McCoy’s Farm and Ranch Family: The Nixon Family

The Nixon Family Region III

Congratulations to the Nixon Family from Amistad, New Mexico, they have been chosen as the Region 3's McCoy's Farm and Ranch Family. Jamie and Mikael Nixon, along with their children and grandchildren, manage Nixon Quarter Horses, a family-owned and operated ranch that’s as much about legacy as it is about livelihood. 

Rodeo wasn’t something Jamie or Mikael grew up with, but as their children entered high school, they discovered rodeo as a way to spend meaningful time together. When their eldest daughter began competing, the family found themselves immersed in a new world of roping and riding.

“We started out new to everything, but rodeo allowed us to do something as a family,” Jamie explains. The Nixons embraced the learning curve, and the passion has only grown over the years.

Now, their younger two children, Jorgia (17) and Myles (16), are going “full throttle” with rodeo, as Jamie puts it. Jorgia competes in breakaway roping, while Myles takes on tie-down roping. Both compete in Region 3 of the Texas High School Rodeo Association (THSRA), a choice that speaks to the family’s determination to stick with rodeo despite challenges.

Although rodeo wasn’t part of Jamie and Mikael’s upbringing, it has become a major part of their family’s story—a journey they embarked on for their children and which has led them to compete in Texas rodeos instead of staying within state lines.

The Nixon family ranch dates back to the 1940s when Mikael’ grandparents settled in Amistad. Today, the family raises around 50 mares and five studs, a careful selection aimed at quality over quantity. Alongside the horse operation, they also manage a substantial cow-calf operation with about 500 mama cows. “All of us work here full-time,” says Jamie, underscoring the family effort required to keep the business thriving. Their ranch is more than a business; it’s a way of life.

The Nixons focus not only on breeding but also on training a few horses each year. Some of the horses are sold, while a select few stay on the ranch to be carefully trained. It’s a cycle of nurturing and growing that the entire family plays a part in, even the youngest members. Their granddaughters, Jaicee (4) and Josie (1), are already accustomed to ranch life, gathering eggs and riding every day. “It’s definitely a family affair,” Jamie adds, with evident pride.

In a twist of fate, the Nixons became part of the Texas rodeo community during the COVID-19 pandemic. Restrictions in New Mexico would have prevented the children from competing in their usual circuits, so the family made the bold decision to cross state lines and join the THSRA. Competing in Texas has brought a strong sense of camaraderie and community, an experience Jamie describes as invaluable.

“Region 3 has given us a real sense of community, and we’re grateful to be a part of it,” says Jamie. The family feels at home within the Texas rodeo circuit, having formed bonds with other rodeo families and found support from people who share their values.

For the Nixons, their journey is far from over. Rodeo has become a cherished tradition, and the family continues to work hard on their ranch to support their passions. With Jorgia and Myles competing, the family looks forward to what lies ahead, hoping to grow their impact both in the rodeo world and through Nixon Quarter Horses.

The Nixon Family is beyond honored to be chosen as their Regions McCoy's Farm and Ranch!