05/19/2026
Ruth Haislip was not only an accomplished and amazing competitor, she was a talented veterinarian, a devoted mother, a dedicated wife… and one of my dearest friends and mentors.
Ruth is the reason I began to rodeo and earned my WPRA card. I did so on one of my soulmates, Go Be Quick ("Quickie"), who happened to be Scarlett’s half-sister. Ruth taught me the process: how to fill my permit, enter rodeos, care for my horses at an elite level, how to understand the science of medications and regenerative procedures, all while giving me constructive feedback, and pushing me to be the best version of myself.
She was also the driving force behind my business as an ATS Certified Acuscope Therapist. She and her husband, Jim, traveled with their own set of equipment for Scarlett, and Ruth constantly encouraged me to dive into my own research to expand my bodywork practice.
I always thought of Ruth as my big sister. I respected her deeply, valued her wisdom, and will always cherish her friendship and how she supported me. Whenever I felt alone in this industry, she was always there for me, no matter how busy she was. I still think of her often and what advice she would give me today. Her memories usually come when I ride in the evenings when the world seems at peace.
Today, I love seeing and hearing stories about the horses she bred and took such pride in. Her sons have grown into successful professionals and genuinely good human beings, which is a true testament to the mother she was, and how she continues to be a part of them.
Ruth Haislip was a fierce competitor, having qualified for three National Finals Rodeos. She was compassionate about caring for all of her four-legged patients in her small animal veterinary practice, even though all who knew her can attest to her immense love of cats.
In 1969, she won the queen’s contest at the Arizona High School Finals Rodeo. She competed in college rodeo for one year while working on her undergraduate degree at the University of Arizona. At U of A, she was part of their 1973 National Championship Rodeo Team and won the Miss College Rodeo title. Haislip used her remaining years of eligibility while attending veterinary school at Colorado State University and was the Rocky Mountain Region Champion Barrel Racer in 1977.
Read more here: https://bhnmag.co/ruth-haislip