For Kinlie Brennise, rodeo has been part of life since childhood. Raised around horses by parents who once competed themselves, she entered the arena at five and quickly fell in love with the sport. From college rodeo to the professional circuit, Brennise has built her career on hard work, faith, and the horses she trusts beneath her. At the center of it all is Rio, the horse she credits as her greatest partner and a constant source of confidence. Here, Brennise reflects on the horses, mindset, and lessons that continue to shape her journey—and what living well means along the way.
Palomino County: What first drew you to rodeo, and when did you realize you wanted to compete seriously?
Kinlie Brennise: I grew up around horses, and both my parents rodeoed when they were young. So from very young, I rode horses and then started to compete at age 5. I fell in love right away. I always knew it was something I wanted to do forever, but I’d say making the decision to go college rodeo was when I really knew I wanted to be the best I could. So, as soon as I was gone college rodeoing, I decided to start pro rodeoing. I think when you get to college and are on your own for the first time is when you decide whether or not you want to take it seriously and really pursue a career.
PC: Which horse has had the greatest impact on your career, and what made that partnership special?
KB: I feel like I’ve been blessed over the years with many great horses. Rio, who I bought from my brother and currently own and compete on, I’d say has had the biggest impact on my career. He took me to my first NFBR and has been my rock in all different setups. Having a horse you can trust and know will work the same every time is what helps you be great. I know that no matter the rodeo, he is going to do his job and allow me to do mine.
PC: How do you prepare mentally before entering the arena?
KB: Mental game is for sure just as important, if not more important, than talent. I always try to speak positively and pray before every run. In the end, I remind myself that I know I have put the work in, so the outcome is in God’s hands. It’s reassuring to know that you have the abilities and have spent the time to be your best, so if it doesn’t work out, it just wasn’t meant to be.
PC: What has been the proudest moment of your career so far?
KB: This is going to sound corny, but Rio won “Horse with the Most Heart” this past year at the NFBR, and that is probably one of my prouder moments. It is voted on by your fellow competitors, so it was really awesome to know that my own competition thought he was as amazing as I do. Especially because my brother bought him when he was 5 and spent a lot of time shaping him into the horse he is today, and I have been able to showcase how incredible of an athlete he is.
PC: What is one lesson rodeo has taught you that applies beyond the arena?
KB: Discipline. I feel like more than any other sport, rodeo is so rewarding when it comes to the fact you have to work really hard and it can pay off in the end. Learning to care about more than just yourself is amazing. My horses are like my children, and I care for them like I would myself. It’s so rewarding to put your time into an animal and, in return, have them work so hard for you.
PC: How would you describe your personal rodeo style in three words?
KB: Laid-back, gritty, positive. I work hard and know that my hard work will, in return, work for me. I love what I do, so staying positive is easy when it comes to the hard times.
PC: Who is a cowgirl—past or present—you admire most?
KB: Lisa Lockhart. Growing up, I always ran barrels along with roping, and before breakaway took off, I saw myself running barrels forever. I admire how humble and hard working she is. I think she is a great role model, especially when it comes to the fact she worked for everything she’s earned and is the sweetest person and friend.
PC: What do you wish more people understood about the relationship between a cowgirl and her horse?
KC: Probably just the love you have. Horses have so much personality, and I truly love my horse as much as I love people. I describe Rio as being like a dog. He loves to be pet and scratched and will try to knock you over if he wants more attention. I can walk down a stall barn and call his name, and he will poke his head out looking for me.
PC: What does “living well” mean to you?
KB: Living well to me is happiness. And for me, my happiness comes from being surrounded by the people I love, horses close, and sunny weather.
Photo credit to Kathryn Coleman
