Taylor Cherry CFR 2025
The Canadian Professional Rodeo Association, Rookie of the Year, Taylor Cherry, has qualified to her first Canadian Finals Rodeo. She and the great Blazin Sugar Daddy (Blazin Jetolena. x LS SHAMELESS IN PARIS, owned by Kyle and Ashley Klassen) aka Preacher, who was the second highest earning futurity stallion of 2024 (behind Adios Pantalones), and is Canada’s highest earning barrel racing stallion, entered 30 rodeos, placing at 20, and winning two.
Cherry pocketed $33,093.10, and finished 6th in the regular season standings. She and Preacher also qualified for the Calgary Stampede this year, through the Calgary Qualifier.
On September thirteenth, Taylor and her mare, Lynns Honor (Guys Casanonva Cowboy x Lynns Blue Valentine) aka Lenny, ran a 16.595, and set the new arena record at the Calnash Ag Event Center, during the Royal Crown Canada Futurity. She says that Lenny is likely coming with her to Edmonton.
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What is your main mounts back story?
Preacher was purchased as a 3-year-old by the Klassens with just 30 days of messing with. He was gritty, quick-footed, a little defensive, and had more try than most horses I’d ever swung a leg over. From the very first rides, I knew he was built for the big stage. He has the mind to handle pressure, the athleticism to clock with the best, and the heart to give me everything he has each run.
How does it feel to have qualified to the Canadian Finals Rodeo in Edmonton, and what are you most excited for?
This is my first CFR qualification, which is pretty exciting—it’s something I’ve dreamed about since I was a kid.
What was your most memorable run this season, and what made it memorable?
Falkland Stampede. The atmosphere was electric, and it was Preacher’s first big performance. He really stepped up to the plate that day.
What was different about your rodeo season this year compared to last year?
The biggest difference this year has been my mindset. I don’t get caught up in winning or losing anymore, because it doesn’t change how much I love my horses, or the sport. What matters is moving forward and learning. I’ve worked hard on being a better loser than I am a winner—and funny enough, I think that’s helped me win more.
What challenges did you face this year, and how did you overcome them? How do you keep confidence when things aren't going as planned, or you are in a slump?
This year brought long miles, balancing the breeding side, slot races, futurity and derby runs, pro rodeos, and keeping my horses healthy. I got through it with discipline, the strength of an incredible support team, and reminding myself that every tough day is just one piece of the bigger picture.
I remind myself that slumps don’t last forever. I focus on small wins in training, stick to my daily routine, and work just as much on the mental side as the physical. Believing in the hours I’ve put in keeps me confident when things don’t go as planned.
Tell readers something good that happened this year.
I love slow mornings and coffee that’s not from McDonald’s. I enjoy riding my young horses at home and making sure my cat, Theresa, gets fed six times a day (if you know, you know).
What would be your rough estimate of vet work annually to get to the Canadian Finals Rodeo? Do you know a rough estimate of what it cost (without factoring in truck/trailer cost) to make a run at the CFR?
When you have a Sugar Daddy, it doesn’t cost too much. (No pun intended) But in all reality—be prepared to spend your savings account.
What was the best restaurant you stopped at all year? Any hidden gems to mention?
Unfortunately, McDonald’s is about as fancy as it gets.
What is your least favourite part of being on the rodeo road, and what is your favourite?
My favorite part is the memories. Least favorite? My truck now has more miles than some airlines.
What therapies are a must have for your horse?
I keep it simple: cold hosing and some poultice.
How do you manage to balance life at home/work with life on the road?
It’s tough, but I’m lucky to have good people in my corner who help keep things tied down while I’m chasing this dream. Their support makes it possible.
Who did you travel with this year? Do you have a funny or heart warming story you could share about your time together, or anything you would like to share about them?
I travel by myself for the most part. Hauling a stallion on the road isn’t the easiest, so I kind of just do my own thing.
How are you preparing for the Canadian Finals Rodeo practise wise? What is your routine like to be ready for Edmonton?
My focus is on keeping my horses sharp but fresh. I’ll do lots of slow, correct work at home, keep them mentally and physically tuned without overdoing it, and make a few runs in a small building to get my timing tuned up.
If your horse was an actor/actress in a movie, who would play them, or if your horse was a character from a movie, which character do they remind you of and why?
He’d be The Rock—because let’s be honest, Daddy already thinks he’s a superstar.
When you were younger, what did you want to be when you grew up, and what do you do now?
I wanted to be a professional horse trainer and rodeo athlete. Today, I get to live that dream every day.
If you could swing a leg over another qualifier's horse, who would it be and why?
It would be Pam Morrison’s, Dyna. I’ve loved that horse since the day she rode her in my clinic at the first Royal Crown Canada.
How many barrel horses do you currently have in your string, tell us about them?
Right now, I have Blazin Sugar Daddy as my main rodeo mount, Frenchman’s Extra who’s been stepping up and showing promise, Lynn’s Honor (likely coming with me to CFR), and a couple of futurity colts coming along. Each brings something different, and I’m excited about the future of my string.
What is your advice for someone who wants to take a shot at making the Canadian Finals Rodeo?
Never give up. It takes time, money, sacrifice, and grit, but if you believe in yourself and your horse, it’s worth it. Stay consistent, trust your process, and never lose sight of why you started.
I want to take a moment to thank each and every one of my sponsors and everyone working tirelessly behind the scenes. From the fuel in the truck, the care that goes into keeping my horses feeling their best, the saddles and gear that help us perform at the highest level, and all the little details that often go unnoticed—you are the foundation of everything I do. None of these wins, long miles, or unforgettable moments would be possible without your support, encouragement, and belief in me and my program. I am forever grateful to have such an incredible team backing me every step of the way.
J9 equine
Pro earth animal health (Zesterra)
Tim Cooper custom hats
Janik Services LTD
Usher brand silver and saddlery
Stanton Equine and Cor Vet
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