Feb 11 2025 26 mins
Kaitlynn Hayes of Hayden, Colorado grew up immersed in rodeo and the western way of life. As a kid, she had a bet with her brother and cousin to see who could become a stock contractor first. Hayes won the bet when her father helped her purchase a pony.
These days, she is still in the stock contracting business, providing opportunities for young rodeo athletes to learn the rodeo ropes. Through her entities Rocky Mountain Mini Broncs & Bulls and KH Bucking Horses, Hayes helps prospective rodeo athletes safely develop their skills.
Hayes says the impact of miniature programs on the professional ranks is undeniable.
"Of the 15 bareback riders at the NFR last year, six of them rode pony broncs at some point," she said.
Her brother, World Champion Bareback Rider Keenan Hayes, illustrates the effectiveness of getting started at an early age. Hayes says it was especially rewarding to watch her brother transition from riding sheep and ponies to winning a gold buckle.
"I knew he could do it," she said.
Learn all about Kaitlynn Hayes, Rocky Mountain Mini Broncs & Bulls, KH Bucking Horses, and more in the latest episode of Breaking the Barrier, hosted by Rebel Sjeklocha.
Follow us on Instagram! @breakingthebarrierpod
These days, she is still in the stock contracting business, providing opportunities for young rodeo athletes to learn the rodeo ropes. Through her entities Rocky Mountain Mini Broncs & Bulls and KH Bucking Horses, Hayes helps prospective rodeo athletes safely develop their skills.
Hayes says the impact of miniature programs on the professional ranks is undeniable.
"Of the 15 bareback riders at the NFR last year, six of them rode pony broncs at some point," she said.
Her brother, World Champion Bareback Rider Keenan Hayes, illustrates the effectiveness of getting started at an early age. Hayes says it was especially rewarding to watch her brother transition from riding sheep and ponies to winning a gold buckle.
"I knew he could do it," she said.
Learn all about Kaitlynn Hayes, Rocky Mountain Mini Broncs & Bulls, KH Bucking Horses, and more in the latest episode of Breaking the Barrier, hosted by Rebel Sjeklocha.
Follow us on Instagram! @breakingthebarrierpod