For 18-time world champion breakaway roper J.J. Hampton of Stephenville, Texas, roping isn’t about throwing the perfect loop.
“I know a lot of people who want their horse to be perfect. They want the pretty loop. But I don’t worry if my loop is pretty or if I roped the calf just right,” Hampton said. “I figure out how to win.”
Inspired by her father, professional cowboy Johnny Wayne Hampton, J.J. Hampton started roping young.
“I got my love for rodeo from my dad, plus I grew up on a ranch, so I was always riding horses and penning cattle,” Hampton said. “I started competing in other events when I was about four, but I roped for the first time when I was six.”
Fast forward to 2021. Hampton, 49, is still beaming from competing at the 2020 Wrangler National Finals Rodeo in Arlington, Texas. It was the first time that breakaway roping has ever been included in the NFR lineup.
“It was a great experience to be able to rope on that stage and get our picture in front of the yellow chutes,” Hampton said. “I hope it is a sign of greater things to come for women in rodeo.”
In addition to the support of her husband, Ricky Prince, and her son, Kason, who also ropes, Hampton relies on the support of her team as well as great products to help her succeed.
“When I rope, I reach for my Fast Back rope,” Hampton said. “I love that company and how they work hard and listen to what you need in a rope. I also love my purple 5 Star saddle pads. I use the 7/8” with fleece. I like the way they fit my horses and provide protection, which keeps them from being sore after we rope.”
Hampton’s custom purple hat by Capital Hatters makes her easy to spot at every event, especially for the young girls who idolize her.
“I always tell people, ‘Never give up.’ When I first started roping, my daddy didn’t think I could catch. Eighteen world titles later, I know I can. Whatever you have that you think isn’t perfect, you have to let go of that. Just be you and do the best you can,” Hampton said.
Favorite Hat: My purple hat from Capital Hatters!
Favorite Food: My family’s favorite food is the chicken fajitas at Joe T. Garcia’s in Fort Worth.
Favorite Saddle: My custom Jeff Beach saddle and my custom Billy Hogg saddle.
Best Horse: Milli, my Quarter Horse mare.
Best Rodeo: My favorite rodeos are in Wichita Falls, Texas, and Mexia, Texas.
