Learning the ropes of rodeo

By Jamie Rieger
Cowboys and girls from across the province gathered at the Kielstra farm recently for clinics  that were instructed by two of the best in the rodeo business.
Mike and Sherrylynn Johnson brought a wealth of knowledge and expertise to the clinic. Mike, being a 23-time qualifier for the National Finals rodeo and Sherrylynn a four-time NFR qualifier.
The couple have been holding annual clinics at the Kielstra farm for about five years, after daughter Chrissy participated in a number of their breakaway and goat tying clinics.
“She was only about six or seven years old at the time, really young, and this turned into us doing clinics at their place,” said Sherrylynn, adding that she and Mike are impressed with the facilities the Kielstra’s have at their farm.
Between competing at rodeos and holding 35-36 clinics each year, the Oklahoma couple only spend about 44 days a year at home. The recent two-week clinic involved 12 tie-down ropers, 12 in breakaway, and 10-12 barrel racers.
“We had a fantastic group of calf ropers. We get such exciting people. Everybody learns and everybody has fun,” said Pat Kielstra, adding that the have the Johnson’s put on the clinics every ear.
“They are world class and have an incredible ability to instruct. That is why we always get them to come back. They are such good people.”