National Day of the Cowgirl

Honoring the Pioneering Spirit of Cowgirls in Rodeo, Reining, Cutting, and Ranching

On September 15, we celebrated National Day of the Cowgirl, a day to honor the strength, grit, and pioneering spirit of cowgirls everywhere. From their contributions to ranching and rodeo to their success in business, cowgirls have always been trailblazers, proving that the western lifestyle is built on courage and determination.

The Pioneers of Rodeo, Reining, Cutting, and Breakaway Roping

Cowgirls have long made their mark in the world of western sports, leaving behind legacies that continue to inspire. In rodeo, women like Charmayne James, the 11-time world champion barrel racer, demonstrated what it takes to be the best, dominating the arena and setting new records.

In reining, legendary cowgirls like Carol Rose have not only competed at the highest level but have been instrumental in shaping the future of the sport, especially in breeding cutting and reining horses. Cutting has seen legends like Mary Ann Rapp rise to the top, mastering the art of working cattle with skill and finesse.

Another trailblazer is Lari Dee Guy, who emerged in the early 2000s and continues to make a significant impact in the world of breakaway roping and team roping. Lari Dee has become a mentor for many up-and-coming cowgirls, including Jackie Crawford, one of the most remarkable athletes in recent years. Jackie made history by winning the inaugural Wrangler National Finals of Breakaway Roping while six months pregnant, showcasing the resilience and determination that defines cowgirls.

In Reined Cow Horse, Lyn Anderson is another standout figure. Raised in a non-horse family in southern California, Lyn discovered her passion for horses and went on to earn over $830,000 in NRCHA lifetime earnings. Known for her expertise in fence work, Lyn has also developed numerous NRCHA Supreme Reined Cow Horse Merit Award winners, and she served 20 years on the NRCHA Board of Directors, including multiple terms as President.

Cowgirl Ranchers and Business Trailblazers

Beyond the arena, cowgirls have made their mark in business and ranching. Beth Cross and Pam Parker, co-founders of Ariat International, revolutionized western footwear by combining innovation and comfort, creating a brand that has served both rodeo athletes and ranchers since 1993. Their contributions to the western lifestyle have left a lasting legacy, inspiring the next generation of businesswomen and ranchers.

Cat Drikas: A Modern Cowgirl Trailblazer

We’d also like to honor Cat Drikas, founder of Twisted Cat Ranch and leader of the Drikas Group in Brock, Texas. Cat’s journey is the epitome of the modern cowgirl spirit. She founded Twisted Cat Ranch as a premier performance horse breeding operation in Nevada and Texas, focusing on reining and cutting horses. She has also raised registered Hereford show cattle and Southdown show lambs, contributing to the agricultural community in multiple ways.

Her background as an assistant reining horse trainer and performer with a rodeo drill team, including riding in multiple Rose Parades, highlights her deep connection to the western lifestyle. Even today, she continues to raise reining and cutting horses at her ranch in Brock, Texas.

As a highly successful ranch and luxury realtor with the Drikas Group, Cat’s love for ranches and performance horses has positioned her as the go-to Realtor for custom equine and cattle properties, sought out by some of the industry’s top trainers, riders, and owners. Her determination, passion, and expertise have shaped not only her ranching career but also her successful real estate business.

A Tribute to All Cowgirls

At TCR Ranch Wear, we are proud to honor cowgirls who have shaped the western lifestyle through their achievements in sports, ranching, and business. We are committed to keeping their spirit alive in everything we do – from the gear we craft to the lifestyle we promote.

To honor these incredible women, we’re offering 10% off all our products through Sunday, September 22. Use the code Cowgirl10 at checkout and celebrate the legacy of cowgirls who have shaped the world.

Here’s to the cowgirl pioneers – from rodeo champions to ranching entrepreneurs – who show the world what it means to be truly punchy. 💪

Stay Punchy!