Emma Hayden has always had a love for rodeo, and after signing to barrel race at Wharton County Junior College, the Ganado senior gets to continue living her dream.
Hayden started her rodeo career when she was very young, and the accolades have rolled in.
“(Emma) has had a great career,” said Sean Amestoy, Wharton County Junior College Rodeo coach.
“She has qualified for the Texas High School Finals Rodeo a number of times, she finished out this year doing great as well, and she has been successful in all she does. I look forward to her being a member of our rodeo team and excited to see where she goes in the future.”
To say Hayden is also excited would be an understatement.
“I’ve been barrel racing my whole life,” Emma said. “I just wanted to continue doing rodeo in college.”
With her accomplishments, Amestoy didn’t hesitate to jump at the opportunity to bring her into WCJC.
“I’ve known about her for a while,” he said. “She’s a member of Region 7 of the Texas High School Rodeo Association, and has done very well, so it was a no-brainer to go out there and we were blessed we got her.”
WJCJ also offered a huge incentive other colleges did not.
“I looked into Tarleton State University, but it was really far away, “ Emma said. “Also, WCJC is close, so I can keep my horse at home.”
Emma plans to study business while at WCJC.
