story by Kyle Eustice
Longtime rodeo contestant Leslie Maker was born into the cowboy (or cowgirl) way of life. Her parents owned David Bailey Rodeo Co. when she was growing up and the now 52-year-old Tahlequah, Oklahoma resident was instantly drawn to the competitive nature of the sport. A graduate of Tahlequah High School and Northeastern Statue University, Leslie currently lives with her husband Joel Maker, 54, and 18-year-old son, Jace Maker.
Leslie has been a member of the IPRA, ACRA, CRRA, and INFR, but is laser focused on her roles as a time keeper and barrel racer in the ACRA.
“I’ve been around rodeos all my life, from contracting to competing,” said Leslie. “I really enjoy traveling and the friendships you make.”
Over the years, rodeo has grown more and more into a family affair. Aside from her parents owning the rodeo company, they also competed as well as many other members of her family.
“My dad competed in bull riding then started contracting rodeos,” explained Leslie. “My mom has helped with whatever and wherever needed. My brother has been a world champion bull rider in the IPRA, as well as a NFR qualifier. My sister helped with the timekeeping at our rodeos. My husband has been world champion in the team roping on the heading and heeling side in the IPRA, qualifying for finals in the PRCA, IPRA, ACRA, CRRA. My son has competed in Jr. Rodeos and now trains, sells, and trades barrel horses while in college at OSU.”
Although she still has dreams of making the INFR, qualifying for the IPRA, ACRA and CRRA finals are some of her biggest accomplishments. “It’s so rewarding to finish in the top 15 for the year,” said Leslie.
As the saying goes, the apple doesn’t fall too far from the tree, and Leslie is a prime example of that. For 20 years, she owned her own rodeo company, Rollin B Rodeo Co. in addition to teaching school. However, she never lost sight of what it took to be a great rodeo contestant.
“It takes a lot of dedication,” said Leslie. “There are lots of highs and lows. It can be a very humbling sport.”
During rodeo season, Leslie travels to an event every weekend, and as much as work allows in the spring, fall, and winter. As far as practice goes, she mostly exercises her horse, Dakota, to keep him in shape. She also confesses “winning” is her favorite part about competing. Aside from her dog Tucker, Dakota is her favorite animal.
“I have my son Jace to thank for that,” said Leslie.
