BARREL RACING DREAMS

Our cover star Owen doesn't mind standing out from the crowd when he feels the need for speed.

-  OWEN WELTER

My name is Owen Welter and I am 10 years old. I live in Williston, Fla., and have to maintain good grades and try to stay on the honor roll so that I can continue to compete in horses and soccer.

My horse's name is Colonel Tuff Dawson ("Dunny"). He came from Nate and Shannon Vickers of NVS stables (my aunt and uncle). My uncle Nate used him as a roping horse and he knew Dunny would be a great kid's horse for me.

BARREL BEGINNINGS

I first started taking Dunny on trail rides with my mom, aunt, uncle, and brother. I was a little nervous, but then I conquered my fears and was able to trot and lope on him.

I grew up cheering my mom on at barrel races. When I started riding, I already knew how to help with the horses by brushing, cleaning stalls, and washing them.

We always had barrels set up in the field, so one day I just decided to take Dunny around the pattern. My mom helped me learn how to turn in the right spots and helped me build confidence on Dunny's back. She even has me ride bareback to help with my balance sometimes.

We ride together about three times a week to try to keep Dunny in shape. If I don't have time to ride, I will longe him in the round pen, because the rule is if he isn't fit, we don't run.