Cody Bell is no stranger to the reining horse world. His grandfather, George Bell, is a Million Dollar Owner and Million Dollar Breeder and his father, Brian Bell, is a lifetime NRHA earner of $2,168,907.58, it seems natural for Bell to fall into the reining arena as a competitor.

“I’ve grown up around it all my life, but this will be my first time to compete in reining,” Bell said. “It wasn’t until this past year-and-a-half that I’ve put more focus into it.”

The 22-year-old will compete in the Green Reiner division on a gelding owned by Tommy Tucker, known as “Chicago.” Smart Chicago Spook (Spooks Gotta Whiz x Smart Chicago Lena) is a horse who allows Bell to learn and has total lifetime earnings of $23,569.

“He wakes up every day and he always wants to be on your side, to be your friend,” Bell said. “Some horses are different every day and he is the same every day no matter what.”

Bell wasn’t expecting a show of this size to be his first show ever; he expressed sincere gratitude to Thomas for allowing him to show Chicago.

“Tommy was originally going to be showing here but he had a family emergency and wouldn’t be able to make it to this show,” Bell said. “So, he asked if I would like to show him.”

In typical Bell fashion, there must be family competition. Bell says his father, Brian, better enjoy these good days because he is coming for him