Rodeo fans in Kennewick, Washington were left in shock as they watched a talented breakaway horse unexpectedly take his last breath there on the arena floor. Carlee Potter, professional breakaway roper, had to say a sudden goodbye to her five year partner, and best friend that they called Tippee. That evening, PRCA calf roper Bryce Derrer was competing on Tippee when the incident occurred, while the Potter family watched the heartbreaking moment unfold on live television.

Washington State University later confirmed that Tippee was in perfect health. The cause of death was determined to be a ruptured aorta, an unpreventable and unexpected condition. According to the Potter family and all involved, his passing was sudden and horrific, but painless for Tippee. 

Tippee had been a standout in the breakaway roping and calf roping at all levels. Over the past five years, he helped Carlee herself achieve multiple wins, championships, and awards, earning a reputation as a “once-in-a-lifetime horse,” for the family. 

After the incident, Tippee was transported back to the family ranch in Kansas, where he will be buried in the hay meadow he loved most. Carlee Potter posted a tribute on social media, calling Tippee “one in a million” and thanking him for the joy, wins, and companionship he brought over their five years together. 

“Tippee Toes you are truly that one in a million…thank you for changing my life and letting me get to experience everything we did in the 5 years I had you! A personality larger than he was, and a heart bigger than that. Thank you Tippee Toes for the many smiles, all the wins and mostly being my best friend! Enjoy all the green grass, belly deep water and all the treats you want!” said Carlee. 

Amy Potter also took to social media, sharing pictures and memories of the team together. Her post read, “He passed doing exactly what he loved to do... and in front of a big crowd. Bryce said the crowd was roaring that night, and Tippee was excited and loving it.” 

She continued speaking of the opportunities Tippee gave Carlee. “I could tell you 100 different stories of where Tippee stepped up and put her at the line to be a champion… and I can tell you zero stories where he failed her.” 

In the horse industry, sudden losses like Tippees are sometimes the unfortunate reality. These horses are athletes, and sometimes unexplainable things happen. Carlee Potter, as the determined cowgirl she is, is expected to return to the arena and continue racking up wins with her rope. But the horses that shape us, push us, and teach us so much—those once in a lifetime partners are always the hardest to lose. 

We send our condolences and prayers to the Potter family during this difficult time.