PRORODEO Sports News - June 1, 2026

POSITIVE TIME OF PRORODEO

JOSIE CONNER STAYS GRATEFUL THROUGH EVERY SEASON

BY SKYLAR SMITH

Josie Conner is exactly what the next generation of rodeo looks like. Grounded in tradition, sharpened by competition, and driven by a quiet kind of determination that doesn’t need to be loud to be powerful. A Louisiana native, Conner was born into the rhythm of the arena. With both parents having rodeoed in high school, it wasn’t a question of if she’d follow suit, it was only a matter of when. From the beginning, she was all in. The early mornings, the long hauls, the repetition, it was part of her upbringing. Breakaway roping wasn’t just something she learned; it was something she lived. That founda tion showed itself early, as she found success at some of the sport’s biggest stages, including the Junior Nation al Finals Rodeo and The American Rodeo. By the time she turned 18, she didn’t hesitate, she bought her pro card and stepped fully into the profes sional ranks. Since then, Conner has steadily built a résumé that speaks for itself. A four-time qualifier for the National Fi nals Breakaway Roping, she’s proven her place among the elite in one of rodeo’s fastest-growing events. But behind every run is more than just talent, it’s trust. Trust in her prepa ration, her instincts, and in the horse beneath her. That horse is Dutch, an award-winning partner that’s become an extension of her in the arena. Together, they’ve developed the kind of connection that can’t be manufac tured. It’s built over miles, moments, and mutual understanding. In a sport measured in tenths of a second, that kind of partnership is everything. Conner has been part of the Amer ican Hat Company family since she

was young, growing alongside a brand that values tradition, quality, and authenticity as much as she does. It’s a partnership built on a shared un derstanding of the Western way of life and a commitment to carrying those traditions forward. Much like the hats she wears, her career has been shaped with purpose, grit, and a foundation built to last. Outside the arena, Conner’s life is entering a new chapter. Recently engaged to tie-down Riley Webb, she’s navigating a season that’s as meaningful personally as it is profes sionally. It’s a balance many rodeo athletes understand. Building a life while chasing a dream, all on the same stretch of highway. For Conner, success isn’t just measured in qualifications or checks won, it’s defined by perspective. By

the ability to stay grounded no matter where the road leads. As she shares: “I started the beginning of this year by getting engaged! Traveling and competing has been busy, but this has been such a sweet season of life and has reminded me how important it is to enjoy the journey and celebrate the little moments along the way. The summer run is approaching fast and when June hits we will be off again on the rodeo trail! “To me, ‘positive times’ means staying grateful through every sea son, “ Conner shares. “The wins, the setbacks, and everything in between. I think surrounding yourself with good people, keeping faith, and focusing on the bigger picture is what helps create positivity both in and out of the arena.”

JUNE 1, 2026 PRORODEO SPORTS NEWS DIGITAL MAGAZINE 55