Ziebell, Holzschuh compete in Merrill
By Holly Neumann
Rodeo is a family tradition for Rachel Holzschuh and Pete Ziebell.
The duo has now moved it up a notch, forming a father-and-daughter roping team.
“I have always wanted to rope with my daughter,” said Ziebell, chairman of Manawa’s Mid-Western Rodeo. “It was a goal I had set a long time ago. I think it’s great.”
“I think my dad’s cool, so it is fun to be able to rope with him,” Holzschuh said. “I’m excited.”
As the two entered the arena June 13 at the Wisconsin River Pro Rodeo in Merrill, the pair were announced as the first father/daughter team that ever participated.
It was Holzschuh’s first professional rodeo.
“I just wanted to puke,” she said. “I was so nervous.”
Holzschuh is the header, Ziebell the heeler.
“I get the first of everything,” Holzschuh said. “I am also the one to get a speeding ticket, as it’s called when you break the barrier. If I miss, my dad does not get the chance to throw his rope. If I catch, my dad gets a shot and hopefully catches two feet.”
“As a heeler, I don’t get to make decisions,” Ziebell said. “I’m used to it.”
The duo is also looking forward to competing in the Mid-Western Rodeo, which will be held July 1-3.
“It’s an adrenaline rush,” Holzschuh said. “Some of the best team ropers in the Great Lakes Circuit are there. It can be a little intimidating, but a rodeo like Manawa can make your year.”
Holzschuh and Ziebell enjoy the competition, the rodeo family and the feeling of accomplishment.
“Hardest part is we can’t cut them loose because we still have family dinner,” Ziebell said.
They are looking to the future as well.
“Hopefully, I will be roping with my daughters,” Holzschuh said.
“Hopefully, I will be roping with my granddaughters,” Ziebell added.
“Rodeo has always been about family and values,” Holzschuh said. “We are just reinforcing that.”