Sports
2012-08-01 15:02:55
Q&A Times visits with Kylar Terlip Josey Jr. World Champion
QAT: When did you develop an interest in horses and then begin riding competitively?
KT: My family has always had an interest in horses, so they have always been a part of my life. My father got me a horse when I was very young and I was five when I started to compete. It just seemed like a natural progression.
QAT: Tell us about your horse, Fire Powered Jet. I understand he is older than most horses typically in barrel racing.
KT: Yes, Jet is an 18-year old Palomino quarter horse, the son of Fire Water Flit. He is older than most horses out there competing, but you would never know that. We have a special bond and read each other very well.
QAT: I understand he had some problems that prevented you from competing part of the year?
KT: Yes, he developed some hoof problems so we gave him the time he needed to recover. Even with that time away, he performed well in competition and I was really happy with him.
QAT: What kind of effort does it take compete at this level?
KT: Lots of practice. I spend more time at this than I would care to calculate, but it is worth it all. It also takes having lots of people helping and supporting you. I have my mom, Karin Nielsen, my dad, Kaleb Terlip and my grandparents all working nearly full time to help make it all happen. I am very thankful for them.
QAT: What would you tell someone considering beginning barrel racing?
KT: Well, a couple of things. First, find out how much money it costs. It is expensive and you will need to be able to care for the horse properly. Second, I would get someone to help who is in barrel racing. I would also want them to know that it is worth the work.
QAT: What inspires you most and keeps you competing?
KT: I love the challenge of trying to do your best at every event. It is also fun to get together with friends, whether you do well or not.
QAT: What would you tell others as they pursue their dreams?
KT: Keep going. Keep working. Keep believing you can get better and go further. Your dreams are worth your effort.
