Make-A-Wish

In August of 2020, at age 10, Maddie Owens was diagnosed with Ewing sarcoma, an aggressive form of bone cancer. After treatment, surgery, and the fortunate circumstance of an early diagnosis, Maddie is now in remission with a minimal chance of the cancer returning. Just recently, Maddie was cleared to get back to doing what she loves: riding horses – which is exactly how the Cal Poly Rodeo Team was introduced to this sweet, inspiring girl and her family. Knowing her passion for the sport of rodeo, her Make-A-Wish Foundation sponsor, Megan Vincent, reached out to Coach Ben Londo and the Cal Poly Rodeo Team to see if Maddie’s wish could come true with their help. Coach Londo jumped on the opportunity, as did the entire team, eager to turn a dream into reality. With the help of Sierra Spratt, an assistant coach and member of Cal Poly Rodeo Team, Maddie was invited out to the practice facility on campus to “train” to become a barrel racer. For the next few months, Sierra and the rest of the team will be welcoming Maddie as a Mustang and getting her ready for the Poly Royal Rodeo in April, where Maddie will compete in the barrel racing event as a special guest of Cal Poly. “Honestly, the most exciting thing about all of this for her is just getting to ride again,” said Christa Owens, Maddie’s mom. Life is full of trials and hardships, but encouragement through it all can always be found on the back of a horse. The Cal Poly Rodeo Team is grateful to play a small part to providing Maddie with her wish. 

Read more stories on in the Fall 2021 Newsletter