Radville -
The key is consistency and Kevin Folk has remained consistent from the start of the rodeo season early this spring throughout the entire season. His name stands at the top of the Bud Light standings in the number one position within the tie down roping event and he is confident that all his hard work is paying off.
Kevin Folk's story is unlike 99% of most rodeo competitors, he did not grow up with a family member to learn from. Rodeo was not something he was raised around and neither was the ranching environment. His dad and mom, Gerry and Debbie own Houston Pizza in both Swift Current and Medicine Hat and Kevin along with his brother Keith worked within the family business. It wasn't until both the Folk brother's, Kevin and Keith started hanging out with friends that roped in the area, including Stacy Cornet and Blaine Switzer, that they became intrigued by the sport of rodeo and competition. Kevin says, "After a lot of coaching and long hours in the practice pen, I picked up the sport and never looked back."
Most of us are pre-wired with individual talents and skills, Kevin Folk proves you don't need a western background to live the lifestyle he chooses, just hard work, discipline, dedication and patience. He is quick to credit his support system, which consists of mentors, friends and family including his wife, Kendra who Kevin says, "is a big reason for my success. She helps me practice which means opening the chute, "the funnest job ever", and untying calves. She also takes care of things at home and does chores while I'm on the road." He also credits his horse "Quincy" who is a 12 year old mare that he purchased from Canadian Cowboys' Association barrel racer, Jane Corey and trained as a tie down roping horse. "Its nice to be back in the box and know your horse is going to give you a good chance to win every time," comments Kevin.
Kevin along with his wife Kendra and 18 month old son, Colter make their home in Swift Current, Saskatchewan. When not at a rodeo, Kevin works at the PFRA pasture and does construction work. Last year saw Kevin at his first Canadian Cowboys' Association Finals Rodeo and a qualification within the tie down roping at the Chinook Rodeo Association Finals as well. 2009 will definitely mark another appearance at the prestigious finals for Kevin and the possibility of his first year end championship.
Kevin realizes you cannot win all the time. Like a true competitor he recognizes that he has gained wisdom from poor results within the sport he loves, but at the same time is grateful for the joy of his success in the 2009 season.
By: Kelley Byrne
