ProRodeo Sports News - September 20, 2024

Playoff Push Jess Pope

nabs bareback riding crown at Cinch Playoffs

HAVEN MEGED Justin introduced the ‘Roper’ in 1954 and it remains the Choice of Champions today!

ProRodeo Sports News 9/27/2024 Shop JustinBoots.com and your local Justin retailer

ProRodeo.com

2

LONG LIVE COWGIRLS.

HAILEY KINSEL 4-TIME WORLD CHAMPION

WRANGLER.COM

CONTENTS

SEPTEMBER 20, 2024 VOLUME 72, NO. 19

Fall Focus Contestants com peted for their share of $679,353 purse at the Pendleton (Ore.) Round-Up, Sept. 11-14. The key PRCA Playoff Series ro deo leads up to the end of the PRORODEO regular season on Sept. 30. 44

Tie-down roper Ty Harris raises his hat to the crowd in Pendleton after splitting the win with Preston Pederson at 30.1 seconds on three head. Clay Guardipee photo

ProRodeo Sports News 9/20/2024

4

ProRodeo.com

INSIDE

6 Manager’s Message 8 Hot Takes 10 Grille 12 He Said, She Said 16 Social Media 20 World Standings 22 Short Round 60 Results 32 Puyallup, Wash. Cinch Playoffs 44 Pendleton, Ore. 46 Pendleton, Ore. Xtreme Bulls 48 Albuquerque, N.M. 50 Abilene, Texas RODEOS

Phillip Kitts photo

New Mexico State Fair Queen Taylor White presents the American flag before a performance in Albuquerque. Land of Enchantment The New Mexico State Fair & Rodeo in Albuquerque offered contestants one of the last big payouts in the PRCA Playoff Series, Sept. 11-15. Bull rider Brad Moreno was the top money earner at the event, pocketing $6,429. 48

COVER

ProRodeo Sports News PRCA CEO Tom Glause MANAGER OF COMMUNICATIONS AND MEDIA

PRORODEO SPORTS NEWS (ISSN 0161-5815; USPS 469-620) is published semimonthly by the Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association, 101 Pro Rodeo Drive, Colorado Springs, CO 80919-4301. PERIODICALS postage paid at Colorado Springs, Colo. , and additional mailing offices. Postmaster: Send address changes to ProRodeo Sports News , P. O. Box 469025, Escondido, CA 92046. Subscription rate: $45 for one year, 12 issues. Disclaimer: The ProRodeo Sports News carries advertising as a service to PRCA members and PSN readers. However, publication of advertisements in the PSN does not in any way, whether expressed or implied, commit the PSN to guarantee or warrant any of the merchandise or livestock advertised.

TO SUBSCRIBE TO THE PSN OR FOR SUBSCRIPTION PROBLEMS, CALL: 800.RODEO.4U (800.763.3648) _______________ To advertise in the PSN , call: 719.528.4704 PRORODEO SPORTS NEWS 101 ProRodeo Drive

Playoff Push Jess Pope

nabs bareback riding crown at Cinch Playoffs

Jess Pope acknowledges the crowd in Puyallup, Wash., at the Cinch Playoffs after his record-setting 92.5-point ride on Calgary Stampede’s Disco Party.

Tracy Renck PSN EDITOR & DIGITAL MEDIA SPECIALIST Tanner Barth PRCA ART DIRECTOR

Colorado Springs, CO 80919 ©2024, PRCA Properties Inc. , a

marketing service and subsidiary of the Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic, mechanical, including photocopy, recording, or any information retrieval system, without permission in writing from PRCA Properties Inc.

Stephen Olver MEDIA REPORTER Alex Dodd

– Hailey Rae photo

ProRodeo Sports News 9/20/2024

ProRodeo.com

5

MANAGER’S MESSAGE TRACY RENCK

Gold buckle dreams fuel cowboys like Eldridge T he frantic push to make the 2024 Wrangler National Finals Rodeo presented by Teton Ridge is in full swing. Depending on their respective plights – cowboys and won the average twice in 2015 and 2017. Back in 2015, Eldridge finished a career-best second in the world standings to Hunter Cure and he’s fueled more than ever to complete his gold buckle mission. “A gold buckle would mean everything to me,” said Eldridge, 33. “We all strive for it. I have also treated this like a business Clay Guardipee photo Dakota Eldridge has made 10 trips to the National Finals Rodeo and is looking for his first PRCA World Championship in 2024.

are crisscrossing the United States, traveling thousands of miles, catching red-eye flights to chase paydays at rodeos and doing everything possible to try and make it into the Top 15 to have the ultimate opportunity in PRORODEO to compete for a coveted gold buckle. There are countless talented cowboys who have had outstanding rodeo careers, but never were able to win a gold buckle. That doesn’t mean they weren’t one of the best going down the road. As an example, look at all the great NBA players like Charles Barkley, John Stockton, Karl Malone, Reggie Miller, and Patrick Ewing just to name a few who never won a world championship. The problem was they could never dethrone Michael Jordan, who was powering the Chicago Bulls to six world championships. Back to rodeo, consider how many people were denied PRCA Steer Roping World Championships because of Guy Allen, who won a PRCA single-event record 18 gold buckles. Trevor Brazile captured a PRCA-record 14 All-Around World Championships, squelching dreams of countless cowboys aiming for that ultimate prize. Some cowboys are at peace not winning a gold buckle in their careers. However, steer wrestler Dakota Eldridge isn’t one of those cowboys. Eldridge has had an amazing PRORODEO career, he has qualified for 10 National Finals Rodeos in 2013-17, 2019-23

and made some good money along the way. I had a good buddy, it was years ago, he said ‘Either way it is not all about a gold buckle if I made a good living doing this.’ I called bullsh*t on that. “The only reason we do this is for a gold buckle. I have fed my family and made good money but at the end of the day, the blood, sweat and tears I want a gold buckle out of this. “I’m not going to chase it forever by any means, but I feel like this is my year.” As of Sept. 19, Eldridge was second in the PRCA | RAM World Standings and will have another chance, Dec. 5-14 to fulfill his gold buckle dream at the Thomas & Mack Center in Las Vegas. Eldridge doesn’t speak for all cowboys, but you could hear in his voice what that gold buckle means. Achieving gold buckle success is not easy. There’s no secret formula. Everything has to fall into place. Cowboys have to perform well. Draw well. Seize opportunities and of course have a little bit of luck sprinkled in along the way. That’s what makes the NFR so special. It is not about one night or one moment. It is the cumulation of a 10-night roller-coaster ride and when it is all said and done if all goes well the gold buckle is the pot of gold at the end of the rainbow.

Tracy Renck is the Manager of Communications and Media. He previously served three years as the editor of the ProRodeo Sports News , and before that he spent seven years as a media coordinator at the

PRCA. He has three decades of experience in sports journalism.

ProRodeo Sports News 9/20/2024

ProRodeo.com

6

ProRodeo Sports News 9/27/2024

ProRodeo.com

7

Locked In

“That money from Pendleton will help a ton toward making the NFR. I can’t wait for it. I can’t wait to prepare for it. The end goal is to try and win the whole thing. I will be in the gym as much

Steer wrestler Jesse Brown knows better. Despite ranking eighth in the PRCA | RAM World Standings, he refused to believe his fifth straight berth to the Wrangler National Finals Rodeo presented by Teton Ridge was secure. That changed at the Pendleton (Ore.) Round-Up. Brown rallied from third place to capture the crown, earning $9,247 for his excellence.

as possible and do things to improve that I have learned from the last few years.”

NEXT ON TAP CINCH PLAYOFFS GOVERNOR’S CUP Where: Sioux Falls, S.D. When: Sept. 26-28

Broadcast Schedule: The Cinch Playoffs Governor’s Cup will be broadcast on The Cowboy Channel and stream live on the PRCA on The Cowboy Channel Plus App, Sept. 26-28. WALLER COUNTY FAIR & RODEO Where: Hempstead, Texas When: Oct. 3-5 Broadcast Schedule: The Waller County Fair & Rodeo will be broadcast on The Cowboy Channel and stream live on the PRCA on The Cowboy Channel Plus App, Oct. 3-5. RAM TEXAS Broadcast Schedule: The RAM Texas Circuit Finals will stream live on the PRCA on The Cowboy Channel Plus App, Oct. 8-11. For complete broadcast schedule visit https:// bitly.ws/3hK9m CIRCUIT FINALS Where: Waco, Texas When: Oct. 8-11

HOT TAKES John Pyle photo Taylor Broussard captured the bareback riding crown at the Lion’s Dixie Roundup in St. George, Utah, after an 87-point ride on Legacy Pro Rodeo’s Outlaw.

Clutch Win Taylor Broussard is fighting to reach his first Wrangler National Finals Rodeo presented by Teton Ridge since 2021. At this point in the season every dollar counts, and Broussard recognizes that. That’s why his win at the Lion’s Dixie Roundup in St. George, Utah, was so important. Broussard added $4,547 to his 2024 ledger with the victory. As of Sept. 19, he leads Richmond Champion in the No. 15 spot by less than $8,000.

792 $58,905,541 MONEY WON BY COWBOYS IN THE 2024 SEASON NUMBER OF PRCA-SANCTIONED RODEOS IN THE 2024 SEASON AS OF SEPT. 17

ProRodeo Sports News 9/20/2024

ProRodeo.com

8

ProRodeo Sports News 9/27/2024

ProRodeo.com

9

COWBOY GRILLE WITH TANNER BARTH

Ethan Mazurenko, 21, has made his mark during his Resistol Rookie season in PRORODEO. The Canadian bareback rider is 35th in the PRCA | RAM World Standings as of Sept. 18, with $48,741. His biggest payday during the 2024 season came by winning the MSU-Northern PRCA Xtreme Bares & Broncs Challenge in Havre, Mont. He pocketed $5,386 after his 87.5-point effort. Mazurenko is fifth in the race for the Resistol Rookie of the Year honor.

ETHAN MAZURENKO

How’d you get your start in rodeo? Ethan : I actually just wanted to try it because I’ve been around it my whole life. I went to a school that Jake Vold put on and it kind of took off from there for me after I went to college. When did you know you could make a career out of rodeo? Ethan: When I went to college it all started clicking together a little better for me. I bought my permit the first year I went to college and started dipping my toes into it. The year after I won the Calgary Stampede in the novice bareback riding and then the week after I got on an NFR horse and made probably the best ride I’ve ever made. My confidence only grew from there. Why did you decide bareback riding would be your event? Ethan: The bareback riding is a tough event and not everybody can do it. You have to fight it out every time you get on and I really like that about it. Did you do any other rodeo events growing up? Ethan: I rode a couple saddle bronc horses in high school but that was about it. I was never good enough to do the timed-event stuff. Why did you decide to get your PRCA card this season?

Ethan: I felt like I was pretty ready this year. I had a pretty good winter, and everything was clicking together after rodeoing in Canada. So, I decided that this would be a good year to give it a go. What have you learned during your Resistol Rookie season? Ethan: It really comes down to learning how to rodeo. You have to learn to go to the right places at the right time. I got pretty lucky this year after Cheyenne (Wyo.) getting to rodeo with Orin Larsen and Kody Lamb. That really helped me out a lot. Who’s someone you look up to in the rodeo business right now? Ethan: I definitely look up to Jake Vold. He was the guy I followed along the whole way up to this point in my career. Clint Laye has helped me out a lot as well. What’s one rodeo you want to win before your career is over? Ethan: It’s the Calgary Stampede for sure. It would be pretty cool to have a win in the novice and one again in the regular rodeo. What’s your favorite movie? Ethan: That’s an easy one, let’s go with Top Gun . What’s your go-to restaurant before or after a rodeo? Ethan: It would have to be Texas Roadhouse. What’s the first vehicle you drove? Ethan: I think it was a 2004 Ford one-ton V10 truck. Do you have a favorite candy? Ethan: Those Mamba Sour Fruit Chews are really good. I feel like I get those a lot of times when we stop on the road. What do you enjoy doing when you’re not rodeoing? Ethan: I am a big-time hunter. I really like to go elk hunting with my bow. I like hunting just about everything and getting outdoors when I can. What’s your favorite holiday? Ethan: It would have to be Christmas for me for sure. Everybody has time off at that time of the year and we all get to get together. What type of music do you like listening to? Ethan: Rock n Roll is my favorite by far. I like Three Days Grace quite a bit.

ProRodeo Sports News 9/20/2024

ProRodeo.com

10

ProRodeo Sports News 9/27/2024

ProRodeo.com

11

Pendleton® and Pendleton® Midnight Blended Canadian Whisky. 40 % - 45% ALC./VOL. ©2024 Pendleton Distillers, Lawrenceburg, IN. Please drink responsibly. LET’ER BUCK and the bucking horse logo are registered trademarks of

10 QUESTIONS WITH KYNNLEY HERRINGTON

He Said – She Said

Who knows professional bullfighter Cody Emerson better? His wife, Sierra Emerson, or veteran bullfighter Robert “Blue” Jeanes?

CODY

SIERRA

ROBERT

ROBERT

CODY

SIERRA

WHAT’S YOUR LEAST FAVORITE BULL TO FIGHT?

Emerson Biggins

Emerson Biggins

Emerson Biggins

WHO IS HIS FAVORITE RODEO ATHLETE?

Rob Smets

Me

Frank Newsom

WHAT’S HIS FAVORITE SOCIAL MEDIA?

None

Instagram

Instagram

WHAT IS HIS GO-TO KARAOKE SONG?

Facebook “John Deere Green” by Joe Diffie

Any George Strait song Any Chancey Williams song

Xxxxxx “John Deere Green” by Joe Diffie

WHAT IS HIS DREAM VACATION?

Spain

Spain

Spain

WHAT CELEBRITY WOULD HE MOST LIKE TO MEET?

Eazy-E

Kevin Costner

Kevin Costner

WHO WEARS THE PANTS IN THE FAMILY?

His wife

Sierra

Me

WHAT MOVIE WOULD HE LIKED TO HAVE BEEN IN?

Lonesome Dove

Lonesome Dove

Lonesome Dove

WHAT’S HIS FAVORITE FOOD?

Chicken Strips

Buffalo wings

Buffalo wings

WHAT’S HIS FAVORITE NON-ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGE?

Dr Pepper

Sweet tea

Raspberry Sweet Tea

ProRodeo Sports News 9/20/2024

ProRodeo.com

12

ProRodeo Sports News 9/27/2024

ProRodeo.com

13

WORD SEARCH TRY YOUR LUCK

ANSWERS ON PAGE 78

Find the winners from the Sheriff’s PRCA Rodeo in San Bernardino, Calif., and the Pasadena (Texas) Livestock Show & Rodeo in 2023. Cowboys or cowgirls who won more than one event at both rodeos appear once for each win. Names may be forward, backward, horizontal, vertical, or diagonal. September Sprint 1. Find the winners from San Bernardino, Calif.: BB: Jacob Lees SW: Stan Branco

NKDMEDEWQELLEEAHUADQG KI LGI LUPTHFNDZBIOEIQZ TAKDYLLLLUBFBPYJQOLML UVVRAEE IGBXZHZVEWNKBX KMOOGNOYHYGMLHYL IMAXN KNR I EYNXBCHHSHWMGOCMH HGKPBAF J ZRAQWTAXYEFXV HRGEKPOASDAKDRTVXCOVK YDCWCYUCDTMVCHQHEOSYB OMQUIDNOBZAUOI BZRYENX FTAMRATBPCSTXSNAFVBAJ NUIRRRALBTOOLKCJHSRNG YFQREGI EHUNTWEQNT JAHK RCSTDKNEOPCLT J RAJDYVN ROL J ZYRS JOLNQJNWGZCHO UONBZ I ZABKECEBOCRRCCN CP JHOKXCPGMMRBALAIHOW EENTMTDFMTEAVLKZYQGT J LREASHZKLKNJNXXVASKHN ODSRGRUUCCTUMXXZLAHOT CHASEBROOKSKVQBELFNKN

TR: Derrick Begay/Colter Todd SB: Leon Fountain/Statler Wright TD: Tuf Cooper GB: Miley Bravos BR: T.J. Gray

2. Find the winners from Pasadena, Texas: BB: Mason Clements SW: Grady Payne TR: Marcus Theriot/Cole Curry SB: Chase Brooks TD: Nick Achille BR: T Parker

Dynamic Duo

Bull rider Ky Hamilton shines at NFR & Stetson Wright wins fifth all-around title

ProRodeo Sports News 9/20/2024

ProRodeo.com

14

ProRodeo Sports News 9/27/2024

ProRodeo.com

15

SOCIAL MEDIA SPOTLIGHT

ProRodeo Sports News 9/20/2024

ProRodeo.com

16

ProRodeo Sports News 9/20/2024

ProRodeo.com

17

SOCIAL MEDIA SPOTLIGHT

ProRodeo Sports News 9/20/2024

ProRodeo.com

18

ProRodeo Sports News 9/27/2024

ProRodeo.com

19

2024 PRCA RAM WORLD STANDINGS

Official as of Sept. 17, 2024. For the 2024 season (Oct. 1, 2023-Sept. 30, 2024), official rodeo limits are as follows: all-around, 70; bareback riding, 100; steer wrestling, 80; team roping, 80; saddle bronc riding, 100; tie-down roping, 80; barrel racing, 100; breakaway roping,100; and bull riding, 125. Bull riders can count Xtreme Bulls events toward the PRCA World Standings, but not toward the all-around standings.

ALL-AROUND 1. Shad Ryan Mayfield, Clovis, N.M. ................. $224,413 2. Coleman Proctor, Pryor, Okla. .......................... 181,922 3. Junior Nogueira, Pres. Prudente, Brazil .......... 179,416 4. Wacey Schalla, Arapaho, Okla. ........................ 167,953 5. Tuf Cooper, Decatur, Texas .............................. 128,498 6. Paden Bray, Stephenville, Texas ...................... 107,547 7. Jake Cooper Clay, Sapulpa, Okla. .................... 101,966 8. Erich Rogers, Round Rock, Ariz. ..................... 101,398 9. Bodie Mattson, Sturgis, S.D. ............................. 92,365 10. Tyler Pearson, Atoka, Okla. .............................. 91,293 11. Brushton Minton, Witter Springs, Calif. ........... 86,845 12. Zane Kilgus, Pryor, Okla. ................................. 79,161 13. Marcus Theriot, Lumberton, Miss. .................. 79,032 14. Chet Weitz, London, Texas .............................. 75,545 15. Riley Wakefield, O’Neill, Neb. .......................... 60,787 16. Seth Hall, Albuquerque, N.M. .......................... 60,237 17. Chance Oftedahl, Pemberton, Minn. ................ 56,220 18. Cole Walker, Sparta, Tenn. .............................. 54,097 19. Paul Tierney, Oklahoma City, Okla. .................. 53,877 20. Slade Wood, New Ulm, Texas ......................... 47,525 BAREBACK RIDING 1. Keenan Hayes, Hayden, Colo. ........................ $203,725 2. Rocker Steiner, Weatherford, Texas ................. 196,669 3. Dean Thompson, Altamont, Utah ..................... 169,447 4. R.C. Landingham, Hat Creek, Calif. ................. 166,816 5. Leighton Berry, Weatherford, Texas ................. 156,187 6. Weston Timberman, Columbus, Mont. ............ 135,875 7. Cooper Cooke, Victor, Idaho ............................ 135,331 8. Cole Franks, Clarendon, Texas ......................... 133,014 9. Garrett Shadbolt, Merriman, Neb. .................... 129,864 10. Taylor Broussard, Estherwood, La. ................ 126,138 11. Jess Pope, Waverly, Kan. ............................... 124,749 12. Cole Reiner, Buffalo, Wyo. ............................. 123,323 13. Tanner Aus, Granite Falls, Minn. .................... 122,777 14. Jacob Lees, Caldwell, Idaho ........................... 121,471 15. Richmond Champion, Stevensville, Mont. ..... 118,193 16. Orin Larsen, Inglis, Manitoba ......................... 116,439 17. Bradlee Miller, Huntsville, Texas .................... 112,855 18. Waylon Bourgeois, Church Point, La. ............ 104,986 19. Nick Pelke, Mondovi, Wis. ............................. 101,430 20. Tilden Hooper, Carthage, Texas ........................ 94,055 STEER WRESTLING 1. Dalton Massey, Hermiston, Ore. .................... $173,013 2. Dakota Eldridge, Elko, Nev. .............................. 156,165 3. Will Lummus, Byhalia, Miss. ........................... 148,837 4. J.D. Struxness, Milan, Minn. ........................... 122,734 5. Stetson Jorgensen, Blackfoot, Idaho ............... 118,733 6. Don Payne, Stephenville, Texas ....................... 115,019 7. Jesse Brown, Baker City, Ore. ......................... 107,141 8. Ty Erickson, Helena, Mont. ............................... 99,657 9. Rowdy Parrott, Mamou, La. .............................. 96,329 10. Tucker Allen, Ventura, Calif. ............................. 89,748 11. Tyler Pearson, Atoka, Okla. .............................. 88,125 12. Tanner Brunner, Ramona, Kan. ........................ 87,878 13. Scott Guenthner, Consort, Alberta ................... 87,705 14. Justin Shaffer, Hallsville, Texas ....................... 85,799 15. Cash Robb, Altamont, Utah ............................. 84,786 16. Tristan Martin, Sulphur, La. ............................. 82,194 17. Stephen Culling, Fort St. John, B.C. ............... 79,275 18. Jacob Edler, Alva, Okla. .................................... 78,767 19. Clayton Hass, Weatherford, Texas ................... 76,522 20. Jacob Talley, Keatchie, La. ................................ 74,200 TEAM ROPING (HEADER) 1. Dustin Egusquiza, Marianna, Fla. .................. $187,772 2. Kaleb Driggers, Hoboken, Ga. ......................... 164,138 3. Tyler Wade, Terrell, Texas ................................ 146,500 4. Coleman Proctor, Pryor, Okla. ......................... 144,979 5. J.C. Yeahquo, Mandaree, N.D. ......................... 123,551 6. Clint Summers, Lake City, Fla. ......................... 120,646 7. Brenten Hall, Jay, Okla. .................................... 119,707 8. Jake Smith, Broken Bow, Okla. ....................... 116,588 9. Luke Brown, Rock Hill, S.C. ............................. 108,541 10. Cody Snow, Los Olivos, Calif. ........................ 107,418 11. Andrew Ward, Edmond, Okla. ........................ 106,999 12. Erich Rogers, Round Rock, Ariz. ................... 104,345 13. Derrick Begay, Seba Dalkai, Ariz. ................... 104,084 14. Clay Smith, Broken Bow, Okla. ....................... 98,558 15. Riley Minor, Ellensburg, Wash. ....................... 98,420

16. Jr. Dees, Aurora, S.D. ...................................... 97,855 17. Tanner Tomlinson, Angleton, Texas ................. 96,940 18. Nelson Wyatt, Clanton, Ala. ............................. 93,775 19. Wyatt Bray, Stephenville, Texas ....................... 92,652 20. Jake Cooper Clay, Sapulpa, Okla. .................... 90,651 TEAM ROPING (HEELER) 1. Levi Lord, Sturgis, S.D. ................................. $187,772 2. Junior Nogueira, Pres. Prudente, Brazil .......... 175,264 3. Wesley Thorp, Throckmorton, Texas ............... 146,500 4. Logan Medlin, Tatum, N.M. ............................. 131,746 5. Jake Long, Coffeyville, Kan. ............................. 124,084 6. Kaden Profili, Jacksonville, Texas .................... 120,880 7. Douglas Rich, Herrick, Ill. ................................ 116,588 8. Buddy Hawkins II, Stephenville, Texas ............ 112,750 9. Jonathan Torres, Ocala, Fla. ............................ 109,492 10. Hunter Koch, Vernon, Texas .......................... 109,429 11. Coleby Payne, Stephenville, Texas ................. 108,558 12. Paul Eaves, Lonedell, Mo. .............................. 104,944 13. Colter Todd, Willcox, Ariz. .............................. 104,084 14. Travis Graves, Jay, Okla. ................................ 103,164 15. Tanner Braden, Dewey, Okla. ......................... 102,098 16. J.C. Flake, Milsap, Texas ............................... 101,024 17. Brady Minor, Ellensburg, Wash. ...................... 98,420 18. Patrick Smith, Lipan, Texas ............................. 96,940 19. Kollin VonAhn, Blanchard, Okla. ...................... 95,801 20. Wyatt Cox, Arroyo Grande, Calif. ..................... 92,968 SADDLE BRONC RIDING 1. Damian Brennan, Injune, Australia ................ $224,967 2. Kade Bruno, Challis, Idaho .............................. 219,387 3. Wyatt Casper, Miami, Texas ............................ 215,659 4. Zeke Thurston, Big Valley, Alberta ................... 207,774 5. Ryder Wright, Beaver, Utah ............................. 206,680 6. Lefty Holman, Visalia, Calif. ............................. 205,590 7. Brody Cress, Hillsdale, Wyo. ........................... 195,488 8. Sage Newman, Melstone, Mont. ...................... 187,940 9. Statler Wright, Beaver, Utah ............................ 154,268 10. Kolby Wanchuk, Sherwood Park, Alberta ...... 134,750 11. Dawson Hay, Wildwood, Alberta ................... 129,827 12. Zac Dallas, Las Cruces, N.M. ......................... 128,794 13. Ben Andersen, Eckville, Alberta ..................... 125,248 14. Brody Wells, Powell, Wyo. ............................ 122,740 15. Logan Hay, Wildwood, Alberta ...................... 120,452 16. Ryder Sanford, Sulphur, La. .......................... 115,248 17. Logan Cook, Alto, Texas .................................. 99,883 18. Layton Green, Millarville, Alberta ..................... 94,177 19. Allen Boore, Axtell, Utah .................................. 93,831 20. Lucas Macza, High River, Alberta .................... 86,888 TIE-DOWN ROPING 1. Shad Ryan Mayfield, Clovis, N.M. .................. $242,772 2. Ty Harris, San Angelo, Texas ........................... 217,409 3. Haven Meged, Miles City, Mont. ..................... 210,563 4. Riley Webb, Denton, Texas .............................. 200,145 5. John Douch, Huntsville, Texas ......................... 152,193 6. Marty Yates, Stephenville, Texas ..................... 150,368 7. Shane Hanchey, Sulphur, La. ........................... 148,220 8. Kincade Henry, Mount Pleasant, Texas ............ 129,097 9. Tuf Cooper, Decatur, Texas .............................. 122,926 10. Zack Jongbloed, Iowa, La. ............................. 116,630 11. Dylan Hancock, San Angelo, Texas ................ 109,728 12. Joel Harris, San Angelo, Texas ...................... 108,645 13. Cole Clemons, Lipan, Texas ........................... 101,284 14. Quade Hiatt, Canyon, Texas ........................... 100,654 15. Marcos Costa, Iretama, Brazil .......................... 99,339 16. Hunter Herrin, Apache, Okla. ........................... 94,906 17. Bryce Derrer, Portales, N.M. ............................ 92,929 18. Brushton Minton, Witter Springs, Calif. ........... 92,586 19. Macon Murphy, Keatchie, La. .......................... 89,374 20. Trevor Hale, Perryton, Texas ............................ 81,928 STEER ROPING 1. Cole Patterson, Pawnee, Okla. ......................... $89,533 2. Slade Wood, New Ulm, Texas ........................... 72,037 3. Vin Fisher Jr., Andrews, Texas .......................... 68,662 4. Trenton Johnson, Blue Mound, Kan. ................. 66,585 5. Cody Lee, Gatesville, Texas ............................... 66,533 6. Scott Snedecor, Fredericksburg, Texas .............. 64,702 7. Chet Herren, Pawhuska, Okla. ........................... 61,041 8. Clay Long, Stephenville, Texas .......................... 58,344 9. Jess Tierney, Hermosa, S.D. ............................. 58,120

10. John Bland, Okarche, Okla. .............................. 55,482 11. Brodie Poppino, Big Cabin, Okla. ..................... 54,159 12. J. Tom Fisher, Andrews, Texas ........................ 48,269 13. Thomas Smith, Barnsdall, Okla. ....................... 47,441 14. Blake Deckard, Eufaula, Okla. .......................... 45,987 15. Billy Good, Wynnewood, Okla. ........................ 44,478 16. Dalton Walker, Clyde, Texas ............................. 42,399 17. Coleman Proctor, Pryor, Okla. ......................... 41,612 18. Logan Currie, Wharton, Texas ......................... 39,580 19. Tuff Hardman, Atoka, Okla. .............................. 37,660 20. Kelton McMillen, Weatherford, Okla. ............... 37,164 BULL RIDING 1. Jace Trosclair, Chauvin, La. ........................... $212,965 2. T.J. Gray, Dairy, Ore. ....................................... 211,992 3. Josh Frost, Randlett, Utah ............................... 211,064 4. Hayes Weight, Goshen, Utah ........................... 194,104 5. Wacey Schalla, Arapaho, Okla. ........................ 180,158 6. Clayton Sellars, Wildwood, Fla. ....................... 177,366 7. Jeter Lawrence, Council Hill, Okla. .................. 175,283 8. Chase Dougherty, Canby, Ore. ......................... 165,013 9. Trevor Reiste, Linden, Iowa ............................. 159,131 10. Creek Young, Rogersville, Mo. ...................... 158,847 11. Cooper James, Erda, Utah ............................. 149,664 12. Tristen Hutchings, Monteview, Idaho ............. 147,574 13. Trey Kimzey, Strong City, Okla. ...................... 127,328 14. Jake Gardner, Fort St. John, B.C. ................... 117,836 15. Dustin Boquet, Bourg, La. .............................. 114,076 16. JR Stratford, Byers, Kan. ............................... 112,392 17. Jordan Spears, Redding, Calif. ...................... 112,235 18. Tyler Bingham, Howell, Utah ......................... 110,199 19. Luke Mast, Hutchinson, Kan. ......................... 110,001 20. Brody Yeary, Morgan Mill, Texas .................... 107,185 BARREL RACING 1. Leslie Smalygo, Skiatook, Okla. .................... $195,626 2. Hailey Kinsel, Cotulla, Texas ........................... 154,212 3. Emily Beisel, Weatherford, Texas .................... 152,100 4. Kassie Mowry, Dublin, Texas ........................... 151,283 5. Ashley Castleberry, Montgomery, Texas .......... 139,485 6. Lisa Lockhart, Oelrichs, S.D. ........................... 138,030 7. Tiany Schuster, Krum, Texas ........................... 119,815 8. Wenda Johnson, Pawhuska, Okla. .................. 117,970 9. Dona Kay Rule, Minco, Okla. ........................... 115,120 10. Abby Phillips, Marshall, Texas ...................... 113,031 11. Halyn Lide, China Spring, Texas .................... 112,855 12. Andrea Busby, Millsap, Texas ........................ 105,684 13. Carlee Otero, Lipan, Texasa .......................... 103,348 14. Shelley Morgan, Eustace, Texas ..................... 100,939 15. LaTricia Duke, Zephyr, Texas ........................... 98,084 16. Paige Jones, Wayne, Okla. .............................. 97,478 17. Jordon Briggs, Tolar, Texas .............................. 93,247 18. Tayla Moeykens, Three Forks, Mont. ............... 91,876 19. Sara Winkelman, Big Lake, Minn. .................... 87,231 20. Summer Kosel, Glenham, S.D. ........................ 82,655 BREAKAWAY ROPING 1. Josie Conner, Iowa, La. ................................. $132,274 2. Taylor Munsell, Alva, Okla. ............................... 127,553 3. Jackie Crawford, Stephenville, Texas ............... 127,081 4. Martha Angelone, Stephenville, Texas .............. 119,793 5. Shelby Boisjoli-Meged, Miles City, Mont. ......... 114,315 6. Maddy Deerman, Hope, N.M. ........................... 102,633 7. Kelsie Domer, Dublin, Texas .............................. 96,696 8. Rickie Fanning, Spearfish, S.D. ........................ 91,826 9. Danielle Lowman, Gilbert, Ariz. ......................... 90,191 10. Macy Young, Wittmann, Ariz. .......................... 89,531 11. Hali Williams, Comanche, Texas ...................... 83,407 12. Kendal Pierson, Wardlow, Alberta ................... 75,922 13. Jordan Jo Hollabaugh, Springtown, Texas ....... 75,808 14. Rylee A. George, Oakdale, Calif. ....................... 71,858 15. Sarah Angelone, Lipan, Texas .......................... 69,546 16. Bradi Good, Abilene, Texas .............................. 65,993 17. Joey Williams, Volborg, Mont. ......................... 63,023 18. TiAda Gray, Portales, N.M. .............................. 57,390 19. Braylee Shepherd, Fitzhugh, Okla. ................... 57,321 20. Bailey Bates, Tohatchi, N.M. ............................ 56,429

ProRodeo Sports News 9/20/2024

ProRodeo.com

20

BOOK YOUR

NFR EXPERIENCE NOW!

Keenan Hayes 2023 PRCA WORLD CHAMPION BAREBACK RIDER

/LasVegasNFR

NFRexperience.com/StayYourWay DECEMBER 5 - 14, 2024

21 Photos courtesy of Michael Roberts

ProRodeo Sports News 9/27/2024

ProRodeo.com

SHORT ROUND

Honored T he Coors family and rodeo go hand in hand. Their legacy in the sport is growing even further. Pete Coors has been named the 2024 Legend of PRORODEO. “The first thing that came to my mind when I heard the news of this honor was Donna Keffeler (the National Event Coordinator, Coors Banquet Rodeo at Molson Coors Beverage Company),” said Coors. “We wouldn’t be where we are without her and the support of the company. I truly am humbled this receive this award.” Since 1979, Coors Brewing Company has provided millions of dollars to rodeo athletes, announcers, stock contractors, rodeo committees and barrelmen, while solidifying its position as part of the backbone of PRORODEO. “We have always felt that rodeo has been the perfect partner with our consumers and particularly with the Coors Banquet brand,” Coors said. “I think this recognition really goes to a lot of people, who stood with the company and myself promoting PRORODEO. It took a lot of folks to get to this point.” Over his nearly 50-year career at Coors Brewing Company, Pete held many positions, starting as a trainee in waste management to being promoted to Director of Market Research and eventually earning the President and Chairman titles. Now, retired from active employment, he currently serves on the Board of Molson Coors Beverage Company. He has also been a dedicated board member and loyal supporter of the National Western Stock Show & Rodeo in Denver, Colo., for nearly 30 years. Coors is the 19th man honored as a Legend of PRORODEO, following Jake Barnes, Jim Shoulders, Clem McSpadden, Harry

Pete Coors named 2024 Legend of PRORODEO

Vold, Larry Mahan, Shawn Davis, Dean Oliver, Donnie Gay, Benny Binion, Mel Potter, Neal Gay, Michael Gaughan, Keith Martin, Cotton Rosser, Bob Tallman, Clint Johnson and Red Steagall. Coors will be honored at the 19th annual Wrangler Gold Buckle Gala on Dec. 2 at the South Point Hotel and Casino in Las Vegas. Doors open at 6 p.m. (PT) with a reception and silent auction. The dinner begins at 7 p.m. with the live auction and program following dinner. “I’m looking forward to being in Las Vegas for the Gala and having the opportunity to receive this achievement,” Coors said. “I plan to attend a few of the rodeo performances as well. It should be a great time, surrounded by great people.”

BY THE NUMBERS $64K The amount of money ($64,482) earned by Wyatt Casper for winning the PRCA Xtreme Broncs Finals championships in 2023 and 2024. Casper’s latest victory came Aug. 18 in Rapid City, S.D. His total in 2024, $33,644, was an event record. Casper held the previous high earnings mark when he won the event in 2023 and collected $30,838.

$33K The combined amount of money ($33,293) earned by bull rider Trevor Reiste at the Cinch Playoffs at the Puyallup (Wash.) Rodeo (Sept. 8) and the Pendleton (Ore.) Round-Up (Sept. 14). Reiste is in the mix to qualify for his first Wrangler National Finals Rodeo presented by Teton Ridge since 2017.

$253K The regular season earnings record ($253,191) – before the National Finals Rodeo – in saddle bronc riding set by Sage Newman in 2022.

ProRodeo Sports News 9/20/2024

ProRodeo.com

22

‘Review System’ to be used at NFR

The 2024 Wrangler National Finals Rodeo presented by Teton Ridge, Dec. 5-14 at the Thomas & Mack Center in Las Vegas will have a new policy. A “Review” system will be implemented at the upcoming NFR. Only the six specific calls can be reviewed. Only calls made in-arena by the Pro Officials will be reviewed. Non-calls will not be reviewed. • Contestant competing before breaking the plane of the Barrier • Crossfire – Team Roping

• Livestock infraction – Tie-Down • Spur Out (Mark Out Rule) – Rough Stock

Events

• Barrier Malfunction – All Timed Events • No-Nod – All events “As access to technology has increased, it is vital that we adapt a fair opportunity for competition. The PRCA is committed to providing our committees the best resources to allow for the best competition, including embracing video review, when possible,” said Steve Knowles, PRCA’s Director of Rodeo Administration

Contract personnel announced for NFR, NFSR

The contract personnel for the 2024 Wrangler National Finals Rodeo presented by Teton Ridge and the National Finals Steer Roping have been announced by the PRCA. The announcers at the 2024 Wrangler NFR will be Randy Corley, Roger Mooney, and Wayne Brooks. The NFR is Dec. 5-14 at the Thomas & Mack Center in Las Vegas. Livestock superintendent is John Barnes. The assistant livestock superintendent is Terry Autrey. Raina Hudson is the saddle horse boss. The chute bosses are Tony Amaral (timed events) and Tom Neuens (roughstock). Sunni Deb Backstrom is the NFR secretary. Courtney Teton Ridge, a Western sports media and entertainment company, announced Aug. 20, a renewed, multi-faceted partnership with the Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association (PRCA), returning as the presenting sponsor of the Wrangler National Finals Rodeo (NFR) in Las Vegas for 2024-2025. In addition to the presenting sponsorship Teton Ridge will have a larger footprint within the NFR Fan Zone at the Thomas & Mack Arena and produce the “Official NFR Pre-Show” which will air live on Teton Ridge’s digital channels. Featuring some of the top talent and celebrities of the industry, the pre-show will take fans on a unique experience each night with guest interviews, recaps of all the action, behind the scenes moments with the athletes and a look ahead on the leaderboard. “Working alongside the PRCA and Las Vegas Events to preserve and enhance this treasured national sporting event is so important to our team at Teton Ridge,” said Deirdre Lester, CEO of Teton Ridge. In an effort to bring more rodeo content to fans worldwide,

Morehead is the assistant secretary. Timers are Nancy Dorenkamp, Michelle Corley and Kris Fleener. Josh Hilton is the music director and the assistant music director is Brad Narducci. The specialty acts are Tomas Garcilazo, Madison MacDonald and Haley Proctor. At the NFSR at the Kansas Star Arena in Mulvane, Kan., Nov. 1-2, Jody Carper will handle the announcing duties, along with Scott Grover. Chute boss is John Gwatney and the arena usher is Dusty Moore. The NFSR secretary is Debi Davis. The timers are Tammy Braden and Jodi Crippen. Drew Taylor has been tabbed as the music director. Teton Ridge and PRCA will partner with PRORODEO Films to aid in the distribution of archival footage across new digital outlets. Teton Ridge-owned Pro Fantasy Rodeo (PFR) will become the “Official Fantasy Partner” of PRORODEO. With more than $6 million and 2,000 buckles awarded to fans PFR is the leader in the western fantasy gaming space. Followers and fans will have the action brought to their phones during the two weeks in Las Vegas with just under $500,000 in cash and prizes on the line for the NFR “Big Game.” “The National Finals Rodeo is the premier championship event in western sports and the PRCA is proud to continue our partnership with Teton Ridge, a leader in western entertainment,” said Tom Glause, CEO PRCA. For the most comprehensive source for everything NFR visit prorodeo.com. Ticketing information and more is available at NFRexperience.com. Details on Teton Ridge activations and events surrounding the week can be found at tetonridge.com or on social media @TetonRidge .

Teton Ridge expands its partnership with PRCA

ProRodeo Sports News 9/20/2024

ProRodeo.com

23

PRIDE IN CRAFTSMANSHIP For 51 years, Montana Silversmiths has set the standard in silver and gold, crafting World Championship buckles for champions everywhere. Each buckle represents a champion's talent, as well as a commitment to perseverance and excellence. It is all about the buckle, rich in American heritage; honoring the tradition and the champions who win them.

TROPHY BUCKLES & AWARDS www.montanasilversmiths.com 888-677-9487 | Follow us

ProRodeo Sports News 9/27/2024

ProRodeo.com

24

HAUL IN A DAY’S WORK

Every day there’s more that needs doing and no more room in the day to get it done. Put those tasks to bed early with a vehicle that works as hard as you. Strong, capable and built to take everything your day can throw at it. Oering class-leading payload capacity that lets you haul more hay, plus plenty of storage to carry all the tools needed for a full day of work out in the ield.

WARNING: Polaris o-road vehicles can be hazardous to operate and are not intended for on-road use. Driver must be at least 16 years old with a valid driver’s license to operate. ALL riders should always wear helmets, eye protection and protective clothing. Always use seat belts and cab nets or doors (as equipped). Never engage in stunt driving, and avoid excessive speeds and sharp turns. Riding and alcohol/drugs don’t mix. All riders should take a safety training course. Call 800“342“3764 for additional information. Check local laws before riding on trails. ©2021 Polaris Industries Inc.

Meet your next ranch hand at o road.polaris.com

ProRodeo Sports News 9/27/2024

ProRodeo.com

25

SNAPSHOT

High Flying T.J. Gray gets tossed in the air by Wayne Vold Rodeo’s Haunted Hotel at the Pendleton Whisky Xtreme Bulls Finale. – Lara St. Jacques photo

ProRodeo Sports News 9/20/2024

ProRodeo Sports News 9/20/2024

ProRodeo.com

ProRodeo.com

26

27

ProRodeo Sports News 9/27/2024

ProRodeo.com

28

GET MORE MILEAGE FROM YOUR SILAGE ™ Results from nearly 100 studies* involving more than 30 dairy producers indicates that silage produced using Pivot Bio PROVEN ® 40 significantly improved tonnage, while maintaining quality and a nutritional profile on par with farmers’ standard nitrogen practices. • 0.91 tonnage/acre increase • 954 milk pounds/acre increase • 17.6 milk pounds/ton increase More Silage. More Milk. More Profitability.

Get More with Pivot Bio.

Scan QR Code or visit info.pivotbio.com/silage for the latest silage data.

pivotbio.com

*Pivot Bio conducted extensive studies throughout the 2022 and 2023 corn-growing seasons. 36 fields replaced their synthetic nitrogen by up to 40 lbs./A. with Pivot Bio PROVEN ® 40. The data reflects the average performance across both years.

ProRodeo Sports News 9/27/2024

ProRodeo.com

29

The performance of any agricultural input may vary and depend on many factors like weather, soil, and other farming conditions. 1764.01.05.24 ©2024 PIVOT BIO

ProRodeo Sports News 9/27/2024

ProRodeo.com

30

ProRodeo Sports News 9/27/2024

ProRodeo.com

31

Final Stretch

The top 23 cowboys and cowgirls in the PRCA Playoff Series standings and the NFR Open Champions went head-to-head for their share of the lucrative purse at the Cinch Playoffs in Puyallup, Wash., Sept. 5-8. PAGES 34-39

CINCH PLAYOFFS

Ty Bauerle clocked a 5.5-second run in the second round of Bracket 2 at the Cinch Playoffs but failed to qualify for the semifinals. J.D. Struxness took home the steer wrestling title with a 4.0-second effort in the finals. John Pyle photo

ProRodeo Sports News 9/20/2024

ProRodeo Sports News 9/20/2024

ProRodeo.com

ProRodeo.com

32

33

PUYALLUP, WASH.

CINCH PLAYOFFS

Win pushes Jess Pope into Top 15 On the Rise BY TANNER BARTH J ess Pope knows what it’s like to have his back against the wall. He entered the 2022 National Finals Rodeo second in the world standings and after 10 grueling nights in Las Vegas he captured his first gold buckle.

TOP SCORES

That championship mentality is paying off for the

Waverly, Kan., bareback rider in 2024.

At the beginning of August, Pope found himself outside the top 20 in the PRCA | RAM World Standings, fighting tooth and nail to punch his ticket to his fifth consecutive Wrangler National Finals Rodeo presented by Teton Ridge. “Battling throughout this summer run has honestly been good for me,” said Pope, 25. “In the spring I didn’t rodeo much and found myself in a situation where I had to go rodeo hard. It made me realize how much I do love rodeo and all the benefits that come with it. It’s not all about winning, but it’s dang sure fun when I get to.” Since Aug. 1, Pope has won five rodeos and pocketed $64,523, providing fuel for his climb up the world standings. He put a cherry on top of that run during the Cinch Playoffs at the Puyallup (Wash.) Rodeo. Pope advanced out of his bracket with 168.5 points on two head. His draw in the semifinals was Bridwell Pro Rodeo’s Buster. It was a match made in heaven as he advanced to the finals with an 88-point ride. Qualifying in the No. 1 spot earned him a star studded horse on Championship Sunday. He matched up with Calgary Stampede’s Disco Party in the final-four shootout round. The duo combined for a 92.5-point trip to not only give Pope a $13,000 payday, but also a new arena record. “I actually just got on her last week, and she bucked a heck of a lot harder here today,” Pope said. “I don’t know what it is about her and afternoon performances, but she definitely fired today. She got really steep. It was probably one of the hardest bucking horse rides I’ve made all year.” The win in Washington moved Pope up to 10th in the world standings as of Sept. 12, $10,000 ahead of Richmond Champion in the No. 15 spot. Now, Pope will get the chance to compete in the Cinch Playoffs Governor’s Cup in Sioux Falls, S.D., where $1.3 million will be paid out to contestants over three days. “This win means a lot, there’s a ton of money there in Sioux Falls. The year I made the NFR in 2020 I was on the bubble and won the Tour Finale in Rapid City that year,” Pope said. “It’s pretty special to be able to do that again this year. I think it means that something good is coming.”

Proctor

Medlin

TOP MONEY EARNER Coleman Proctor/Logan Medlin ($19,900 each, team roping) BAREBACK RIDING

1. Jess Pope ........................... 92.5 pts. 2. Garrett Shadbolt ............................ 91 3. Bradlee Miller ............................. 89.5 STEER WRESTLING 1. J.D. Struxness ...................... 4.0 sec. 2. Rowdy Parrott .............................. 4.1 3. Will Lummus ............................... 4.2 TEAM ROPING 1. C. Proctor/L. Medlin ............. 4.9 sec. 2. C. Denison/T. Braden .................... 9.7 3. L. Brown/T. Graves ....................... 9.8 SADDLE BRONC RIDING 1. Ryder Wright ........................ 89 pts.* 2. Lefty Holman ................................ 89 3. Kolby Wanchuk ............................. 88 *Wright crowned champion based on semifinal score TIE-DOWN ROPING 1. Shad Mayfield ....................... 7.4 sec. 2. Shane Hanchey ............................ 8.1 3. Riley Webb ................................. 16.6 BULL RIDING 1. Trevor Reiste .......................... 86 pts. 2. Jace Trosclair ............................. 84.5 3. Jeter Lawrence .............................. 82

Hailey Rae photo Jess Pope set the Cinch Playoffs on fire with a 92.5-point ride on Calgary Stampede’s Disco Party. The ride clinched Pope the $13,000 first place check and set the arena record in Puyallup.

Complete results/Page 68

ProRodeo Sports News 9/20/2024

ProRodeo Sports News 9/20/2024

ProRodeo.com

ProRodeo.com

34

35

CINCH PLAYOFFS

Proctor/Medlin capture win, eye Governor’s cup Hailey Rae photo Coleman Proctor/Logan Medlin continued their Cinch Playoffs success in Puyallup. The duo clocked a 4.9-second run in the four-man finals to walk away with the win.

The Cinch Playoffs have been kind to team ropers Coleman Proctor/ Logan Medlin the last two seasons. Last year, the talented duo qualified for the Cinch Playoffs Governor’s Cup in Sioux Falls, S.D., where they captured the win and a lucrative $35,000 each. They got the fourth quarter success started a little earlier this season. As the second team out in the final-four shootout round, they put together a 4.9-second run. They didn’t think the time would hold up for the win, but with the unpredictable nature of rodeo it ended up being just what the doctor ordered. Proctor and Medlin’s three runs in Puyallup earned them $19,900 each, more than any other contestant at the Cinch Playoffs. “You never know what’s going to happen in team roping. With the teams that made it back today I never would’ve thought that 4.9 (seconds) was going to win it,” said Medlin, 33. “I tell you what though, we had success this week because of Coleman’s heading.

“He did a great job of turning every steer for money when we got out of the barrier clean. That’s why he’s the best header in the world in my opinion because he does stuff like that. He did a great job and I’m just very fortunate it worked out like it did.” Now, they will try their hand yet again in Sioux Falls. They know finishing the regular season strong is key if your eyes are on a gold buckle come December. “The Cinch Playoffs have been really good to us,” said Proctor, a nine time NFR qualifier. “If you’re wanting to win a world title, whether you are in the team roping or all-around you really have to capitalize at events like these. “It was huge sigh of relief today being able to get into the top 4, now we are seeded at Sioux Falls for sure. So, to cap it off with a victory here is just a cherry on top. Winning $20,000 here is huge especially going into the fourth quarter of the season. There’s only a few more weeks until we wrap it up. So, we are really trying to make a charge toward No. 1.”

ProRodeo Sports News 9/20/2024

ProRodeo.com

36

PUYALLUP, WASH. BY TANNER BARTH Reiste solidifies spot in Top 15 with victory Trevor Reiste has been battling

to get back to the National Finals Rodeo since his debut in the yellow bucking chutes in 2017. Year after year he has dealt with injuries that left him on the wrong side of the bubble in the Top 15 of the PRCA | RAM World Standings at the end of the regular season. His most recent performance at the Cinch Playoffs at the Puyallup (Wash.) Rodeo may make that Las Vegas drought a thing of the past. Reiste failed to make a qualified ride in the semifinals but advanced to the final-four shootout round because of his performance in Bracket 1. In the finals, he matched up with Bridwell Pro Rodeo’s Pound Town for an 86-point ride. The score held off runner-up Jace Trosclair, who had an 84.5-point trip. The eight-second ride added $13,000 to his 2024 ledger, a much-needed payday as he sat squarely on the bubble of the Top 15 with the season ending on Sept. 30. “I was sitting 12th coming into this rodeo and I really need to get as much money won as I can,” said Reiste, 31. “So, finding a way to win this really helps me a lot.” It was a bull that he said fit him like a dream. “That bull was awesome in the short round,” Reiste said. “He was away from my hand, and I love bulls that go left. He fit me to a tee, and I couldn’t have asked for much more.” Reiste has now qualified for an even bigger payday in Sioux Falls, S.D., at the Cinch Playoffs Governor’s Cup, Sept. 26-28. As the PRORODEO regular season winds down he plans to keep his head down and continue going at them in his quest to get back to the Thomas & Mack Center in Las Vegas. “We’ve been fighting to get back there, and I finally had a healthy year,” Reiste said. “I just have to keep doing what I’m doing and not think about it too much. I’m just out here trying to get bulls rode.”

John Pyle photo Trevor Reiste matched up with Bridwell Pro Rodeo’s Pound Town for an 86-point ride in the finals to clinch the victory in Puyallup, Wash.

ProRodeo Sports News 9/20/2024

ProRodeo.com

37