UPPER MARLBORO, Md. (WUSA/KGUN) — Having won the Maryland State Rodeo Queen twice, Morissa Hall is breaking barriers and inspiring others at just 16 year old.
She is the first African American to win consecutive titles.
According to her family, Hall has earned the following over the passed four years:
- All Around Champion Cowgirl
- Pole Bending Champion
- National competitions
"I compete in barrel racing, pole bending, goat tying and breakaway roping," she confirmed.
Hall says she convinced her dad to buy her a horse in middle school after earning straight As 16 times in a row. And though competing didn't go well for her at first, she never gave up.
"I was not doing that well." Hall explained. "Then we just clicked and we won all around champion, pole barrel reserve champion."
She describes the thrill of the ride.
"Is it dangerous? Oh yeah, it's dangerous," Hall shared. "You're on a 1,000 pound animal that has a mind of it's own."
Despite the danger, it also soothes her.
"I suffer from anxiety, so that was my best friend either. They're my emotional support animals," Hall revealed. "Each one different in it's own way. Which is why I appreciate and love all of them."
Since a national champion horse can easily run $100,000, Hall is now looking for a sponsor to help her along the journey.
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Caleb Fernández is a digital content producer for KGUN 9. After earning his bachelor's degree from Penn State in Advertising/Public Relations, Caleb went to New York where he learned production assistance, photography and art direction. Share your story ideas and important issues with Caleb by emailing caleb.fernandez@kgun9.com or by connecting on LinkedIn, Instagram, and Twitter.
