If you’ve ever seen Ranch Bronc Riding, you may have thought about the talent of the rider, the strength of the horse, or the adrenaline rush that both are surely feeling. But if you’ve never thought about the way in which each ride shapes the horse, then you’ve never met Brittany Miller.
Long before she became well-known for her role on Ride TV’s Cowgirls, Miller was making a name for herself as a young woman who truly knew how to move with a horse. While her talent is apparent to anyone who has ever sat in the stands or watched on screen, there is much more to her journey than just the seconds dancing with the bronc.
In fact, Miller is a student of natural horsemanship, and loves starting young horses and taking them through the first few months of training. She got her start at the University of Montana Western-Dillon where she majored in horsemanship, learning the methods of Ray Hunt and Buck Brannaman from a teacher who is one of the finest horseman in the industry in his own right.
While her day job is in the sale yard, she considers each ride on a bronc a training opportunity, explaining that every ride makes them better or hinders their future. When it comes to the rodeo circuit, there are two main types of ranch broncs: old, seasoned horses and young horses that are being evaluated. Miller prefers the young ones, as they have more potential to be molded for a more successful long-term career. She goes on to explain that if a bronc is a chute fighter, they are more likely to injure the rider or themselves, and if their career goes south, it is hard to say what might happen to them. Through working with them in the chute, and making it an all-around pleasant trip, she increases their chances of success and shows them how to behave for their next mount.
The other aspect that makes Brittany unique is her focus on the mental side of the sport. She believes having the right mindset and mentality makes all the difference when it comes to being competitive on the broncs, as one can only physically train so much. While music and family are good supports, she keeps herself around good people that help her to feel good and stay motivated.
While she has experienced her share of hardships, including a difficult injury a few years ago, Miller has not let anything slow her down. With her grit and humility, there are only good things to come from this young bucking horse girl.
Look for her on RIDE TV or at a rodeo near you (hint: she really likes the Mosbrucker rodeos!).
