PRORODEO Sports News - March 27, 2026 Digital Edition

WEBB WINS TIE-DOWN ROPING WITH ARENA RECORD T he fuel that generates the fire inside Riley Webb’s heart is com petition. It’s why he’s the reigning three-time World Champion Tie-Down Roper. It’s why he won his third RodeoHouston title in four years. The last of four cowboys to battle March 21 at NRG Stadium, Webb had already witnessed history. He then made some for himself. Shane Hanchey, the 2013 world champion, raced through a 7.2-second run to beat the arena record of 7.4 set by Caleb Smidt. Two cowboys later, Kincade Henry stopped the clock in 7.3. Smidt’s mark had already been beaten twice, and Webb knew it would take a third to win the $65,000 grand prize for winning the Shootout. “Kincade and Shane were in the Final Four last year as well,” said Webb, 22, of Denton, Texas. “Three out of four last year, kind of the same scenario (but) not arena records. They pushed it, and they made me step it up and go faster. So, when they started breaking arena records, I just had to shorten my rope up. “I knew I had to try the barrier on, try the start on and just go as fast as I can and throw caution to the wind and let it all hang out. There was no choice.” Webb not only beat Hanchey’s new record, he

smashed it to pieces. When the calf was secured and his hands raised, the clock read 6.5 seconds, sev en-tenths ahead of the runner-up. “I try to rope for first every time I can, and then the first 7.2 came, then the 7.3 came,” said Webb, who pocketed $71,500. “I couldn’t split them. I had to go for first, so I was either going to go for first or fourth.” Riding Rudy, the 13-year-old gelding that has carried him to all those gold buckles, Webb stood tall in the same building that hosts home football games for the Houston Texans. “The fans in this Final Four round (are) unlike no other,” he said. “What is there, 70,000 people in the stands? They gave me a standing ovation after I roped. I’ve never had that happen, especially in a big crowd like that. That’s just a dream come true.”

12 PRORODEO SPORTS NEWS DIGITAL MAGAZINE MARCH 27, 2026