Breaking Barriers in the Rodeo Arena
Meet Kortnee Solomon, a fourth-generation Texas cowgirl who achieved a remarkable milestone at just 11 years old. In 2021, she became the first Black cowgirl to compete in a nationally televised rodeo event.
“Before I run, I like to be by myself and to think about what I am going to do in that run,” Solomon said.
Despite her young age, Kortnee’s dedication and focus in the arena are unwavering. Her historic appearance came at the Showdown in Vegas, a collaboration between the Bill Pickett Invitational Rodeo and Professional Bull Riders.
A Rodeo Legacy Continues
Kortnee comes from a family deeply rooted in rodeo history. Her mother, Kanesha Jackson, is an 11-time invitational champion, while her father, Cory Solomon, is a Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association tie-down roper.
Her grandmother, Stephanie Haynes, boasts 18 invitational championships and served on the Bill Pickett Rodeo board.
At just 5 years old, Kortnee made her debut at the Bill Pickett Rodeo, securing numerous championships in ladies’ barrel and junior breakaway events.
A Dedicated Cowgirl’s Life
Kortnee’s world revolves around her love for horses and the rodeo. Based in Hempstead, Texas, she and her mother care for their horses, handling everything from feeding and grooming to training and riding.
Despite the demanding rodeo season spanning May to September, Kortnee’s mother ensures she enjoys a regular childhood, participating in activities like dance, gymnastics, cheerleading, and basketball.
Inspiring a New Generation
Kortnee’s historic achievement at the nationally televised rodeo event has inspired others, including Olympic gymnast Simone Biles. Biles celebrated Kortnee’s success, sharing that she had once dreamed of being a cowgirl herself.
“When I was younger I used to want to be a cowgirl so bad & someone told me there was no black cowgirls, so I hung my cowgirl hat up!” Biles wrote.
