Jewell Modkins wins barrel racing at Texas Connection Series stop of legacy rodeo tour
FORT WORTH, Texas (AP) — Jewell Modkins captured the barrel racing title Saturday at the Texas Connection Series stop of the Bill Pickett Invitational Rodeo, delivering a fast, clean run that energized the opening weekend of the tour’s 42nd year.
Competing at Cowtown Coliseum, Modkins guided her horse through a tight three-barrel pattern, accelerating out of the final turn to post the winning time before an enthusiastic crowd.
The 2026 season features an expanded Legacy Tour alongside the Texas Connection Series, highlighting the rodeo’s history and its ongoing role in showcasing Black cowboys and cowgirls across the country. Saturday’s event marked the series’ Fort Worth stop, drawing regional competitors and fans.
Organizers said the anniversary season will continue with additional tour dates throughout the year, building on more than four decades of competition and community engagement.
The Bill Pickett Invitational Rodeo celebrates and honors Black Cowboys and Cowgirls and their contributions to building the west. We highlight the irrefutable global appeal of Black Cowboys and Cowgirls in the West and the stories behind a sub-culture that is still strong today. BPIR also serves as a cultural event and opportunity for families to enjoy and embrace the cowboy culture, while being educated and entertained with reenactments, history highlights, and western adventure.
