Sisters in the Saddle: Faithlynn and Nevaeh Ride Together at the 80th Annual Boys Ranch Rodeo
Having lived at Cal Farley’s Boys Ranch for the past six years, Faithlynn, 16, and Nevaeh, 15, have developed a deep bond with their horses and an unbreakable sisterhood. This year, their grit and grace will shine in the arena at the 80th Annual Boys Ranch Rodeo, embodying the spirit of the place they proudly call home.
Prior to coming to Boys Ranch, the girls had very little interaction with horses, but found the opportunity to ride horses and learn rodeo skills was a good way to spend time outside of the house.
While Faithlynn said she has learned to manage her anger, Nevaeh says her time at Boys Ranch has allowed her to voice her needs and feelings.
“I had touched a horse once,” Faithlynn said with a smile. “Now that I’ve been doing it for five years, it’s just so fun. I like going fast.”
While Faithlynn rides horses for adventure and enjoyment, Nevaeh is driven by her competitive nature with her sister.
“She’s the oldest, and she’s always first place, so I’m always trying to get better. Having her do rodeo with me just pushes me to keep going so maybe I can do better,” Nevaeh said.
Working with horses has allowed the sisters to learn to care for animals but also find reverence in the everyday pace of life.
“In the Bible there were animals, and we have animals here. You get to see and live around these animals and build relationships with them like Jesus did with the sheep,” Faithlynn said.
Both girls also enjoy attending prayer rides when their schedules allow them to do so.
“That time lets you kind of clear your brain, and just listen to God,” Nevaeh said.
That foundation of faith was largely built during their time at Boys Ranch.
“I was baptized before I came here, but I didn’t really know the meaning, honestly,” Faithlynn said. “Then I came here, and it just helped me build a closer relationship with God. Sometimes God is the only one you can rely on, and you have to trust that He will lead you on the right path, and honestly, just pray.”
The sisters are involved in a variety of sports and events, as well as having high aspirations for their futures. Faithlynn wants to join the military and work in the medical field, while Nevaeh hopes to one day be a lawyer.
The girls said they appreciate their house parents for encouraging them to try new things, even if they are initially unsure, which has led them to find many fulfilling experiences.
With so much on the horizon, the high school juniors are currently focused on making memories in the 80th Annual Boys Ranch Rodeo.
Faithlynn is happy to work with different horses, but Neveah prefers familiarity.
“I like it when I ride a different horse because it’s fun to see how a different horse works with you,” Faithlynn said.
For Nevaeh she would rather get to know one horse over time and have consistency.
“When you have one horse, it allows you to build a relationship and gain trust from each other,” Nevaeh said.
However, the horses are only one piece of the rodeo. The girls said that they also enjoy building bonds with their fellow participants.
“It’s an activity where you can build relationships and gain trust from each other. We have a bond so it’s more fun,” Faithlynn said.
“That is why people should come see the rodeo. It’s not like any other rodeo. We are out there competing together. We know each other and cheer for each other. It’s all really driven by fun and having a good time.”
The sisters also appreciate the donors for providing them with not only a home, but also so many areas to learn and grow.
“Thank you so much to the donors,” Nevaeh said. “The ranch wouldn’t be the way it is without them.”