HIGHFILL, Ark. — In just a few weeks, Gentry graduate Kylie Jo Castor will be heading out west for the National High School Finals Rodeo in Rock Springs, Wyoming.
"I like the atmosphere," said Castor. "It's a lot different than here. I'm pretty used to it by now. The altitude change is a little bit different but the experience is definitely fun."
This will be Castor's fourth and final appearance at the high school nationals.
"It's not just a sport that you kind of pick up and go," said Castor. "You've got to really commit to it."
She will be competing in three different events: pole bending, cutting and her favorite barrel racing.
"It's just always been something that I like doing," said Castor. "I had a horse a couple years ago that really gave me a passion for it, and so I really stuck with it."
Stuck is a great way to describe the 17 hour journey her and her parents will take to get to Rock Springs in mid July and will be bringing her horses Gypsy and Faith along for the ride.
While Gypsy has traveled with her throughout the season, Faith came into her life when Castor needed it the most.
"I think Faith is definitely a good name because that's definitely something I've had to have this year because of going through a lot with other horses," said Castor. "I started off in the fall on my good horse Beaux then he ended up with a strain suspension injury. Now he's on stall rest for six months to a year. One of my friends was kind enough to let me borrow Faith."
With some faith heading into her last high school nationals, Castor is ready to accept what may come.
"The most important thing is just remembering that when I get out there I don't have to be nervous," said Castor. "Just do what I always do and give it my best effort and have fun no matter what. I'm definitely excited for where I'm headed next."
The National High School Finals Rodeo takes place July 14-24 at the Sweetwater Events Complex in Rock Springs, WY.