Teresa Duffek of Dwight, Nebraska has always had a love for horses. Growing up on a ranch near Burwell, she spent many days in the saddle moving cattle and completing other tasks horseback. She has competed in multiple levels of rodeo, and in various associations.
These days, Duffek has found herself in a new arena: literally and figuratively.
The 65-year-old cowgirl has found her place competing in the Ultimate Horseman’s Challenge Association, an entity sanctioned by the Extreme Cowboys Association. She has been competing in this realm for the last three years, and even ended up 7th at their World Finals in Glen Rose, Texas last year.
Duffek enjoys the competition and the company within UHCA.
“I have truly never been in such a welcoming association,” Duffek said. “It is unbelievable the friendships that you can make.”
UHCA welcomes riders of all levels, providing eight challenge divisions allowing riders to compete against others riding at a similar level. UHCA Events challenge both horse and rider to maneuver through a series of obstacles, while demonstrating skill, finesse, horsemanship and speed. A score is given for each obstacle on the course and riders are judged on overall horsemanship. UHCA races are timed events, however time accounts for less than 10% of available points.
Duffek says competing in the UHCA has challenged her to become a better horsewoman.
“When you’re out gathering cattle, you just get the job done,” Duffek said. “I have really had to learn proper posture, how to sit in my saddle to help my horse move forward.”
You can find more information about UHCA here: https://ultimatehca.com/
Watch or listen to our interview with Teresa here:
