Whataburger's Whatakid: Corley Tilson

Region X Corley Tilson

Congratulations to Region 10's Whataburger Whatakid Corley Tilson. For Corley, rodeo isn’t just a sport it’s a way of life. Growing up in Covington, Texas, she was immersed in the rodeo world from the very beginning.

“I grew up with a bucking chute for a playpen, and my first babysitter was a 23-year-old heel horse that kept me safe while my parents roped,” Corley says with a laugh. “I was running barrels before I knew how to ride a bike.”

Now at 15 and a sophomore in high school, Corley has become a familiar name in Region X, known not only for her many accomplishments but for the heart and hustle she brings to every arena. “I can’t say that I have a favorite competition or rodeo because each one brings something different,” she explains. “Rodeo is one of the most humbling and rewarding sports out there. It takes dedication, hard work, and perseverance and I cherish every moment of it.”

Her days are packed from the moment she wakes up. “I start my mornings at 5:30 with a workout, then go out and tie goats,” she says. “After that, I get ready for school. I’m lucky to go to a school that supports rodeo athletes. As soon as I get home, I rope off of two or three horses and work the others. It’s a full day, every day, but I love the lifestyle.”

Corley rides four horses in competition, but her standout is a big red roan named Louis. “He’s only five, and he’s my main breakaway horse,” she says proudly. “One of my favorite memories of him was at The Patriot last year. My good horse was hurt, and I had only had Louis for a week. He’d only been behind a barrier once before, but he stepped up and handled it like he’d been doing it his whole life.”

Louis wasn’t originally hers, but it didn’t take long for that to change. “I got a call from Billy Bob Brown, asking if I’d come ride this horse. I roped off of him twice, and the second time, he came home with us,” she recalls. “I’m so grateful that my mom believed in my ability to finish this amazing horse, and that Billy Bob was willing to let him go.”

At school, Corley’s energy and determination extend beyond the arena. She’s active in the National Honor Society, Student Council, FFA, and several other programs. Even with all of her achievements, Corley has had to make some difficult choices. “This year, I had to give up something I really enjoyed cheer to pursue something I love,” she explains. “Cheer camp was scheduled the same week as the Texas High School Rodeo State Finals. I had to be honest with my coach about my priorities, and even though the schedule couldn’t be changed, I knew I had to stay true to my goals.”

That decision wasn’t easy, but Corley sees it as part of her growth. “The older I get, the more I realize how important it is to not stretch yourself too thin. Sometimes you can’t have it all, no matter how hard you work. Learning how to handle rejection and rise above it is one of the most important life skills a person can have.”

When asked what rodeo means to her, Corley doesn’t hesitate. “Rodeo, to me, is a way of life. It’s family. You can’t be successful in this sport without the values it teaches hard work, practice, knowing the rules, learning from your mistakes, and supporting others. You can’t do this sport on your own. Teamwork is huge, and your support system means everything.”

She credits much of her success to her faith. “God is my hero,” she says. “I can’t do anything without Him. He’s with me through the highs and the lows, and I walk every day in faith, knowing He’s my closest friend.”

Corley is also incredibly thankful for those who help her along the way. “James Barton with Barton Performance Horses is always there for me whether I need help with my horses or just some encouragement when I’m in a slump. And of course, I wouldn’t be here without my parents. They’ve made so many sacrifices so I can chase my dreams.”

Looking ahead, Corley hopes to graduate near the top of her class and attend Sam Houston State University, where she plans to college rodeo. “After that, I want to pro rodeo and use that platform to make a difference,” she says. She also loves training and tuning breakaway horses and hopes to continue learning from the best in the industry.

Corley’s motto is simple: “You only live once, and you get out what you put in.” And it’s clear that she lives by that every single day. And her final advice to other young rodeo athletes? “No matter what level you compete at, always be willing to help and cheer on your fellow competitor. That’s what rodeo and life is all about.”

“To be chosen out of all the amazing kids in our region is a huge honor. I’m truly grateful.”, said Corley.