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Nov 6, 2014

2014 Cruel Girl Year End Champion Monday Nov 3 2014 National Finals


2014 Cruel Girl Year End Champion
Barrie Smith
USTRC Cinch National Finals of Team Roping
By Melinda Clements

         You will not find a more upbeat, positive and optimistic lady than Barrie Smith from Stephenville, Texas.  She has been roping for a long time and puts all that she has into every team roping run she makes whether it is in the practice pen or at the big ropings across the country.
         Therefore, it is no surprise that Smith won the USTRC 2014 Cruel Girl Year End Championship Award.  She won $43,291.00 during the year as a competitor and takes home a beautiful custom made Martin Trophy Saddle for her efforts.
         “I didn’t set out to win it,” Smith said. “I just set out to rope well at each roping I went to.  It just seems I got lucky.”
         Smith has had a busy year.  Such ropings as the Reno Rodeo Invitational Ladies Roping, the Windy Ryon Memorial, the Cowboy Capital Classic, the High Plains Regional Finals and the 2014 Cinch USTRC National Finals of Team Roping were only a few on her agenda. 
         “I’ve always had to work hard at roping,” Smith commented. “You always look for good help and good horses are essential.  There is a lot of competition out there and it takes hard work, lots of time in the practice pen and a lot of time horseback.  Sometimes you want to let it slide or you don’t want to do it and if you go with a bad attitude you don’t accomplish much.”
         Smith just plain loves the lifestyle that roping brings.
         “I love the horses, the people, the roping and the lifestyle we live,” she elaborated. “I love everything about it.”
         Before the Cinch USTRC NFTR Smith’s husband, Brad, set up some instruction time for her with team roper, David Keys.
         “Oh, my gosh,” Smith laughingly commented. “I asked him if I was honestly that bad?” However, it seemed to be quality time and Smith got a lot of input from Key’s help.
         “David told me to get to my position and rope.  He said you know how to do this.  He is so patient and easy to work with.  I gained a lot working with him and I so appreciated his help and input,” Smith explained.
         Smith has a great support system working in her favor as well.
         “I have to say thank you to my family for putting up with me,” Smith said, “and, of course, Fast Back for my ropes.”
         Smith sets a good example for anyone to follow.  Not only is she a strong competitor but also she is a good diplomat for the sport of team roping.  She is easy to visit with and quick to explain.
         “I always work toward winning every roping I go to,” Smith continued. “Of course, we can’t but that doesn’t mean we don’t keep trying. Always look for those who can help you. I’ve always had to work hard and I’m lucky that is pays off. I’m fortunate to always have a lot of help.”
         Smith is an excellent representative of what a Cruel Girl Champions exemplifies.  Her love for what she does shines on her face and echoes in her voice every time she talks about roping. 
         Thank you, Barrie Smith, for what you bring to the sport of team roping.  We are proud to have you as our ambassador and example of what team roping is.  Congratulations on being the 2014 Cruel Girl Year End Champion.