Celtic Spotlight: Freshman Johanna Laud

For one Providence Catholic student, competition looks a little different depending on the day. Sometimes it means stepping onto the dance floor. Other times, it means climbing into the saddle and racing around barrels at full speed.

With a passion for both barrel racing and competitive dance, she has spent years developing her skills in two very different – but equally demanding – sports.

Her love of barrel racing began with someone very close to her: her mom.

“I would have to say my mom is my biggest inspiration,” she said. “She barrel raced when she was younger, and now she coaches me.”

Competing on rodeo circuits means much more than just time in the arena. It also requires a major commitment from her and her family, with competitions often taking them far from home.

“I barrel race in rodeo circuits, so that means lots of traveling,” she said. “We can be on the road for days and weeks at a time. I love the sport so much, and I have gained some of my closest friends from it. The hard work and travel barely matter when you see the finishing outcome of it all.”

When she isn’t in the saddle, there’s a good chance she can be found dancing.

After competing in dance full-time when she was younger and later spending time with a performance company, she is now returning to individual competitive dance. She is also a member of the Providence Catholic Varsity Dance Team, where she competes alongside her fellow Celtics during the school season.

Once the Providence season ends, she’ll trade one competition schedule for another as she begins competing individually with her dance studio.

For her, barrel racing and dance are more than activities. They are two passions that have helped shape who she is.

“They truly are the two things I love and do best,” she said. “There are so many amazing opportunities that come from both that can help my high school career, college and beyond. They both give me such important traits and important lessons learned.”

Whether she’s racing toward the finish line or taking the competition floor, the dedication, discipline and confidence she has developed through both sports continue to push her forward.

We’re proud to shine this week’s Celtic Spotlight on this talented student and can’t wait to see where both of her passions take her next!