Austyn Tobey CFR 2026

Quick Info

Season horses:
Frisky Ta Fame, Frisky, Palomino, (Firewater Ta Fame x Streakin Porsche)
TR Lying Badger, Bam Bam, Sorrel, (Lions Share Of Fame x TR Dashing Badger)
CFR horses:
A Streak Ta The Moon, Fragile, Bay Roan, (A Streak of Fling x Dash Ta Suz)
Design in Red, Frosty, sorrel, (Slick by Design x RC Back in Black),
TR Lying Badger, Bam Bam, sorrel, (Lions Share of Fame x TR Dashing Badger) 
Saddle: G-G saddlery
Pad: 3S Custom Pads
Bit: every horse rides in something different, but my favorite bit is the Kerry Kelly bogey square Mullen 

2026 CFR Interviews Presented by Alliance Equine

Tell us about your horse’s back story. 
Frisky was my main mount while in Canada. I have watched her for years, with previous jockeys and trainers, Brett Monroe, Cayla Small, and Jackie Ganter. Her owner is a great family friend and when he called me to take over the reins it was the easiest yes! We have had our ups and downs, one being her leaving me with 10 stitches in my face while doctoring her. But, in the arena we have always been comfortable with each other. She is an incredible athlete and a blast to ride. 

How did you get into horses and barrel racing?
I have been horse back since the day I was born. I am very lucky with incredible women who have helped me get to where I am. My mom continued barrel racing until I was around 12, then I took over her open horses and since then, she has been the biggest support for me and keeps the ship rolling at home while I am away. 

What was your most memorable run of the CPRA and PRCA season, and what made them stand out?
My two most memorable runs were Lea Park and Ponoka. Frisky had a wild run in Lea Park and still managed to win it, it’s always fun when she runs that hard. Ponoka semi finals was one to remember. Getting to watch as the rain comes in from one end of the arena while we were still dry was crazy, but it didn’t last long enough. By the time I hit the alley it was full on down pouring. Frisky still laid down a run although I think both of our eyes were closed. 

Looking back at your season as a whole, what are you most proud of?
I am most proud of persevering through many unideal situtions. We surpassed our goals for the year and are grateful for that. I learned a lot about my horses and rodeos all over. This was a year of many first. 

Tell us about Winston, your famous pup! 
Oh Winston, he is the best traveling partner I could ask for. He has the most fun human like personality. He makes sure everyone is aware it is his world and we are here to serve him, lol! He allows us to laugh a lot and smile even when it feels impossible. He’ll make sure we never leave without a pillow and blanket to ensure he gets his beauty sleep tucked in like the queen he is. We thought Winston Wednesday was a fun way to share the overload of pictures he poses, for but I believe those will be going to no where now. He has fans!

What's the hardest part about chasing the CFR and NFR dream that most people don't see?
I believe I put a lot of stress on my self to keep my horses as healthy and happy as possible. It is a lot of travel and hard to not see home for myself or the horses. Times of no sleep do catch up to me. Although I wouldn’t trade these opportunities for anything. These horses deserve the chance to show who they are. 

Do you have a pre-run routine that helps you get into the right mindset?
I don’t have my own routine but I do have a routine for the horses. They all get Bemered, nebulized, and red light therapy before they run. As well as many other supportive therapies throughout the day while we are on the road. 

What do you do when you feel yourself getting inside your own head?
I like to remind myself how many young girls and women would love to be on the road doing what we do every day. No matter the outcome, we are blessed. Blessed with the people that I have met and the horses I get to ride. 

What's one part of your horse's care program you refuse to compromise on?
My biggest focus for my horses is nutrition. Nothing can beat feeding horses to their needs. I do enjoy spending time with them while doing therapies though. 

What goes through your mind in the alley before a run?
I am always reminding myself to give it my all each run because we don’t know how long or how many runs each horse has. I want to make every run worth it and allow my horses to do their job. 

What are your best tips for mental toughness and handling pressure?
Mental toughness is something that I am always working on. It is important to have the right people on your team that bring you up when times are rough and keep you humble when things are great. God has a plan and stay loyal to Him you will be where you belong. 

Who has been your barrel racing/rodeo mentor and what is something they’ve taught you?
Jane Melby has been my mentor my entire life. She has brought me up from my first pony to the top of the pro rodeos. She is always one call away and allows me to have a peace of mind with her in my corner. She has taught me how to win from a young age. My mom Amy is another amazing mentor of mine in and out of then arena. 

What advice would you give to someone who wants to chase the CFR and the NFR in the same year?
Don’t give up on your dreams, keeping showing up and putting in the work. Gain a circle that wants the same things for you as you do for yourself. Lastly, trust God!

Who has been in your corner the most this season, and what have they done to help you get here?
My good friend Haley Bechard has been with me for most of the season, she has helped us get to the rodeos and keep the horses happy and fed. She is a great cheer leader as well. My boyfriend Riley, my mom, and friend Kiley have all also helped me drive and support. Jane has been in my corner to help me make decisions and encourage me. My friend Erica has helped get me to the airport and pick me up when needed. My cousin Bryanna drove her horse Flash to me in Washington when Frisky needed a break. We also hauled together some over the winter.

I have an endless list of people I’d like to thank, to name some: Amy Tobey (mom), Haley Bechard (hauling partner), Riley Staton (biggest fan), Kiley Nelsen and Erica Traut (friends), Jimmy Jacobsen (farrier), Morgun King (vet), and Beth Ness (acuscope and myopulse). Horse owners Chuck and Lisa Nelson, Cathy Dickey, Haley Bechard, and Bryanna Haluptzok. Sponsors: Arrowhead Ranch, Korral Supply, MVP, Daisy If You Do co, Zesterra, Forever Western Boutique, Numotizine, Complete Concrete  and Red Mare Embrodiery.