Breakaway roping has gained momentum in the rodeo world over the past year, leaving many passionate women hopeful as they now face better odds of being able to make a living swinging a rope. While the new jackpots and growing inclusion at rodeos is both exciting and long awaited, the most promising aspect of the industry is the firm foundation created by the women who are the face of this fresh journey.
I had the pleasure of chatting with one such young woman, Amanda Coleman of Stephenville, TX. I was impressed with her skill prior to our conversation through what I had observed of her work horseback but am now a bigger fan after experiencing this young woman’s quiet confidence, respectfulness, integrity, and desire to be the best.
Raised on Florida sunshine and waves, her path has spanned the spectrum of events, and barrels were a starting point before the roping addiction took over. Roping “clicked” and this discovery of her true passion became apparent as her affinity for the sport made even the hard work feel pleasant. We both laughed about the elusive quality of what it is that is so compelling about swinging a rope, and discussed her attachment to the Striker by Rattler Ropes. Coleman began with the Striker when she was younger and continues to find its softness and feel a perfect match for her own style of wanting to feel the tip in the rope. She went on to point out how well the Striker stayed open and provided consistent results.
Although she did not grow up in a rodeo family, Coleman has made a name for herself in the rodeo world. She rose to the spotlight on her mare Chica, who has gone on to other adventures and been replaced with two young horses, Pepsi and Okie. Okie is a coming four year old getting used to hauling and competition, who like Pepsi has an easy going personality that allows him to adapt quickly.
Amanda brings her own laidback focus to the game, adapting to the moments in the box by not overthinking and remembering the truth of the game: everyone faces highs and lows, but the ones who succeed are those who don’t quit. Through this practice of keeping it simple, she continues to achieve consistent results and great enjoyment from each run. With her habits tried and true, she affirms that this is also the advice she would give to up and comers—it will be hard but stay the course.
She is quick to thank her parents and sponsors (Rattler Ropes, Resistol Hats, Outlaw Equine, and Elite Saddle) for making life on the rodeo road possible, and sincere in discussing her horses’ personalities and quirks.
When asked what fans could do to support her and other breakaway ropers at this turning point in the industry, she mentioned how important just being fans and showing up was. She said she and her friends always thank the leaders at rodeos for including breakaway in their event and that she hopes as interest in the sport grows inclusion of breakaway will as well.
With two new horses to perfect timing on, she is only at the beginning of her journey. I, for one, look forward to watching her continue to succeed.
