ProRodeo Sports News - Dec. 21, 2018

WRANGLER NFR NEWS & NOTES

Saddle bronc rider Clay Elliott interacts with Maximiliano Sanchez, 9, during the Exceptional Rodeo at the Wrangler Arena inside the Las Vegas Convention Center’s South Halls, Dec. 10. PRCA ProRodeo photo by Billie-Jean Duff

Exceptional Rodeo is heartfelt event The wear and tear and busy schedule of the Wrangler National Finals Rodeo takes a toll on participants. Yet, on Dec. 10, numerous stars of the Wrangler NFR – cowboys, cowgirls and bullfighters – made time to brighten the day for the boys and girls who took part in the Exceptional Rodeo at the Wrangler Arena inside the Las Vegas Convention Center’s South Halls. The Exceptional Rodeo had new ownership this year, and AdamDaurio was the principal of the Exceptional Rodeo, overseeing the event. “This was my first year at the NFR doing it, and I have done some more at other rodeos throughout 2018,” Daurio said. “This is the pinnacle, to have the most elite athletes in the sport of rodeo give their time and energy to help local youths with special needs is just the ultimate. It means so much, especially since these kids get to be the

hero of the heroes.” Daurio said there were 30 kids fromClark County School District participating in the Exceptional Rodeo, which was held for the 34th time in Las Vegas during the Wrangler NFR. At the end of the rodeo experience, the participants were awarded trophies, cowboy hats, contestant numbers, autographs and photos. “This is just really special to me,” Daurio said. “This is something that makes us all feel good. We put in a lot of time and energy to make sure these youths get a great experience.” Maximiliano Sanchez, 9, was one of the children who left the event with a smile. “He loves rodeo, and he had a great time,” said Obdulia Cardenas, Sanchez’s mother. “I’m so happy he was able to come to this. This was his first time here, and he was so excited.” Saddle bronc rider Clay Elliott, who qualified for the 2018Wrangler

ProRodeo Sports News 12/21/2018

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