Print this story |
E-mail story |
Add a comment |
iPod friendly | Bookmark this
What is this?
Rodeo family makes mark in Fergus Falls
Published 12:00 p.m., October 5, 2009
By Trisha Marczak
Daily Journal
When the Melby family prepares for a weekend at the rodeo, there’s a list of items to check off before departure: horses, saddles and, of course, cowboy boots.
With all four members of the family considered to be top in their competitions, rodeos are something they tend to take rather seriously. This weekend’s Minnesota Finals Rodeo at the Red Horse Ranch Arena was no exception.
“Another day at work,” said Jane, the mother of the crew. “We train horses so everyday is kind of like a rodeo for us.”
During this weekend’s finals, Ryan, the father, earned the title of reserve champion for best all-around cowboy. Daughter, Cayla, 10, took first place for all-around cowgirl. Colton, 12, won in the breakaway roping competition, while mother, Jane, was reserve champion in barrel racing.
The fact that the family is so talented isn’t pure luck. Every weekend they’re working the rodeo scene, which often takes them to destinations throughout the country.
That’s one of Colton’s favorite aspects of rodeo life. The other perk is spending quality time with the family.
“You spend a lot of time with them,” he said. “We’ve been to a lot of states.”
The common interest in rodeos is what brought Jane and Ryan together in the first place. It was at a roping practice where they first met.
Though Ryan never saw himself a rodeo man, he’s pleased with the role it now plays within his family.
“I like the fact that we’re together all the time,” he said. “I know where my kids are at all times. The people at the rodeo are good people.”
Ryan also sees the lessons his children are taking in through rodeo work and participation.
“The biggest responsibility is taking care of their animals,” he said.
That’s something Cayla does without hesitation or complaint. In fact, that’s her favorite part of rodeo life.
Though this weekend’s finals are considered to be a big deal for the Melby family, they don’t plan on slowing down after the big show. From here, they’ll continue to practice and compete in preparation for next year’s Minnesota Finals Rodeo.
WOULD YOU LIKE TO SHARE THIS STORY?
Comments
The Daily Journal is happy to host community conversations about news and life in Fergus Falls and the surrounding area. As hosts, we expect guests will show respect for each other. That means we don't threaten or defame each other, and we keep conversations free of personal attacks. Those who persist with racist, defamatory or abusive postings risk losing the privilege to post. To post a comment you will need to register. Or, if you're already registered but have not included your true, verifiable identity with your registration, you will need to update your account to include your identity. Effective Dec. 1, 2009, all posts appear with the commenter's true identity, which must be verified by site staff. Those who registered prior to Dec. 1, 2009, should be aware that once you update your information with your true identity, all prior posts under your user name will also indicate your true identity. If you do not wish to link yourself to prior comments, you should register again with a different user name.Post a comment (Terms of Use Policy)
(Requires free registration.)
You may also register to comment in our forums at www.fergusfeedback.com.