The Wrangler Horse and Rodeo News

Double Duty: Double Duty: Women WHo DO Both Women WHo DO Both new oPPortunities, growth, anD finDing baLance with cierra erickson & Quincy suLLivan. J unior high, high school, and college rodeo cowgirls often compete in multiple events — usually a combination of barrel racing, goat tying, team roping, and breakaway roping. As each chapter of their career closes, many of these cowgirls find themselves making choices about which events to continue pursuing. For the majority of the past century, cowgirls wishing to compete at the most prestigious PRCA events in the US had one option: barrel racing. In 2019 and 2020, tides turned when breakaway roping was added to hundreds of PRCA rodeos and the National Finals Breakaway Roping was created. Over the years, many talented breakaway ropers shifted their focus to barrel racing, with the bulk of money and opportunities lying within that event. As breakaway has exploded over the past five years, those cowgirls have been given a second chance to shine. Wife to professional steer wrestler Ty, mother to Cedona, and a fierce competitor in the barrel racing and breakaway roping, Cierra Erickson is no stranger to the rodeo road. The Helena, Montana, resident has worked her way to great success in both events, with Northern Rodeo Association titles in the breakaway, barrel racing, and all around. She's also earned checks at some of the largest PRCA rodeos in the country, from Pendleton to Austin. Although the addition of breakaway roping to PRCA rodeos is still relatively new, the competition has risen steeply. With more money and opportunities on the line, cowgirls across the country have hit the practice pen to step up their game. Arena and earnings records are broken every day, as cowgirls redefine expectations for speed and consistency. Erickson remarked that with the current competitive environment, "You can't be half in." She takes competition seriously, even for jackpots and smaller events, always ensuring she has adequately prepared. "I think it's vital. I'm never going to enter unless I know I'm prepared." Finding opportunities for roping practice while on the road may not be easy, but Erickson emphasizes the importance of getting resourceful. One of the keys to her success is never being afraid to ask for help. "The majority of people are going to help you out. Be professional. Show up when you're supposed to, run the chute for others first. Help them feed and clean up around your trailer." Remaining razor edge sharp in two events is no small feat, but breakaway ropers are also working through By Teal Stoll Quincy Sullivan at the Clovis Pro-Rodeo. Photo Credit: Click Thompson Cierra Erickson competing. Photo Credit: DF Hollenback

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