CULLMAN, Ala. – Ainsley Irani, 19, of Cullman, qualified to compete in Barrel Racing at the 2023 Professional Cowboy Association Finals Rodeo in Biloxi, Mississippi, finishing high enough to earn her the title of 2023 PCA Rookie of the Year and 2023 Barrel Racing Average Champion. The event was held Feb. 1-4, 2024.
Irani rode her horse Nala in four rounds, placing third in rounds three and four, helping her win the title.
“Being Rookie of the Year has been a goal of mine for a while,” said Irani, “and winning it is a dream come true! Winning the Average Championship was an unexpected surprise! I knew I had a chance to place when I had my fourth clean run, but I didn’t think I was going to win it. I’m so thankful and blessed to have Nala; she really is amazing. I couldn’t do this without all of the support from my family and friends.”
Irani welcomes anyone interested in beginner riding/barrel racing lessons to message her through Facebook.
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