PRORODEO Sports News - February 7, 2025

Photo Courtesy of The DeVere Helfrich Collection

Seven-time Rodeo Cowboys Association World Champion Calf Roper champion Dean Oliver received a Murray Trailer as a special gift for claiming the 1965 all-around world title, his third in as many years. The presentation was made during the Nation al Western Stock Show and Rodeo in Denver in January of 1966.

A 22-YEAR-OLD COWBOY NAMED

after having his jaw broken in 1964, had a three-month hot streak early in the year, winning more than $9,000 in 90 days. That cushion gave the Oregon cowboy the title over former world champion Ronnie Rossen, who had a great Finals. Rossen reached the eight-second whistle on seven of his eight bulls to win the average title. Mahan finished the year with $18,105. Harley May of Oakdale, Calif., took the steer wrestling title by placing in two rounds – including a split of first place in the final round – and finish ing fourth in the average standings.

It was the third world championship for the 39-year-old California cow boy, who also won crowns in 1952 and 1956. May banked $16,817 for the season. Sonney Wright of Alto, N.M., had been roping for 30 years before claiming the steer roping title by winning $4,817. Wright celebrated his 40th birthday in September before the NFSR was held in Vinita, Okla. Jim Rodriguez Jr., 24, of Paso Robles, Calif., grabbed his fourth world championship, becoming the first team roper in history to turn that trick. His first three titles had come

LARRY MAHAN WON HIS FIRST WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP AT THE 1965 NFR.

with Gene Rambo. This year, he paired with Ken Luman to win $11,050. Sammie Thurman won the barrel racing world championship and $6,096, while Pat Marr took the aver age crown at the Finals in Dallas.

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