Growing up, her passion for horses and the equestrian lifestyle led her to any horse-related activities: She held three different rodeo queen titles. Through her rodeo experiences, she was introduced to the Cowgirls Historical Foundation in 2005. She has been riding with this non-profit organization since then. The group just returned from their third trip to the Tournament of Roses Parade in Pasadena, California.
Taryn also enjoys expressing her equestrian interests through her artwork. Her work has garnered several art competitions on state and national levels, and has been featured in magazines and museums.
Taryn’s love of horses has also prompted many equestrian studies. She spent a year of her life working on a science research paper called “Measuring Stress and Immune Response in Students Following Interaction with a Horse.” This study scientifically explored the physical health benefits of being with horses. Her subjects in the study showed reduced levels of the stress hormone cortisol and increased levels of the antibody immunoglobulin-A. Her research was earned the United States Navy Science Achievement Award and continues to buttress equine therapy groups today.
Taryn’s ultimate goal in life is to preserve the western heritage and equestrian lifestyle. She has donated hundreds of community service hours towards this goal through the Cowgirls Historical Foundation, as well as other avenues.
In April 2009, Taryn competed in the Miss Rodeo Arizona Pageant and was named Miss Rodeo Arizona 2009. Throughout her tenure, she will be traveling the country, going to rodeos and other functions while furthering her goal to preserve the western way of life.
