Countdown to NFBR: #9 Cheyenne McCartney

Name: Cheyanne McCartney
Hometown: Kingston, OK
Rank: 9th
2023 Winnings: $85,703
2023 Catch Percentage: 68%
Career Earnings: $282,816
NFR Qualifications: 3
Biggest Win of 2023: Fort Worth, Texas. I won a little over $26,000. I was 1.7 seconds to tie the arena record and 1.9 in the finals.
Horse(s): Mister Dun Star “Gus” – 12-year-old dun gelding
Strategy for NFR: I won’t change my strategy for the NFR. It will be the same as every rodeo – be on the barrier and ready for my first throw.
Saddle: Jeff Beach saddles
Ropes: King poly ropes
Horse Leg Protection: Professional choice
Jeans and Shirts: CINCH
Hat: Charlie 1 Horse
Must haves in truck and trailer: My horses have to have Equinety and a must for me is popcorn while I am driving.
Motto: Hard work always pays off.
What defines a champion: A champion has the ability to make adjustments in tough times when nothing is working or going your way. They have to keep their head down working instead of giving up.
Favorite Food on the Road: Texas Roadhouse
Traveling partners: Rylee George
Advice: Don’t be afraid to ask question or fail.

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 Washington Nationals, Houston Astros, Texas Rangers, Detroit Tigers, Colorado Rockies, Toronto Blue Jays, and Rodeo for On SI. You can reach her at lauralambertmedia@gmail.com