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Jake Smith’s ProRodeo Breakthrough, 12 Years in the Making
Jake Smith and Douglas Rich in hot pursuit of a hard-running muley at the 2024 Clovis (California) Rodeo. That’s Smith’s Guns on the heading side, with a hay-twine twist. And yes, those brands belong to Trevor Brazile, Kaleb Driggers and Reliance Ranches. | Hailey Rae Photo

Jake Smith has been toiling away in his arena in Broken Bow, Oklahoma, training horses and paying his dues in anticipation of this moment.

Smith, 31, is seventh in the PRCA World Standings with $116,588.07 won on the head side after spending most of his career a heeler.

Smith is a Wildfire Open to the World Champion as a heeler, and in 2023 he won the Riata Championship Open with Douglas Rich, his best friend and rodeo partner.

We called Smith to discuss which horse should be Head Horse of the Year, but in Smith had plenty to say, so we’re sharing the whole interview because it’s well worth it.


Today’s episode is presented by Roping.com’s Riata livestream. The entire event will stream live on Roping.com from the Lazy E Arena in Guthrie, Oklahoma.

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