Erin Johnson is no stranger to ProRodeo’s summer grind, but the four-time NFBR qualifier pulled off a memorable Cowboy Christmas run in 2025, topping all breakaway ropers with $16,628 in earnings across four ProRodeos.
Johnson, of Fowler, Colorado, kicked off the week with a steady start and closed it with a win at the World’s Oldest Rodeo in Prescott, Arizona, edging out California Circuit leader Suzanne Williams by just a few hundred dollars for the top Cowboy Christmas haul.
“I go into it with zero expectations,” Johnson said with a laugh during a phone interview on her way back to Colorado. “At this point, everything’s a blessing.”
She relied on her longtime partner Husker Be Smokin, better known as “Chico,” for every run during the holiday stretch—starting in Greeley, Colorado, and ending in Prescott. The 17-year-old gelding delivered clutch performances, even as Johnson dealt with trailer malfunctions, sleepless nights, and brutal hauls across the West.
“Chico really earned his keep,” Johnson said. “I decided if I was going to go to all these rodeos, I should give myself the best chance to enjoy it—and not have to worry about whether my horse would do his job. He’s traveled all over the country, he knows how to take care of himself, and he gives 110% every time.”
Johnson’s Cowboy Christmas included a $6,065 payday at Mandan Rodeo Days in North Dakota and a $6,277 win in Prescott. She also added checks from Greeley, Colorado ($2,279), and Oakley City, Utah ($2,007). With those earnings added to her pre-July 4 total of $25,329, Johnson now sits at $41,870—just outside the WPRA’s Top 15 but within striking distance.
@breakawayropingjournal She did that! Erin Johnson is the high money winner from Cowboy Christmas with $16,628 won. With @resistol1927 ♬ In The Air Tonight – State of Mine
Still, chasing a return to Las Vegas isn’t her main focus this year.
Instead, Johnson has been hauling with rookie contender Brooke Bruner, a young Colorado cowgirl Johnson once coached in high school. Bruner is currently leading the WPRA Rookie of the Year standings.
“My goal this year is helping Brooke learn the ropes,” Johnson said. “I’ve been there and done that. If I make the Finals again, awesome—but if not, that’s okay, too.”
To support that mission, Johnson even launched a nonprofit, Show Me the Ropes, to help fund mentorship-style rigs that pair rookies with veterans.
“Getting to travel with someone who’s been there is the best chance these young girls have,” Johnson said. “If we can make it a little easier on both ends, that’s a win.”
While Johnson’s Cowboy Christmas performance wasn’t part of some master plan, it could still become a turning point in her 2025 season—and a testament to the power of experience, grit, and a good horse.
