Clinton High Schooler Qualifies for Utica Stampede Rodeo presented by Mastrovito Chevrolet

Utica, NY – The Utica Stampede Rodeo and Expo presented by Mastrovito Chevrolet returns to Utica in just two days and is shaping up to be an unforgettable weekend as Clinton, New York’s very own, Laura Peck, is set to saddle up in the barrel racing event on Friday night. The event brings together the top professional cowboys and cowgirls from across the Northeast for two days of barrel racing, bronc jumping, bull riding, team roping and more at the Adirondack Bank Center. 

Peck has competed primarily in barrel races and horse shows over the past 10 years, only recently making the transition to rodeo competition. She had a strong showing in her very first competition last weekend in Florida and is looking forward to the opportunity to showcase her talents much closer to home this weekend. “I am so excited to compete in Utica! We compete all over the Northeast, but getting to be in my hometown will be an amazing experience," Peck commented. 

Peck started riding at Oriskany Creek Farms in Clinton before moving on to Galway Quarterhorses in Cleveland, NY, and now trains with Oakwood Manor in Binghamton under coaches Mike and Nicky Kurty. 

A member of the National Barrel Horse Association (NBHA), Peck has traveled all across the Northeast to attend barrel racing events and even had the opportunity to compete at the Youth Worlds in Georgia. 

Whereas barrel races are generally open-entry events where competitors can simply register and compete, rodeos require advance call-ins, qualifications, and more structured entry procedures. Peck’s transition to rodeo competition highlights her talent and dedication, made even more impressive by her young age as a rising high school senior. 

Peck trains and rides her horse, Streaks Arson, five days a week at her family’s farm. She received Streaks Arson as a Christmas gift and opted to keep the horse’s original registered name. 

With her senior year right around the corner, she plans to narrow her college search to schools with collegiate rodeo teams. 

Don’t miss your chance to see Laura Peck compete at the Utica Stampede Rodeo and Expo presented by Mastrovito Chevrolet. The festivities will take place at the Adirondack Bank Center this coming Friday, July 31st and Saturday, August 1st at 7 PM each night. Visit uticarodeo.com for tickets and details.