Kicking up dirt, weaving between poles and racing to the end gate, Pamela Henderson finishes her second run, locking her in first place and earning her the title “State Champion Pole Bender.”
Junior Pamela Henderson will compete at rodeos in and around Bryan, Texas for the next eight and half months working towards qualifying for the Texas High School State Rodeo in June.
“Very few contestants nationwide are able to qualify,” Mr. Wade said. “To do so shows the dedication, ability and skill that Pamela possesses.”
Henderson started riding when she was only one year old. Soon after, she started competing in play days.
“I started competing at about three,” Henderson said. “I won my first play day when I was about five or six.”
Henderson’s win at the play day was just the beginning of her rise to success.
“You come into state gunning for first,” Henderson said. “But to actually achieve it is incredible, and something I will always cherish and take pride in.”
Henderson has been to state twice and both times she placed high enough to make it to the National High School Finals Rodeo in Gillette, Wyoming.
“The first time I was reserve champ,” Henderson said. “And this year I was state champ.”
Henderson competes in “Barrel Racing” and “Pole Bending,” but her success in “Pole Bending” has earned her both of the state titles.
“Her success is not only a reflection upon her,” Mr. Wade said, “but Fairfield High School and the community.”
Members of the Texas High School Rodeo Association are held to the same standards as other high school athletes. The riders are required to be passing their classes before they are allowed to ride.
“Besides being skilled in her event of “Pole-Bending”, she is an exceptional student who is well-liked by her peers and teachers,” Mr. Wade said. “Pamela has a bright future ahead of her.”
Kaytlyn Brewer reporting – Junior Staff Reporter of FHS’s “Eagle Beat”
Photo Contributed by Pamela Henderson
