Dream Big. Ride Hard. Never Quit
There are photos… and then there are photos that instantly take you back to a moment you’ll never forget.
This is hands down my favorite image from the 2026 Auburn Gold Country Pro Rodeo, captured by the incredibly talented Dave Lawicka. Every time I look at it, I can still hear the crowd, feel the adrenaline, and remember just how special that night was.
The hometown crowd was absolutely electric, and Flying U Rodeo put on a flawless event from start to finish. I’ve been fortunate enough to compete at my hometown rodeo several times—first with Mama Tahoe, then twice with Maui Zaui, and this year I finally got to make a run on my heart horse, Mighty Mo.
What made this run even more meaningful was wearing my Warrior Team jersey. On the sleeve are the words, “Never Give Up.” Those words mean everything to me because this was the last Warrior shirt my dad and I picked out together before he passed away. Carrying that piece of him with me into the arena made this run about so much more than the clock.
It was an incredible honor to ride Mighty Mo in front of my hometown. Moments like these remind me why I love this sport so much. The memories, the people, the horses… that’s my why.
A huge thank you to Mariah Byrd and Ciera Smith for bringing the barrel racers together for this amazing rodeo.
No matter what the scoreboard says, I did it. I lived this dream. And no one can ever take that away from me. ❤️🤍💙
📸: Dave Lawicka
#BarrelRacing #RodeoLife #Cowgirl #GoldCountryProRodeo #NeverGiveUpGold Contry Rodeo
Reflecting on the 2026 Auburn Gold Country Pro Rodeo, I can truly relate to the deep connection Kim shares with this event. Growing up watching rodeos in small hometowns, the energy from the crowd and the adrenaline rush riders experience are unforgettable. Wearing a symbol like the Warrior Team jersey adds a layer of emotional strength and motivation that transcends sport—it's about persevering through life's challenges. Barrel racing is not only a test of skill and speed but also a unique bond between rider and horse. Riding a seasoned champion like Mighty Mo exemplifies years of training, trust, and a shared dream. For me, attending local rodeos and witnessing such heartfelt performances showcases why rodeo remains a cherished tradition that celebrates resilience, community, and passion. Moreover, events like these highlight the importance of support networks—family, fellow racers, and organizers like Mariah Byrd and Ciera Smith ensure the sport thrives. The Gold Country Pro Rodeo especially brings together riders from diverse backgrounds, united by their dedication and love for rodeo life. Every photo capturing these moments does more than reflect a scene; it encapsulates stories of determination, memory, and personal victories—reminders that in barrel racing and in life, to dream big and ride hard truly means to never quit.
❤️