Rodeo is an industry, heavily dominated by men. With two of 9 events dedicated to women, only 37% of them make up the field. Even then barrel racing is predominantly, event accessible. However, there have been some who have gotten through the barriers to become pioneers. More specifically, the title rather suits bull riding icon Jonnie Jonckowski the best; inspiring the thousands to come.

As Jonnie Jonckowski paved a path, she welcomed generations to follow on the trail. A lead and a small push by the legend have now raised women to take the steps further and higher. A stance particularly fit for the 17-year-old sensation, Najiah Knight.

Rising bull riding sensation’s journey through

The bull riding arena is a ground little explored among women aspirants. However, with the aims and dedication that Najiah Knight holds, the area doesn’t seem too far away. The 17-year-old’s bull riding dream started at an age when many fail to focus on even the littlest of things. “Since I was a little kid, 3 years old, I would tell my dad that this is what I’m gonna do,” she tells ABC News. “I’m going to be a bull rider. I’m going to make it.” Revealing the little one’s story from back in the day, Najiah’s father stated.

Keeping up, aged 7, the cowgirl started with steers, aged 9, she made way for the miniature bulls. And by 2018, she was among the country’s top 15 mini bull riders. In 2020, she rose to break barriers, defeating all the boys at Madison Square Garden. The step further grew taller as this year, the youngster became the only woman to qualify for the 16-18 division of the Junior World Finals. The journey however was only the start for the 17-year-old.

Najiah Knight to take the new path

Through Najiah’s journey to aim higher, Jonnie Jonckowski acted as an inspiration. The 1986 and 1988 Women’s Nationals Finals Rodeo Bull Riding Champion took the first steps to braze through the unexplored path. While she conquered the NFR, PBR wasn’t in sight for Jonnie who retired before the organization came into existence. The path hence seems to be open for 17-year-old Najiah to conquer. “‘I’m going to be in the PBR, I’m going to be the first girl,” the youngster says speaking about her dreams and Jonckowski is all in.

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“Let them girls perform,” Jonckowski said. “They’re not going to play tackle football in the NFL, but some of them gals are damn tough and they’re damn athletic and they can really shine on their own platform.” 

Watch this story: Bull Riding Fans Eagerly Anticipate Rodeo Event of the Year