Kellie Collier

Kellie Collier – Hereford, Texas ($83,338)
First-time WNFR qualifier

Kellie Collier’s Wrangler National Finals Rodeo dreams came true this year after a steady climb through the ranks of rodeo.

She followed in her mother, Kathleen’s, footsteps competing in youth, junior, high school and college rodeo. It has become a way of life for the Hereford, Texas, cowgirl who qualified for the College National Finals Rodeo in barrel racing and breakaway roping.

Her mom has been a big influence, acting as her coach and maybe most importantly in her eye for a horse. They were watching the 2014 WNFR and were taken in by Streakin Easy April, “Lolo”the big sorrel mare that Carlee Pierce was riding.

Both felt like the mare would suit Kellie’s style and help her achieve her goals. Lolo has done just that. They finished the 2016 season in 23rd place which got them into the winter rodeos and put them on track for her goal of qualifying for the 2017 WNFR.

They came to Denver for the National Western Stock Show Rodeo and left as the champions earning nearly $12,000. They also had success at San Antonio and Houston. It was the first time that Kellie had competed at either event. Their confidence in Lolo was well placed.

Kellie has remained in the top 15 of the world standings throughout the year. She secured her WNFR qualification with a $3,290 win at one of the last rodeos of the season in Stephenville, Texas. She finished the regular season in 13th place with $83,338 in earnings.

She also qualified for the Canadian National Finals Rodeo where she will be competing before her trip to Vegas. She will ride Jig French Truckle, “Muffin” a 13-year-old mare and will be saving Lolo for the WNFR.

Wherever Kellie and Kathleen go, they know that Matt (father and husband) is just a phone call away. He is now hoping that he is the one making the phone call s from the WNFR sharing his daughter’s success with friends and family across the country.