Whether you’ve been to one Cinch RSNC event or the sorting pen is your home away from home, ReeDee Vick is a familiar face to ranch sorters across the nation.
A Crowd Favorite
Based out of Burleson, Texas, in Tarrant County, Vick is on the road to judge Western events at least three weekends out of the month. A crowd-favorite judge, mentor and icon in the industry, she is a cherished part of the Cinch RSNC team who contributes greatly to the success of any event.
From barrel racing to pleasure classes, Vick has spent her life in the equine industry. But she found her true passion in halter horses.
“I’ve shown halter horses since the early 1980’s,” Vick said. “Heck, I traveled all over the United States and Canada showing. I loved it. Now I just have one halter horse left. He’s 22 and retired. I’ve done a little bit of everything, but I fell in love with the halter horses.”
As Vick became immersed in the show world, she threw her hat into the ring of a variety of different disciplines, including team penning.
“I started penning when it came to Texas and took everyone by storm, back in the ’80s.”
Find the Winter 2025 issue of The Ranch Sorter, celebrating the milestones of yesteryear, the ranch sorting community, and goals for a BIG new year!
Stepping Into the Judge’s Chair
As her son became old enough to ride on his own, Vick began her journey outside the arena.
“When my son wanted to start competing, I figured I’d give him the space to, so I started out announcing, and then judging,” she said. “He’s 46 now, and I’m still judging, so I guess it worked out.”
Vick has been judging events from the AQHA to the Cinch RSNC for 38 years. Whether it’s a penning, sorting, team roping, barrels, poles, or anything timed, there’s a good chance she’ll be there with a flag in her hand.
Vick started with the Cinch RSNC in 2010 and is now a head judge. She travels to all the major shows and has found a home in the association.
Home is the RSNC
“The RSNC is my main gig,” Vick said. “I love the shows, the family atmosphere, and the people.”
Vick notes that, although the competition at a Cinch RSNC event is fierce, the camaraderie is just as strong.
“Everybody cheers for each other and has a great time. It doesn’t matter if they’re your competition, folks are just happy to be there supporting each other, and it’s the most welcoming bunch of people you’ll meet.”
She touts the growth of the association and credits much of the success to the family-friendly and people-oriented atmosphere.
“There’s a reason we drag in 7,000 teams to our Finals, and it’s because the RSNC is top-of-the-line,” Vick stated, noting that the crew plays a big role, too. “Our announcer, Rowdy Fewel, is the man. He’s the best in the business. I respect him greatly, and I’m just tickled to death when he’s at my shows.”
“Have fun, that’s my motto. If you don’t have fun, you won’t come back, and we want you to come back. I’ve only ever had good experiences with contestants at the RSNC events, and everyone is just welcoming and friendly. If people aren’t having fun in my pen, then I’m unhappy, too. I just want to make sure everyone has a good time.”
ReeDee Vick
Vick has two pieces of advice for newcomers. First, from her judge’s perspective, is to read the rulebook.
“Each class is different. Whether you’re coming off a pony just learning to ride, or competing at the top, there’s something for everyone. But that means there might be different rules for each class, so be familiar with the rules and how the classes are run and ask for help if you need it.”
Her second piece of advice carries equal weight: Enjoy the ride.
“Have fun,” Vick asserted. “That’s my motto. If you don’t have fun, you won’t come back, and we want you to come back. I’ve only ever had good experiences with contestants at the RSNC events, and everyone is just welcoming and friendly. If people aren’t having fun in my pen, then I’m unhappy, too. I just want to make sure everyone has a good time.”
