Every rodeo star begins their career with a big achievement – winning their first belt buckle. For Macy Maxwell of Dimock, it happened at the 4-H Heartland Rodeo in Huron on July 15th.
As a ten-year-old competing in breakaway, it was her very first catch at a 4-H rodeo – and it was a winner. Riding her trusty steed Leroy, Macy shot out of box and roped the calf with a time of 7.0 seconds.
Macy was recently featured in a special SDPB social media clip where she gave roping pointers with a group of friends at the State High School Rodeo Finals in Fort Pierre where she was watching her sister compete. Reminding us - elbow up, tip down - sage advice that would come in handy in Huron. Since breakaway is known as the fastest sport in rodeo, muscle memory is key – and proves that practice pays off.
After her speedy catch with Leroy, the cheering section erupted with applause. High-fives and compliments poured from the proud crowd. Among them were comments that she should give lessons, and that she’s going to need a bigger hat – there was no need, because Macy hasn’t let the success go to her head. With a big ol’ grin, the humble Maxwell graciously accepted her buckle and simply said, “Thanks a lot!”
Donning new bragging rights on her belt, Macy returned to the arena to compete with Leroy in goat tying, as well as pole bending and barrel racing with her horse, Hummer. While she is at the younger end of the Junior Division, Macy fared well in the other events, even earning the number two spot in pole bending.
The young Ms. Maxwell is now qualified to compete in breakaway and pole bending at the 4-H Rodeo Finals in Fort Pierre, August 18th – 20th. With any luck, this weekend’s buckle will be joined by many more in the coming weeks, months, and years as the future looks bright for this young rodeo athlete.
