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Pat North Ommert, a renowned rodeo trick rider born in Bell, California in 1929, has captivated audiences worldwide with her daring stunts and breathtaking performances. With a career spanning several decades, Ommert’s contributions to the world of rodeo and her dedication to preserving California’s horse trails have solidified her place in women’s history.
Helen Gibson, born Rose August Wenger, was a trailblazing American film actress, trick rider, and rodeo performer. Her passion for the Wild West show led her to become the first American professional stuntwoman. Despite facing challenges and setbacks, Helen’s determination and fearlessness propelled her to success, making her an influential figure in Hollywood and paving the way for future generations of women in the film industry.
Ruth Scantlin Roach Salmon, a professional bronc rider, left an indelible mark on the world of rodeo. With fierce determination and unmatched skill, she became a dominant force in bronc riding, winning championship titles in various events. Ruth’s legacy as a trailblazer in women’s rodeo lives on, continuing to inspire future generations of women in the sport.
Tillie Baldwin (born Anna Mathilda Winger) was a pioneering American rodeo contestant and performer known for her exceptional riding skills. She became one of the first women to attempt steer wrestling and made a lasting impact on the rodeo world. Through her talent, dedication, and trailblazing spirit, Baldwin inspired future generations of female rodeo performers. She was posthumously inducted into both the National Cowgirl Museum and Hall of Fame and the Rodeo Hall of Fame of the National Cowboy Hall of Fame.
Kristie Peterson is a ProRodeo Hall of Fame barrel racer who achieved four World Barrel Racing Champion titles. She ended Charmayne James’ ten-year reign in 1994 and placed consistently in 20 rounds during the 1996 and 1997 NFR on her horse Bozo. Peterson’s remarkable career and partnership with Bozo earned them a place in the ProRodeo Hall of Fame and multiple accolades in the world of rodeo.
Nancy Sheppard, born in Fort Worth, Texas in 1929, is a renowned trick rider and roper who made significant contributions to the world of rodeo. With a passion for the sport from an early age, she performed at prestigious venues and wowed audiences with her unique skills. Her dedication extended beyond the arena as she advocated for the rights and well-being of fellow rodeo performers. Honored with inductions into various halls of fame, Sheppard’s groundbreaking achievements have solidified her legacy as one of the greatest trick riders and ropers of all time.
Florence Youree, born in 1933 in Duncan, Oklahoma, became a prominent figure in the world of rodeo as a ProRodeo Hall of Fame cowgirl. Alongside her sister Sherry Johnson Combs, Youree excelled in barrel racing and played a vital role in promoting and standardizing the sport. Her dedication and contributions earned Youree numerous honors, including inductions into the National Cowgirl Museum and Hall of Fame and the Rodeo Hall of Fame of the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum.
Martha Josey, an American professional rodeo cowgirl, has made a significant impact in the world of barrel racing. With a career spanning several decades, she is one of the most accomplished and respected figures in the sport. Martha’s love for horses was ignited at an early age through her father’s influence, and tragedy struck when she lost her father at the age of 10. However, she persevered and became a trailblazer in a male-dominated sport, inspiring future generations of female barrel racers.
Wanda Harper Bush was a trailblazing American professional rodeo cowgirl who left an indelible mark on the sport. She became a two-time barrel racing world champion and amassed an astounding 32 world championship titles in various rodeo events throughout her career. Bush’s exceptional talent and unwavering determination, along with her induction into prestigious halls of fame, solidify her legacy as a pioneer in women’s rodeo. Her contributions to the sport continue to inspire generations of young cowgirls.
Faye Blackstone (June 3, 1915 – August 30, 2011) was an American rodeo star, performer, and elected member of the Cowgirl Hall of Fame. She was known for her pioneering contributions to the sport of rodeo barrel racing.
Vicki Adams, a ProRodeo Hall of Fame cowgirl, had a remarkable career in the world of rodeo. Raised on the Yakima Indian Reservation, she developed a passion for barrel racing and trick riding under her father’s guidance. Alongside her husband, Leon, Vicki entertained rodeo audiences for five decades, earning numerous accolades and eventually being inducted into the ProRodeo Hall of Fame. Her achievements and contributions continue to inspire aspiring cowgirls.