ProRodeo Sports News - June 28, 2019

COWBOY GRILLE WITH AMBER BAILLIE

What do you think of your rookie year so far? Heath: I didn’t plan on it going this way. I set out to make the circuit finals. Now, it’s exceeded my expectations, and I’ve enjoyed every minute of it. How do you feel about leading the rookie standings? Heath: There are still a lot of rodeos to go and a lot of guys behind me who rope very good. It’ll be a fun adventure seeing how it all plays out. Why do you think you and Clint Wallace rope well together? Heath: He rides good horses and I throw fast. For six to seven years, we’ve amateur rodeoed and get along well. This winter, he took a chance on me and asked if I wanted to rodeo with him this season. It’s been a great opportunity. What do you hope to achieve by the end of the season? Heath: My main goal is to win Rookie of the Year and make the RAM National Circuit Finals Rodeo, then we’ll see where it goes from there. What’s the next rodeo you’re competing at? Heath: Colorado Springs (Pikes Peak or Bust Rodeo, July 10) and then Cheyenne (Frontier Days, July 15). What’s been your biggest rodeo achievement? Heath: Lafayette (La.) was my first win this year and got the ball rolling for me. It made me believe, ‘I can do this.’ And your biggest challenge? Heath: Balancing my time being at home with my daughter, Ruby (at right), who is 11, and going to rodeos. She runs barrels and I don’t want to miss her events. What advice have you given your daughter? Heath: To put in the work and to not give up. She’s recently had some success (in barrel racing), and I’ve seen a change in her work ethic. I don’t have to ask her to ride her horse, she just does. I’m 35. Being a “geriatric” rookie, I’ve wanted to prove to her that anything is achievable. How long have you been involved in rodeo? Heath: Growing up, my grandpa owned a cattle ranch and I always helped. I don’t really remember learning how to rope, I just got used to doctoring cattle. I was introduced to Little Britches and then participated in high Heath Williams isn’t your average rookie. The 35-year-old team roping heeler bought his first permit in 2005, competing in the Southeastern Circuit and training horses. But after buying his contestant card last year and partnering with Clint Wallace this season, the Ozark, Ark., cowboy is taking his skills to the next level. As of June 24, he was No. 1 in the PRCA | Resistol Rookie Standings with $13,885 and hopes to finish the season in the same spot.

HEATH WILLIAMS

school rodeo. I also used to show AQHA horses and qualified for the world show several times. Now, I manage Norma Hogan’s ranch, it’s a cattle operation in Ozark and a job to come back to when I’m not rodeoing. I work with Toby Hogan, who is my practice partner in team roping. What do you think it takes to be consistent in roping? Heath: I think there are a lot of variables, but horsemanship is a huge part of it. You can never stop working on that. A lot of people can rope well but your horse makes a big difference. I have a great horse this year, he’s the same everywhere I go, and so I knew I had to buy my contestant card. What’s something you’ve never done before that you would like to try? Heath: I’d really like to cowboy with (team roping header) Derek Begay. I don’t know him but think he’s as good a cowboy as there is. I’d like to hang out with him sometime. … It’s on my bucket list. What is your biggest pet peeve? Heath: Keeping the truck clean when you’re traveling with a bunch of people. I can be OCD about things, and when you’re traveling with four people in a rig, it’s a job. Who has been the biggest mentor in your life? Heath: I’ve had quite a few including Brett Hall, Toby Hogan and Clint Wallace. They’ve all supported me and helped build my confidence. What’s the best rodeo advice you’ve received? Heath: To have short-termmemory in life. If you mess up, don’t let it drag you down or carry it with you. There is always tomorrow. What is your favorite movie? Heath: Lonesome Dove . Who is your favorite musician? Heath: Cody Jinks. What is your favorite restaurant? Heath: Whataburger for fast food, Texas Roadhouse for a sit-down meal.

ProRodeo Sports News 6/28/2019

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