Countdown to NFR Barrel Racing: #9 Summer Kosel Interview

Sports Illustrated's Rodeo Daily continues our countdown to the NFR with #9 barrel racer Summer Kosel.

Name: Summer Kosel

Hometown: Glenham, SD

Rank: 9th

2023 Winnings: $115,681

NFR Qualifications: 1 (2023)

Career Earnings: $192,503

Biggest Win of 2023: It wasn’t the largest paying “win”, but winning Othello, WA was a big one for me because it was toward the end of the year when it was really tight to see who would make the finals.

Horse(s): Firewaterfrenchfame “Apollo” – 8-year-old bay gelding; NothinButCashNKisses “Dredge” – 8-year-old gelding.

Which horse will you run in the first round: Apollo

Strategy for NFR: My strategy is to keep winging it, living on a prayer, have no fear, and give it our all every round!

Saddle: Josh Andrews Saddle

Top 3 favorite bits: I don’t really have three. I ride almost everything in “Apollo’s” bit made by JD Bits.

Horse leg Protection: Josh Andrews boots or polo wraps

Jeans and Shirts: For jeans, I kind of wear a little of everything. My favorites are 7 for All Mankind (Dojo), Ariat Trousers, and Rock N Roll Cowgirl trousers. My favorite shirts are Kingsville Brand! They are the only shirts that fit my “man” shoulders.

Hat: I have a few of these as well, but the newest one that will be seen at the NFR was made by Star of The West Hat Company.

Truck: I drive a F350 dually but I’m looking at switching to a F450

Trailer: Lakota Stock Combo

Must haves in truck and trailer: My nutrition supplements, nebulizer for my horses, Bemer, and medical kit for the horses. I always keep an inspirational scripture book in my trailer as well.

Travel partners: My dog, Pearl, my son, Courage, and my husband, Kevin, when I can talk him into coming.

Motto: Proverbs 21:31 “The horse is prepared for the day of battle, but the victory belongs to the Lord.”

Favorite Food on the road: My favorite food is string cheese. If I go out to eat, it is going to be a good steak or sushi.

What defines a champion: That’s a tough one. I would say a champion is anyone willing to go the extra step. To take the fire that God places in your soul and do whatever it takes to build the flames. Never let anyone, any situation, or setback put them out or diminish them! The devil works the hardest when you are on the brink of something great!

Advice: Never think you know it all! There is always something to learn, but also don’t try to be someone else! Learn, grow, and adapt, but stay true to who you are!