Polk County High School student Essie Mitchell

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The path to rodeo excellence is rarely smooth, and Polk County High School’s Essie Mitchell knows this better than most.

After suffering a devastating loss last August when her horse Mack passed away unexpectedly just before the start of the high school rodeo season, Mitchell faced the daunting task of finding a new competitive partner. The setback could have derailed her season before it began.

Instead, Mitchell found strength in a new mount — Bogie Dancin for Cash, nicknamed Dancer — and the partnership proved golden.

At the South Carolina High School Rodeo Association season finals on May 24 at Clemson University, Mitchell and Dancer placed fourth overall in barrels, earning a coveted spot at the National High School Finals Rodeo set for July 13-19 in Rock Springs, Wyoming.

Mitchell’s summer schedule is packed with high-level competition. She will compete in the International Finals Youth Rodeo July 6-11 at the Heart of Oklahoma Exposition Center in Shawnee, Oklahoma, before heading to Wyoming for nationals.

Mitchell also earned a spot at the National Barrel Horse Association Youth Worlds show in Perry, Georgia, in July, though she will miss that event due to her NHSFR commitment.

The busy competitive slate reflects Mitchell’s growth as a rider. She has also been testing herself in the open 1D division at local jackpots, competing against seasoned riders and holding her own against tough competition.