Tiffany Lujan ‘Aces’ the Competition at First Ever Rodeo Austin Qualifier

On Jan. 26, 2024, it was announced to the barrel racing and breakaway world that Rodeo Austin would have a qualifier, and it sparked up a wide array of opinions, as usual. The vast majority, however, were extremely grateful for a chance to get into a limited rodeo like Austin when usually the entries are based on the world standings.

This qualifier opened the doors for a wide variety of girls looking to win big money early in the year who may not have the standings position to do so the traditional way. Whether you’re a rookie, weekend warrior, or just getting back into the game, the chance is yours for the taking.

Being this was a new event, and in conjunction with an already existing race, there were some kinks to iron out with the entry process. With the hard work and dedication of WPRA officials and race producers, the qualifier was able to rake in 200 entries even without adding money to the pot. Being that the stakes were high, you could expect everyone to put their best foot forward, and they did just that.

Just three-tenths of a second separated the winning time from No. 20 in the round and the last qualifying hole. It was rookie cowgirl Tiffany Lujan who topped the leaderboard with a 15.49. The Stephenville native was aboard her AQHA World Champion mare, Chase My Ace (by Chicados Cash), better known as ‘Ace.’

Lujan bought her permit back in October of 2023 to compete at the Permit Finals and was able to fill her permit that same weekend. In exchange for her efforts at the Rodeo Austin qualifier, she was awarded a nice check totaling $5,442.78, not including the money she won for rolling her time over to the open barrel race.

The qualifier paid out 16 holes deep and boasted NFR qualifying names such as Leslie Smalygo, Sherry Cervi, and Molly Otto within the top 20. With multiple limited rodeos beginning to add qualifiers to their format, it is exciting to see what it does for the “underdogs” and newcomers to the sport of rodeo.

Keep in mind that even though these ladies took an alternate route to get into Rodeo Austin, they are not lacking in talent. The competition coming from the qualifier will be fierce, and they are looking to set the Travis County Expo Center on fire in March.

Rodeo Austin Barrel Racing Qualifier Results

1. Tiffany Lujan, Stephenville, TX, 15.49, $5,422.78

2. Leslie Smalygo, Skiatook, OK, 15.50, $4,354.23

3. Katelyn Scott, Odessa, TX, 15.56, $3,537.81

4. Acey Pinkston, Stephenville, TX, 15.59, $2,721.39

5. Emma Abbott, Bluff Dale, TX, 15.64, $2,177.11

6/7/8. Natalie Hammond, Lampasas, TX, 15.66, $1,406.05

6/7/8. Jordan Driver, Garden City, TX, 15.66, $1,406.05

6/7/8. Kara Kreder, Bluff Dale, TX, 15.66, $1,406.05

9. Quincy Sullivan, Peralta, NM, 15.69, $1,088.55

10. Mindy Holloway, Mineral Wells, TX, 15.71, $952.48

11/12. Brittany Fellows, Loveland, CO, 15.75, $748.38

11/12. Emma Charleston, Reeds, MO, 15.75, $748.38

13/14. Sophie Nolen, Stephenville, TX, 15.76, $476.24

13/14. Dee Dee Jordan, Graford, TX, 15.76, $476.24

15/16. Molly Otto, Grand Forks, ND, 15.77, $136.06

15/16. Sherry Cervi, Marana, AZ, 15.77, $136.06

17/18/19/20. Halyn Lide, China Spring, TX, 15.79

17/18/19/20. Carley Cervi, Roggen, CO, 15.79

17/18/19/20. Sadie Troyer, Weatherford, OK, 15.79

17/18/19/20. Lindsey Muggli, Lane, OK, 15.79