Jake Smith’s Career Year: The Horses Taking Center Stage

Jake Smith, a cowboy hailing from Broken Bow, Oklahoma, has had a remarkable start to his rodeo season in 2024. By May, he had already earned $50k, securing his first top-10 spot in the world heading standings. This achievement has put him in a prime position to qualify for the National Finals Rodeo, a goal that has eluded him in previous years. A key factor in Smith’s success this year has been his impressive string of horses, with his number one horse, Guns, playing a pivotal role.

More Guns Less Roses, a 9-year-old sorrel standing at 15.3 hands and weighing 1,200 pounds, has been Smith’s go-to horse at longer-score rodeos with averages. The duo has seen success at events like Logandale, Red Bluff, and Clovis, with plans to compete at rodeos such as Reno, Casper, Sheridan, Salinas, and Cheyenne during the summer season. Guns‘ exceptional performance can be attributed to his breeding and natural cow sense, making him a valuable asset in Smith’s roping endeavors.

The story behind Guns‘ journey to Smith’s hands is a testament to the trust and camaraderie within the roping community. Originally raised by Reliance Ranches and passing through several owners, including Trevor Brazile and Wyatt Imus, Guns eventually found his way to Smith through a series of trades and sales. Smith’s decision to purchase Guns from 2D Rope Horses in Stephenville proved to be a game-changer, as the horse’s abilities significantly elevated Smith’s roping performance.

Smith’s partnership with Guns has not only improved his rodeo results but has also taught him valuable lessons in perseverance and adaptability. By implementing a simple yet effective solution to address Guns‘ tendency to get distracted by cattle during runs, Smith demonstrated his resourcefulness and commitment to continuous improvement. This dedication to refining his skills and equipment has been a driving force behind Smith’s rise in the rodeo world.

In addition to Guns, Smith also relies on two other horses in his remuda – Reminic, a 12-year-old sorrel gelding, and Friendly, a seasoned veteran estimated to be around 20 or 21 years old. Each horse serves a specific purpose in Smith’s roping strategy, with Reminic being his third-stringer for fast setups and Friendly being his trusted mount for events like Fort Worth, San Antonio, and Houston. Smith’s careful selection and management of his horses reflect his understanding of the critical role they play in his success at the highest levels of competition.

As Smith continues his quest for a spot at the National Finals Rodeo, his partnership with Guns and his other horses will undoubtedly be instrumental in achieving his goals. With the support of his mentor and brother, Clay, and his roping partner, Douglas Rich, Smith is well-positioned to make a strong push towards qualifying for the prestigious year-end championship. By staying true to his roots, embracing lessons learned from his experiences, and maintaining a positive attitude, Jake Smith exemplifies the spirit of determination and resilience that defines the sport of rodeo.