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Stran and Jennifer Smith - 2021

  • Writer: TCHOF
    TCHOF
  • Nov 12, 2020
  • 3 min read

Updated: 4 hours ago

Calf Roping & Miss Rodeo America

Induction Year: 2021

Stran Smith

Born: July 14, 1970

Ranching & Rodeo Family Background

Primary Discipline: Rodeo

Profession / Role: Professional Calf Roper

Primary Skills: Tie-Down/Calf Roping, National Finals Rodeo Competitor, Horsemanship

Known For: 2008 PRCA World Champion Tie-Down Roper, Eleven-time Wrangler National Finals Rodeo qualifier, Three-time Texas Circuit Champion, Resilience and overcoming severe injuries, including stroke and multiple traffic accidents.


Early Life and Background

Stran Smith grew up in a ranching and rodeo family but initially favored football and basketball over rodeo. At age 16, he committed to becoming a professional rodeo cowboy. He entered the PRCA in 1994 and qualified for his first National Finals Rodeo in 1995. Stran endured multiple personal and professional hardships, including a traffic accident that claimed his best friend, severe injuries to his knees, pelvis, and shoulder, and a stroke at age 32 that required experimental heart surgery. Through determination, he returned to competition and achieved his dream of winning the 2008 PRCA World Championship Tie-Down Roping title.


Professional Career and Rise

Stran qualified for the Wrangler National Finals Rodeo 11 times and won three Texas Circuit titles. His notable horses include Topper and Destiny, with whom he captured AQHA Horse of the Year honors and the 2008 National Finals Average title. He earned recognition as a fan favorite, twice receiving the Coors Fans’ Favorite award at the WNFR. Stran’s career earnings and accolades reflect consistency, skill, and a dedication to the sport.


Legacy and Impact

Stran Smith is celebrated not only for his competitive success but also for his inspirational journey. He has hosted Elevation Sunday during the NFR for 15 years, sharing faith-based encouragement with fans and fellow competitors. Through his monthly article “Down the Line with Stran Smith” and the “Tack Room Talks” video series, he continues to mentor young athletes and provide life lessons. He co-authored A Colonel and a Cowboy with retired West Point Colonel Craig Flowers.


Later Years

Stran and his wife Jennifer now focus on raising Black Angus cattle and managing their lifestyle brand, STS Ranchwear, at STS Ranch. They are dedicated to family life with their three children: Stone, Scout, and Selah. Stran’s commitment to coaching and teaching reflects his ongoing influence on rodeo and the western lifestyle.


Honors and Recognition

  • PRCA World Champion Tie-Down Roper, 2008

  • Eleven-time NFR Qualifier – Tie-Down/Calf Roping

  • Three-time Texas Circuit Champion

  • Coors Fans’ Favorite WNFR – 2×AQHA Horse of the Year – Topper (2003, 2005)

  • National Finals Average Champion, 2008

  • ProRodeo Hall of Fame Inductee – Class of 2025


Jennifer Smith

Born: Texas

Primary Discipline: Western Lifestyle / Rodeo Pageantry

Profession / Role: Miss Rodeo America 1995, Television Host & Producer, Creative Designer for STS Ranchwear

Known For:

  • Miss Rodeo Texas 1994

  • Miss Rodeo America 1995

  • 15-year career in equine and rodeo television for ESPN, CMT, CBS Sports, Outdoor Life Network, and Wrangler Network

  • Creative direction for STS Ranchwear and retail concept 1930 Remnant in Childress, Texas


Jennifer has used her platform to promote the Western way of life, produce equine content, and design a lifestyle brand reflecting her family’s ranching heritage.


Later Years

Jennifer and Stran Smith manage STS Ranch, their ranchwear brand STS Ranchwear, and the 1930 Remnant retail concept. Together, they continue to preserve and promote Western traditions while mentoring the next generation of rodeo athletes and equine enthusiasts.


Links and References

 



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