Submitted Photo Kaitlyn Potter, 11, of Souris, has emerged as one of the top youth barrel racers in the country. She hopes to compete in the National Little Britches Rodeo Finals in Oklahoma in July.

SOURIS – She’s putting the spurs to this one in a race for the National Little Britches rodeo. Kaitlyn Potter has qualified for the national finals in barrel racing. The 11-year-old Souris resident is currently ranked 11th nationally out of 414 competitors in pole bending and also ranks in the top 100 in barrel racing.

Despite her young age, doing well in the saddle is nothing for Potter. She’s captured 20 gold buckles at various youth rodeos and barrel racing jackpots. Among her accomplishments was National Barrel Horse Association Youth World’s Qualifier in 2016 and 2018, and a National Little Britches Rodeo Association National Finals Qualifier in 2017 and 2018.

This year’s nationals are scheduled to be held July 10-15 in Guthrie, Okla. Potter is currently seeking sponsors to help with expenses for the trip to the nationals. Her dream is to become a high school rodeo competitor and, eventually, a professional barrel racer.

Anyone wishing more information on Kaitlyn Potter’s quest to compete at the nationals or about National Little Britches Rodeo can contact Justin or Nicky Potter at 217-0016 or check out Kaitlyn Potter Barrel Racing on Facebook.