The American West

Rodeo pioneer DeBoraha Townson wears a black cowboy hat, shirt and jeans while standing in front of cactuses in her backyard in Agua Dulce, California.

The American West

The Black Cowgirl of Agua Dulce

She made rodeo history three decades ago. Now, from her California ranch, DeBoraha Townson is passing down a legacy of land, horses and resilience — even as she competes with two torn shoulders.

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