Tami was 1978 Oklahoma High School Rodeo Association State Champion Breakaway Roper. Throughout her career – junior and youth, high school, college, amateur, and professional – she has won many recognitions and titles. She was the first woman to compete and win in team roping in the National College Finals. In March 2006 in Salado, Texas, Tami sustained a serious brain stem injury when her horse fell on her during competition. Her injuries forced her to close her chiropractic practice, and she underwent painful treatments for 10 years. Tami now has returned to competing in the breakaway and roping, and living life to her fullest ability.