Countdown to NFR Barrel Racing: #11 Sissy Winn Interview

Name: Sissy Winn
Hometown: Chapman, TX
Rank: 11th
2023 Winnings: $109,022
NFR Qualifications: 2 (2022-2023)
Career Earnings: $387,920
Biggest Win of 2023: Langely, BC. It was in the rain and I knew if I won it I would probably have the finals made.
Horse(s): A R Dash Ta Flame “Scoop” – 10-year-old gelding; This Guy Will Moonya “King” – 5-year-old chestnut gelding
Who will you run in the first round: Scoop for sure!
Strategy for NFR: My strategy is to stay focused, have fun and tight turns. This is the moment I have been working for all year.
Saddle: Martin Saddlery
Top 3 favorite bits: “Ticket” by Kerry Kelly; O-ring by Kerry Kelly; Loomis
Horse Leg Protection: Classic Equine Flexion front and back
Jeans and Shirts: Ranch Dress’n
Hat: Charlie 1 Horse
Truck: A Ford F-350 from Bill Fick
Trailer: Platinum
Must haves in truck and trailer: Oreos, phone charger, Dr. Pepper, my dog, special pillow, and my robe. These were surely not in the right order but, they are the must haves!
Travel partners: My wonderful parents. I am so very blessed. My dream is now their dream too. We have a great time on the road.
Motto: With God all things are possible. I’m just trying to use the talents He’s given me and honor him.
Favorite Food on the road: Red Lobster! My parents are sick of it but if I win a rodeo, we get to go there.
What defines a champion: A champion is defined by adversity and resilience. It’s the losses that really determine if you are going to make it to the top of the game.
Advice: Full time rodeo is a job. It isn’t glamorous. It isn’t easy. It is rewarding. Find a mentor and listen to her. You will hear advice from everyone but – listen to your mentor.

Laura Lambert resides in Wiggins, Colo. with her husband, Ricky and two sons, Brayden and Boedy. She attended the University of Northern Colorado while studying economics. She is an accomplished rodeo athlete and barrel horse trainer along with being a life-long sports fan. Over the years, Laura has been active in journalism in a variety of roles. While continuing to cover western sports and country music, she is currently enjoying expanding her reach into multiple sports including MLB, NFL, and WNBA. Laura covers the Houston Astros, Texas Rangers, Detroit Tigers, Colorado Rockies, Toronto Blue Jays, Miami Marlins and Rodeo for On SI. You can reach her at lauralambertmedia@gmail.com