Alyssa Gary Captures IFYR Goat Tying Victory in Style 

By: Julia Dondero For 19-year-old McNeese State University student Alyssa Gary, her final International Finals Youth Rodeo (IFYR) concluded with a picture-perfect victory in goat tying.

In a bittersweet end to her youth rodeo career, the college rodeo athlete laid down three quick and consistent runs, resulting in an aggregate time of 21.7 seconds. She ultimately earned nearly $3,000, in addition to a highly treasured prize lineup and title.

“The first thing I could do was smile. My horse was taking a victory lap in the arena, and I couldn’t help but laugh. It was a happy experience all around,” said Gary, reflecting on her thoughts after she stopped the clock in a quick 7.0 seconds in the short go.

After finishing second in the first round with another 7.0-second run, Gary entered the final round in the driver’s seat and knew she had to remain focused and consistent to maintain her lead in the average.

“Throughout the week, I kept reminding myself to focus on my cues as I went through the gate. I also told myself it was all the Lord’s plan, and I needed to focus on what I could control.”

In her third and final year of competing at the IFYR, Gary expressed how countless hours of preparation and practice accumulated in the victorious moment. “I’ve been practicing on tough goats, working out seven days a week, and focusing on perfecting my muscle memory. I felt prepared for this moment. It was so special to come back and win in my last year.”

In a field of competitive goat tiers, the Lake Charles, Louisiana, native also expressed the importance of trusting one’s equine partner.

“In goat tying, it’s so important to have a horse you can trust. Mine is so special to me—I’ve had her almost my entire rodeo career, and we’ve won, lost, and grown together. I know I can trust her to do her job, and she can trust me.”

The IFYR family of personnel, competitors, and volunteers is also one of the many aspects that make this annual event in Shawnee, Oklahoma, so special. Gary, a past student director, also expressed her gratitude for the many bonds made in Shawnee.

“I love getting to come to Shawnee. Seeing friends, new and old, is like a reunion each year. Being a student director also allowed me to connect with many judges, contestants, and volunteers. I have a true appreciation for all the hard work that goes into this rodeo.”

As Gary concludes this bittersweet chapter, she looks forward to perfecting her craft at the collegiate level, with her goals set for next year’s College National Finals Rodeo with the McNeese State University rodeo team.