story by Ashley Schenck
Twelve year old Alyson Terry has just finished her third year of Jr Rodeo with a qualification to the JR NFR. “I started riding lessons at the age of seven and showed horses for a couple of years, but peewee rodeos and play days were more of a thrill to me, so the showing slowed and rodeo became more important.” Since then Alyson has learned to compete in barrels, poles, goats, and break away. Alyson lives with her father, Justin, mother, Kimberly, and younger brother, Jake in Hermiston, Oregon where they are involved in rodeo, and 4-H. Both of Alyson’s parents have always been into horses. “I remember my dad taking me to rope with him before I could ride a horse by myself, so riding has been natural for me.”
Winning her division for the Jr. Rodeo was a surprise to Alyson, “I won the junior division and I was shocked because I really didn’t think I would make it this year. I was unable to work my horse for a few weeks prior to the race due to a stone bruise and abscess, but with the help of my wonderful vet we made her comfortable enough to make a great run.” With her horse unable to work before the qualifier Alyson looked to her favorite quote “You have three choices in life: give up, give in, or give it all you got. I feel that this fits me. I have all three of those choices, but I will always choose to give it all I’ve got.” Alyson was very happy and is still in disbelief with her accomplishment. “I am still in shock and must pinch myself every now and then to realize just how fortunate I am to have an opportunity to participate in the JR NFR.”
Alyson has already started preparing for the Jr. NFR with time in the practice pen. “My goals for rodeo, besides preparing myself for the JR NFR this fall and focusing on making consistent barrel runs with my horse, are to learn how to dismount off my horse faster when goat tying and make better runs on my breakaway horse.” Moving up age groups next year Alyson is expecting harder competition. “The competition will be tougher, so stepping up my game and spending time more time practicing will be a necessity.”
When she’s not at a rodeo Alyson shows heifers and steers through 4-H. Alyson has shown cattle for four years now, “it’s almost as much fun as rodeo, but not quite.” Along with playing basketball, Alyson’s favorite subject in school is social studies because she enjoys learning about the past. “I would love to do more sports, but I do not have enough time between riding and working with my livestock. I know that if I spread myself too thin I will not be successful at anything.”
Alyson looks up to Trevor Brazile for his attitude towards rodeo and humbleness even after his many accomplishments. Alyson admires the value he has for his horses and the respectful role model he is for young people like her. “After I won the Jr. NFR, he was at the barrel race with his wife and made a point to congratulate me. I feel you are never too important to be nice.” Along with looking up to Trevor Brazile, Alyson is thankful for such a good horse to run on, and the constant support of her family and friends.
