Story by Lindsay Humphrey
Now that the NMJHSRA has added rodeos to the fall lineup and opened the association up to fifth graders, Avery Henard is one of many who will get to compete alongside her sibling before high school rodeo. At 13 years old, this is Avery’s final NMJHSRA season, but it will be the first for her 11-year-old sister, Kolbi. “I really like that we’ll get to compete in more rodeos for our season. I’m also looking forward to competing with my sister this year,” said the eighth grader. Avery will be continuing her three events for her third NMJHSRA season – breakaway roping, heading, and running ribbons. In both partner events, Avery is teamed up with Dawson Mathis.
Even though Avery enjoys her time in the arena with Dawson, it’s the solo event she gets the biggest thrill from currently. “Breakaway is my favorite because I like being fast. But I also really like the horsemanship that’s involved in it. You really have to control your horse and move them exactly where they need to be to get the best shot at the calf.” Avery started her rodeo career when she was 6, similar to most of her peers. Her parents, Rusty and Niki, entered her in local junior rodeos in the typical starter events: barrels and poles. “The first buckle I ever won in rodeo was in pole bending. But last year I decided that I really wanted to focus on roping. I didn’t like barrels and poles that much anymore.”
At home, Avery gets help from her whole family inside the practice pen. “My mom helps me with my scoring to make sure that I do it right. And my dad helps with my roping, like where my tip needs to be and where to ride my horse to.” Kolbi is usually in the practice pen as well, providing moral support and someone to compete against when the stakes aren’t high. But at rodeos, Avery gets a whole cheering section to keep her working hard. “My friends and I are always cheering for each other and being supportive. They’re always watching me when I’m up.” Avery, of course, returns the favor when her friends are up.
Avery and her friends had the opportunity to compete and cheer for each other on the national stage this past summer. Taking third in both breakaway and ribbons, Avery made her first appearance at nationals in 2021. Despite some bad luck, Avery enjoyed her time at nationals. She spent a significant amount of time with her friends doing the various activities offered by the association. The volleyball tournament was easily her favorite activity outside of the arena. At Tatum Junior High School, Avery is an avid volleyball and basketball player. She likes both sports equally, but for different reasons. “My favorite part about volleyball is hitting because that’s my best position. And then in basketball I like shooting. I’m really good at the elbow, but I’m working on the three pointers.”
Even though Avery prioritizes rodeo, she does enjoy spending her time practicing school sports. Roping and sports practice eats up most of Avery’s time, but she likes being busy. “My family raises and trains our own horses. Both of my rodeo horses were raised on the ranch. I show our yearlings at the Lea County Fair & Rodeo each year to get them off the ranch for a bit.” As Avery’s traveled the state with her family, she’s enjoyed the bonding time and discovering new favorite destinations in New Mexico. She’s looking forward to competing in Hobbs for the first time this fall.
