Before becoming a country music superstar and television personality, Reba McEntire was deeply involved in rodeo barrel racing from a young age. Growing up in Oklahoma, she developed a strong bond with horses, competing in rodeos starting at age 11. She rode her father’s roping horse initially but later competed with her own horse named Fancy, humorously named to boost the confidence of what was called an “ugly” horse. McEntire has described riding as second nature and has often expressed a heartfelt connection to horses, which were a significant part of her early life.

McEntire credits her years of barrel racing with teaching her valuable lessons in determination, resilience, and perseverance—qualities that helped her succeed in the competitive music industry. She stopped competing at age 21 when she secured her recording contract but has reflected on how the challenges and mindset required in rodeo prepared her for the ups and downs of her career. Her rodeo background not only shaped her character but also laid the foundation for her enduring success as a singer and entertainer.