For Carlee Otero, the goal has never been simply to make a run—it is to make it count. A professional barrel racer, mother, wife, and Texas realtor, Otero has built her career around the discipline required to chase hundredths of a second while keeping sight of what matters beyond the arena. Her first trip to the NFR aboard Rare Dillion remains one of her proudest milestones, but today, it is her partnership with Sly, her current number-one horse, that occupies much of her focus. Their bond, she says, is unlike any other. Grounded in faith and driven by an enduring work ethic, Otero approaches competition with a simple philosophy: trust the preparation, focus on the clock, and let God take care of the rest.
Palomino County: What first drew you to rodeo, and when did you realize you wanted to compete seriously?
Carlee Otero: I grew up in a rodeo family. It was just something that was normal to me, and I always knew I wanted to be a professional barrel racer. Rodeo has always been a passion.
PC: Which horse has had the greatest impact on your career, and what made that partnership special?
CO: I have been blessed with several great horses, but the two that stand out the most are Rare Dillion and Sly. Rare Dillion was the first horse that took me to my first NFR. Sly is my current number one, and we have a very special bond. He is like a child to me.
PC: What is one pre-competition ritual you never skip?
CO: I pray, diligently. I pray for God’s will to be done and to use my success to spread His word. Physically, I spend time preparing my horses and just spending time with them—brushing them, stretching them, and talking to them about our goal.
PC: How do you prepare mentally before entering the arena?
CO: I focus on my time when I go into the arena. I trust my preparation and trust my run will be great, but I want to beat the clock.
PC: What is the best advice you have ever received from another cowgirl?
CO: Work hard and compete with myself. Don’t spend too much time worrying about other athletes.
PC: Which rodeo is always circled on your calendar, and why?
CO: Reno, Nevada, because I met my husband there the year he won.
PC: What has been the proudest moment of your career so far?
CO: Making the NFR and having my entire family there.
PC: What is one lesson rodeo has taught you that applies beyond the arena?
CO: Strong work ethic and faith. This is a marathon, not a sprint. There are a lot of highs and lows.
PC: How would you describe your personal rodeo style in three words?
CO: Fierce, fast, strong.
PC: What is one item that is always in your gear bag or trailer?
CO: Horse treats.
PC: Who is a cowgirl—past or present—you admire most?
CO: I have several, but I admire Brittsny Pozzi. She has a work ethic we should all strive for.
PC: What song gets you fired up before a big run?
CO: “This Girl Is on Fire.”
PC: When you are not competing, what does your perfect day look like?
CO: Being home with my kids and just relaxing.
PC: What do you wish more people understood about the relationship between a cowgirl and her horse?
CO: I wish they knew how close we are. I know my horses inside and out. They come first and are loved so much. They love us as much as we love them.
PC: What does “living well” mean to you?
CO: Living well means being courageous, willing to step outside the box and chase your dreams and, most importantly, taking good care of yourself and loving yourself.
Photo credit to Music City Rodeo.
