When you hear the word ‘cowgirl,’ what comes to mind? For us at Hyo Silver, it’s terms like tough, resourceful, strong, gritty, determined, and trailblazing. From the early days of the Wild West to the modern rodeo arena, cowgirls have been breaking barriers and redefining what it means to be a woman.
Shop Women in Rodeo Collection
The Early Years
Women played a crucial role in the migration and settlement of the western United States, doing the same work as cowboys long before the term “cowgirl” existed. Despite their importance, history books often overlook these women and their powerful contributions. They were present every step of the way, especially on western ranches, where ranching was, and still is, a family affair.
It wasn’t uncommon for women to work alongside their husbands in running a ranch, and many continued to run the family ranch after their husbands passed away. Some even started their own ranches. Over time, more and more women took on roles traditionally held by men, driving cattle up trails like the Western Trail and the Chisholm Trail.
Modern-Day Trailblazers
The cowgirls of the past, present, and future continue to astound us with their grit, perseverance, and sheer courage. A cowgirl is a woman who isn’t afraid to get her boots dirty, cherishes her time with her horse, and will do anything for her family. We want to celebrate these remarkable women and the inspiring legacy they are creating for future generations.
Hyo Silver wouldn’t exist without our amazing and dedicated founder, Joanne Symons. Jo started in rodeo at age 13 and eventually earned the coveted title of Miss Rodeo Australia. She vividly remembers the feeling of winning her first buckle and how momentous that occasion was. “When someone is gifted a Hyo Silver jewelry item or awarded their first Hyo Silver buckle, we want the experience to be memorable and one-of-a-kind,” Jo says.
At Hyo Silver, we’re committed to backing organizations and individuals who share our values and passions, particularly within the rodeo community. It’s no surprise that we take immense pride in championing the remarkable women who define strength and resilience in rodeo.
Cowgirl Carlee: A True Rodeo Star
Carlee Martinez is a new Hyo Silver Brand Ambassador and a rodeo star. We’re pleased to call her our very own cowgirl. It’s been a pleasure watching her soar in team roping and breakaway roping events as well as seeing her strong leadership skills and her dedication to her faith. All of which makes her an exemplary Woman in Rodeo. Cowgirl Carlee not only trains young horses, ropes, and rides, she also maintains an equine facility six days a week, working 4 to 6 hours a day —- sometimes longer. Carlee is truly dedicated and driven in not only the sport of rodeo, but the lifestyle that comes along with it. There is nothing quite like getting to live out your passions every day at work and at play.
We got to sit down with Carlee and talk about life, rodeo, and all things cowgirl.
“I’ve been riding prior to birth and started riding on my own at the age of four on my faithful horse, Chaz,” Carlee says. “My dad is a team roper, so I spent many hours in the arena hazing for him.” she says. “I started out in playday, drill team, youth rodeos, Texas Junior High Rodeo, THSRA, Lester Meyer Rodeos, CPRA, and NIRA.”
When asked about the different events she has competed in over the years, Carlee is quick on the draw.
”My favorite is breakaway and team roping (heeler),” Carlee says matter-of-factly. She’s competed in all girls and women events and has earned several all-around titles and awards. “Equal payouts would be nice for breakaway ropers,” she adds, “Thankfully things are moving forward,” referring to winnings and payouts for different events. In every arena in life, there is always room for improvement and growth, and even the rodeo world is not immune to that.
Whenever Carlee is not in the arena or not on a horse you can find her out hunting or fishing with her family. Carlee’s thoughts on cowgirl culture had us feeling all the feels, ruminating on the importance of family and core values.
“Rodeo is an excellent teacher of hard work, dedication, bouncing back from disappointments, and not getting over confident,” Carlee says. “Not everyone gets the reward, but if you don’t try, you definitely will not accomplish anything.”
When asked what is one thing she wished everyone knew or understood about rodeo/cowgirl culture, Carlee did not disappoint. “Rodeo over the years has not been regarded as significant as other careers or sports,” she states. “However, rodeo is one of the few sports that involves the whole family and teaches core values, working skills, and time management skills.”
Carlee has a shining bright future ahead of her as she aspires to run a family ranch business of her own someday. She is a perfect example of living and loving western culture, and truly embracing cowgirl culture to its core.
Cowgirl Culture: A Way of Life
“Cowgirl culture means to me — a rewarding life experience of hard work, bonding with amazing animals, and a simple form of life that is challenging every day,” Carlee says.
And here at Hyo Silver, we couldn’t agree more. Cowgirl culture is thriving here in the Texas Hill Country, as well as all across the Lone Star State, the USA, and the world. The kinds of bonds, friendships, and overall support among the women, communities, and organizations as a whole is beyond inspiring to see, and continuously instills our growing faith in the capabilities and determination of future generations.
And remember: “Any day spent in the saddle is not wasted.”
