Staying Focused by Ryan Motes
I’ve been asked to talk about how to stay focused during an all day event like the Bob Feist Invitational or Reno’s Richest Invitational. Events like these can be grueling because there’s so much time between your runs.
Between runs I loosen the cinches on my saddle, take the splint boots off and give my horse a drink. Don’t forget it’s a long and tiring day for your horse too. Many people don’t realize how hot splint boots are. If you have a little time between runs, it’s always a good idea to take your splint boots off and shake any dirt out. Even a small break allows your horse’s tendons to cool off.
The hour or so between runs is a good time to watch the barrier and cattle. Then about 20 or 30 teams before I run my next steer, I get my horse ready and warm up just like I’m at a one-head rodeo. It’s like getting ready for a one-header - six different times.
It’s especially important not to get caught up in what other teams are doing. Stick to your game plan and go make the best run you can on the steers you draw.
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