“THE Place to Be” A Note From the Publisher
Spring is here, and wow, California’s roping scene is on fire! I never fully appreciated just how packed our arenas get until I started typing out all these dates and recording results. It really opens your eyes to how amazing our California team roping community truly is.
In early April, the Broc Cresta event brought tears to my eyes. Seeing everyone come together showed me how close-knit our Northern California roping family really is. We weren’t just there to compete, we showed up for friendship, to honor Broc’s memory, and to celebrate our shared love for this sport.
When I see all those little ones at the dummy roping, with moms juggling snacks and water bottles, everyone soaking up the sunshine, it reminds me exactly why we do this. Why we drive those thousands of miles every year just to be together.
While I’m busy planting new seeds and watching fresh flowers bloom, I’m also gearing up for summer travels to promote our advertisers and sponsors. I’m just so thankful for everyone who’s stuck with Ropers Sports News.
This month’s cover features Stacey Martin, who perfectly embodies what I mean about women being the backbone of our industry. She’s tough, wise, and has the biggest heart.
I recently attended the Women’s Rodeo World Championship in Fort Worth alongside my dear friend Sharon Camarillo. We met up with new friends Linsay Rosser Sumpter and Judy Wagner. These ladies are writing a whole new chapter in rodeo history.
The level of competition was impressive. These women aren’t just participating, they’re dominating and proving that female athletes deserve every bit of recognition. Fort Worth’s facilities were professional and designed to showcase these athletes.
None of this happens without sponsors who believe in supporting women’s rodeo. Amanda Shaffer and Smarty Training contribute to advancing our sport. Mary Ann Miller and Tito’s Handmade Vodka deserve recognition for their sponsorship.
I’m already marking my calendar for next year because I will definitely be in attendance every year. We’re witnessing history in the making.
If you spot me this summer, please stop and say hi!
Happy trails, Dee
