If it's the middle of summer and you've been burning up the road or the dead of winter snuggled in, take time to set yourself up for success.
CONTESTANTS: Know the rules. Don't count on your parents, they're not entered, you are. You need to understand what is acceptable and unacceptable in all situations. You also need to be prepared to contest a call quickly and understand the proper procedure for contesting that call. If the proper steps aren't taken withing the right time frame, even if you are correct, it could be too late. If you don't know the rules and take too much time, it's nobody's fault but your own.
PARENTS: Hold your children to a higher standard. If they can enter the arena, they can read the rule book. If they can't, you should take the time to read it to them. Let's make sure we are setting them up for success in the arena and in life. Don't fight their battles for them, let them learn. If they choose not to read the rule book or implement them, let them suffer the consequences. It's a life lesson with short term consequences that leads to preventing life long hardships.
Learn more about the rules on the RodeoKids "Rules & Etiquette" forum under the Rodeo 101 tab.
PRCA Rule Book
Good luck to everyone. Take care of what's in your control...like the rule book and you'll have a lot more success in the long run!