Local rider earns spot in Las Vegas

By Melissa Piche Times Contributor

Wheatland County local Bristie Kugler has been riding horses since she was three years old, and now at the age of 11, she has qualified for a World competition in Las Vegas. 

Kugler will be competing in The Mike and Sherrylynn Johnson Vegas Tuffest Jr. World Championship in Las Vegas, Nev. from Dec. 1-5. 

She is amongst the 840 competitors from all across the United States and four Canadian provinces. She will be showcasing her skills in two categories – 12 and under barrel racing and 12 and under goat tying. 

Competitors have the opportunity to win their share of $1 Million in cash and prizes ranging from saddles to Championship rings. 

“I have rode all my life,” said Kugler’s mother, Holly, as she explains how rodeo is just a way of life for their family. Kugler’s mother trains her, along with many mentors she has connected with over her rodeo career. 

On top of school work, school sports and recreational gymnastics, Kugler trains for her riding seven days a week. This is Kugler’s first time qualifying for this event, although she has competed in many rodeos all over Alberta. 

Kugler’s cousin Tynell McInenly, 17, from Vulcan, will also be at the Tuffest Jr. World competing in the 19 and under goat tying division. Events showcased at the Tuffest Jr. World are barrel racing, double mugging, breakaway roping, goat tying and tie down roping. 

The Tuffest World Championship will be live streamed at www.johnsonsportline.com where you can watch Strathmore’s very own showcase true Alberta talent.