Sonya Dodginghorse

2019 INFR World Champion Barrel Racer

World Title(s): 2019 INFR Barrel  World Champion        
Age at time of Championship:  41
Marital Status:  Married
Family:  Husband Brent Dodginghorse, and Daughter Cayda Dodginghorse
Hometown:  Tsuut’ina Nation  
Native American Heritage: Cree originally from the Kahkewistahaw First Nation and now reside on the Tsuut’ina Nation.
INFR Events Worked:  Barrel Racing
Horse:  Boogie
Pet(s):  2 Dogs – Olive and Lucy
Pet peeve(s):  People chewing with their mouth open
Favorite Food:  BBQ Chicken with asparagus and beets.
Favorite Sports Team:  Edmonton Oilers
Favorite Sport Other Than Rodeo:  I enjoy playing women’s competitive volleyball.
Favorite Movie(s): LaBamba and Selena
Favorite Music:  I love 90’s hip hop, rap, and old country.
Most Influential Person(s): Kendra Edey is a wonderful mentor and horse trainer. I always go to her for advice whether is about horses or mental preparation. Also, my dad for passing down the rodeo lifestyle to my entire family. 
Favorite Athlete: My hubby and daughter Cayda.

Something People Don't Know About You: I love to dance for cardio exercise.  So, if you see me dancing, I am actually exercising and getting those happy endorphins.
Hobbies:  Working out, watching crime movies, making dry meat, going for jogs with our dogs, and love watching my daughter play hockey.
Favorite Rodeo:  Siksika Tour Rodeo.  They really put an effort into making their ground safe and put on a great production.   I also like Falkland Pro Rodeo, it has such a great atmosphere with a lot of fans.
How important is it to you to have won an INFR Championship?  My dad came through a major surgery to remove his cancer.  It was a very special moment to have my dad there to see it happen.  Your life can change in an instant, and when you’re blessed with a great horse, and the ability to do it, you better go out there make things happen.  Follow your dreams.
What is your most memorable ride/run at the INFR?  It was different this year, because I put all my fear aside and put my trust in the lord.  My daughter and I prayed before each run.  I was probably more emotional for my daughter’s final run.  She won her Jr. Title earlier in the day, and everyone was messaging and saying, “It’s your turn.”  But I had to tune out all the hype, and I could feel Boogie was pumped and ready for the final go round. 
Who has been your biggest influence in Indian Rodeo?  My sister Chooch and my Dad. I remember my sister barrel racing, and I wanted to do that too.  I was about 5 years old when I asked my dad if I could enter the local Broadview Rodeo.  I didn’t have cowboy boots or a hat.  So, I wore gum boots, and an old raggedy hat we found in the closet.   From there, I was hooked.  My dad would take us to all the Indian Rodeos.  I had an old faithful horse named Jughead. At around 14, I remember my dad buying us our first barrel saddles. They even had our names on them.
What are the benefits of INFR rodeos for you?  Indian Rodeo unites our families.  We are like a big family.  I love that we are able to compete alongside our children and grandparents.
Rodeo Accomplishments: 
2019 INFR World Champion Barrel Racer
• February 24, 2020 Qualifier to the American Semi-Finals in Fort Worth Texas
• 7X INFR Qualifier
• 3rd 2018 INFR
• 5th 2017 INFR
• 2018 CINCH Spring Thaw Long Go Champion out of 800.
• 2017 Earned Professional Status
• 2016 CINCH Shootout Winner
• 2016 Semi- Pro Status
• Multiple Year End IRCA &NANCA Titles
Thank you’s:   My hubby for all his love and support.  My shoer Shawn Keyowski. Kelly Crowchild for his racetrack techniques.  Magdalena Carr for horse therapy and DNA Analysis.  My mentor Kendra Edey.  Also, my sponsors without them I would not be able to get down the road:  Vetline, Equifix Therapies, Cascade, Price Wise Consulting, and Oly’s Trading Post.