Countdown to NFR Barrel Racing: #8 Jessica Routier Interview

Name: Jessica Routier

Hometown: Buffalo, SD

Rank: 8th

2023 Winnings: $118,973

NFR Qualifications: 6 (2018-2023)

DNCFR/RNCFR Qualifications:12

Career Earnings: $986,418

Biggest Win of 2023: Winning the NFR Open

Horse(s): Fiery Miss West “Missy” – 12-year-old palomino mare; High on Smoothies “Nicki” – 8-year-old mare; Fiery Miss Daisy “Daisy” – 5 year old mare.

Who will you run in the first round: Missy

Strategy for NFR: One barrel at a time, but I’m not going to safety up. Trust my horses and go for it every round.

Saddle: Martin Saddlery Fearless

Top 3 favorite bits: Carol Goosetree Chain Snaffle Delight; Carol Goosetree Simplicity Chain Snaffle; Troy Flaharty Square Twisted Snaffle.

Horse leg Protection: Whinney Wear polo wraps and Whinney wear or 5-Star bell boots

Jeans and Shirts: Cowgirl Tuff

Hat: Star of the West

Truck: Ford

Trailer: Lakota from Rodeo Rigs

Must haves in truck and trailer: I’ve got to have Coca-cola, magnawave, Amare Edge, and my feather pillow.

Travel partners: My kids!

Motto: Worrying only makes you suffer twice.

Favorite Food on the road: Pizza!

What defines a champion: A champion is someone who always strives to do what is right and does not back down in the face of adversity.

Advice: There are a million different ways to have success. You can learn something from everyone. Don’t be afraid to ask for help.