Andalusia High School rising sophomore Mary-Ella McClain said she is “excited” about competing in the Alabama High School Rodeo Finals this week at the Covington Center Arena.

McClain will compete in the barrel racing event Thursday and Friday nights.

She said she got started riding three years ago after her dad got her a horse for her birthday, and that this is her first year in the high school rodeo.

“It’s a good way to meet new friends,” McClain said.

More importantly, McClain said being in the rodeo has helped her to “keep striving to do better.”

This week, McClain said her main goal is to keep all of the barrels up, and just have a good time.

“I’m going to ride my best out there,” she said.

McClain is an honors student at AHS, and is the daughter of Angie and Kevin McClain of Andalusia.