Kayla Williams of Rural Retreat has been named Southwest Virginia Horsewoman of the Year.
This is the biggest award presented annually by the independent media group, SW Virginia Equine Press Association. It goes to an adult leader in the equine community. Last year’s inaugural honoree was Erin Tate of Hillsville, who was also The Carroll News’ honoree.
The owner of Loping Ridge Therapeutic Riding and a Veterinary Technician at Radford Veterinary Hospital, Kayla is a mentor to area cowgirls and cowboys and organizes or assists with various equine programs and activities.
She coordinates the highly successful and popular Loping Ridge Fun Show Series.
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Seven-year-old Brylee Phipps of Crockett has been selected as the Southwest Virginia Junior Cowgirl of the Year by the SWVEPA for having a highly successful year of rodeo competition.
She is a true definition of all-around cowgirl, not only competing in equine events but also rough stock events, competing on a par with cowboys in her age group. During the last year, she built quite a good resume in her young rodeo career: