Californian Kyle Lockett proved the power of experience when he won the 2011 Timed Event Championship, earning that prestigious gold buckle for the second time in his career.

Of recent champions, most had earned the title before. Josh Peek, who won the title a year ago, is the most recent first-timer to have made worn the crown.

The event, which features contestants competing in the five timed-event disciplines in each of the five rounds, is a test of the tremendously talented cowboys who tend to make their living on the rodeo trail. Trevor Brazile, who finished second this weekend, has won six championships; he also was the only player in the field to have qualified for the ProRodeo national finals in all four roping events.

But this weekend was about Lockett, who has earned his stripes and that well-deserved gold buckle.