Young Guns – Katy Lucas

In the May/June issue of Western Horse Review, we searched out some of the most accomplished and influential youth in the western horse industry and compiled our first-ever Young Guns – Top 25 Youth Under 25. We came up with six categories: Ambassadors, Artisans, Entertainers, Competitive, Entrepreneurs and Science. From self-discipline to unwavering focus, we were reminded that the dreams often fostered in young minds and hearts can translate to adulthood, and that good old fashioned determination can still achieve what many think is impossible. We loved the true western code of ethic each of our top 25 exude.

It evolved into such an inspiring piece we decided to recreate it online, with the fuller interviews and stories of each of our deserving Top 25. Look for them here at Screen Doors & Saddles over the next six months, as I'll reveal one every week or so! 

Katy Lucas

She embodies the countrified, go-getter persona of the decade. Katy Lucas’ assertiveness and charm has hit the world of rodeo broadcasting in the sweet spot. This summer, she will be working with Rangeland Media to produce Road to the CFR segments for Edmonton, Alberta’s Northlands Park. She is also working as production manager for Juxtapose Production’s, Hell on Hooves television show, charged with arranging interviews and directing camera crews while on set at rodeos.

“Now that I am finished school, I am setting my sites on a career in rodeo broadcasting,” Lucas explains. She recently completed her Communication Arts Diploma and specialized in Broadcast Journalism at Lethbridge College. Lucas earned herself top honors for each semester and received the program’s ‘Top Broadcaster’ award.

“I hope to some day be one of the top rodeo broadcasters in North America and be able to cover events all over the continent. I see myself in the near future doing behind-the-scenes interviews at the Canadian and National Finals rodeos, as well as larger pro rodeos during the regular season.”

Lucas was raised on a ranch, in a family of four. Her father is retired rodeo cowboy, Joe Lucas.

“He has always tried to give my younger brother, Kyle and I every opportunity to succeed – both in and out of the rodeo arena. My mom, Sheona Lucas has also always been there every step of the way. Whether it was making sure we got our homework done so we could go to the rodeo, or making sure we had enough clean clothes to last the weekend, she was always there helping us out,” Lucas tells.

As for horses, Lucas got her start in junior rodeos at very early age. In fact, she actually has permanent proof on her forehead from falling off a horse when she was only a baby. But as they say, cowgirls dig their scars and it’s clear the young woman is proud of this one.

Through the 2008/09 season, Lucas was the Carstairs Rodeo Queen and went on to become the Alberta High School Rodeo Queen for the 2010/2011 season. She has also been the Vice President and President of the Alberta High School Rodeo Association (AHSRA). Next year, she plans to run for Miss Rodeo Ponoka and then move on to run for Miss Rodeo Canada.

As if that weren’t enough, Lucas also has her own booming’ business on the side. KatyDid Custom Jewelry is a venture she operates in her free time. Triggered by her passion for designing custom western necklaces, bracelets, earring and key chains, Lucas offers a one-of-a-kind flare for forever cowgirl pieces. Lucas may be her own best customer as she admits to owning over 40 pairs of earrings, but for a teenager’s debut into the world of business this should be a journey worth following.

~ Jennifer Webster