Why Rodeo Queens & Western Representatives Should Understand Policy
Rodeo queens and Western representatives do more than celebrate a way of life—they help the public understand it. Learning the basics of agricultural policy, from public-land grazing and water rights to animal welfare and the Farm Bill, prepares emerging leaders to answer difficult questions, advocate responsibly and help shape the future of the Western industry.
Policy Shapes the Western Way of Life
Agricultural policy is not limited to lawmakers or professional lobbyists. It influences how farmers and ranchers manage their land, care for livestock, access resources, respond to environmental challenges and plan for the future.
A Western representative does not need to become an expert in every issue. However, understanding the fundamentals provides valuable context for conversations about:
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This sweeping package of federal legislation influences crop insurance, conservation programs, agricultural research, rural development, nutrition assistance and financial risk management. Understanding its basic structure helps representatives explain why the Farm Bill matters even to producers who do not grow traditional commodity crops.
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Many Western ranching operations depend on grazing permits administered by agencies such as the Bureau of Land Management and U.S. Forest Service. Representatives should understand how grazing allotments, permit requirements, land-use decisions, drought conditions and environmental reviews can affect a ranch’s ability to operate.
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Western water systems determine who can use water, how much may be used and for what purpose. Water availability affects livestock, crops, irrigation, fisheries and growing
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Animal-welfare policies can influence livestock transportation, veterinary care, rodeo rules, housing standards and acceptable animal-handling practices. Representatives should understand the difference between animal welfare, which focuses on responsible care, and animal-rights philosophies that may oppose the use of animals for agriculture or sport.
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Weather, labor shortages, transportation disruptions, processing capacity, production costs and government regulations all affect the food supply. Understanding the journey from farm or ranch to consumer helps representatives explain why food prices and availability cannot be separated from agricultural policy.
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The Endangered Species Act can affect grazing, predator management, water use and land-development decisions. Species recovery is important, but the policies used to achieve it can create practical challenges for landowners and agricultural producers who manage habitat alongside working operations.
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The U.S. Department of Agriculture oversees programs related to disaster assistance, conservation, loans, research, food safety and rural development. Programs administered through agencies such as the Farm Service Agency and Natural Resources Conservation Service can provide important resources for producers.
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State agriculture departments oversee issues such as animal health, invasive species, pesticide regulation, food safety, market development and agricultural promotion. They can also serve as a bridge between producers, consumers and state government.
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Working ranches can protect open space, wildlife habitat, watersheds and migration corridors. Representatives should be prepared to explain that agricultural production and environmental stewardship are not always opposing goals and often occur on the same land.
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Agricultural communities depend on more than farms and ranches alone. Processing facilities, veterinarians, equipment dealers, feed stores, transportation companies and other small businesses contribute to a rural economy’s ability to remain viable.
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Rodeos generate business for hotels, restaurants, retailers, fairgrounds, contractors and livestock providers. They also introduce audiences to agricultural traditions, livestock and rural communities, giving rodeo both economic and educational value.
Understanding these subjects helps representatives explain not only what agricultural producers do, but why certain decisions and policies affect their land, animals and livelihoods.
Practical Ways Young Western Leaders Can Get Involved
Getting involved does not necessarily require running for office or becoming a professional policy adviser. It can begin with attending a county meeting, joining an agricultural organization, submitting public comments or contacting an elected representative.
Technology has made meaningful participation more accessible than ever. Young leaders can:
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University Extension offices, breed associations and commodity organizations regularly distribute information about research, regulations, production challenges and educational opportunities. These updates are an approachable way to begin following issues relevant to a particular region or agricultural sector.
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State legislative websites and Congress.gov allow the public to search for bills, monitor their progress and read the proposed language. Agricultural associations often provide summaries that explain how a complicated proposal could affect producers in practice.
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Land-grant institutions conduct research on livestock health, crops, water, soil, economics and rural communities. Their publications can help Western representatives separate evidence-based information from opinions or claims circulating online.
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Constituents can email, call or request meetings with elected officials and their staff. A short message explaining how a proposed policy may affect a real ranch, agricultural business, rodeo or rural community can help lawmakers understand its practical consequences.
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County commissions, water districts, grazing boards and agricultural organizations often provide opportunities for public participation. Attending—even before feeling ready to speak—helps young leaders learn how decisions are made and who influences them.
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Farm bureaus, cattlemen’s associations, commodity groups, young-farmer organizations and other industry groups offer education, leadership development and advocacy opportunities. Membership can also help young people build relationships with experienced producers and policy professionals.
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Policy is easiest to understand when connected to real experiences. Speaking directly with farmers, ranchers, veterinarians, rodeo contractors and rural business owners can reveal consequences that may not be obvious from a legislative summary.
Small actions can become the foundation of informed, long-term leadership. The goal is not to know everything immediately, but to build the habit of paying attention, asking better questions and showing up when decisions are being made.
10 Rodeos For Your Summer 2023 Bucket List
These rodeos offer a great summer experience and a chance to see some of the top cowboys and cowgirls compete. Many of these events also offer additional activities such as concerts, parades, and other festivities that add to the overall experience. Again, it's always a good idea to research the event before attending to ensure that it meets your preferences and interests.
These rodeos offer a great summer experience and a chance to see some of the top cowboys and cowgirls compete. Many of these events also offer additional activities such as concerts, parades, and other festivities that add to the overall experience. Again, it's always a good idea to research the event before attending to ensure that it meets your preferences and interests.
Pendleton Round Up
pendleton, oregon
The Pendleton Round-Up is an annual rodeo event held in Pendleton, Oregon, USA. The event takes place over four days in mid-September and features a range of professional rodeo competitions, including bull riding, bareback riding, steer wrestling, and barrel racing, among others.
Founded in 1910, the Pendleton Round-Up is one of the oldest rodeos in the United States and has a long history of showcasing top rodeo talent and preserving the western way of life. In addition to the rodeo events, the Pendleton Round-Up also features a variety of other activities and entertainment, including live music, a parade, a western-themed art show, and food and drink vendors.
Pendleton, Oregon is located in the heart of the Columbia River Plateau and is known for its western heritage and outdoor recreation opportunities. The Pendleton Round-Up is a major cultural and tourism attraction in Pendleton and is known for its small-town charm and warm hospitality, making it a favorite among locals and visitors alike.
Cheyenne Frontier Days
Cheyenne, Wyoming
Cheyenne Frontier Days Rodeo is an annual rodeo event held in Cheyenne, Wyoming. It is one of the largest and most well-known rodeos in the world, attracting top rodeo athletes and thousands of visitors each year. The event typically takes place over ten days in July and features a variety of rodeo events, including bull riding, steer wrestling, saddle bronc riding, and barrel racing.
In addition to the rodeo events, the Cheyenne Frontier Days also offers a wide range of other activities and entertainment, including concerts, carnival rides, parades, western-themed exhibitions, and food and drink vendors. The event has a rich history dating back to 1897, and it has become a beloved tradition for many rodeo fans and Western enthusiasts.
Calgary Stampede
Calgary, Alberta, canada
The Calgary Stampede is an annual rodeo, exhibition, and festival held in Calgary, Alberta, Canada. The event takes place for ten days in July and features a wide range of activities and attractions, including professional rodeo competitions, live music and entertainment, carnival rides and games, agricultural exhibitions, and a variety of food and drink vendors.
The Stampede is considered one of the largest rodeos in the world, attracting top rodeo athletes from around the globe who compete for a share of a significant prize money purse. The rodeo events include bull riding, steer wrestling, saddle bronc riding, and barrel racing, among others.
Beyond the rodeo events, the Calgary Stampede is also known for its unique western-style experiences, including the daily parade of floats, marching bands, and various performers dressed in cowboy attire. The event is a significant cultural and tourism attraction in Calgary and has become a beloved tradition for many Canadians and visitors from around the world.
Sisters Rodeo
Sisters, oregon
The Sisters Rodeo is an annual rodeo event held in Sisters, Oregon, USA. The event takes place over four days in June and features a range of professional rodeo competitions, including bull riding, barrel racing, steer roping, and team roping, among others.
Founded in 1940, the Sisters Rodeo has a long history of showcasing top rodeo talent and preserving the western way of life. In addition to the rodeo events, the Sisters Rodeo also features a variety of other activities and entertainment, including live music, a parade, a western-themed art show, a kids rodeo, and food and drink vendors.
The Sisters Rodeo prides itself on being a family-friendly event that celebrates the unique heritage and culture of the American West. It is known for its small-town charm and warm hospitality, making it a favorite among locals and visitors alike.
Greeley Stampede
Greeley, Colorado
Greeley, Colorado is a city located in Weld County in northern Colorado, USA. It is known for its rich agricultural history, as well as its vibrant arts and culture scene.
One of Greeley's biggest events is the annual Greeley Stampede, a ten-day festival that takes place in late June and early July. The Greeley Stampede features a range of activities and entertainment, including professional rodeo competitions, live music, carnival rides and games, food and drink vendors, and western-themed exhibitions.
In addition to the Greeley Stampede, the city of Greeley offers a range of other attractions and amenities, including several parks and nature areas, a thriving downtown district, and a variety of museums and cultural institutions. Greeley is also home to the University of Northern Colorado, a public research university that offers a range of undergraduate and graduate programs.
Cody Stampede Rodeo
Cody, Wyoming
The Cody Stampede is an annual rodeo event held in Cody, Wyoming, USA. The event takes place over four days in early July and features a range of professional rodeo competitions, including bull riding, bareback riding, steer wrestling, and barrel racing, among others.
Founded in 1919, the Cody Stampede has a long history of showcasing top rodeo talent and preserving the western way of life. In addition to the rodeo events, the Cody Stampede also features a variety of other activities and entertainment, including live music, a parade, a western-themed art show, and food and drink vendors.
Cody, Wyoming is known as the "Rodeo Capital of the World," and the Cody Stampede is one of the city's biggest events. It is known for its small-town charm and warm hospitality, making it a favorite among locals and visitors alike. In addition to the rodeo, Cody offers a range of other attractions and amenities, including the Buffalo Bill Center of the West museum, the Yellowstone Regional Airport, and access to nearby outdoor recreation areas such as Yellowstone National Park and the Shoshone National Forest.
Snake River Stampede
Nampa, Idaho
The Snake River Stampede is an annual rodeo event held in Nampa, Idaho, USA. The event takes place over five days in mid-July and features a range of professional rodeo competitions, including bull riding, bareback riding, steer wrestling, and barrel racing, among others.
Founded in 1913, the Snake River Stampede is one of the oldest rodeos in the United States and has a long history of showcasing top rodeo talent and preserving the western way of life. In addition to the rodeo events, the Snake River Stampede also features a variety of other activities and entertainment, including live music, a parade, a western-themed art show, and food and drink vendors.
Nampa, Idaho is located in the heart of the Treasure Valley and is known for its rich agricultural history and outdoor recreation opportunities. The Snake River Stampede is a major cultural and tourism attraction in Nampa and is known for its small-town charm and warm hospitality, making it a favorite among locals and visitors alike.
California Rodeo Salinas
Salinas, california
The California Rodeo Salinas is an annual rodeo event held in Salinas, California, USA. The event takes place over four days in mid-July and features a range of professional rodeo competitions, including bull riding, steer wrestling, tie-down roping, and barrel racing, among others.
Founded in 1911, the California Rodeo Salinas is one of the largest rodeos in California and has a long history of showcasing top rodeo talent and preserving the western way of life. In addition to the rodeo events, the California Rodeo Salinas also features a variety of other activities and entertainment, including live music, a parade, a western-themed art show, and food and drink vendors.
Salinas, California is located in the heart of the fertile Salinas Valley and is known for its agricultural heritage and scenic beauty. The California Rodeo Salinas is a major cultural and tourism attraction in Salinas and is known for its small-town charm and warm hospitality, making it a favorite among locals and visitors alike.
Sheridan WYO Rodeo
Sheridan, wyoming
The Sheridan WYO Rodeo is an annual rodeo event held in Sheridan, Wyoming, USA. The event takes place over four days in mid-July and features a range of professional rodeo competitions, including bull riding, bareback riding, steer wrestling, and barrel racing, among others.
Founded in 1931, the Sheridan WYO Rodeo is one of the largest rodeos in Wyoming and has a long history of showcasing top rodeo talent and preserving the western way of life. In addition to the rodeo events, the Sheridan WYO Rodeo also features a variety of other activities and entertainment, including live music, a parade, a western-themed art show, and food and drink vendors.
Sheridan, Wyoming is located in the heart of the scenic Bighorn Mountains and is known for its western heritage and outdoor recreation opportunities. The Sheridan WYO Rodeo is a major cultural and tourism attraction in Sheridan and is known for its small-town charm and warm hospitality, making it a favorite among locals and visitors alike.
Ellensburg Rodeo
Ellensburg, washington
The Ellensburg Rodeo is an annual rodeo event held in Ellensburg, Washington, USA. The event takes place over four days in early September and features a range of professional rodeo competitions, including bull riding, saddle bronc riding, steer wrestling, and barrel racing, among others.
Founded in 1923, the Ellensburg Rodeo is one of the oldest and most historic rodeos in the United States and has a long history of showcasing top rodeo talent and preserving the western way of life. In addition to the rodeo events, the Ellensburg Rodeo also features a variety of other activities and entertainment, including live music, a parade, a western-themed art show, and food and drink vendors.
Ellensburg, Washington is located in the heart of the Kittitas Valley and is known for its western heritage and scenic beauty. The Ellensburg Rodeo is a major cultural and tourism attraction in Ellensburg and is known for its small-town charm and warm hospitality, making it a favorite among locals and visitors alike.
First Ever Rodeo Related Club on Clubhouse - That Rodeo Life
Clubhouse’s very first club dedicated solely to rodeo is officially here! Join the That Rodeo Life club today whether you are a competitor, industry professional, event producer, communicator, enthusiast and more!
Saturday, March 6, 2021 - The That Western Life team is so excited to announce that we officially have the FIRST rodeo related club on Clubhouse - That Rodeo Life! While we love our That Western Life name, our blog operated under a variety of different names depending on whether the topics are related to agricultural, ranching, fashion, advocacy, etc. This Club will play host to some amazing rooms dedicated to networking, growing your brand name, marketing your rodeo, and event-specific room breakdowns!
Join us on the app today and shoot us a message either on here or at That Western Life on Instagram, Twitter or Facebook to start a conversation about a room collaboration today!
Dona Kay Rule Test Positive for COVID-19 and is OUT of the 2020 NFR
(December 3, 2020) - Rumors broke early Thursday morning of Round 1 of the National Finals Rodeo. Barrel Racer Dona Kay Rule, who enters the NFR sitting in third place, roughly $19,000 behind leader Britany Pozzi Tonozzi, tested positive for COVID-19 and, per the supposed PRCA restrictions, will not be allowed to compete. The number 16 barrel racer, Jessie Telford, will be stepping up to round out the class.
(December 3, 2020) - Rumors broke early Thursday morning of Round 1 of the National Finals Rodeo. Barrel Racer Dona Kay Rule, who enters the NFR sitting in third place, roughly $19,000 behind leader Britany Pozzi Tonozzi, tested positive for COVID-19 and, per the supposed PRCA restrictions, will not be allowed to compete.
Posted at 10:45 am PST on Dona Kay Rules official instagram. Click to see more comments.
In a post on Instagram, Dona thanks fans for their support and to let us know that she feels healthy with zero symptoms. Called up is Jessie Telford of Idaho who was sitting #16 in the world standings. Here’s a post she made around 8:49 PST on Instagram. Click the link below to see more of the commentary.
Here’s the rumors we know:
All the contestants were required to take a test.
It’s known that if they test positive, they are out for the remainder of the NFR.
Random athletes will be tested each day of the NFR.
This poses a number of questions in regards to what is happening in the WPRA and PRCA for the NFR. An inconsistency across the board and lack of transparency to fans could prove detrimental during an event so many hoped to see happen.
![Live With Lucia's Anthony Lucia [Podcast]](https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/58e9112fdb29d654dcef2359/1559767011128-QY22RQAYATNDF94I01VI/IMG_2108.PNG)
Live With Lucia's Anthony Lucia [Podcast]
Live With Lucia is one of the premier shows to watch during Cowboy Christmas of the National Finals Rodeo and we have none other than Anthony Lucia himself on the show! From his career in entertainment as a child, following his father and Whiplash the Cowboy Monkey to some of the biggest international venues, to announcing rodeos, hosting his own talk show, and being a team roper - Anthony Lucia is a God-Fearing and Texas loving cowboy! Oh, did we mention he just married the former Miss Rodeo America and That Western Life podcast co-host Lisa (Lageschaar) Lucia?
Live With Lucia is one of the premier shows to watch during Cowboy Christmas of the National Finals Rodeo and we have none other than Anthony Lucia himself on the show! From his career in entertainment as a child, following his father and Whiplash the Cowboy Monkey to some of the biggest international venues, to announcing rodeos, hosting his own talk show, and being a team roper - Anthony Lucia is a God-Fearing and Texas loving cowboy! Oh, did we mention he just married the former Miss Rodeo America and That Western Life podcast co-host Lisa (Lageschaar) Lucia?
Do you love team roping? We recommend Episode 5 with X-Factor’s Pace Freed!
Interested in the world of rodeo entertainment? We recommend Episode 3 with JJ Harrison!
PRCA Futures; New Year's Resolutions for Professional Rodeo
During the Wrangler National Finals Rodeo held in Las Vegas, Nevada, every December, the Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association (PRCA) takes the time to meet, present and educate rodeo committees and employees throughout the country at the PRCA’s Annual Convention. Join the That Western Life Podcasting team as they dig deeper into new hires and unofficial resolutions of the PRCA in 2019!
During the Wrangler National Finals Rodeo held in Las Vegas, Nevada, every December, the Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association (PRCA) takes the time to meet, present and educate rodeo committees and employees throughout the country at the PRCA’s Annual Convention. Join the That Western Life Podcasting team as they dig deeper into new hires and unofficial resolutions of the PRCA in 2019!
PRCA Convention
The PRCA Convention starts with the Chief Executive Office, George Taylor, giving his first ever address. His vision is very big, bringing in new people to help grow the PRCA, members and fans.
Numbers were down last year.
This concerning with the PRCA’s membership, the PRCA rodeos, even.Money was up from PRCA’s sponsors.
This is exciting as this is what adds purse monies into our finals and into individual rodeos which, in turn, increases contestants.There were more fans here and there.
New areas where we can watch rodeo such as the ProRodeo TV streaming app.Returning permits are going up.
We aren’t losing out on contestants that are getting injured and moving forward.
Prediction: Membership will increase with the semi-retirement of Trevor Brazile, the King of the Cowboys.
George Taylor definitely comes across as more CEO, whereas his predecessor, Karl Stressman, came across as more cowboy. Both gentleman have worked very hard in their positions to promote the professional sport of rodeo. TWL Host Rachel was our on the ground correspondent at the convention thanks to the Lakeside Rodeo of San Diego.
George Taylor; the CEO’s Address at the PRCA Convention
For his first time addressing the entire membership that he’s been at the helm of, George Taylor is taking PRCA and his job as CEO by storm. He appears and looks to be fearless, one foot in front of the other to get things done. While there may have been a lot of conversation and uncertainty on social media as Taylor doesn’t come to the CEO position as a former rodeo athlete.
Just like the NFL or NBA, whose commissioners didn’t compete at the professional level for the sports that they have, Taylor can walk the walk and talk the talk. He’s coming in with an outside perspective it is giving him the ability to think outside of the box to the future of the PRCA.
Karl Stressman; Career in Review
Karl Stressman’s initiatives were to support contestants being able to stay local or regional and making it less of a financial burden to be a PRCA cardholder and have success. He promoted the 12 regional Circuit Finals and the National Circuit Finals.
A champion of the All American ProRodeo series, which was an association in the rodeo heavy states of Texas, Arkansas, and Oklahoma, Stressman was able to get larger purses for those finals. For a rodeo to count, it must be $30,000 or less added money to any rodeo in the country. Contestants got 50 points for competing in an All American ProRodeo and then a point for every dollar won at those. Their finals, held in Waco, Texas, the second week in October but 2018 was the last year of those finals.
Finals dollars from the 12 Ram Circuit Finals, the Ram National Circuit Finals, and the All American ProRodeo Series counted in the world standings as of the 2017 seasons, but will no longer count in 2019. The 2018 season was the last of the two seasons that the finals money counts toward the world standings making it a very small “wink in time.”
These smaller finals allowed contestants to win more money to gain access to the limited-access rodeos like Rodeo Houston.
Mexican Rodeo Federation Addition
Stressman assisted creating the Mexican Rodeo Federation into the Ram National Circuit Finals as if they are their own circuit. When Stressman left office last year, he had Rodeos sanctioned in Brazil, Mexico and Canada that counted towards the world standings. Two contestants from each event came to Kissimmee, Florida, to compete for those finals.
Marcus Costa was the first Brazilian to win the tie-down roping in the 2017 world title. He also won the Top Gun award that year, joining Junior Noguiera (team roping heeler) to push for Brazilian success in timed events. It’s great to see rodeo expand and to watch people find success in professional rodeo.
What’s next for Karl Stressman?
Currently working with USTRC, we are interested to see what he will do with that association. They have over 30,000 members and over 100 qualifying events. It’ll be fun to watch to see how that grows and changes in the future. They have already joined forces with the WSTR, proving that being united in the sport of rodeo is the way to grow exponentially, which you can see through their discount in getting the memberships together.
New Hires to the PRCA: Anthony Bartkowski
Anthony Bartkowski has announced a focus on recruiting the grass roots organizations into the professional ranks and athlete development. Being an educator, host Lisa Lageschaar is a former teacher and firmly believes in the youth as the future of the PRCA. This will go hand-in-hand with the PRCA’s youth camps.
Director of Athlete Development and Animal Welfare
Bartkowski comes from all the rough and tumble sports like boxing and wrestling, he’s an outside force to be reckoned with when it comes to professional athlete events. A unique thing for him, is that he’ll be overseeing the operations of the livestock welfare - it should be interesting to see how he handles protestors before Houston or the NFR. Protestors have been seen at a variety of rodeos, even smaller Texas circuit rodeos not just in large, typically liberal cities.
We know the great care our animals receive and having someone like Anthony to be taking care of it. As the new CEO, Taylor needs to stay on top of the avalanche as Ringling Brothers ended their over 100 year run. How do we make sure that this fate doesn’t fall to rodeo? Is rodeo facing the same fate?
Director of Athlete Development
What can professional rodeo do for their contestants?
Rodeo really wants to go into mainstream sports but, unlike mainstream sports, rodeo doesn’t have teams with individual public relations teams to help them. Will there be an online platform to help educate those contestants remotely to help them carry themselves into the new era of rodeo?
At the PRCA convention they talked about the new website with in-depth information on contestants, the bucking stock, and the analysis of what a match up could look like. These stats can help you have prediction and game analysis going into an event which allows fans to have more investment into each match-up or a loyalty to a competitor. A lot of work, but it’ll be well worth it.
PRCA Rodeo Additions
The American Goes PRCA
Thanks to George Taylor, the famous 2-day one million dollar rodeo is now sanctioned with the PRCA as of 2019. Slated for March 2nd and 3rd, it’s going to pay out a lot of money to now count for the world standings.
Contestants can still qualify in through the qualifying events in all events.
As a qualifications based rodeo, money won won’t count for the current Ram Texas Circuit Finals.
If a cowboy has purchased a PRCA card before the American, they are now eligible to count their winnings at the American towards the world standings.
Only $50,000 for first place will count for the world standings.
Any place below that, all of their money earned will count towards the world standings.
February 25 through March 1 is the qualifier; that isn’t a PRCA rodeo. AT&T Stadium winnings will count.
How does this factor in? Look at the event of steer wrestling, one of the most evenly distributed standings, the number 16 cowboy for 2018 was around $80,000 won for the year. Can you imagine what $50,000 is going to do right there? It’s almost going to solidify them a spot in the WNFR.
Prediction: It’ll take more money to qualify for the 2019 National Finals Rodeo.
Rodeo Houston (Texas) and Pike’s Peak or Bust (Colorado) rodeos have both come back to the PRCA.
New Permit Cardholders
JB Mauney and Jess Lockwood, two very successful Professional Bull Riders, got their permits for the 2019 season. Unfortunately, they can’t get in to these limited entry rodeos with big money. This will be the a heated Resistol Rookie of the Year battle. Once they have won the $1,000 on their permit to get their Rookie card, the money will count towards the world standings. Will they stick it out?
The follow the track of Shane Proctor who came back to PRCA full time with saddle bronc and bull riding after riding in the PBR. Increasing entries, he’ll be competing for the All Around title which is unique on the roughstock end. The last one to do so was Ty Murray, who won 7 all around titles and 2 bull riding championships, the last one in 1993.
PRCA’s New Safe Sport Initiative
Seventeen pages front and back, this is something that the PRCA is taking very seriously. A code of conduct of how you should be acting when you are representing the professional sport of rodeo and the PRCA, with the actions if you break those rules. Outlining all the types of misconduct, it allows the PRCA to take further action from there.
It’s not just PRCA members, it’s also contractors, volunteers, internal committee members, PRCA rodeo committee members, sponsors, event attendees, and more. The first case example may be the Cody Nite Rodeo Association with a story that broke right after the 2018 WNFR.
Wrangler Steps Down from Exclusive Clothing Sponsorship
In 2018, Wrangler was still the title sponsor of the PRCA and the NFR but they stepped down from the exclusivity clause. Competition is healthy and keeps us striving and working for the next level. This now gives us some room for growth, and gaining the partnership with Cinch and more, it opens up healthy competition shows that we are going to grow money and, in turn, grow the sport. It takes money to grow in every aspect.
Cinch jumped in to be a sponsor immediately, which has been fun to watch how that develops and changes the marketing schematic for prorodeo. Not just that, Cinch had six endorsees that became world champions in 2018.
If you could make one rule for the PRCA?
Lisa Lageschaar: Jerk down rule clarification.
Did Tuf Cooper really jerk the calf down between ten and two? It was hard to tell, the announcers didn’t explain that on the television, and it needs to be analyzed and looked over to make sure it doesn’t put limitations on our sport. This look would be great for both our contestants and our animals.
Tuf did a great job explaining what happened for everyone at home on his Facebook.
Eliminating gray area is very important for the preservation of our sport.
Katie Schrock: Ground money should count in the NFR only for all events.
Bull riding is the only event at the WNFR where ground money counts. What this means, is that if not all six payout slots are filled after the round with only 1 to 5 covered rides, than the additional money is spread out throughout the contestants that got a qualified time. This added money doesn’t count towards the All Around standings, just that event.
In the team roping at the NFR in round six, there was only five legal catches in one run, and if ground money had counted it potentially could have shook up the standings. (Further investigation says that it wouldn’t have in this particular rare case, but, theoretically, it could in the future!)
If you could make up a rule for the PRCA and WPRA, what would it be?
Drop it in the comments below or send us a message on any social media platform or email us at thatwesternlifeusa@gmail.com! Give us five stars in a review, tell your friends, and help us get bigger and better for you the fans!
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The First Ever That Western Life Podcast
Not only take the chance to meet your That Western Life podcast hosts, Rachel, Lisa and Katie, also take the time to recap all of the great stories from the 2018 Wrangler National Finals Rodeo! Make sure to listen to the podcast version as well!
What you need to know about the hosts, plus recapping the 2018 Wrangler National Finals Rodeo!
What is the That Western Life Podcast?
This podcast is going to take someones naive interest in a culture and help them explore the trials and tribulations of the western lifestyle. We are here to share the amazing, funny, educational and unique people and animals that are in rodeo and the western lifestyle. We can’t wait to see what we can do to help those in the sport of professional rodeo into more mainstream ways.
Make sure to subscribe today, tell your friends and leave a review!
Meet the Hosts
Rachel Owens-Sarno - San Diego County, California
I’m excited to jump into the world of podcasting and to continue promoting a lifestyle and sport I love with lots of fun, humor, knowledge and facts!
Read more about Rachel here.
Lisa Lageschaar - Weatherford, Texas
“I am still that horse-crazed kid at heart, but over time, have developed my love of horses into a love for every person involved with and every industry linked to horses. I have been presented with numerous opportunities through the western industry, and it is my goal to give back in any way I can to continue to grow and develop knowledge and passion for horses, rodeo, agriculture, and the western way of life as a whole.”
Read more about Lisa here.
Katie Schrock - Pacific Northwest
“I have always maintained to be an approachable and knowledgeable source of information for the western lifestyle whether it be ranching, farming or rodeo. I want to help keep those interested informed on the western lifestyle and not only the importance of these industries but to preserve the culture.”
Read more about Katie here.
2018 National Finals Rodeo Recap
The National Finals Rodeo starts significantly earlier than most people anticipate the 10-day Super Bowl of rodeos starting. With award shows, the Professional Rodeo Cowboy Association (PRCA) convention, and the kick-off party of the Back Number Ceremony. The theme for 2018’s finals was that there could have been any number of stories that could have competed for screen time for Hollywood with the amazing stories that developed and came forward!
J.R. Vezain, a PRCA bronc rider who found himself in a horrific accident that resulted in him being in a wheelchair, he had qualified a spot for the WNFR in the top 15. Unable to compete, Will Lowe took that vacant spot as the 16th place in the world standings. Not only was Vezain included each night in the Justin Cowboy Crisis Fund injury update but he was also recognized by the legendary King of the Cowboys, Trevor Brazile, recognizing the inspiration that he has been with his positivity. When he rolled up on to stage at the back number ceremony the crowd went wild! A great light for Christ, he and his wife, Shelby, have continued to be an inspiration!
The western industry is striving and one can see that in the payout of the Number 10 in the World Series Team Roping, happening throughout the NFR in Las Vegas, paid out $376,000 to first place. It was around $2.3 million in that round alone! That’s where we got to see NFR Team Roper Trey Yates watch his grandpa Dick Yates win that money in the Number 10 Round Win. Trey is at his first ever NFR which adds to the added royalty legacy of his grandfather, dad and aunt who are the first family trifecta to qualify for the NFR in one year.
Ten rounds of fast-paced action with a lot of money up for grab! Round payout is $84,615.38 total, paid out to six places over the ten rounds in each event. The average pays out $253,846.15 to the top eight per event. First place winning a round is over $26,000 which can bring a person from 14th to 1st in the world; albeit they would have to be close top to bottom. Noteworthy is that the bull riding has ground money if not all rides are completed in the round.
RAM Top Gun & Bull Riding
Chase Dougherty came on hot in the last 7 rounds of the NFR. He won almost $30,000 more in the RAM Top Gun Award. An award given by RAM Trucks for winning the most money in one event. It was a horse race up until the last few rounds between the barrel racers and Chase Dougherty. Over ten days, Chase cashed $318,266.13 (unofficially) at the NFR including the average. When it came down to Round 10 if only 3 or less riders stayed on their bull, as long as one of those was Chase and one wasn’t Sage, Chase would have won the world. Sage stayed on, won the round and won the world!
2019 Predictions; Sage Kimzey wasn’t 100% at the finals and the 2019 season started last year. Could Chase Dougherty or Sage’s kid brother, Trey, take the 2019 title?
Trey Kimzey set a new record in 2018 as a Permit Holder Earnings. Sage is out to catch Don Gay’s 8 World Championships in the NFR. Sage knows how to stay on and ride - one of the most talented in professional bull riding in the country.
Clayton Bigelow & Virgil
An astounding moment at the 2018 NFR was Clayton Bigelow's Round 5 ride on Virgil! An impressive, big gray bucking horse, left the crowds and the judges speechless! If you want to talk about athletes showing up at the NFR, C5 Rodeo’s Virgil tied the arena record in 2017 with Tim O’Connell, then came back in 2018 to set the arena record at 93. There are only 10 rides in the PRCA period that are 93 or 94; this ride is now one of those.
Wade Sundell - Bareback World Champion
In the round where Clayton Bigelow set the arena record, Wade Sundell on Medicine Woman had a 92 point ride. Keeping pace with that record setting ride kept him in the world title chase. He split round 7 with Chase Brooks. He came to perform and rode at the top of his game, placing in eight of the rounds. One of those bucking horses came from Get Smart who was named the bareback horse of the NFR. He’s been eight times to the NFR and won the American!
This was on top of the rough year that Wade had where he lost his home to a fire. This was a huge explanation point on the end of the year on the road!
If you have never heard of Wade Sundell or are new to rodeo, check out this song by Chance Danison (WARNING: explicit!) that kind of gives you a sample of how Wade got the name “Wild Wade.”
Will Lummus & Grinder with KC Jones
KC Jones is a 9 time qualifier in the steer wrestling but wasn’t competing in the same capacity as he has done in the past; he was the hazer for first-time qualifier Will Lummus. A Mississippi cowboy, he did his darndest to make the steer wrestling exciting this year! Will’s horse Grinder was at its first NFR, and can be a challenging venue for a horse new to the NFR but he handled it with poise. However, he would let out some of his personality with a few bucks every time that Will dismounted to wrestle a steer.
Tie Down Roping; Caleb Smidt & Tyson Durfey
Prior to the 2018 finals, the 2016 World Champion Tyson Durfey had the unfortunate loss of his number one horse Nikko, after a complication in a displaced colon colic surgery on November 23rd. Anyone who knows rodeo or horses, knows how important those horses are not just as a partner in a working environment but also to family. He rode his back up horse, Mitch, and ended up winning some good money! Durfey and Mitch even got the win at the Tuf Cooper’s Tying the Knot Invitational Roping over Trevor Brazile.
Caleb Smidt won the first round and the world title after what may have been the roughest family months. He lost his brother and sister-in-law on the night of their wedding when their helicopter crashed, killing all three involved, which made national news. Throughout the rodeo, Caleb’s family held up signs every single night that said, “God is still good.” To add more emotion to this story, he gave that round one buckle win to his father-in-law to thank him for what he has done for him in his life in the past year as he had also lost his father shortly after the 2017 NFR.
Barrel Racing; Hailey Kinsel’s Sister
A horse that never weakened, Hailey Kinsel and her palomino mare Sister, fired hard every single run, clinching the world title in Round 9. Hailey was saying that Sister had nothing left to prove and so she pulled out TJ, the big gelding she ran college rodeo on and even filled her WPRA permit. It was a great nod to the horse that helped build her professional career!
Kelly Bruner, a veterinarian, qualified on her main mount Susie, who is a gelding, but he wasn’t feeling the Thomas & Mack arena. Susie didn’t want to turn the first barrel so she ran a couple of young horses, and she won rounds on a horse named French Zone. People who don’t give up who are also working a full time job while managing rodeoing and winning enough money to make the NFR.
Another contestant, making it to the NFR in a limited number of rounds, is Nellie Miller and her mare Sister. Utilizing “professional planning” and winning when it counts; when she won the 2017 World Title it was on one of the lowest rodeo number counts.
Trevor Brazile, The King of the Cowboys, Kind of Rides Away
“The Cowboy Rides Away,” will Trevor Brazile really be “done?” Will we see him back, qualifying on a limited number of regional to Texas rodeos or maybe with his son or daughter? If he can make it on a limited number of rodeos and it doesn’t affect his family and involvement with his kids’ sport; he’s going to do it. Knowing that he had to do as well as he did in the 10th round in order to win the average title making the count 24 world titles. In an emotional statement to the camera, his legacy will continue to grow and build. It was a great moment for him, his family and all of his fans. He’s made a big impact in the lives of so many rodeo people!
What an amazing National Finals Rodeo and what a great 2019 rodeo season we have coming up! Make sure you subscribe on iTunes, leave a rating, tell your friends, and check out more of our articles! We want to hear from you! Send us a message on any social media platform or at thatwesternlifeUSA@gmail.com.
Theme Song: Doin’ Me by Trevor Tagle
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National Finals Rodeo Update - Round 6
Round 6 kicks off the start of the second half of the Wrangler National Finals Rodeo, the Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association and Women’s Professional Rodeo Association’s Super Bowl of Rodeos. Unlike in main sports, there was no break for the cowboys and cowgirls buttoning down their Resistol cowboy hat every night - firing on day 6 of 10 in front of a packed house at the Thomas & Mack Arena.
Las Vegas, Nevada (December 11, 2018) - Round 6 kicks off the start of the second half of the Wrangler National Finals Rodeo, the Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association and Women’s Professional Rodeo Association’s Super Bowl of Rodeos. Unlike in main sports, there was no break for the cowboys and cowgirls buttoning down their Resistol cowboy hat every night - firing on day 6 of 10 in front of a sold out crowd at the Thomas & Mack Arena.
Steer Wrestling
The fastest sport in rodeo, there’s been major shake up!
Curtis Cassidy may have entered the 60th NFR sitting in first place in the steer wrestling standings but the event with the smallest spread entering the NFR has proven to have the most shake ups. It’s still anyone’s game! Our projections have Cassidy finishing 3rd in the World after the average is handed out.
Mr. Consistent, Mississippi cowboy Will Lummus is the fastest in the average, joining six others who have recorded a time in all six rounds so far (Tyler Waguespack, Blake Knowles, Bridger Chambers, Tanner Brunner, Nick Guy & Riley Duvall). With $59,512.81 earned at the NFR and placing first in the average, he’s projected to finish the season with over $233,000 and (unofficial projection) winning the World title.
Not far behind in the projected 2018 World Championship race, 2016 World Champion Tyler Waguespack.
Team Roping
Round 6 is the achilles heel for many of the teams, it should be interesting to see how they recover for Round 7.
Only 5 teams recorded times in Round 6.
There was a 15.6 second spread between the first place team and the fifth place team.
The battle between top 2 teams Driggers/Nogueira and Smith/Eaves is TIGHT - you won’t want to miss this!
Saddle Bronc
If Ryder Wright slips over the next few rounds, keep an eye on Cort Sheer and Wade Sundell.
Tie-Down Roping
Nine cowboys have recorded a time in all six rounds so far.
The Average is projected with Ryle Smith, Caleb Smidt, and Rhen Richard (pay attention to Rhen in the all-around).
If the NFR ended today, Ryle Smith would be your projected World Champion, reserve as Caleb Smidt with less than $8,000 between the two. The tie-down roping is going to be tight as we finish up!
RAM Top Gun Award
Awarded to the contestant who wins the most money one one event (sorry all-around cowboys!) at the end of the NFR. If you didn’t think that the barrel racing was tough, how about Amberleigh Moore and Hailey Kinsel sitting one and two respectively in the standings for the Top Gun award. They’re setting blistering fast barrel patterns as Moore has moved from 13th to a projected 4th with Kinsel still holding onto that first place position. Kinsel is less than $25,000 away from breaking the $300,000 year-end mark.
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All of the information in this article is unofficial results and are not the product nor any relation to the official Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association or the Women’s Professional Rodeo Association. All information belongs to That Western Life and Western Insights Media, LLC.
National Finals Rodeo Update - Round 5
The Wrangler National Finals Rodeo is in full swing in the bright light city of Las Vegas, Nevada. Every year, the rodeo community convenes on the city to showcase western heritage in a variety of ways; youth rodeo competitions, team roping competitions, permit challenges, rookie recognition, leather working, fashion, and the latest in equine and bovine technology. Halfway through the 10 heated rounds of the Super Bowl of Professional Rodeo, there have been numerous big stories to share!
Las Vegas, Nevada (December 11, 2018) - The Wrangler National Finals Rodeo is in full swing in the bright light city of Las Vegas, Nevada. Every year, the rodeo community convenes on the city to showcase western heritage in a variety of ways; youth rodeo competitions, team roping competitions, permit challenges, rookie recognition, leather working, fashion, and the latest in equine and bovine technology. Halfway through the 10 heated rounds of the Super Bowl of Professional Rodeo, there have been numerous big stories to share!
Barrel Racing Heats Up
Heading into the NFR, two-time qualifier Hailey Kinsel and her dynamite six year-old palomino mare “Sister,” named the 2018 American Quarter Horse Association Barrel Horse of the Year, were on track to coast to a gold buckle. Nothing comes easy at the National Finals Rodeo, however, and the random draw order of go on the ground has proven an equalizer for the contestants.
Winning Round 1, Kinsel started the way every racing fan expected; first. She blasted onto the ProRodeo season in 2017 when she won RFD-TV’s The American and a chunk of the million-dollar qualifier incentive. That run was the most money ever won in a single barrel race at the time. She then beat the Thomas & Mack barrel racing record at the 2017 National Finals at a blistering 13.11 seconds; a whopping 2 tenths of a second faster than the previous record set that finals.
Bottom of the ground proved costly for Kinsel and Sister, placing her out of the money in Round 2 and 3, and then a knocked barrel in the 4th Round meant she was dropped in the average. With a field of amazing horses knocking on the door for the world title, it seemed that she may not be able to recover for a large enough chunk of the NFR average money.
Chasing her most notably is Nellie Miller who is riding another horse named Sister, a blue roan quarter horse from the state of California. Miller was the 2017 World Champion and her Sister was the 2017 AQHA Horse of the Year. Consistency is key and she qualified for a the NFR on a limited number of rodeos. Sister’s consistency shows her as one of the biggest threats in the NFR race as she should garner a large chunk of the average money.
In March of 2018, Oregon’s Amberleigh Moore’s mare “Paige,” who set the NFR arena on fire at her NFR debut in 2016 almost knocking off Mary Burger for the World Title, was pulled out injured after Houston Rodeo. The off time almost proved costly as Moore entered the NFR in the 13th (out of 15 potential spots) position. The Thomas & Mack is nicknamed “Paige’s Play Pen” for a reason though as the Darkelly mare came in rested and hungry to compete.
Placing second, second, first and third in the first four rounds of the NFR, she had earned $83,346.15 and was leading the average, which pays out $67,269.23 for first place. This moved her to second in the world, just over $5,000 behind Kinsel. Round 5 proved to be the Achilles Heel and with a knock of the first world, she dropped herself in the average and moving Moore to a projected 4th place including average payout.
What do you think will happen in the barrel racing? Do you think Kinsel and Sister will start firing on all cylinders and gain top of the ground advantage in the draw? What about Miller and her Sister? Will consistency be key for the returning World Champion?
All Around Title - Richard Not So Undercover Anymore
Dark horse Rhen Richard from Utah is proving to not be so sneaky in the race for the Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association’s All Around cowboy. The only competitor entered in two events, team roping and tie-down roping, Richard has yet to win a round but has consistently placed in four of a potential 10 rounds (two runs a night for two events in five rounds). He’s earned a total of $35,467.94 in NFR payout already, second only to Trevor Brazile who, thanks to a second and first place win in two rounds, has earned $47,102.56. Brazile, a 23-time World Champion, kicked off the NFR by announcing his retirement from competitive rodeo to send more time at home with his family, is now leading the All Around race over brother-in-law Tuf Cooper, the 2017 World Champion and 2x Tie-Down World Champion.
If Richard continues to be consistent with times, he may be receiving a large check at the pay window for the NFR average.
Eliminator Pen Bucking Horses the Star of the Show
Thanks to diligent efforts by stock contractors and non profits like Bronc Riding Nation, the bucking horse may be the star of the 2018 National Finals Rodeo. In Round 3, every rodeo fan across the country new for a fact that Powder River would be at the Gold Buckle zone at the South Point Saturday night as long as Tim O’Connell, the reigning bareback World Champion and current number one in the world, stayed atop the 2017 Bareback Horse of the Year Craig at Midnight.
The large gray bucking horse, a product of Feek Tooke’s “Born to Buck” program, put on a show. Tim O’Connell laughed afterwards saying he only got a few jumps at the end of the ride where he got to earn points; Craig [At Midnight] was garnering all the points for the round! In rough stock, there are two judges with each judge awarding points out of a possible 25 for each the rider and the horse for a total of 100 points.
In Round 5, it was C5 Rodeo’s Virgil, another big gray bucking horse, that stole the show with Clayton Bigelow who went BIG for a 93 point, arena-record setting ride! The magnificence of these animals are just beginning to be showcased and we can’t wait to see the eliminator pen in the finals for another go!
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All of the information in this article is unofficial results and are not the product nor any relation to the official Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association or the Women’s Professional Rodeo Association. All information belongs to That Western Life and Western Insights Media, LLC.
Tiany Schuster 'Bumped' From #1 Back Number Spot
Only three cowgirls have ever held the elusive number one position. Those three cowgirls that have held the number one back number are Mary Burger, Sherry Cervi, and Charmayne James. It was assume that the 2017 Wrangler National Finals Rodeo would be the inclusion of a fourth cowgirl to earn the number one back number: Tiany Schuster of Texas. Fans thought wrong.
Las Vegas, Nevada (October 25, 2017) - The much anticipated back numbers were released for the 2017 Wrangler National Finals Rodeo held in Las Vegas at the beginning of December. Excitement for the official listing of the WNFR back numbers is to find out "who will be number 1?" The back numbers are based upon the amount of money earned towards the finals, with both cowboys and cowgirls competing for that elusive spot.
Only three cowgirls have ever held the elusive number one position. Those three cowgirls are Mary Burger, Sherry Cervi, and Charmayne James. It was assumed that the 2017 Wrangler National Finals Rodeo would be the inclusion of a fourth cowgirl to earn the number one back number: Tiany Schuster of Texas.
Fans thought wrong.
The reason this number is so minimal is because the odds are stacked against them as cowgirls are technically only eligible to compete in one event in the Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association (girls barrels), which is co-sanctioned through the Women's Professional Rodeo Association. Cowboys, however, are eligible to compete in any of the seven other events, as well as all around monies won.
In a record setting season, Tiany was as much as $100,000 ahead of her second place competitor in her event. Hot on the pursuit, it was her goal for that number one back number and to be only the fourth cowgirl to hold the position.
So on October 25th, when the listing was created, the social world was inspired by the move of the PRCA to reserve the number 58 back number for the 58 victims of the mass killing at a Las Vegas country music concert. An honorable move, it may have proved for enough of a distraction from some other peculiar on the back number standings.
- Tuf Cooper (All Around, Calf Roping, Team Roping, Steer Roping)
- Tim O'Connell (Bareback)
- Trevor Brazile (All Around, Calf Roping, Team Roping, Steer Roping)
- Jacobs Crawley (Saddle Bronc)
- Tiany Schuster (Girls Barrels - WPRA Co-Sanctioned)
In a strange mix of events, the PRCA took the monies won at Calgary (Canada), Houston (Texas), and the WPRA Finals money off all the girls' totals. They also took the money won at Xtreme Bulls events (the PRCA's version of the PBR) off the bull riders' totals.
In a post on Facebook, Schuster addressed the problem, stating:
"Ya know perhaps that money shouldn't count. Fine. But don't change the way things have always been awarded and done... Yeah I busted my butt and stayed out there, thinking I was ahead. I was not very happy when I got that, 'Oh by the way...' phone call TWO days before the end of the season. Why wait to the last minute? Why was this such a big secret and why the last second change of venue? No one will answer those questions. It is the 11th year of the 10 year contract. Lots of changes. Just saddens me to know that no matter what, WPRA members have no ground to stand on because we are 'invited guests.' Y'all want to talk about all the woulda shoulda coulda money if it all counted, it would be over $325,000 and there is NO American money for me. ...now we know, don't ever expect something because it will, inevitably, be taken from you. Lots of girls worked hard for rankings. Not just me. To only have it taken from them as well. State flags won't get to be carried, while others moved to the end of the list.... but life goes on... actions speak louder than words and numbers don't lie."
The reason for not counting rodeos like Calgary or Houston is because they don't have team roping at the event, putting those competitors at odds in the final count for the back number race. With that being said, this should have been known information at the start of the season, not with a few days left in the end.
After all of this, Schuster's fire should be burning more than ever and, if she's firing on all cylinders like she did with her arena-record setting performance in Calgary, she will be putting in quite a performance at Wrangler National Finals Rodeo.
**REVISED UPDATE**OCTOBER 27, 2017**
Released from the Women's Professional Rodeo Association on October 26, 2017.
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That Western Life is a news media company focused on bringing the latest news in the rodeo, ranching, agriculture, agvocacy and western lifestyle to those interested. Join our mailing list today to be updated and follow us on all social media platforms. The opinions expressed on this site are that of the authors alone and do not represent That Western Life or Western Insights Media.
Cover photo taken and owned by the Calgary Sun (Canada).
Ivy & Hawkins Have Their Cowboy Christmas Arena Record Style
Lane Ivy, a team roping header out of Adrian, Texas, and Buddy Hawkins II, a team roping heeler from Sedan, Kansas, decided to have their Cowboy Christmas arena record style this year, setting arena records at two Pacific Northwest Rodeos!
Lane Ivy, a team roping header out of Adrian, Texas, and Buddy Hawkins II, a team roping heeler from Sedan, Kansas, decided to have their Cowboy Christmas arena record style this year!
"Cowboy Christmas" is a term used by rodeo fans to describe the lucrative number of professional and amateur rodeos held over the 4th of July weekend. Cowboys can move up significant placings in the Weatherguard World Standings of the Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association, allowing them to strategically set themselves up for the sprint to be in the Top 15 to go to the Wrangler National Finals Rodeo in December. The Super Bowl of rodeo, the WNFR is the place to be for any western enthusiast.
On July 3rd, at the Eugene Pro Rodeo in Eugene, Oregon, Ivy and Hawkins smoked a 4.6 second run in Eugene, a place where a 5 flat is considered fast. The time was good enough for first overall with a new arena record.
The following day, Hawkins and Ivy got to celebrate America's birthday with another arena record at the Molalla Buckaroo in Molalla, Oregon. Stopping the clock in a deadly 3.9 second run, they took the lead at another Cowboy Christmas rodeo.
Watch Ivy/Hawkins Eugene Pro Arena Record here.
Watch Ivy/Hawkins Molalla Buckaroo Arena Record here.
Ivy currently sits 36th in the world according to the PRCA Weatherguard World Standings but is sure to move after the books have officially closed on the Cowboy Christmas run. Hawkins currently sits 10th in the PRCA Weatherguard World Standings and is sitting pretty as we head into the final stretch of the year heading into the WNFR.
Team roping is the only true team event for Professional Rodeo where a header and a heeler work together to stop the clock. The header throws their loop first catching the horns, neck or a combination of both on a 350-500 pound Corriente steer. The header must then turn the steer to the left and, once that direction change has been made, the heeler tries to catch both hind legs. The clock stops when both horses are facing each other with their front feet on the ground, as signaled by a judge. Time penalties can be accrued with the breaking of the barrier (the head start for the steer) or by the heeler only catching one leg (+5 seconds).
Follow Buddy Hawkins II Fan Page on Facebook.
That Western Life was founded in 2017 and promotes the western industry including rodeo sports, agriculture and ranching politics, western lifestyle, and the people that make this great nation what it is. Our thoughts and opinions are our own.
Tori Teegarden joins That Western Life to make agriculture policy approachable for rodeo, ranching, and western lifestyle audiences. From the Farm Bill and public lands to food production, local advocacy, federal agencies, and why Washington, D.C., needs more rodeo, this episode explains why policy matters and how everyday people in agriculture can get involved.