Chloé Flowers in conversation with Tiffany Guess
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As we shed light on Oklahoma cowboys, we must hold space for the cowgirls too. There are many black cowgirls who contribute to the lifestyle and Tiffany is one of them.
Who influenced you to become a cowgirl & at what age?
I grew up in the cowboy/girl culture. My parents, grandparents and so on and so forth own land, cows, horses, etc. I've been a cowgirl since birth essentially.
What is special about being a BLACK cowgirl?
The most sacred part about being a black cowgirl is the flavor we add to the sport. Not only the athleticism, but a lot of these cowboys and girls do a little "one two" in the arena if they like the music that's being played. It's a great feeling when you can be your authentic self around your friends and family.
What is unique about being a cowgirl from Oklahoma?
The uniqueness of being an Oklahoma cowgirl comes from just growing up in the environment. A lot of cowgirls in Oklahoma work hard to obtain land so they can raise/care for their livestock right in their own backyard. We also have a different country girl swag. I was in DC last weekend for the "Bill Pickett Invitational Rodeo Finals" and everyone knew I wasn't from there just by the unique clothes I wore. It was really cool saying "I'm from Oklahoma".
What is something most people don't know about this lifestyle?
Something most people don't know about this lifestyle is that there is government assistance available. In recent news, "Governor Kevin Stitt signed HB 1006 to help Oklahoma farmers and ranchers overcome challenges created by this year's extreme drought conditions. 20 million will be dispersed to the farmers that qualify and apply for it."
What are some interests that you have outside of being a cowboy/girl?
Interests that I have outside of being a Cowgirl are DJing, event planning (parties & nonprofits), and also truck driving competitions. A lot of my hobbies are also my passions and since I rodeo so much they intertwine.
What is the best thing about your rodeo community?
The best thing that I've witnessed about our rodeo community is how we come together when it matters the most. At some rodeos, we need someone to quickly step up and honor a fallen cowboy/girl. Even things as simple as encouraging the younger generation to keep their head up after a not so good run.
How has this lifestyle made you a better person?
One way this lifestyle has made me a better person is simply responsibility. I put more effort into getting to rodeos than I do going to my normal job. Packing and making sure you have everything before you get to the rodeo is key. Nine times out of ten the rodeo is at least an hour away from my home, so if I forget anything I just have to improvise.
What is one of your most cherished memories being a cowboy/cowgirl?
One of my favorite memories living this life was seeing my Nigerian Pigmy goats that I've raised since they were young giving birth to two kids on my vacation. It was a learning process but I was happy I was available to be there to help the first time mothers.
Another memory would be Okmulgee Rodeo 2022. Saturday night. Mr. Leblanc and Mr. Friday turned me loose into a full house in that large arena. It doesn't get any better than to feel the crowd's energy on one of the best nights of the year in black rodeo!
