NFR Barrel Racer Sydni Blanchard Turns Tragedy Into Team Fearless

Barrel racing is an intense and dangerous sport, along with all the other rodeo events. Athletes always carry the risk of getting seriously injured, and sometimes it's not a matter of if they will, but when.

After qualifying for her first Wrangler National Finals Rodeo in 2010, Sydni Blanchard suffered a tragic accident at RodeoHouston in 2011, which left her unable to walk and therefore unable to compete.

"I had given up so much to get to that point in my professional career. We gave up the fun kid's stuff, hanging out with friends and things like that," said Blanchard, 34, of Pueblo, Colo. 

Qualifying for the NFR allows participants to compete in the largest rodeos based on their standings from the previous year. However, having to withdraw from these rodeos, coupled with the fear that she might never be able to ride professionally again, terrified Blanchard.

She focused on rehabilitating her body and brain and though underwater therapy allowed her to walk in water, she struggled to maintain the same ability on land.

"It was very disheartening."

Little did she know that picking up Max Lucado's book, Fearless would alter her life.

"It's about being fearless no matter what journey you are on. Even though you want something so badly it doesn't mean that's God's divine plan."

After surrendering her life to God, Blanchard began to heal quickly and felt a sense of peace. Her worries about the future and her circumstances faded away.

Blanchard earned a qualification for the Calgary Stampede, which only allowed the top nine barrel racers from the previous NFR. She was determined to participate despite her injuries and underwent constant rehabilitation.

I couldn't sit up with my feet down or push on the gas pedal because my legs would lose feeling so my brother had to drive me."

Blanchard was overwhelmed with gratitude and excitement upon arriving in Calgary. Despite being told she may never walk or ride again, being able to compete was a monumental accomplishment for her.

Blanchard accomplished another feat by winning all rounds of the Calgary Stampede, a first in the history of Calgary that has not been repeated since.

"When I was signing autographs, I would always write, 'Be Fearless'"

This helped to spark the idea and led to the creation of Team Fearless.

"The message of Team Fearless is to help people be fearless no matter what they are going through and no matter what they do in any walk of life."

"Team Fearless" is an online circuit that welcomes barrel racers from all over the world. Any race, regardless of location or size, counts towards the championship. Competitors simply log into the app, input their placing at the barrel race, and points are tracked for year-end championship standings.

Blanchard not only hosts the online circuit but also hosts the Team Fearless show in Las Vegas, Nev., during the NFR. This show will kick off during the Stetson Country Christmas at the Rio Hotel.

The first day will feature various speakers sharing their experiences of living fearlessly. The lineup includes Amberley Snyder, who despite being paralyzed, still competes in barrel racing.

For the full schedule and list of guest appearances visit facebook.com/teamfearlessbarrelracing.