If there’s one thing Vallerie Catten knows, it’s how to juggle—whether it’s rodeo schedules, grandkids, or barrel racing on her horse Sadie. A Utah native who’s been living the western lifestyle since she was knee-high to a grasshopper, Vallerie started competing at age 5. From the humble hometown riding clubs to local jackpots, she’s been chasing barrels and chasing dreams for as long as she can remember—and now she’s doing it alongside her daughters and granddaughters (family barrel racing squad, anyone?).
By age 12, Vallerie was already living the rodeo life, spending her summers traveling with the rodeo company, carrying flags, and getting a front-row seat to the action across the Wilderness Circuit. Fast forward to 2016, she snagged her timer’s endorsement and soon found herself behind the clock at rodeos all over the region, including a stint timing the Wilderness Circuit Finals in 2019. But why stop there? In 2018, she added “Secretary” to her already impressive rodeo resume, hopping between roles like a true multitasker extraordinaire. And just to top it off, she was hired as Assistant Secretary for the 2024 Wilderness Circuit Finals—because clearly, Vallerie doesn’t do things halfway.
Vallerie’s biggest fan? Her husband Brad, who’s her number-one supporter when she’s out living her rodeo dreams. Together, they’ve raised two fantastic daughters, Shylee and Kercee, who’ve made sure to keep the rodeo spirit alive with five grandkids who are already showing signs of carrying on the family’s rodeo dynasty. With a life full of horses, rodeo, and family, Vallerie’s got her hands full—but in the best way possible.