While the Wright City junior is involved in cross country, basketball and soccer in high school, there’s just something about rodeo that appeals to her.
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For Ada Ferrell, there’s no denying it.
While the Wright City junior is involved in cross country, basketball and soccer in high school, there’s just something about rodeo that appeals to her.
Sure, riding a bull or a bucking bronco can be scary, but it’s something she sees as being much deeper than simply seeking a thrill.
“I definitely get an adrenaline rush from competing in rodeo, and some would say I am an adrenaline chaser,” Ferrell said. “There is an emotional connection to the animals that most people don't understand. It is so rewarding when you perform well, for both you and the animal. It is such an amazing sport, almost like I am living a dream at times.”
That dream began at a very young age for Ferrell, who is the fourth generation in her family to ride.
Ferrell said that her dad, Ben, introduced her to riding. Coming up, she has always ridden with her older sister, Charleigh.
“I started off with riding sheep,” Ferrell said. “I loved it so much that I didn't want my journey to end when I outgrew the sheep, so I did what I needed to take the next step and got into bulls and broncs. I just fell in love with it.”
Riding does come with its own trepidations.
Ferrell said that, of course, while there is a small sense of worry that can come with getting into the chute with a 2,000-pound bull, it quickly fades.
“Right before I get into the chute, a sense of fear does come over me,” Ferrell said. “I am so motivated that the reward is going to be greater than the fear.”
Riding has also taught Ferrell something else of great importance.
Between riding, schoolwork, playing high school sports in every season between cross country, basketball and soccer, Ferrell has learned a very valuable lesson.
That lesson has come in the form of time management.
“I utilize my planner,” Ferrell said. “(I) revisit it weekly to ensure I am staying on track with all of my practice schedules.”
Ferrell’s grandfather, Charlie Clark, who owns the riding arena where his granddaughter trains, said he’s filled with pride to see how far she and his entire family have come with the sport.
Even if bulls and broncs may not be in the picture forever.
“It makes us proud, even though we’re not ready for her to give up the rough stock events to avoid injury,” Clark said. “She still would compete in roping, goat tying, barrels and poles. That, in my opinion, is plenty.”
No matter what form it takes, Ferrell said she definitely wants to continue riding competitively.
National Finals Rodeo (NFR) is something she would like to be a part of for a long time to come, Ferrell said.
“I want to work towards the NFR,” Ferrell said. “I think every rodeo person dreams of making it to the NFR one day. That’s what drives my determination to perform well and continue with my love for the sport.”
