The highlight of Judy Gillum’s roping career came just several years ago, when she fi nished third and won the short round at the PRCA Gold Card roping in Salinas, Calif., heading for Buddy Simmons.
“It’s a 35-foot score and we’re roping against guys like Jerold and Leo Camarillo and David Motes,” Gillum said. “It’s just pretty cool.”
While it’s clearly a central part of her lifestyle, her livelihood has not always depended solely upon team roping and rodeo. She’s also proven herself to be a multifaceted businesswoman who is always seeking the next opportunity and fi nds solace in helping others. For 30-plus years she’s been involved in equine therapy— an occupation that led her to several National Cutting Horse Association championship titles. She also endorses Young Living Essential Oils for both humans and their equine partners, and has even ventured into the wine business, promoting her California label Western Wind.
Sean Gnekow, a good friend of the Gillum’s, had fl own out to watch Judy at the Wildfi re Roping.
“I hooked him up in the bar and he couldn’t understand why in the world he wasn’t involved in the industry,” laughed Gillum.
Sean runs the Gnekow Family Winery in Stockton, Calif., so with his assistance, and that of fellow friend and artist, Traci Hatch Shehady, Gillum launched Western Wind.
“I market it mainly in Arizona now. You can fi nd it in Total Wines, AJ’s Markets and several area restaurants. It’s a big process. We’re working on a new wine right now we’re calling Splash. Traci is working on the label and we’re hoping to launch the fi rst of October.”
From twirling twine to bottling wine, Judy Gillum has created a well-rounded life—and she couldn’t be any happier.
“My life today consists of a few essential things. First is my family, which includes a large, extended assortment of folks from all walks of life. In April, I taught at a national Young Living Animal Conference and that experience gave me a renewed love for helping others and teaching them about natural health for themselves and their animals. Oh yeah… and roping!”
