel racer?

The biggest race I won was a sweepstakes about 10 years ago.

Have you ever run at the WB Ranch before? (If so, what did you think of the facility and the ground, and how did your horses work there?)

We have ran at WB Ranch several times. We always enjoy going there. The ground is good as long as there is enough water on it. Matrix fell flat the first time there, but the groung held good the second time we ran him there.

Tell us one little-known fact about you or your horse. 

Matrix was born and raised at the farm. We own the stud and the mare; we raced him 1 time as a 2 year old then trained him for barrels.

This race is all about charity – What’s the biggest cause you believe in and why?

Cancer seems to be the biggest killer anymore, but we also have friends with other diseases that are just as bad. This barrel race for charity is a very meaningful thing, I really am greatful to be a part of it.

Meet the Best of the Best in Ohio: Cheyenne Niekamp

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Cheyenne Niekamp is one of our outstanding youth competitors that’s earned a spot in today’s Best of the Best in Ohio Barrel Race. Cheyenne and Tink have been a force to be reckoned with in youth and open competition, and they aren’t limiting themselves to just barrel racing. Cheyenne has rounded out her horsemanship in other areas, and will be using all of her riding ability today in Swanton. 

Tell us about the horse you’ll be running in The Best of the Best in Ohio Barrel Race. (Name, bloodlines, style, age, owner, any other fun details.)

My horse’s name is MP Sugar Baby a.k.a. Tink. She is by Brays Moon Bug and Tammys Okie Starlet. We got Tink from Doug Chaney as a 2-year-old, and my dad, Kevin Niekamp, trained her. She is a push-style horse and makes up her time around the barrels. Tink is 9 years old and I have had the joy of riding her for most of her career. My papa, Earl (Jr.) Bowser owns Tink.

What is the biggest race this horse has won?

The biggest barrel race Tink has won is probably the youth at the 2011 IBRA State/Perferred show, but she is always a high contender whenever she runs.

What is your biggest win as a barrel racer?

Mine is the same because Tink is the best horse I ever rode, and my first at that.

Have you ever run at the WB Ranch before? (If so, what did you think of the facility and the ground, and how did your horses work there?)

Yes, I have ran at the WB before, but only a handful of times. I think they have a nice facility and good food. Tink and I didn’t do very good the last time we were there, but she surprised me at how fast she shut the clock off.

Tell us one little-known fact about you or your horse. 

A little unknown fact about Tink and I is that I took her to the Auglaize County Fair this year for the second time. She did great! We got 4th in trail, reserve champion in speed and control, 3rd in cones and barrels (barely ran), reserve champion in poles (that was her second time running poles), 2nd in the ribbon race, and 3rd in the egg and spoon.

This race is all about charity – What’s the biggest cause you believe in and why?

I support Relay for Life because everyone knows or has known someone with cancer. I’m a part of this club at my school and we always have a lot of fun raising money for it. My favorite fundraiser event is the Polar Plunge, where we get people to donate money so we can jump in cold water. Thanks, and Good Luck To Everyone!

Meet the Best of the Best in Ohio: Hannah Shirey (and a Bonus Interview with Jenna Shirey!)

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The Shirey family has the most competitors of in this race of any family in the state, with a stunning three members that qualified. Hannah will be running, but Jenna will have to take a medical redshirt because of an injury she sustained a few weeks ago. Individually, each of the Shireys has earned a spot in this race, but as a family, they are a dominating force. Learn more about Hannah and Jenna below. 

HANNAH

Tell us about the horse you’ll be running in The Best of the Best in Ohio Barrel Race. (Name, bloodlines, style, age, owner, any other fun details.)

I will be running Sissys French Guy, or we call him Pierre. He is the beautiful gelding of Smug Sissy and Frenchmans Guy. He is 6 years old and definitely acts like it. My Grandpa Dan actually owns him but has let me pretty much have him. He is my little boy and I think I love him more than I have any other horse!

What is the biggest race this horse has won?

I believe the biggest barrel race he has ever won would be the NBHA point shows here in Ohio. He did place at the Great Lakes National though!

What is your biggest win as a barrel racer?

I won the Colonial Nationals three years ago.

Have you ever run at the WB Ranch before? (If so, what did you think of the facility and the ground, and how did your horses work there?)

I like WB alot, we do not go there often because we live so far but I really like it. Pierre did well the one time I took him there, we won the youth and placed in the open.

Tell us one little-known fact about you or your horse. 

Pierre is probably the most rotten horse, we go hand-in-hand. :)

This race is all about charity – What’s the biggest cause you believe in and why?

The cause I believe in the most would have to be helping children in need and definitely giving animals homes.

JENNA

Tell us about the horse you’ll be running in The Best of the Best in Ohio Barrel Race. (Name, bloodlines, style, age, owner, any other fun details.)

My horses name is Tiny Bit Of Fashion; she is a 10-year-old mare. Her dad is Leaders Luck and her mother is Fashions April Jet. She is a super quick mare who tends to get ahead of me lol…but she is a blast!! Brad and I have owned her for about five years.

What is the biggest race this horse has won?

I have done really well with her at our state shows, and got second behind Barbara in the first go this year! Brad and Hannah have also won a lot of local shows with her as well.

What is your biggest win as a barrel racer?

I can’t say that I have won a huge barrel race, but I have placed high at many. Running second behind Barbara and Miss Secret Memories is probably my proudest moment.

Have you ever run at the WB Ranch before? (If so, what did you think of the facility and the ground, and how did your horses work there?)

I have only run Fashion once at WB but she did well. It’s a great facility with good ground. A very nice place to have a show.

Tell us one little-known fact about you or your horse. 

I have only been running barrels since I met brad, he has taught me everything I know. He has blessed me with good horses and teaches me new things all the time. He always tunes Fashion when she needs it and runs her occasionally. I wouldn’t even be considered for this if it wasn’t for him. We are very blessed to own Fashion, she fits in well with us. She is happy here. I am very honored to be a part of this, thank you all!

This race is all about charity – What’s the biggest cause you believe in and why?

I don’t have a favorite cause, if it has anything to do with helping people that are in need I’m all for it! This is a wonderful thing they are doing for this little girl!!

Meet the Best of the Best in Ohio: Mikayla Conklin

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We’ve just got reigning champs of major associations everywhere we turn in this barrel race! Mikayla Conklin is our current IBRA Ohio 1D Youth Champion, and she’s riding one of the few Paint horses in the race. She and Junior have built a reputation as a top horse and rider combo in the state, and they’ll look to continue their outstanding season here at the Best of the Best in Ohio Barrel Race! 

Tell us about the horse you’ll be running in The Best of the Best in Ohio Barrel Race. (Name, bloodlines, style, age, owner, any other fun details.)

The horse I will be running is a 7-year-old Paint gelding by the name of Docs Painted Treasure. He is a grandson of Treasured. My mother owns him. We got him late in his 5-year-old year. My mom spend that following winter and spring training him on barrels. I thank my mom for producing this nice horse and giving me the opportunity to ride him. Junior is his barn name. He has quite the character. I call him my major ADHD child. He always has to be figiting with something and you may have to do things a couple of times with him before he’ll learn :) but I love him!

What is the biggest race this horse has won?

The biggest race I’d have to say Junior has won would be going 3 for 3 last year Thanksgiving weekend down at Henderson’s Arena. We won the youth, ladies, and open class that day.

What is your biggest win as a barrel racer?

This year we were the IBRA Youth 1D Champion!

This race is all about charity – What’s the biggest cause you believe in and why?

The charity I believe most in and would like to give to is St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital. It’s internationally recognized for its pioneering research and treatment of children with cancer and other catastrophic diseases. I feel no child should have to go through any life threatening illness alone. And I hope for a cure someday in the near future.

Thank you Dawn&Clea for this opportunity to be a part of this great barrel race!

Meet the Best of the Best in Ohio: Katie McGrain

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Katie and Maggie

Katie McGrain and Maggie have already proven that they can shut the clock off at the WB Ranch. Perhaps they’re a dark horse for the calcutta? This might just be a good bet! Find out more about this smokin’ fast duo here!

Tell us about the horse you’ll be running in The Best of the Best in Ohio Barrel Race. (Name, bloodlines, style, age, owner, any other fun details.)

Maggie’s name is Quik Six N The Straw. She is 8, and I own her. Her style is free running, and her bloodlines are by Quickstraw out of Six Moon Magic by Andy Sixes. She goes back to Strawfly Special on top and Streakin Sixes on bottom. Maggie came from Danielle Harrop who started her and Kelly Bowser finished her. She gets her speed from her dad who is one of very few horses to run AAA at all five distances on the track. Consequently Maggie is crazy fast, big-hearted, and tough as a tank. Maggie has a beautiful black yearling stud colt out of a stud by Dash Ta Fame.

What is the biggest race this horse has won?

Maggie’s biggest win and my biggest win was at WB beating #190 head.

Have you ever run at the WB Ranch before? (If so, what did you think of the facility and the ground, and how did your horses work there?)

WB has an amazing facility. The ground is always good and Maggie runs best there.

This race is all about charity – What’s the biggest cause you believe in and why?

One of the biggest causes I believe in is the Katie Lambert Foundation. They are advocates for manufacturers to attach safey mechanisms to heavy furniture. Many families are not aware of the dangers that heavy furniture can pose to young children.

I would like to thank Kelly, Danielle, Mom, and Frank for always helping me!

Meet the Best of the Best in Ohio: Abi Ringer

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If she’s not busy winning the Congress, Abi Ringer is setting the pace at a local or regional show with one of her smokin’ mounts. The quickest of her mounts is Missin Eudie, and it’s aboard Eudie that Abi has earned her spot in The Best of the Best in Ohio Barrel Race. 

Tell us about the horse you’ll be running in The Best of the Best in Ohio Barrel Race. (Name, bloodlines, style, age, owner, any other fun details.)

Her name is Missin Eudie, by Missin James. She’s 9 years old, and I own her.

What is the biggest race this horse has won?

The Ohio NBHA Youth state finals and the Quarter Horse Congress Youth twice.

What is your biggest win as a barrel racer?

$1800.00 at Colonial Nationals last year in Virginia.

Have you ever run at the WB Ranch before? (If so, what did you think of the facility and the ground, and how did your horses work there?)

Yes, and this is one of our favorite places to run and all our horses ran great there.

Tell us one little-known fact about you or your horse.

The previous own said I would never be able to ride her, and he kept telling my mom no that I couldn’t come up and try her. Finally he let me and we had a great run the first time. It was great and we’ve been together ever since and Eudie will be with me always.

Meet the Best of the Best in Ohio: Rhonda Dowell

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Rhonda Dowell and Levi have been on a hot streak, with big wins at tough races like Henderson’s Arena. With some smoking bloodlines on this awesome horse and top training, too, Rhonda and Levi will be firing away come Friday! This duo will run #6 in the draw at The Best of the Best in Ohio Barrel Race, and will surely bring in some big bids in our Calcutta (which will pay out 70/30, with 30 percent going to United Cerebral Palsy). 

Tell us about the horse you’ll be running in The Best of the Best in Ohio Barrel Race. (Name, bloodlines, style, age, owner, any other fun details.)

Purified By Fire is an 8-year-old gelding. He is by Pure D Dash, and his dam is Smooth Firewater. I bought him through Fackler Performance Horses as a 2 year old. He is a free runner with so much heart and loves his job.

What is the biggest race this horse has won?

It was at Jackson this year in june won the warm up and the open with a 15.6.

What is your biggest win as a barrel racer?

The Martha Josey clinic in Wilmington, Ohio because it was my first year of barrel racing.

Have you ever run at the WB Ranch before? (If so, what did you think of the facility and the ground, and how did your horses work there?)

I have only been there once, and it seemed to be a nice place.

Tell us one little-known fact about you or your horse.

He loves to play ball. He has a big ball in the arena, and he loves to chase it, and sometimes he will jump on it.

This race is all about charity – What’s the biggest cause you believe in and why?

I believe that all charities are important. Each one of us has had someone in our lives to have a cause for whatever reason. We all are doing something to help one another. I have no one cause because all causes need help and are very important so I will support this charity and levi will too. We are so proud to be a part of this and good luck to everyone!

Meet the Best of the Best in Ohio: Sarah Boucher

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Sarah and Heath Boucher have some of the nicest and winningest stock in the country, including the great Famous Silk Panties. But before there was FSP, there was Happy. Happy is Sarah’s mount for the Best of the Best of Ohio, and this duo has earned it’s spot with big wins across the region. They’ll run 21st in the draw, so look out for this team blazing down the alleyway!

Tell us about the horse you’ll be running in The Best of the Best in Ohio Barrel Race. (Name, bloodlines, style, age, owner, any other fun details.)

I’ll be running Lucks Happy Go Lucky a.k.a.” Happy.” He is a 16-year-old black gelding out of Lucks Chick Gay and Steppin Pretty, which is a grand daughter of Top Moon. He is a push-style horse. He hunts for the barrels. He’s the type of horse who knows his job when he goes through the alleyway. He gives 110% every race. He was trained, and jockeyed by Butch Price his futurity and derby years. Then my husband, Heath Boucher bought him. Out of all the horses we have and have had he’s by far our favorite.

What is the biggest race this horse has won?

Happy’s biggest win was probably the Ft. Worth Livestock Show back in 2005. That same weekend he also made the pro rodeo finals.

What is your biggest win as a barrel racer?

This summer with Happy I won two NBHA wild cards by winning two go rounds at NBHA super shows. One at Midland, Mich., running the fastest of the weekend, and another winning a go round in Syracuse, NY.

Have you ever run at the WB Ranch before? (If so, what did you think of the facility and the ground, and how did your horses work there?)

Yes we’ve ran at the WB Ranch. The facility is very nice. It’s a big open pen and the ground is always good. Happy and I have only been there once, so definitely looking forward to going back.

Tell us one little-known fact about you or your horse.

He’s houdini. He cannot be tied up or he will slip his halter off every time and find the nearest green spot.

This race is all about charity – What’s the biggest cause you believe in and why?

The biggest cause I believe in is Locks of Love. They are a non-profit organization that provides hairpieces to financially disadvantaged children suffering from long-term medical hair loss. The hairpieces are made from donated hair, and provide self-esteem and confidence to children.