Age: 20

Marital Status: Single

Family/Children: I am the eldest daughter of Leandra Begaye and Sam Becenti. I have one younger brother and younger sister, Brent and Brooke. My grandparents are Amos and Eunice Begaye.

Hometown: Steamboat, AZ
Native American Heritage: Navajo

Horses: I own several different horses. My main mount, “Bah”, is a registered Quarter Horse mare. She is the horse I use to compete in barrel racing. The horse I used during the horsemanship competition of the Miss IIFR pageant is a half Appaloosa and Quarter Horse gelding named “Rusty”. I also have two other horses, “A Flash of Baby Blue” and “Driftwood Cowboy”.

Pets that you own: A Miniature Pincher we call “Rocky”.

Rodeo Events Worked: In 2008, I worked as an Athletic Trainer at the Championship Bull Riding during the Navajo Nation Fair. I helped the bullriders with taping, basically simple sports medicine things.

Please comment on your 2011 IIFR experience: Busy! The new performance schedule seemed to make the weekend go by faster. Despite the busy schedule, I still had a good time. I was able to meet and cheer for the IIFR contestants.

Association member of: Central Navajo Rodeo Association & Northern Arizona Barrel Racing Association

Rodeo Accomplishments: The most recent award I’ve received was the 2010 Rookie of the Year for the Senior Girls Division of the Indian Junior Rodeo Association. I’ve won and placed at numerous Indian rodeos and barrel racing jackpots throughout Arizona and New Mexico.

When did you start an interest in rodeo? I was born into it. I remember going to rodeos since I was young with my grandpa and uncles, so I didn’t really have choice.

What other sports other than rodeo do you enjoy? I’m not the “athletic” type. The closest involvement I’ve had with sports was managing the Ganado Hornet State Champion Girls’ basketball team in high school. I do like playing volleyball.

What is the funniest thing that you have seen or experienced at a rodeo? One rodeo I entered, the C.E.S. gave my winnings to another “Brittany”.

What advice would you give to Indian youth about rodeo or anything in general? Put your whole heart into it. You’ll have a better effect and experience if you really want and work towards it. Take advantage of every opportunity that’s offered to you, even if it means taking a break from rodeo, rodeo will always be there.

What advice would you give to Indian youth who wanted to participate in rodeo but didn’t have the resources or support to get involved? Come to a rodeo. People are more than willing to help get you started.

Are there any songs that inspire or pump you up before you ride or rope? “Heartbreaker” by Pat Benatar. I’ve noticed that song is played either during or before I run.

What would you like to see more of at Indian rodeos? It would be great it there was more added money, better arena ground care, and adequate medical services

What are/is your favorite western movie(s)? “Pure Country” and “Bad Girls”

What is your favorite music? I don’t exactly have a favorite genre. I listen to a lot of different artists.

What was your most memorable ride or run? At a C.N.R.A. rodeo, my rein broke after my 1^st barrel. I still managed to place but it’s something I definitely don’t want to relive.

Who is your all time hero? My grandpa is my hero.

What Indian cowboy or cowgirl has influenced you to rodeo? My grandpa, I want to establish the same reputation he has. He taught me everything I know about riding.

Would you like to thank sponsors and/or anyone for your success in rodeo? My family, friends, co-workers, and my Heavenly Father. I have been very blessed to own amazing horses and have the support of many people.