Josie Conner and her 16-year-old gelding “Stylish Drifter,” known as Dutch, have done what only one other duo has managed in breakaway history—be named Horse of the Year twice. On the newest episode of The Breakdown, Conner joins Lillian Kent to talk about Dutch’s rare repeat as the 2025 AQHA Nutrena Breakaway Horse of the Year and the partnership that’s carried them to the top of ProRodeo.
After a season that included major victories at The American Rodeo and the Women’s Rodeo World Championships—with more than $169,000 earned—Conner admits she was nervous Dutch would be overlooked this year. “I was proud my peers still voted for him,” she shares. “These horses are the reason we’re successful, and I’m more proud of Horse of the Year than Rookie of the Year.”
Episode supported by Kimes Million Dollar Breakaway
The Kimes Ranch Million Dollar Breakaway, presented by Boot Barn, is the premier event in women’s rodeo,featuring a record-breaking million-dollar purse, inspiring competition, live concerts, shopping, and family fun at WestWorld of Scottsdale, November 24–30.
