Written by: Susan Kanode

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Lipstick N Whiskey, a 13-year-old mare owned by Powder River Rodeo of Riverton, Wyo., died Sunday, May 6^th from complications in foaling. Lipstick N Whiskey had made five trips to the Wrangler National Finals Rodeo (NFR) where she carried four saddle bronc riders to go-round wins.

Her first trip to Las Vegas for the NFR was in 2010 where the 2009 world champion Jessy Kruse rode her for 87 points. In 2015 Rusty Wright won the third round on her with an 86.5. Last year his younger brother Ryder had the exact same result. Then, their father, Cody, rode her in the eighth round for 88 points to earn another go-round buckle.

“We are devastated,” said Lori Franzen who along with her husband Hank own Powder River Rodeo. “She was an outstanding mare and not just an important part of our program, she was part of our family.”

The Franzens buried Lipstick N Whiskey on their ranch next to her sire, Cut The Cards, who was selected for the NFR 3 times. He passed away last year. Her dam, Bay Rum had also been selected for the NFR. Also buried in Powder River’s bucking horse cemetery is Khadafy Skoal, who was inducted into the ProRodeo Hall of Fame in 2012. He earned bareback horse of the year title on three occasions.