sally preston

Sally Preston is a lifelong cowgirl whose impact on rodeo spans competition, leadership, and education. Born March 30, 1944, and raised in Pecos, Texas, Preston’s journey reflects both the heritage of West Texas rodeo and a deep commitment to advancing opportunities for women in the sport. 

Preston made her mark early, becoming a world champion optional roper in the American Junior Rodeo Association (AJRA) from 1964–1965, where she also served as Vice President. Her talent carried into her college years at Tarleton State University, where she excelled both academically and athletically. From 1966–1970, she was recognized in Who’s Who at Tarleton and claimed breakaway roping and all-around championships at the Tarleton rodeo. She went on to become a champion breakaway roper in the Southwestern College Region and competed at the national level, solidifying her reputation as a standout competitor. 

Continuing her success in professional rodeo, Preston won the barrel racing title at the Fort Worth Southwestern Exposition and Livestock Show in 1975 and qualified for the WPRA World Finals multiple times between 1981 and 1985. Beyond her achievements in the arena, she played a pivotal role in shaping women’s rodeo, serving as a director for the Women’s Professional Rodeo Association (WPRA), helping guide and support the growth of the sport for future generations. 

Preston’s connection to the West of the Pecos Rodeo runs deep. Beginning in 1960 and continuing through 1999, she participated in the grand entry and competed in barrel racing, becoming a familiar and respected presence in Pecos. She recalls the experience as “always a fun time and so exciting,” and credits the rodeo and its people as a lasting source of inspiration. Her decades-long involvement reflects a true dedication to preserving the tradition and spirit of rodeo in West Texas. 

In addition to her rodeo career, Preston devoted her professional life to education and service. She spent seven years as a school teacher and worked for the Texas Department of Agriculture for 24 years. Her academic accomplishments include earning a teaching certificate and a master’s degree, along with recognition in Who’s Who Among Students in American Universities and Colleges. 

Her contributions to rodeo and her community have been recognized with numerous honors, including induction into the Tarleton Rodeo Hall of Fame in 2012 and the Texas Rodeo Cowboy Hall of Fame in 2021 as part of Tarleton State University’s NIRA women’s team. 

Sally Preston’s legacy is one of dedication, leadership, and love for the Western way of life. From the arena to the classroom to the rodeo grounds of Pecos, she has left a lasting mark on the sport and continues to represent the values and traditions that define Texas rodeo.