or Angel Horses founder Jonnie Jonckowski, opening doors for women in bull riding has been a lifelong commitment. In June 2026, that mission brought her to Taylor, Texas, to share her experience with a new generation of competitors.
Jonnie served as honorary coach for the inaugural OptiWize Women’s Bull Riding Challenge, hosted by the Austin Gamblers, Austin’s Professional Bull Riders (PBR) team and one of two PBR teams in Texas.
Held on Saturday, June 27, 2026, at 6 p.m. at the Williamson County Expo Center in Taylor, the challenge spotlighted elite female bull riders. The Austin Gamblers partnered with the Taylor Rodeo Association to present the evening, which also featured the third annual The Next Gambler competition—a showcase offering rising bull riders a chance to earn a provisional spot on the Gamblers’ roster.
From Champion to Coach
A two-time world champion and Hall of Fame cowgirl, Jonnie knows the determination it takes to pursue a place in the arena. She made history as the first woman to compete against men at the national bull riding championship level, helping challenge expectations about women’s place in the sport.
The women’s challenge was led by Jorden Halvorsen, a four-time women’s bull riding world champion and founder of Elite Lady Bull Riders. With Jonnie serving as honorary coach, the event connected generations of women united by their passion for bull riding.
For Jonnie, the opportunity carried special meaning. Ahead of the competition, she expressed her gratitude for the platform and her eagerness to pass along what she had learned:
“My heart is so happy, and I look forward to sharing with these ladies everything I learned along the way.”
Creating Opportunities for the Next Rider
Samantha Sullivan earned a win in the challenge, which also marked the launch of a partnership between Premier Women’s Rodeo and the Austin Gamblers to create more opportunities for women in professional bull riding.
Beyond the results, the event represented something Jonnie has worked toward throughout her career: a chance for women to demonstrate their talent, gain recognition, and help shape the future of the sport.
At Angel Horses, we’re proud to celebrate this continuing chapter in Jonnie’s story. Her legacy lives in her championships and Hall of Fame honors—and in the experience and encouragement she shares with those following in her footsteps.
Congratulations to Jonnie and all the women who stepped into the arena. We’re excited to see where their determination takes them next.
Read more about Jonnie’s involvement and the growth of women’s bull riding.