Dutch Is Back: Josie Conner Sets Arena Record at the Days of '47 Rodeo

When breakaway phenom Josie Conner left for the summer, her main mount, Dutch, was not in the trailer. This would be the first summer in awhile that Josie would not have the talented sorrel horse with her to rely on. He was injured, and Conner knew that leaving him at home for rest and recovery was the smartest move.

Although this many have seemed like a set back, it didn't effect Josie and her winning ways much. However, now that Dutch is back, she is feeling even more confident. 

Dutch just made his return, and on his first run back at the Days of 47' Rodeo in Salt Lake City, Utah, Conner was a 1.7 to set an arena record and win the first round. 

Recently, fans were introduced to a little mare by the name of Checkers. This little sorrel and Josie were a great match from the beginning. While Dutch was at home resting, Checkers sure stepped into some big shoes and did a great job filling them. 

Josie and Checkers won their quarter finals at the Cheyenne Frontier Days to advance on to the semi finals. It was the very next day that Dutch made an appearance in Utah and got the first round win. 

A great roper is only great with a great horse. Josie Conner is one of the best, and has been since a very young age. A big part of her success are the great horses she has been on since the beginning, and that has not changed.

This year, we have seen Josie on Joey Williams great mare Baybe as well. This duo just took home the big win at Rodeo Salinas. Now Checkers and her are on the way to a Cheyenne title, and Dutch is back in tow and winning mode too. 

Right now, the Louisiana cowgirl sits number 7 in the WPRA World Standings, with a good opportunity to move into the top 5 after this next week. A win in Cheyenne for Josie would really boost her in those standings. However, knowing Conner and her style of roping, it would be no surprise to see her sitting number 1 before the National Finals Breakaway Roping this December. 

2026 is a big year for Josie Conner. Not only is she chasing her first World Championship and her 5th NFBR qualification, but she is also getting a change of last name. Josie is engaged to 3x and reining World Champion tie-down roper Riley Webb. Between the two of them, you can only imagine the competitiveness and drive. 

With over $80,000 won on the year so far, the next goal is to move into that number one position. There is plenty of money up for grabs to do so in the coming weeks and you can bet every time Josie Conner backs into the box she has the ability and grit to get it done. 

Stay tuned on Rodeo Roundtable for all results and standings updates to come.