Hennings finishes fall season in high school rodeo

RITZVILLE – Lind Ritzville High School freshman Harlee Hennings competed in four rodeos this fall with the Washington State High School Rodeo Association.

Hennings competed in barrel racing, pole bending, and breakaway racing at rodeos in Longview, Bickleton and two in Basin City.

Hennings, who has been riding horses since she was three years old, said she competed at the junior high level in 7th and 8th grade, but this was her first year in high school rodeo.

"My biggest challenge is consistency in my runs," Hennings said. "There are so many different aspects of each event, including positioning and movements of your horse."

She said a nice surprise of the season was discovering she has become more aggressive in her riding ability, and improving her times.

Hennings said when her roping horse was recently injured, she had to compete on a different horse.

"It was challenging, but I know competing on other horses will only make me a better rider, and competitive," Hennings said.

Michelle Hennings, Harlee's mom, said her daughter was thankful the rodeos continued, despite COVID.

"She was able to practice and concentrate on her horses, and practicing for her competitions," Michelle Hennings said. "It's a pretty amazing sport with animals, and takes a lot of hard work and talent."

"I have really enjoyed meeting new friends, and the sport of Rodeo I have a passion for," Harlee Hennings said. "I'm always working to improve myself."