Under the bright lights of the arena, a group of fearless women prepares to showcase their skills at the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo. Every year, thousands gather in the city to see competitors rope bulls, bust muttons, and ride on horseback. However, a glaring imbalance shines through: it’s mostly a man’s world.

Barrel racing and breakaway roping, the two pro rodeo sports for women featured at the Houston rodeo, showcase the incredible talent of women in a space that traditionally echoes with the footsteps of cowboys. These competitors are not just participating: they are turning heads and challenging the status quo with every lightning-fast stride of their horses.

Meet Erin Johnson, 43, and JJ Hampton, 52, two trailblazing forces in the world of breakaway roping, who are leaving an indelible mark on the rodeo scene.

Erin Johnson

With her Colorado childhood steeped in rodeo culture, Johnson’s career in breakaway roping is a natural extension of her heritage. Both her parents performed in rodeos as children and instilled in her a love for horses and competition. As she got older, being surrounded by people in the community solidified her bond with the sport.

“I really got into it towards my last year in high school and first year in college,” Johnson says. “I started wanting to be more competitive and my desire to reach a high level got emulated by the kids I was around in college…kids who all share that passion.”

Johnson’s journey to the top is closely entwined with her loyal companion, Huskers Be Smokin “Chico,” her horse and partner in crime for over a decade.

“He was turning three when I got him and he is 16 years old now. I’ve had him for about 13 years,” Johnson says. “I know him, he knows me. We fit each other well. We work together as a team.”

Their bond transcends mere training; it’s an unspoken understanding forged through years of shared triumphs and challenges. Johnson credits the connection with Chico as the foundation of their success. Preparation for them isn’t about frantic last-minute drills but the quiet confidence gained through years of experience and countless calves roped and lessons learned.

“That love and connection has happened way before the event, that’s why I’ve used the same horse for so many years,” Johnson says. “The most important part is having the knowledge that you are capable.”

Johnson, with Chico by her side, exemplifies the essence of a true rodeo athlete—a union of skill, experience, and an unbreakable bond with her equine partner. Beyond the competitive arena, Johnson is committed to engaging with fans, signing autographs, and offering a glimpse into the life of a rodeo athlete while allowing followers to see the person behind the performer.

In 2022, Johnson took home the prize as the Houston Rodeo Breakaway Champion with a 2.7-second run. She will be performing in this year’s Super Series IV, the first round of which is on March 7.

JJ Hampton

Raised in Stephenville, Texas, a renowned hub for rodeo enthusiasts, Hampton’s introduction to the sport was inevitable. Inspired by her father’s love for bulldogging, Hampton’s journey into breakaway roping began at a young age, marking the genesis of a remarkable career.

“I competed in my first rodeo when I was 4,” Hampton reminisces. “My older sister Angie was 8 and she was going to junior rodeos, so I kept bugging my dad to let me enter.”

Hampton’s earliest competition memories are intertwined with the exhilarating rush of the flag race, where her small stature posed a unique challenge. Mounted atop her father’s horse, Poco, Hampton navigated the course with determination and tenacity, laying the groundwork for her future in the sport. In the decades that followed, Hampton’s passion for rodeo only intensified. The love for competition and the thrill of the arena became second nature.

“I’ve always been a very spirited person,” Hampton says. “That’s how I talked [my dad] into it because I’m spirited. As for my family, it’s just in our blood. All my family has rodeoed and we love to do it.”

Hampton’s training leading up to a major competition involves rigorous preparation and consistent practice, roping almost every day. For Hampton, it’s a way to find solace and focus.

“I always feel better after I rope,” she says. “Roping’s like my therapy. If I’m having a bad day or something’s not going on, I go to the arena, and it seems to solve all my problems.”

Hampton acquired her horse, Sparkplug, in October. The match was almost immediate, a stroke of luck that brought them together.

“I didn’t realize that my horses didn’t fit me as good as they should. A friend of mine called me to try Sparkplug and it was almost instantaneous, the horse fit me and we were going to do good and win together,” Hampton explains. “I just got really lucky. I just thank God every night for Sparkplug because he’s amazing.”

As a seasoned competitor, Hampton actively supports and encourages younger riders. She offers lessons and mentorship, recognizing the challenges of the sport and the need for a strong support system. She emphasizes that balancing the demands of competition with family commitments is a constant struggle.

Despite the challenges, Hampton’s love for the rodeo keeps her going. She spends substantial amounts of time attending competitions every year. In 2022, she participated in an impressive 87 rodeos.

Hampton will be breakaway roping at the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo Super Series V, which starts March 10.