Lily Wright, a member of the legendary Wright rodeo family, made headlines with a massive win at the Xtreme Million Barrel Race. Wright pocketed more than $33,000, finishing on top in the 1D and placing second in the 2D at just 16 years old.
“It’s awesome, I’m so thankful for the ability to have these horses and my amazing family behind me,” Lily said after her big weekend.
Wright credits much of her success to the different styles of her two horses. Hondo, the horse she ran in the 2D, has what she calls a “push style.” Her 1D mount, Dandy, is all-out from the start,
“She’s just firing the whole run, and I just get to be on for the fun ride.” She says both horses are teaching her something new every time she competes.
Though she only really started barrel racing in 2022, Wright has come a long way in a short time. Her brother, Stetson Wright, bought her first horse, an 11-year-old mare, which gave her the confidence to dive into the sport. Now she trains her young horse Hondo, who is just five years old, with the help of barrel racing great Sherri Cervi.
“She’s a great person to have in my corner. She’s always there to support you, and she gives you the truth,” Lily said of Cervi’s influence.
Family continues to be a big part of Wright’s journey. Her dad is always at the barrel races offering advice, and her brother Ryder Wright is by her side whenever she runs into challenges.
Looking ahead, Lily has her sights set on her next goal: winning the average at a major barrel race aboard Dandy.