Hats off to Braylee Shepherd, the 2023 Resistol Rookie of the Year! When the WPRA regular pro rodeo season ended September 30, Shepherd led Shaya Biever by almost $8,000.
It’s quite a feat considering the unbelievable challenges the 19-year-old breakaway roper faced this year.
“There were a few times when I was like, ‘I’m going home,’” admits Shepherd, whose rope of choice is the Pink Caddy. “But my plan was to just take one calf at a time.”
Veteran Jordan Jo Hollabaugh says Shepherd has the character and talent to go far in the sport.
“Braylee ropes fierce,” Hollabaugh says. ”She went through utter heck this year, but she still had a great run. She ropes above exceptional - she’s definitely going to be a contender for years to come.”