Williams named Horsewoman of the Year

Kayla Williams of Rural Retreat has been named Southwest Virginia Horsewoman of the Year.

This is the biggest award presented annually by the independent media group, SW Virginia Equine Press Association. It goes to an adult leader in the equine community. Last year’s inaugural honoree was Erin Tate of Hillsville, who was also The Carroll News’ honoree.

The owner of Loping Ridge Therapeutic Riding and a Veterinary Technician at Radford Veterinary Hospital, Kayla is a mentor to area cowgirls and cowboys and organizes or assists with various equine programs and activities.

She coordinates the highly successful and popular Loping Ridge Fun Show Series.

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Seven-year-old Brylee Phipps of Crockett has been selected as the Southwest Virginia Junior Cowgirl of the Year by the SWVEPA for having a highly successful year of rodeo competition.

She is a true definition of all-around cowgirl, not only competing in equine events but also rough stock events, competing on a par with cowboys in her age group. During the last year, she built quite a good resume in her young rodeo career:

Billingsway Arena Rodeo Series – two-time season champion in mutton busting; Finals champion in chute dogging; second place in goat tying.

Virginia Junior Rodeo Association – second place season mutton busting; third place season poles and goat tying; fourth place barrels.

High Country Rodeo Association – unmounted goat tying champion last year; first place mounted goat tying this year; first place calf riding; first place poles; second place barrels.

Other award winners for the SWVEPA will be announced next week.

(The Carroll News is an affiliate member of The Southwest Virginia Equine Press Association, however, award winners are selected independently.)

~ Upcoming Events ~

Sept. 20-21 – Billingsway Arena Monthly Rodeo Series

Sept. 20-21 – NCYRA, Lone Hickory Arena

Sept. 21 – Fries Fire & Rescue Horse Show

Sept. 27 – Jackpot barrels, Patrick Henry Saddle Club, Bassett

Sept. 28 – Patrick Henry Saddle Club Fun Show #4

Sept. 28 – Salty Sisters Barrel Bash, Marion

Sept. 28 – Team roping finals, R&R Arena

Oct. 4-6 – Billingsway Arena Rodeo Camp

Please report news of area events and local riders to dtfullerhorses@yahoo.com. If you can, please include a telephone number or info for people to reach you if the event may be postponed due to conditions.