Born: 1933 (Duncan, Oklahoma)
Biography:
Florence Youree, born Florence Johnson on April 19, 1933, in Duncan, Oklahoma, is a ProRodeo Hall of Fame cowgirl who played a crucial role in revolutionizing barrel racing in rodeo competitions. Growing up outside Addington, Oklahoma, Florence and her sister, Sherry Johnson Combs, developed a love for horseback riding and participated in musical chair races on horseback. It was during this time that they discovered barrel racing, and they wasted no time in honing their skills in this exhilarating sport.
In 1950, Florence married Dale Youree, a talented calf roper, and together they embarked on a journey of rodeo competitions. Determined to succeed, Florence and Dale brought Sherry along with them, forming a formidable trio. Florence’s dedication and hard work paid off when she won the girl’s all-around title in 1966, making her a force to be reckoned with in the rodeo world. Notably, Sherry also made her mark by winning the World Champion Barrel Racing title in 1962, and her horse, Star Plaudit, was rightfully honored with induction into the ProRodeo Hall of Fame.
Florence Youree’s influence on the sport of barrel racing extends far beyond her achievements as a competitor. She wholeheartedly dedicated her time and efforts to promote barrel racing, which eventually gained widespread recognition as a standardized event in rodeo. Moreover, she played a pivotal role in shaping the Girls Rodeo Association into a nationally-sized organization. Alongside her husband, Florence organized the Barrel Futurities of America, the Oklahoma Youth Rodeo Association, and the Youree Horsemanship Camps.
During her tenure as the director of the GRA, Florence worked tirelessly to thrust barrel racing into the limelight. Between 1960 and 1964, she served as the president of the association, and her contributions as the secretary-treasurer were invaluable. Florence put forth the idea of including barrel racing in the National Finals Rodeo (NFR) and presented it to the Rodeo Cowboys Association. Although the idea was well-received, it ultimately came down to the decision of the people in Oklahoma City. In the spring of 1967, Florence successfully orchestrated meetings with Stan Draper and Clem McSpadden, the general manager, resulting in barrel racing becoming an official event at the NFR.
Florence Youree’s success as a competitor is evident from her six appearances in the top 15 rankings. Her crowning achievement came in 1966 when she claimed the all-around title, solidifying her status as one of rodeo’s finest athletes. Beyond her personal victories, Florence’s impact on the sport resonates through the countless aspiring barrel racers she inspired and mentored throughout her career.
In recognition of her immense contributions, Florence Youree was inducted into the National Cowgirl Museum and Hall of Fame in 1996. Her trailblazing efforts were further acknowledged in 2009 as she earned a well-deserved place in the Rodeo Hall of Fame of the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum.
Awards:
– Inducted into the National Cowgirl Museum and Hall of Fame in 1996.
– Inducted into the Rodeo Hall of Fame of the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum in 2009.