Monthly Archives: July 2016

BURLINGTON, Colo. – Ross Johnson was excited just to be part of the Bullfighters Only tour stop Friday night in conjunction with the Kit Carson County ProRodeo. He did it one better with an 86-point freestyle bullfight to win the title. “Whenever Cory (Wall) called me and asked me to come up there, it was a big honor,” said Johnson of Merit, Texas. “Then he talked to us and said it was a BFO-sanctioned event, so that made it even bigger. To win it is just icing on the cake. “It was awesome to be there, but winning it made it twice as good.” A bullfighter for less than six years, there were lots of benefits to doing well in Burlington. Not only did Johnson collect $3,000 for the win, he also got to show off his talents before a great crowd and a bullfighting legend in Wall, who organizes the annual rodeo in his hometown. “It means the world to have Cory see me fight or have anybody with that big of a name in rodeo,” Johnson said. “It’s a blessing to have a night like that. As a retired bullfighter, the bullfights get him pumped up, too. “We got to town Thursday and went out to the rodeo that night. The whole night, they just kept promoting the bullfight. I guess it got through to some people, because it was packed out. They were really into it. After the bull riding, you didn’t see a single soul leave. I think they enjoyed the bullfight as much as we did.” A big portion of his fun came in the form of a solid fight. “When I called for the bull, I could tell he was definitely the ace of the group of bulls we had,” he said. “I did draw good; he was on me the whole time, and he kept pushing me. “There was no time to think. It was all reaction and instinct; it was fun.” As he gains more experience, Johnson will utilize his instincts and ability more. He hopes it carries him on to greater things in his career. “Right now, I do some day work and fight bulls, but I want to be able to do this and not have to worry about having a typical job to make ends meet,” said Johnson, 23. “If I could do this full time, then I’d be living a dream. “I believe in the next five years, if I keep working at it, I could be up there with the top guys.” He definitely has the right attitude. BURLINGTON RESULTS 1. Ross Johnson, 86 points 2. Tanner Zarnetski, 84 3. Zach Flatt, 77 4. Kyle Lippincott, 75 5. Cody Emerson, 74

DUNCAN, Okla. – This year has been a pretty good one for J.D. Struxness. The 22-year-old steer wrestler finished his final year of rodeo at Northwestern Oklahoma State University in Alva in the biggest way possible for a collegiate cowboy: He won the bulldogging championship at the College National Finals Rodeo. Now the Appleton, Minn., cowboy is leading the way in the race to the Chisholm Trail Ram Prairie Circuit Finals Rodeo, set for 7:30 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 20-Saturday, Oct. 22, at the Stephens County Arena in Duncan. Struxness has earned more than $8,000 in the region so far this season, and a big run of rodeos awaits him and other circuit stars next week at Kansas stops in Hill City, Dodge City, Abilene and Phillipsburg. Though he is from western Minnesota, Struxness has chosen the Prairie Circuit as his home primarily because if his temporary residence in Alva. He hopes to be one of the top bulldoggers in the Oklahoma-Kansas-Nebraska region to earn a spot at the circuit finale – only the top 12 contestants in each event at the conclusion of the regular season earn the right to compete in Duncan. Struxness struck early this season, just as he had done through the college ranks. Of his eight grand in earnings, nearly half was earned in early May at the Guymon (Okla.) Pioneer Days Rodeo; he not only placed in two rounds but also finished second in the average. He is making his way across the rodeo trail with fellow Northwestern cowboy Jacob Edler of States Center, Iowa. Edler won the Central Plains Region, and Struxness was the runner-up; they switched positions at the CNFR, with Edler coming in as the reserve national champion. That’s also how they sit in the Prairie Circuit’s standings, with Edler sitting No. 2. They’re following in the footsteps of their college rodeo coach, Stockton Graves, a six-time circuit steer wrestling champion who won the last three titles. That’s just one of many outstanding races for the regional title this year. Take barrel racing, for example. Emily Miller of Weatherford, Okla., leads the standings with $14,568; she owns a $4,000 lead over the runner-up, Mary Burger of Pauls Valley, Okla., who won the circuit finals average title on her young gelding, Mo. But Burger is the No. 1 cowgirl in the WPRA standings with more than $175,000 in earnings. There’s a good chance she can make up that ground in a hurry. She recently earned $122,000 at the Calgary (Alberta) Stampede. Former Kansas high school star Blaine Kaufman of Pretty Prairie leads the bareback riding regional standings, with a $600 lead over Australian Anthony Thomas. Five-time circuit champ Caine Riddle of Vernon, Texas, is less than $800 behind Kaufman. Header Jesse Stipes of Salina, Okla., and Buddy Hawkins of Columbus, Kan., lead their respective divisions. Both are secured to return to Duncan for the circuit finale in team roping. Dalton Davis of Holcomb, Kan., has about a $600 lead over Roper Kiesner of Ripley, Okla., in the bronc riding money list, while Hardy Braden of Welch, Okla., is in a close third. Cody Quaney of Cheney, Kan., would like a chance to repeat as the tie-down roping standings. He holds a slim lead, just ahead of Caddo Lewallen of Morrison, Okla.; Tyler Milligan of Pawhuska, Okla.; and Bryson Sechrist of Apache, Okla. Trevor Kastner, a three-time Wrangler National Finals Rodeo qualifier from Ardmore, Okla., leads the bull riding standings by less than $400 over the No. 2 man, Jeston Mead of Ashland, Kan. Meanwhile three-time world champion Rocky Patterson of Pratt, Kan., has a solid lead of $4,000 over J.P. Wickett of Sallisaw, Okla. With big money available next week in the circuit, many things can change, but that’s the nature of the sport.

DODGE CITY, Kan. – The table is set for a six nights of world-class competition during the 40th year of Dodge City Roundup Rodeo. The festivities begin at 7:45 p.m. Tuesday, Aug. 2, with a day full of steer roping and an evening of A Whole Lotta Bull: It will feature the top bull riders in ProRodeo during an Xtreme Bulls Tour stop and the greatest freestyle bullfighters in the game during the Bullfighters Only contest. That showcase will be followed by five nights of championship rodeo that everyone in southwest Kansas knows as Roundup Rodeo, Dodge City Roundup Rodeo, set for 7:45 p.m. Wednesday, Aug. 3-Sunday, Aug. 7, at Roundup Arena. “What I love about our rodeo is that we are putting on a show for our family, our friends and everybody who wants to see a good rodeo in Dodge City,” said Joel Redman, vice president of the volunteer committee that produces the annual rodeo. “Of course, we want to have great competition for the cowboys; by having that, we’re putting on a better rodeo.” The cowboys and cowgirls understand. Hundreds of ProRodeo contestants – including the greatest in the game – make their way to Ford County every summer to be part of the field. “We have amazing sponsors that really support this rodeo,” said Dr. R.C. Trotter, president of the committee. “They allow us to produce a great event and provide an outstanding purse for the contestants. That helps us draw the world champions and the NFR qualifiers – the best rodeo has to offer.” Dodge City is a gateway to the Wrangler National Finals Rodeo, which features only the top 15 contestants in each event. It’s where millions of dollars are paid out over 10 nights in Las Vegas and where the annual world champions are crowned. Because of its status in the rodeo world, Roundup is home to the sport’s greatest stars each year. That includes the amazing livestock. Frontier Rodeo’s Medicine Woman – which has been named the Saddle Bronc of the Year in 2011, ’14 and ’15 – has guided cowboys to the highest mark rides each of the past two seasons, both times inside Roundup Arena. That’s not the only award-winning aspect of this year’s Roundup Rodeo, which has been named Rodeo of the Year nine times; also in the mix is rodeo clown/entertainer Keith Isley, one of the most decorated men in the business. He has been awarded Clown of the Year and Coors Man in the Can six times each, and has been a specialty act of the year 11 times. “Having an outstanding entertainer is an important aspect of a great rodeo,” Trotter said. “We want to have the best possible event we can have year after year.” It shows not only in the quality of Roundup Rodeo but also in its legacy. Four years ago, the rodeo was enshrined into the ProRodeo Hall of Fame. It’s an accomplishment that most ProRodeos can only dream about, but Dodge City’s rodeo will be encased in the Colorado Springs, Colo., museum for many years to come. “We have 40 years of putting on a great rodeo, and we want to be doing this for another 40,” Trotter said. “This is personal to many of us, and it’s personal to our fans. We like it that way.”

SIDNEY, Iowa – Fans in this southwest Iowa community got a taste of freestyle bullfighting a year ago. Everything steps up even more this year with Bullfighters Only, which will showcase nine of the elite men in the game during a five-night battle at Iowa’s Championship Rodeo, set for Tuesday, Aug. 2-Saturday, Aug. 6. “The committee told me last year that it was the greatest thing they had there” since the early 2000s, said Evan Allard of Vinita, Okla., who not only will be one of the combatants but also will serve as one of the protection bullfighters during the rodeo and will be providing the fighting bulls. “They were definitely glad to have it back.” Sidney marks the 19th stop on the Bullfighters Only inaugural tour. Bullfighters utilize their tremendous athleticism to try to outwit and outmaneuver equally athletic bulls, which are bred specifically for this type of fight. “I think it’s a good thing we’ve all done to bring the bullfights back to where they belong,” Allard said. “It’s taken off because bullfighting is the greatest extreme sport in the world, and we have the best freestyle bullfighters alive all doing it right now.” With scores based on a 100-point scale, men can earn up to 50 points per fight based on their ability to exhibit control and style while maneuvering around or over an animal; a bull can earn up to 50 points based on its quickness, aggression and willingness to stay with the bullfighter. “It’s crazy to think this is our actual first year and that we have so many events at these historic rodeos,” said Chuck Swisher of Dover, Okla. “For my first year to walk into an arena with such prestigious awards, it’s a true honor for me to fight bulls there.” Iowa’s Championship Rodeo has a storied history. Dating back more than 90 years, Sidney’s rodeo has been a staple for many of the greatest cowboys and cowgirls in the sport. In fact, the event was inducted into the ProRodeo Hall of Fame last August. “It’ll be cool stepping out in front of those people that have made Sidney such a great event,” Swisher said. “It’s a true blessing.” So is the talent these men possess. It takes a special personality to not only dance with the bulls, but do it up close. Bullfighters not only engage with the stomping, aggressive and quick animals, but they do so in a series of maneuvers that showcases undeniable athleticism. “The bulls drive me,” said Allard, who has been fighting bulls for 11 years. “Just knowing that you’re able to go head to head with one of the fiercest creatures alive and know that if everything goes right, you’re able to control him. “It’s the art itself that drives me.” When done well, it’s as if Picasso was painting an elaborate image on a dirt arena. There is a fury of movement, and it seems orchestrated; it isn’t. It fact, every movement is done based on instinct and an understanding of what the animal does. It’s a display of man vs. beast, and Bullfighters Only has created a public demand for the sport. “To me, Bullfighters Only is more like a group of brothers,” Swisher said of the top 15 bullfighters in the game that make up the BFO. “We all went in and are part of this team that helps in bringing the freestyle bullfights back in front of the fans. It’s something we’ve always wanted for so long. “Even before there was even a thought of the BFO, we always stuck together and stuck our necks out for each other. We push each other to get better, and now we put a name on it.” That name is well recognized in rodeo, and it’s why Bullfighters Only is part of many of the most prestigious events in the sport. That’s why the best in the business will be in Sidney for five magical nights. SIDNEY CONTESTANTS Evan Allard Cody Webster Justin Josey Cody Greer Ross Hill Chuck Swisher Bryce Redo Beau Schueth Travis James

LOVINGTON, N.M. – Bull riding only events have been part of the landscape for decades, a way to showcase the most extreme discipline in rodeo. That concept will celebrate its fifth year as part of the Lea County Fair and Rodeos with Lea County Xtreme Bulls, set for 7:30 p.m. Tuesday, Aug. 9, at Jake McClure Arena in Lovington. It will be the perfect place for the greatest bull riders in the Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association, all battling for their share of the big money available in this southeastern New Mexico community. “Singling out bull riding and making it a certain event has been good, because people love it,” said Kenyon Burns, chairman of the Lea County Fair Board’s rodeo committee. “Bull riding is exciting, and that’s why it’s always the last event in rodeo. “People love to watch danger. They want to watch excitement.” They get it with Xtreme Bulls. The Lovington stop is part of the tour’s premier series, which offers the largest purses in the game. That means the top 30 bull riders in the world standings are expected to be part of the field. “Sometimes that’s all people talk about,” said Corey Helton, the fair board’s chairman. “There are some people that want to see just the Xtreme Bulls. That’s a big deal. It’s televised, and we have a chance to showcase Lea County for the world to see. “I couldn’t imagine our fair and rodeo without Xtreme Bulls.” The bull riders couldn’t imagine their tour without Lovington in the mix. “It’s one of the greatest bull ridings of the year,” said Brennon Eldred, the reigning champion. “Everybody looks forward to it, and everybody comes here ready to ride.” The Sulphur, Okla., cowboy rode two bulls to earn the 2015 title, pocketing more than $10,100 in the process. That helped propel Eldred to his second straight Wrangler National Finals Rodeo qualification. It was also his first victory in the Xtreme Bulls Division I, the premier division. “The committee’s great, and they work their tails off to take care of us,” Eldred said. “It always makes it fun to come to New Mexico for an event, and to get my first DI event win here is awesome.” From great community support in Lea County to a wide fan base, Xtreme Bulls has found a home in Lovington. “People around here are geared toward rodeo and bull riding,” Burns said. “This is the Wild West. Xtreme Bulls is the perfect fit for Lea County and the overflow from West Texas.”

Bullfighters Only tour will be featured during legendary Dodge City rodeo DODGE CITY, Kan. – The face of danger can change in an instant. Freestyle bullfighters live that reality on a daily basis. They stand toe to toe with agile and aggressive bulls, then use their own incredible athleticism to escape danger. The excitement and intrigue is all part of the Bullfighters Only tour stop at Dodge City Roundup Rodeo. The freestyle bullfight will take place Tuesday, Aug. 2, in conjunction with Roundup’s Xtreme Bulls. It is the 18th stop on the BFO’s inaugural tour and will feature four of the elite bullfighters in the game: Dusty Tuckness, Nate Jestes, Zach Flatt and Weston Rutkowski. “We’re fighting bulls that are good and fun to fight and let us show our abilities as well,” said Jestes of Douglas, Wyo. “I think that’s what sets Bullfighters Only apart from other freestyle events.” Freestyle bullfighting is not new to Roundup. For years, the rodeo was part of the Wrangler Bullfight Tour, which disbanded in 2001. But Bullfighters Only has created public demand for the sport. The bullfighters utilize their tremendous athleticism to try to outwit and outmaneuver equally athletic bulls, which are bred specifically for this type of fight. “This is an event that hasn’t had a true world champion since 2000,” said Tuckness, the reigning six-time Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association Bullfighter of the Year from Meeteetse, Wyo. “Bullfighters Only is going to bring that back. “We’re bringing the best against the best. The main stage is where it belongs. People say it’s exciting. It’s at a level that is second to none.” Tuckness and Jestes have been to Dodge City before. Both men served as protection bullfighters during the Xtreme Bulls event last year. They will do that again, then they will try to claim their own Roundup championship. “I’ve been freestyling for the last five years,” Jestes said. “In the last five years, we’ve wanted to be on a stage like this. “We’re back at our roots. Our roots started in the PRCA; our names have been built here. To essentially come back to our roots where we started, then to carry it on and make it better, is awesome.” Roundup Rodeo’s roots were planted 40 years ago, and it has been recognized as one of the best. Having been developed a little more than a year ago, Bullfighters Only is already moving into a similar category. By conducting events at some of the most prestigious rodeos in the country, the demand is being filled. “It’s definitely been a great whirlwind,” Jestes said. “It’s taken off way quicker than any of us expected. It’s so exciting that it’s almost overwhelming. We’ve wanted to be at places like this and have the sport where it’s at. To be involved in it and have some ownership in it is just amazing. “In less than one year, we have gotten our sport and our type of bullfighting known worldwide. That’s just incredible.” With scores based on a 100-point scale, men can earn up to 50 points per fight based on their ability to exhibit control and style while maneuvering around or over an animal; a bull can earn up to 50 points based on its quickness, aggression and willingness to stay with the bullfighter. It makes for a great evening of entertainment for fans who love something a little extreme. “This is an exciting time to see freestyle bullfighting,” said Rutkowski of Haskell, Texas. “We, as Bullfighters Only, have brought back the extreme aspect of what us bullfighters do day in and day out.”  

Rutkowski slides past Jestes to take lead in Bullfighters Only tour standings The competitive fire that burns inside Weston Rutkowski has only been stirred. This week he moved into the No. 1 spot in the Bullfighters Only tour standings, having earned $17,625 so far this season. But he’s not content. “For a guy as competitive as I am, it’s difficult to finish second as often as I have,” said Rutkowski, 27, of Haskell. “This is a humbling sport.” Freestyle bullfighting is exactly that. It’s man vs. beast, with scores based on a 100-point scale, men can earn up to 50 points per fight based on their ability to exhibit control and style while maneuvering around or over an animal; a bull can earn up to 50 points based on its quickness, aggression and willingness to stay with the bullfighter. Rutkowski finished runner-up in a four-night Bullfighters Only event this past week in conjunction with California Rodeo Salinas, and those earnings shot him past season leader Nathan Jestes of Douglas, Wyo., by $550. He also finished in at least a tie for second in Arlington, Texas; Phoenix; Cedar Park, Texas; and Cody, Wyo. “I’m fed up with being the bridesmaid,” Rutkowski said. “Second place isn’t good enough for me. Of course, if all of us were out for second, we wouldn’t be on board for this kind of competition. We all want to win.” He has been in the winner’s circle, earning a key victory at the BFO that was part of the Reno (Nev.) Rodeo. He also posted the highest-marked fight last week in Salinas, an 88.5 to win the second go-round. “Salinas definitely takes care of a lot of it,” he said. “It’s one of the richest bullfightings in the country. As legendary as that rodeo is, and as much as they care about bullfights, it goes a long way. The money you can win there sure helps a guy out.” Of course, natural ability helps considerably, and that’s what fans see during a Bullfighters Only event; it features the top 15 bullfighters in the sport. More than anything, though, the men who are part of Bullfighters Only put in considerable work to maintain their status. “It’s as much physical as it is mental,” Rutkowski said. “You’re not showing up at rodeos just reading the bulls and reacting; sometimes you have to take that fight to the animal. “I’m huge on physical fitness. I work out every single day. I don’t have to question if I’m going to have the legs to get through it. I know I can go out there and do what I need to do from 40 to 60 seconds.” It’s vital in a sport where the opponent is much bigger, stronger and faster to have the right attitude and the right talent. Fans see it, and so do the rodeos with which Bullfighters Only has associated itself. “The general consensus we’re getting from the committees and the fans is that they’re loving it,” he said. “It’s a relatively old sport with a new twist, and with the social media that we’re putting out there, we’re able to share that with so many more people. Those that were around during the golden age of bullfighting are glad to have it back, and a lot of that has to do with the new twist and the new flair that the BFO brings.” Rutkowski won’t rest too much on being the No. 1 man on tour. He will be back in action next week during the Bullfighters Only event at the Dodge City (Kan.) Roundup Rodeo, then will return to the competition stage for the BFO event in conjunction with the Sikeston (Mo.) Jaycee Boothill Rodeo on Aug. 10-11. “Every stop is huge, especially for a guy like me who finally grew into the lead,” Rutkowski said. “I’m not someone who wants to give that up, and I’m going to do all I can to stay on top. My goal is to win the first year tour and be crowned the first true world champion in freestyle bullfighting in 16 years.” BULLFIGHTERS ONLY TOUR STANDINGS (As of July 25, 2016) Weston Rutkowski Haskell, Texas, $17,625 Nate Jestes Douglas, Wyo., $17,075 Cody Webster Wayne, Okla., $15,000 Ross Hill Muscle Shoals, Ala., $13,310 Beau Schueth Norfolk, Neb., $9,250 Nathan Harp Tuttle, Okla., $8,340 Evan Allard Vinita, Okla., $8,250 Schell Apple Fay, Okla., $7,100 Chuck Swisher Dover, Okla., $5,300 Dusty Tuckness Meeteetse, Wyo., $5,250

GUYMON, Okla. – Stormy Wing doubled his chances at his own event this past Saturday night, but Matt Werries walked away with the top prize. Wing entered the competition multiple times to give him as many opportunities to cash in as possible, and it paid off with second- and fifth-place finishes at the Kasey Hayes & Stormy Wing Invitational PBR Touring Pro event. In all, Wing, of Dalhart, Texas, pocketed $3,252 to help his season progress. Werries, 33, of Jacksonville, Ill., won the event as the only cowboy in the field to ride two bulls. The Illinois cowboy cashed in for $4,854 inside Henry C. Hitch Arena. Wing’s double entry earned him two shots at the money. He won the opening round with an event-best 89-piont ride, earning $676. He also posted an 83 in the first round to finish fifth, just out of the round money. While the opening round paid just the top four spots, Wing did considerably better in the aggregate; he earned $2,037 for placing second overall and $539 for his fifth-place finish. An estimated crowd of 3,500 fans crowded into Hitch Arena for the event, which not only featured Wing and Hayes but also some of the other top cowboys in the PBR. The field included a number of the top bull riders in the association, including world champion Mike Lee of Decatur, Texas, and Brazilians Kaique Pacheco, Joao Ricardo Vieira, Valdiron de Oliveira and Robson Polermo. Kasey Hayes & Stormy Wing Invitational PBR Touring Pro July 23, 2016 Guymon, Okla. First round: 1. Stormy Wing, 89 points, $676; 2. Brady Sims, 87, $507; 3. Matt Werries, 85, $338; 4. Douglas Duncan, 84, $169. Final round: 1. Matt Werries, 87.5 points, $1,690. Average: 1. Matt Werries, 172.5 points, $2,826; 2. Stormy Wing, 89, $2,037; 3. Brady Sims, 87, $1,249; 4. Douglas Duncan, 84, $854; 5. Stormy Wing, 83, $539; 6. Venn Johns, 71, $381.

LOVINGTON, N.M. – The conveniences of modern technology are amazing. Many can take better photos with their cell phones than they can with expensive cameras. Phones are used for social media and video games. Oftentimes there’s a disconnect from the “real world” that only time away from electronics can repair, especially for youngsters. That’s why so many people take time out of their daily lives to help prepare young people for the real world by engaging with them on a personal level. Programs are in place to help children mature. In southeastern New Mexico, there may be no better opportunity for kids than being part of the livestock shows at the Lea County Fair and Rodeo. The nine-day exposition will run Friday, Aug. 5-Saturday, Aug. 13, at the fairgrounds in Lovington and will feature hundreds of children showing more than animals – they also will showcase their hard work, independence and passion for all to see. “I believe the livestock shows are what the fair’s all about,” said Corey Helton, chairman of the Lea County Fair Board. Children work all year with their animals, from acquiring it to raising it to grooming it and preparing it for the trip to town in August. For many on the family farm or ranch, it’s just another extension of the lives they lead. For youth that live in town, preparing animals for the shows might be the perfect way to understand what generations have done before them. Oftentimes, the boys and girls that are part of the livestock shows are just the next generation of family members that have done it. There’s a special bond that occurs. Possibly the most celebrated aspect of the shows is the Junior Livestock Auction, where sponsors and donors bid to purchase the animals. It’s the children’s reward for the labor and time they’ve put in to raising their animals. “I think we’re going to see a good representation from sponsors and buyers at the sale,” Helton said. “The sale is a big thing about the fair. Yes, we’ve had the concerts and the carnival and all the other activities. But without the kids showing animals, do you really even have a fair?” That theory is why the Lea County Fair and Rodeo’s livestock shows continue to be a vital part of the annual expo. “I think we all know that fairs were actually started for the kids and showcasing the kids’ hard work throughout the year,” Helton said. “We can’t lose sight of that. “The goal of every fair should be the kids.”

SALINAS, Calif. – Since he first strapped on a pair of cleats and decided that bullfighting was his career of choice, Nathan Harp has wanted to win California Rodeo Salinas. He accomplished that goal over the past few nights of Bullfighters Only competition, winning the championship with a four-fight cumulative total of 325.5 points. He won the first and third rounds, was runner-up in the second round and finished off the week with a third-place finish Sunday. “I went first (in the final round), so I had to sweat it out and wait for everybody else to go,” said Harp, 26, of Tuttle, Okla. “It’s an honor to be in an elite group of bullfighters that’s won a buckle from here.” Harp held a one-point lead over Weston Rutkowski of Haskell, Texas, heading into the final day. The Oklahoman posted a 78-point fight to kick-start the afternoon’s competition, and Rutkowski followed two fights later with a 76. The Texan finished second overall with 322.5 points, followed by Ross Hill of Muscle Shoals, Ala., a point behind Rutkowski. Hill, a 10-year veteran of the Salinas fights, won the final round with an 85-point bout Sunday afternoon. “I thought Weston or Ross could’ve won it this year,” Harp said. “Both of them were drawing good and putting on great bullfights.” Salinas has been one of the freestyle bullfighting leaders for years, this year teamed with Bullfighters Only, the top 15 bullfighters in the game who are all battling for the first world championship in the BFO’s inaugural season. “There’s a lot of history here,” Harp said. “As you’re coming up through the ranks, everybody hears about the top freestyle bullfights, which have been Ardmore (Okla.) and Salinas. Those were the top two bullfights you could go to. Now there are a lot more bullfights, especially with the BFO. That’s great for bullfighting.” It helps, too, that the men were matched with great bulls that were bred to be part of this kind of fight. “We only get to see these bulls once a year,” Harp said of the herd in Salinas. “This is the only place they get any outs, so even the older bulls are a lot like fresh bulls. It’s a lot of fun coming out to Salinas. It has beautiful weather, great bulls and a great rodeo.” And the competition – featuring six of the greatest bullfighters in the game – makes for a true challenge. “You’re mentally exhausted from the stress of getting ready to freestyle bullfight for four days,” he said. “Winning this title is amazing. To beat some of these guys, it’s definitely a blessing to come out on top.” Nobody knows better than Harp. SALINAS RESULTS 1. Nathan Harp, 325.5 points on four fights 2. Weston Rutkowski, 322.5 3. Ross Hill, 321.5

Retired bullfighter teams with BFO to produce event at his hometown rodeo BURLINGTON, Colo. – Even though he has retired before his title now, Cory Wall will forever be a bullfighter. These days, though, his focus is closer to home. He’s added a few more titles to his name: Kit Carson County Commissioner, rodeo producer, husband and dad. They all matter to the Burlington man, and he puts them all together with the Kit Carson County ProRodeo. He introduced freestyle bullfighting to the hometown crowd four summers ago, and this year he is teaming with Bullfighters Only to put on a tour event, set for Friday, July 29, in Burlington. “As a bullfighter, I’ve always felt like what I did and what other bullfighters did was something you don’t see at every other rodeo,” said Wall, the 2009 Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association’s Bullfighter of the Year. “I knew that most of the people in my community had not seen what we could do. “I wanted to bring in some different kind of entertainment than they were used to. Needless to say, it’s been a home run, and it’s been one of the most talked about things all year long.” That appeal is the guiding force for Bullfighters Only, which is in its inaugural season. Bullfighters utilize their tremendous athleticism to try to outwit and outmaneuver equally athletic bulls, which are bred specifically for this type of fight. “I helped the BFO out in Vegas last December, and it looked like they had their stuff together,” Wall said. “They’re doing a great job of marketing and advertising and really selling that industry. “I was contacted by the BFO wanting to know if I’d consider being a BFO event. I know most of those guys, and I thought it would be a great fit.” With scores based on a 100-point scale, men can earn up to 50 points per fight based on their ability to exhibit control and style while maneuvering around or over an animal; a bull can earn up to 50 points based on its quickness, aggression and willingness to stay with the bullfighter. All those things are attractive to the men who do this for a living. “There is no other feeling that I’ve ever felt in my life than when I threw a fake, and this bull fell down right at my feet,” said Zach Flatt of Fittstown, Okla. “You feel like you can conquer the world.” Flatt will be one of five bullfighters that will compete for the Kit Carson County ProRodeo Bullfighters Only title. Burlington is the 17th of 30 regular-season stops for the elite group of men who make up the BFO. “It’s not just a group of bullfighters, and it’s not just a group of people wanting to put on a bullfight,” he said. “It’s a group of elite bullfighters wanting to team up and put this bullfight on and make it a showcase. Bullfighters Only literally has all the top guys in freestyle bullfighting.” In fact, that’s what Wall liked most about having the BFO be part of his hometown event. “I think they’re taking freestyle bullfighting to a new level,” Wall said. “You’ve got a bunch of young athletes that are spending time with each other day in and day out, and they’re challenging each other. They spend the whole week trying to outdo each other. By the time they get to an event, they’re doing some bizarre things, some incredibly athletic things.” Flatt has showcased his talent before the Burlington crowd before, and he’s excited to make his return. “I went to his bullfight two years ago, and it treated me really good,” he said. “It was a great rodeo and a great crowd, and it was an outstanding bullfight. “It’s always great to be around somebody like Cory Wall. I’m sure he will be in the (ProRodeo) Hall of Fame for all he’s done. It’s always great to surround yourself with people like that.” That’s just what Bullfighters Only is all about, and fans in Burlington will reap the rewards. BURLINGTON CONTESTANTS Cody Emerson Kyle Lippincott Ross Johnson Tanner Zarnetski Zach Flatt

DODGE CITY, Kan. – Josh Edwards has movie star looks and a Hollywood swagger. That’s served him well in his multifaceted career. Not only is Edwards considered one of best pickup men in ProRodeo, he also is a stuntman who owns his Screen Actors Guild card. Yes, he’s been in the movies. His IMDB biography lists seven credits, including work on the Robert Duvall movie “Seven Days in Utopia.” He’s actually done a couple of stints on the CBS-TV series “Zoo.” Most of the time, Edwards serves as a bucking-horse wrangler and all-around cowboy inside rodeo arenas all across the country. In fact, he will be one of the men on horseback throughout every performance of the Dodge City Roundup Rodeo, set for 7:45 p.m. Tuesday, Aug. 2-Sunday, Aug. 7, at Roundup Arena. “This would be my sixth year working in Dodge City,” said Edwards, an athletic Texan that enjoys his many roles life has to offer. “I’m very fortunate to have more than a couple of very prestigious rodeos that I get to be part of, and Dodge City is one of them. I love going there for many reasons, not just the prestige and nature of the event. “I’ve gotten to meet multiple people on the committee, and when you show up in Dodge City, it’s like you never left.” One thing cowboys love about Roundup Rodeo is the hometown feel. Rodeo cowboys – even those that work on site for the week of the event – are nomads who travel the rodeo trail to make a living. Edwards lives much of his year in an elaborate horse trailer that has been outfitted with living quarters. He makes Roundup Arena his home for a week, then moves on to the next rodeo. That’s why having the comforts of home is so important to him. “In my personal opinion, it’s not the rodeo that’s special in Dodge City,” he said. “When you do it every week, the rodeos are the same. It’s the same contestants, the same stock. “What delineates Dodge City from the other rodeos is the people. It’s got a long history, and Harry Vold has had the stock there longer than I’ve been alive, so there’s a lot of history there.” Rodeo is full of history, from cowboys “taming” the Old West and playing around on days off to the creation of community celebrations nationwide. For more than a century, cowboys have made their way to historic venues. Edwards is no different. “There is a lot of history to a lot of the rodeos I’ve gone to, like Dodge City, Houston, San Antonio, Fort Worth (Texas), Cheyenne (Wyo.),” Edwards said. “I’ve been to many of the biggest rodeos, but really it goes back to the people and the relationships you create at those events. “That’s what means the most to me.” Josh Edwards has helped Hollywood tell several stories. Maybe one needs to be done on him, co-starring Roundup Rodeo.

GUYMON, Okla. – As many have learned over the years, this community of about 12,000 is a rodeo town. From the ranchlands across the region to the nationally recognized rodeo team at Oklahoma Panhandle State University just 10 miles away to having the ProRodeo Hall of Fame Pioneer Days Rodeo each May, being a cowboy is a way of life for many. It takes great community support to have an event of such caliber, but Guymon takes it one step further; volunteers work hard every summer to produce the Kasey Hayes & Stormy Wing Invitational PBR Touring Pro event, set for 8 p.m. Saturday, July 23, at Henry C. Hitch Pioneer Arena in Guymon. Tickets are $15 in advance, $20 at the gate; children 5 and younger are free. D&H Cattle Co. of Dickson, Okla., will be the primary stock contractor for Saturday night, but she expects others bull owners to be in town with their top bulls. That includes Cord McCoy, a retired bull rider and star of the TV reality series “The Amazing Race.” “Cord’s going to be our chute boss, and we’re going to have Frank Newsome as one of our bullfighters,” Webb said. All have been major players in the PBR over the years, and they are another reason the Guymon PBR is a big-time stop on tour. Half the 2015 field also was part of the Built Ford Tough Series, the PBR’s premier tour. It’s expected to be the same this weekend. The cowboys have made it a point to be part of the action inside Hitch Arena. From hospitality to great sponsors, it all plays into the mix for the best bull riders in the world. There will be plenty of action. There always is at the Kasey Hayes & Stormy Wing Invitational.

SALINAS, Calif. – Ask any freestyle bullfighter that’s ever been to this beautiful California city, they will tell you what a special place it is. For more than a century, California Rodeo Salinas has been a staple in this community of 155,000 people. For decades, bullfighting has been a key fixture to the traditional showcase, and tens of thousands of fans show up every year for all the excitement. “Salinas has kept freestyle bullfighting alive,” said Nathan Harp of Tuttle, Okla., pointing out that major tours for the sport had been dormant for 16 years; still California Rodeo Salinas continue to conduct the events. “That crowd is hard to beat, and that place is so cool. “After the bull riding, everything shuts down and everybody goes to the grandstands. They have fireworks, and then they have the bullfight. It’s a big deal. It’s really great to be part of the bullfights in Salinas. It’s definitely one I want to win.” He and five other men will get that chance when the Bullfighters Only produces this year’s championship event, part of its inaugural tour. The bullfight will take place Thursday-Sunday. “California Rodeo Salinas is happy to work with BFO in our 2016 show,” said Henry Dill, the rodeo’s track director. “California is very proud of our freestyle bullfighting event – considered one of the premier freestyle bullfighting event in the rodeo industry – and in working with BFO. “We hope to grow the sport and fan base of freestyle bullfighting.” So is Bullfighters Only, which features the best bullfighters in the world in man-vs.-beast bouts. With scores based on a 100-point scale, men can earn up to 50 points per fight based on their ability to exhibit control and style while maneuvering around or over an animal; a bull can earn up to 50 points based on its quickness, aggression and willingness to stay with the bullfighter. Bullfighters Only has created public demand for the sport. The bullfighters utilize their tremendous athleticism to try to outwit and outmaneuver equally athletic bulls, which are bred specifically for this type of fight. In west-central California, the folks in Salinas have a better understanding than most what a great showcase freestyle bullfighting is. “There are a lot of Portuguese people out there, and bullfighting has a huge following because of that,” said Ross Hill of Muscle Schoals, Ala., now in his 10th year competing in Salinas. “Salinas set their stone a long time ago. There’s an atmosphere there around the bullfights. “They can fit 24,000 people in their stands. It’s huge and crazy.” There are many reasons why freestyle bullfighting has been so popular in Salinas, but the main ingredients are athleticism mixed with a splash of suspense and danger. It’s better than an evening at the movies. “That place is just full of world champions that have camped there, like Evan Allard, Cody Webster and Rob Smets,” Harp said. “It’s the place where champions go.” SALINAS CONTESTANTS Weston Rutkowski Nathan Harp Cody Emerson Erick Schwindt Ross Hill Donny Castle

LOVINGTON, N.M. – Fans that make their way to this southeastern New Mexico community have come to expect great things with the Lea County Fair and Rodeo. Those fans are knowledgeable and understand exactly what a great rodeo looks like. More importantly they see it every August when the sport’s brightest stars are part of the brilliant competition and family-friendly entertainment. This year’s marquee event is for 7:30 p.m. Wednesday, Aug. 10-Saturday, Aug. 13, at Jake McClure Arena in Lovington. With the inclusion of the Lea County Xtreme Bulls on Tuesday, Aug. 9, there are five nights of world-class action inside the Lea County Fairgrounds. Much of that has to do with a strong community effort teamed with the team from Pete Carr Pro Rodeo, the livestock producer that has been part of the event for the past decade. “I almost feel like with the Lovington ProRodeo that it’s like being associated with a celebrity,” said Kenyon Burns, chairman of the Lea County Fair Board’s rodeo committee. “We’ve got the best of the business at our rodeo. You’re going to get the pick of the litter to come to your rodeo. Lovington has developed that name. “To have that behind you makes you proud. I’m from Lovington, N.M., and we have one of the best rodeos in the country. A lot of what makes our rodeo so great is Pete Carr and his team.” The Carr firm has been recognized as one of the best in the sport, a regular nominee for Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association’s Stock Contractor of the Year. Over the last three years, no other stock contractor has had more animals selected to perform at the Wrangler National Finals Rodeo than Carr. Atop the list of those is Dirty Jacket, a 12-year-old bay gelding that has been named the Bareback Horse of the Year each of the past two seasons. The powerful and electric horse also has been voted as one of the top three horses for four years straight. But he’s just one of dozens of great animal athletes that will be in Lovington for the exposition. That type of talent will be matched with the top cowboys in the game. Burns, a longtime PRCA contestant with two qualifications to the Clem McSpadden National Finals Steer Roping, understands the importance of great animal athletes and top-notch production to keep rodeo fans excited. “The biggest thing with Pete Carr is the professionalism he and his staff bring to our rodeo,” Burns said. “I’ve watched his productions, and I’ve been to a few of his rodeos. He makes sure everything stays at a fast pace. He makes sure we don’t see any downtime. He has all the guys that are shining like a diamond, and they’re putting on a show. “This guy is putting on a show, one you’d go to a theater to see. It’s a rodeo musical. Fans around here want to see an exciting show, and Pete makes sure they do.”

DODGE CITY, Kan. – Dodge City Roundup is getting a little more extreme. By teaming with upstart Bullfighters Only, the annual rodeo is bringing back the tradition of freestyle bullfighting in conjunction with its Xtreme Bulls Tour event for the inaugural A Whole Lotta Bull. “For a long time, Roundup was a major stop on Wrangler Bullfights Tour,” said Dr. R.C. Trotter, president of the committee that produces the annual rodeo. “When that tour stopped, I think there were a lot of people who wanted to see it back in Dodge City. “Will Bullfighters Only coming on the scene, we thought now was a great time to bring the bullfights back. That’s why we developed A Whole Lotta Bull.” Xtreme Bulls will kick off the festivities at 7:45 p.m. Tuesday, Aug. 2, at Roundup Arena. This marks the third year for event to be part of the annual celebration and features the top bull riders in the Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association. Two seasons ago, Utah cowboy Tim Bingham capitalized on his win in western Kansas to qualify to the Wrangler National Finals Rodeo for the first time. A year ago, Louisianan Jacob O’Mara claimed the title and nearly $5,000; he finished 2015 19th in the world standings, just missing out on the NFR. “We’ve had great success in the Xtreme Bulls,” Trotter said. “By bringing in the bullfights, I think it adds another element to our Tuesday night performance that our fans will really enjoy, and that’s our primary purpose at Roundup.” Bullfighters Only was established about a year ago, and the tour was developed this year. The Dodge City competition will feature five competitors in a showcase of athletic maneuvers waged against aggressive fighting bulls. The three men who serve as cowboy protection for the Xtreme Bulls – Wacey Munsell of Ulysses, Kan.; Nathan Jestes of Douglas, Wyo.; and Dusty Tuckness of Meeteetse, Wyo. – will make up part of the field. “When Dodge City showed interest in having some freestyle bullfights, they contacted Tuckness and I,” said Jestes, who then guided the rodeo committee to the BFO. Said Tuckness, “Bringing in the freestyle action with Bullfighters Only is something I think everyone will enjoy. I’m excited to get there. It’s another great rodeo that we get to be part of.” Bullfighters Only features the top men in the game. With more than 30 events on the tour, the competition in Dodge City is a vital stop on the BFO’s tour. “I came to Dodge City for the first time last year, and I didn’t know what to expect,” Jestes said. “I knew it was a great and prestigious rodeo, but throughout the six days I was there, it quickly became one of my favorite rodeos all year. The committee treats me very well and puts on a great rodeo. “It’s one of the best rodeos in the industry, and it’s a huge honor and dang sure a feather in my cap for my career to be there.” Winning the inaugural Bullfighters Only title in Dodge City would just add more feathers.

With her victory Sunday afternoon at the Calgary Stampede, Mary Burger has extended her big-time lead in the WPRA world standings even more. Burger held a $30,000 lead over the No. 2 cowgirl, Ivy Conrado, heading into the 10-day Stampede. While in Alberta, the Oklahoma cowgirl won all four go-rounds in Pool A, adding $22,000 to her earnings. On Sunday afternoon, she won the $100,000 prize with the fastest run of the final-four round – only $50,000 of that will count toward the world standings, based on the ground rules established by the organization. She also won the $50,000 round in a similar tournament-style format at RodeoHouston earlier this year. Based on her WPRA earnings listed and the $72,000 she won in Calgary, Burger pushed her earnings to nearly $171,000 – that does not include any money she may have earned at other WPRA-sanctioned rodeos last week. No matter how you slice it, Burger and her great young horse, Mo, are having an amazing ProRodeo season.

EAGLE, Colo. – The organizers of the Eagle Fair and Rodeo have a few tricks up their sleeves for this year’s rodeo. From the high-flying entertainment of decorated rodeo clown Troy Lerwill to the trick riding talents of the Daredevil Darlings to announcer Scott Grover calling the action from horseback, fans will experience a true showcase during the rodeo, set for 7 p.m. Wednesday, July 20-Saturday, July 23, at Johnette Phillips Arena on the Eagle County Fairgrounds. “We are doing the concerts again, a dirt dance, on Friday and Saturday after the rodeo,” said Tanya Dahlseid, a key member of the Eagle County staff. “We’re also having an additional specialty act in the Daredevil Darlings, who will be performing all four nights. “The crowd seems to like the acts, so we’re just adding more. The fair board wanted to try it.” The acts will go hand-in-hand with the world-class production from the team of talented professionals that are part of Pete Carr Pro Rodeo, the largest stock contracting firm in the Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association. From great production to many of the greatest bucking athletes in the sport, fans have come to expect great things during Eagle’s rodeo. “Pete Carr has the most amazing staff to work with, and his production is phenomenal,” Dahlseid said. “The stock, the performance … everything is just perfect. With the cool weather we have here in the mountains, the animals do amazing.” The proof shows every year. In 2009, Ryan Gray matched moves with Carr’s Grass Dancer for a world record-tying 94-point ride. Last year, Richmond Champion scored 90 points on Dirty Jacket, the reigning two-time Bareback Horse of the Year. Paint that into the canvas with the spectacular setting that is Eagle County, Colo., and there’s a reason why the greatest cowboys and cowgirls in the game are part of the rodeo every year. “I think it’s a combination of our location and Pete Carr,” Dahlseid said. “I think a lot of people that come here for the rodeo add a few days and make it their vacations. “Pete’s stock is phenomenal, and the contestants follow it. We’re fortunate to get so many of the best cowboys to be here.” That combination is making a difference in how things work around Eagle. Fair and rodeo sponsors have been supportive over the years, and that endorsement has been beneficial. “It’s because of the production and because of how professional Pete and his staff are,” she said. “We’ve been selling tickets like crazy already. That shows that we’re doing something right. We have an amazing team.” Grover is new to the team, but he brings a solid pedigree with him to the mountains. He has been selected to work the Prairie Circuit Finals and National Circuit Finals rodeos. “We’re very excited that he’s going to be announcing from horseback,” Dahlseid said. “It’s just another aspect of our rodeo that I think our fans will love.” It’s another reason why the Eagle County Fair and Rodeo is one of the best.

GUYMON, Okla. – Kasey Hayes loves riding bulls and competing at a high level, but bigger things have happened in his life recently. His wife gave birth to their second child on June 17, so it’s been a little hectic around their Liberal, Kan., home. Still he has big plans to be in Texas County later this month to defend his title at the Kasey Hayes & Stormy Wing Invitational PBR Touring Pro event, set for 8 p.m. Saturday, July 23, at Henry C. Hitch Pioneer Arena in Guymon. Tickets are $15 in advance, $20 at the gate; children 5 and younger are free. A year ago, Hayes utilized the victory near his hometown to secure his eighth qualification to the PBR World Finals. He will have a “meeting of the minds” with his good friend in Wing to be part of one of the best minor league events in the association each year. “Last year’s event in Guymon turned out really good,” said Wing, a six-time world finals qualifier from Dalhart, Texas. “We’ve got an exceptional group of people from around that area that do all the work. Kasey and his wife just had their second son and I have a lot going on, so we’ve been running around; they’ve all been getting it tended to.” While a local committee of dedicated volunteers handles the bulk of the load, Hayes and Wing provide the PBR star power. It’s the closest event to their homes the two cowboys compete in all year, so being part of the program is important to them. “Just to be able to have it is a blessing,” Wing said. “If you’re going to do something, you want to do it right.” Wing and Hayes are proud of their event, and they understand it takes many people and many personalities to make it happen. “If you’re going to have a rank bull riding like we did last year, then I don’t see why we couldn’t be one of the best,” Wing said. “The other bull riders like what we have in bringing in the stock and the hospitality we provide. “The people around there are amazing. You’ve got good bulls and good prize money, then you’re going to bring the guys to your event.” Take a year ago as an example. Eighteen of the top 25 bull riders in the PBR world standings were part of the competition inside Hitch Arena. The buzz has been getting around the bull-riding world that a great event takes place in the Oklahoma Panhandle every July. “H.D. Page has been the stock contractor of the year, and he will bring good bulls,” Wing said. “It’s a good atmosphere; the Built Ford Tough events (the PBR’s premier tour) are all indoor events. They’re great, but I think when the summer comes, the guys like getting outdoors a bit. “When you see that arena packed like it’s been the last two years, it’s hard not to get excited.” Fans have learned to expect great things at Guymon’s PBR event. Meanwhile, Wing wants to add his name to the list of champions. “I ride bulls because I love it and because God gave me the opportunity,” he said. “It’s a fight between me and the bull, and I want to win.”

LOVINGTON, N.M. – The Lea County Fair and Rodeo will continue to be a big part of Kenyon Burns’ life for years to come. “I have celebrated my birthday at the fair for the last 40 years,” said Burns, who will turn 41 during this year’s exposition. Now a member of the Lea County Fair Board, his birthday party will be a bit different. Not only does he help with the planning and preparation of the annual expo, he is the chairman of the board’s rodeo committee. Like most that grew up in this town of nearly 12,000 people, Burns knows rodeo. He has been part of the sport most of his life, competing at his first rodeo at the age of 6. He carried that through various levels and has battled the best in the business as a member of the Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association. In fact, he’s a two-time qualifier to the National Finals Steer Roping. It is the task of the rodeo committee to organize and prepare all aspects of the Lea County Fair and Rodeo, set for 7:30 p.m. Wednesday, Aug. 10-Saturday, Aug. 13, at Jake McClure Arena. That also includes the Lea County Xtreme Bulls, which takes place Tuesday, Aug. 9. “I was appointed to the fair board last year,” said Burns, owner of Burns Resources LLC. “I served on the rodeo committee, and I offered a little feedback about the rodeo. I can give them an opinion from the cowboy’s point of view. “You have to have cowboys to put on a rodeo, so I think it’s valuable to have that in the mix.” Now he owns the presiding voice within the group. Though there are aspects that can be a bit overwhelming, Burns knows his task is to continue the greatness of Lovington’s rodeo that has been established over the years – not only is it historic, but it has been recognized as one of the top rodeos in the PRCA for several year with nominations for Large Outdoor Rodeo of the Year. “We’ve had lots of really good people make this rodeo what it is today,” he said. “I’m likening this experience to roping in the short round at a rodeo somewhere. I want to back into the (roping) box saying, ‘There are 11 other ropers here today, and I’m going to kick their butts.’ ” That winning attitude is part of what makes the Lea County Fair and Rodeo a world-class event. “Kenyon has done a real good job in his role,” said Corey Helton, the fair board’s chairman. “He stepped in and made some changes to the slack time that I think will be pretty good. That’s the biggest committee on the fair board. That’s one of the biggest responsibilities. As the rodeo chairman, that’s a big set of shoes to fill.” There are a lot of big shoes filled by volunteers. “This fair and rodeo wouldn’t exist without the volunteers,” Helton said, pointing out that a dedication will take place during part of the rodeo. “Some of these volunteers that you see in the livestock barn have been here for years. Year after year, they are volunteering their time to guide and lead these kids and get them where they need to be. “We owe everything to the volunteers, and it’s about time they get recognized for that.” Though he has been a volunteer for a short time, Burns has seen first-hand the importance. As a fairgoer and contestant, he has reaped the rewards of many people’s labor. “The volunteers care, and they’re going to pour their lives into it,” Burns said. “This is their life. They take their vacation during the week to make it as good is it can be.” That dedication pays off for tens of thousands of fairgoers each year.

DODGE CITY, Kan. – The United States of America was just a year removed from its bicentennial celebration, and Dodge City was gearing up for the annual Dodge City Days. Dodge City Roundup Inc. had been established, and the group of volunteers was already in the planning stages for its first Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association event. That was 1977, when disco was big and “Laverne & Shirley” ruled the prime-time television roost. Roundup Rodeo is celebrating its 40th annual rodeo this year when the six-night event takes beginning at 7:45 p.m. Tuesday, Aug. 2-Sunday, Aug. 7, at Roundup Arena. From the opening night of Xtreme Bull Riding and Bullfighters Only competition to championship round on the final night, there’s no better way to celebrate Dodge City’s place in history than the prestigious ProRodeo. “Many things have changed over the years, but our commitment to putting on a high-quality rodeo for the cowboys, cowgirls and fans has been the same,” said Dr. R.C. Trotter, the committee’s president. “We have a great group of volunteers who work very hard to make our rodeo one of the best in the country. “We believe that this community and all of western Kansas should have the chance to see the biggest names in rodeo every year, and we take that into consideration with everything we do.” In fact, Roundup Rodeo has been recognized as PRCA Rodeo of the Year nine times and was inducted into the ProRodeo Hall of Fame in 2012. It has hosted dozens of world champions and hundreds of qualifiers to the Wrangler National Finals Rodeo. “I like the fact that it’s got some history there,” said Cody DeMoss, an 11-time NFR qualifier from Heflin, La. “It’s an old cowboy town.” It’s more than “Gunsmoke,” the 1955-1975 television drama based on Dodge City’s Old West history. No, the community’s history has far outlived the program in many ways, and the rich heritage continues to be celebrated every summer. Roundup Rodeo is the centerpiece for Dodge City Days, the second largest community event in Kansas with a large economic impact. In its inaugural year, the rodeo featured 175 contestants and paid out more than $8,000. Over the last few years, the event has been home to about 800 ProRodeo contestants and has paid out more than $300,000. It is, by far, the largest and richest rodeo in the Sunflower State. During the week of competition, Roundup Rodeo also hosts the Miss Rodeo Kansas queen and teen pageants. “We’re very proud of the tradition and the legacy Roundup Rodeo has, not only in professional rodeo but also across the state,” Trotter said. “As we celebrate our 40th year, there are countless people who have made this rodeo a success over the last four decades, from community volunteers to outstanding sponsors to the cowboys themselves.” That’s why Roundup Rodeo has become a true showcase for southwest Kansas.

ESTES PARK, Colo. – Dustin Egusquiza and Clint Summers needed a bit of a break after a stretch of back luck on the rodeo trail. They got it in this picturesque town in the Colorado Rockies, taking a few days away from the arena to enjoy the cool weather and activities around this community of about 6,000 people who host 4 million visitors every year. They capitalized on it Monday night by winning the team roping title at Rooftop Rodeo, stopping the clock in 4.1 seconds to claim the championship and $4,204 each. “It’s a great win,” said Summers of Lake City, Fla. “We were kind of in a slump the last week to so. To come here on Monday and start the week off like this means a bunch.” Not bad for a couple of Florida cowboys that just started roping together in the last couple of months. “I’ve always wanted to rope with him,” said Egusquiza of Mariana, Fla. “When I started heading full time, he started heading also. He switched back to heeling, and I needed a partner, so I took the opportunity.” Both young cowboys see the partnership as a grand opportunity. Both are young: Summers is 24, and Egusquiza is 20. Now they’re trying to take the next steps in their rodeo careers together. “This guy heads great,” Summers said of his partner. “He has always headed great. He’s a little younger than me. The heading didn’t go so great for me, so I went back to heeling. He had a partner; they split up, so I jumped on when I had the opportunity.” The competitive tandem has made the most of their time in the resort town by enjoying daily battles of miniature golf. They hope to spend a few more days in Estes Park before heading to their next rodeo. “It’s my first year coming here,” Egusquiza said. “I’ve loved it ever since we got here two days ago. It’s an awesome place. “I know there’s a bunch of people here (at the arena), and it looks like they love the rodeo. It’s definitely one of the favorite rodeo’s I’ve ever been to.” There are a number of reasons, and a packed house every night is a good reason. But there’s much more to Estes Park’s rodeo than is on the surface. From the good prize money to the championship trophy spurs, there are plenty of incentives for rodeo’s greatest stars. “Every time I’ve ever been here, I’ve come a few days ahead,” Summers said. “The stands are packed. The people are here and love the rodeo and support it. They cheer 100 percent. I think that makes for a fun rodeo.” Rooftop Rodeo Estes Park, Colo. July 6-11, 2016 Bareback riding: 1. Brian Bain, 84.5 points on Cervi Rodeo’s Sugar Daddy, $6,253; 2. Joel Schlegel, 83.5, $4,794; 3. (tie) Richmond Champion and Shane O’Connell, 83, $2,918 each; 5. Blaine Kauffman, 82, $1,459; 6. (tie) Bill Tutor and Wyatt Denny, 80.5, $938 each; 8. Kody Lamb, 80, $625 Steer wrestling: First round: 1. Wade Sumpter, 3.8 seconds, $1,597; 2. K.C. Jones, 4.4, $1,321; 3. Cody Cabral, 4.6, $1,046; 4. (tie) Dakota Eldridge, Billy Bugenig and Josh Peek, 4.87, $514. Second round: 1. Rowdy Parrott, 3.9 seconds, $1,597; 2. Cole Fulton, 4.0, $1,321; 3. (tie) Jarret New and Brian Snell, 4.1, $908 each; 5. (tie) Josh Peek and John Franzen, 4.2, $385 each. Average: 1. Josh Peek, 9.0 seconds on two runs, $2,395; 2. Dakota Eldridge, 9.1, $1,982; 3. Rowdy Parrott, $1,569; 4. Jarret New, 10.3, $1,156; 5. Cole Dorenkamp,  10.5, $743; 6. Jacob Shofner, 10.7, $413. Team roping: 1. Dustin Egusquizaq/Clint Summers, 4.1 seconds, $4,204; 2. Luke Brown/Jake Long, 4.4, $3,761; 3. (tie) Cody Snow/Dugan Kelly and Colby Lovell/Travis Graves, 4.5, $3,098 each; 5. Adam Rose/Walt Woodard, 4.6, $2,434; 6. Clay Smith/Paul Eaves, 4.8, $1,991; 7. Aaron Tsinigine/Kinney Harrell, 4.9, $1,549; 8. Aaron Macy/Bret Tonozzi, 5.1, $1,106; 8. (tie) Kolton Schmidt/Shay Carroll and Billy Bob Brown/Garrett Jess, 5.3, $443 each. Saddle bronc riding 1. Hardy Braden, 84 points on Cervi Rodeo’s Hell’s Fire Hostage, $5,499; 2. CoBurn Bradshaw, 82, $4,216; 3. (tie) Jesse Bail and Blaze Cress, 81, $2,566 each; 5. Jacobs Crawley, 80.5, $1,283; 6. (tie) Landon Mecham and Cole Elshere, 80, $825; 8. Tyler Corrington, 79.5, $550. Tie-down roping: 1. 2. Ike Fontenot, 8.3 seconds, $2,733; 2. (tie) Seth Hall and Ross Tucker, 8.6, $2,301 each; 4. Cory Solomon, 8.7, $1,870; 5. Joseph Parsons, 8.8, $1,582; 6. (tie) Josh Peek and Joe Colletti, 8.9, $1,151 each; 8. Rhen Richard, 9.0 $719; 9. Marshall Leonard, 9.1, $431; 10. (tie) Cody Quaney and Clint Nyegaard, 9.3, $72 each. Barrel racing: 1. Katie Carroll, 17.51 seconds, $4,042; 2. Sherry Cervi, 17.69, $3,234; 3. Trula Churchill, 17.78, $2,627; 4. Heather Ratterree, 17.81, $2,021; 5. McKinley Goodger, 17.85, $1,617; 6. Kathy Grimes, 17.87, $1,213; 7. Kelly Kennedy-Joseph, 17.89, $1,011; 8. Brenda McMahan, 17.91, $909; 9. Lorie Manning, 17.94, $808; 10. (tie) Sabra O’Quinn and Stevi Hillman, 17.95, $657; 12. Taylor Langdon, 17.99, $505; 13. Kayla Jones, 18.00, $404; 14. Tori Morris, 18.03, $303; 15. (tie) Katelyn McLeod and Ari-Anna Flynn, 18.06, $101. Bull riding: 1. Kurtis Turner, 84.5 on Cervi Rodeos Rank Frank, $4,672; 2. Josh Frost, 83.5, $3,582; 3. Garrett Smith, 82, $2,647; 4. Tyler Smith, 80, $1,713; 5. (tie) Derek Kolbaba and Jeremy Richard Hanson, 79, $934 each; 7. Dustin Muncy, 78, $623; 4. Ardie Maier, 75.5, $467.

ESTES PARK, Colo. – A tough tie-down roping competition just got a little tougher. Ike Fontenot made sure of it Sunday night when he roped and tied his calf in 8.3 seconds to take the lead at Rooftop Rodeo with one night remaining. “It means a lot,” said Fontenot, a ProRodeo rookie from Ville Platte, La. “It’s a confidence builder; it was a good calf.” The cowboy sits fifth in the race for the Resistol Rookie of the Year crown with more than $8,800 in earnings for 2016. His solid performance in Estes Park will boost his earnings some; more importantly, it provided momentum at a key part of the rodeo season. Fontenot grew up in rodeo. Both his parents competed, and his mother qualified for the College National Finals Rodeo. “My family was mostly team ropers, but I took a liking to calf roping because I didn’t have to depend on anybody,” he said. While this is his first year as a pro, this is his fifth year on the ProRodeo trail. He spent four years as a permit-holder because he was focusing his time on his studies and collegiate rodeo at McNeese State University in Lake Charles, La. Whether it was at the high school, college or PRCA level, Fontenot has leaned on the same partner, a 14-year-old sorrel mare. “We raised her, actually got her when she was a weanling,” he said. “We got her trained and showed her in the AQHA. She was a world champion in the quarter horse show. I’ve been riding her since she was six, and she’s 14 now. “We click together.” It showed in Estes Park. Fontenot moved ahead of the runners-up, Seth Hall and Ross Tucker, by three-tenths of a second, and he did it in front of another big crowd. “This has good scenery and good hospitality,” Fontenot said. “Everybody’s really friendly around here, and it’s a good rodeo.” Rooftop Rodeo Estes Park, Colo. July 6-11, 2016 Leaders through fifth performance Bareback riding: 1. Brian Bain, 84.5 points on Cervi Rodeo’s Sugar Daddy; 2. Joel Schlegel, 83.5; 3. (tie) Richmond Champion and Shane O’Connell, 83; 5. Blaine Kauffman, 82; 4. Bill Tutor, 80.5; 6. Kody Lamb, 80; 7. (tie) Caleb Bennett, Orin Larsen, Tim O’Connell and Grant Denny, 79 each. Steer wrestling: First round: 1. Wade Sumpter, 3.8 seconds, $1,597; 2. K.C. Jones, 4.4, $1,321; 3. Cody Cabral, 4.6, $1,046; 4. (tie) Dakota Eldridge, Billy Bugenig and Josh Peek, 4.87, $514. Second round leaders: 1. Rowdy Parrott, 3.9 seconds; 2. Cole Fulton, 4.0; 3. (tie) Jarret New and Brian Snell, 4.1; 5. (tie) Josh Peek and John Franzen, 4.2. Average leaders: 1. Josh Peek, 9.0 seconds on two runs; 2. Dakota Eldridge, 9.1; 3. Jarret New, 10.3; 4. Cole Dorenkamp,  10.5; 5. Jacob Shofner, 10.7; 6. Cody Pratt, 10.8. Team roping: 1. Luke Brown/Jake Long, 4.4 seconds; 2. (tie) Cody Snow/Dugan Kelly and Colby Lovell/Travis Graves, 4.5; 4. Adam Rose/Walt Woodard, 4.6; 5. Clay Smith/Paul Eaves, 4.8; 6. Aaron Tsinigine/Kinney Harrell, 4.9; 7. Aaron Macy/Bret Tonozzi, 5.1; 8. (tie) Kolton Schmidt/Shay Carroll and Billy Bob Brown/Garrett Jess, 5.3. Saddle bronc riding 1. Hardy Braden, 84 points on Cervi Rodeo’s Hell’s Fire Hostage; 2. CoBurn Bradshaw, 82; 3. (tie) Jesse Bail and Blaze Cress, 81; 5. Jacobs Crawley, 80.5; 6. Landon Mecham, 80; 7. (tie) Tyler Corrington and Treyson Antonick, 79.5. Tie-down roping: 1. 2. Ike Fontenot, 8.3 seconds; 2. (tie) Seth Hall and Ross Tucker, 8.6; 4. Cory Solomon, 8.7; 5. Joseph Parsons, 8.8; 6. Josh Peek, 8.9; 7. Rhen Richard, 9.0; 8. Marshall Leonard, 9.1; 9. (tie) Cody Quaney and Clint Nyegaard, 9.3. Barrel racing: 1. Katie Carroll, 17.51 seconds; 2. Sherry Cervi, 17.69; 3. Trula Churchill, 17.78; 4. Heather Ratterree, 17.81; 5. McKinley Goodger, 17.85; 6. Kelly Kennedy-Joseph, 17.89; 7. Brenda McMahan, 17.91; 8. Lorie Manning, 17.94; 9. (tie) Sabra O’Quinn and Stevi Hillman, 17.95; 11. Taylor Langdon, 17.99; 12. Kayla Jones, 18.00; 13. Tori Morris, 18.03; 14. (tie) Katelyn McLeod and Ari-Anna Flynn, 18.06. Bull riding: 1. Kurtis Turner, 84.5 on Cervi Rodeos Rank Frank; 2. Derek Kolbaba, 79; 3. Dustin Muncy, 78; 4. Clayton Savage, 74; no other qualified rides.

ESTES PARK, Colo. – Rodeo isn’t just a sport or a business to Hardy Braden of Welch, Okla. It’s a way of life, a part of who he is; it’s just like the blood the courses through his veins. It all came together Saturday for 84 points on Cervi Rodeo’s Hell’s Fire Hostage to take the saddle bronc riding lead during the fourth performance of the Rooftop Rodeo. “That’s one of the best horses,” said Braden, who has qualified for the Prairie Circuit Finals Rodeo on numerous occasions. “I’ve seen him quite a few times, but I’ve never had a chance to get on him. I was super excited to see I had him drawn here. I was really nervous because I didn’t want to mess him up.” The Oklahoma cowboy will now wait out the final two performances of the six-day rodeo to see if his score holds up for the title and the lion’s share of the purse. He owns a two-point lead over the No. 2 bronc rider in the race for the Estes Park title, Utahan CoBurn Bradshaw. “I try to make it a regular stop,” Braden said. “It’s on the way normally. We just came from Vernal (Utah). This is a beautiful place, so I don’t know why you wouldn’t want to just come hang out.” The rodeo trail can get long and dusty at times, so taking even a day off can be refreshing. Doing so in the mountain region of Estes Park helps. Braden has known this lifestyle since the day he was born. His father, Butch, serves as a pickup man; mom, Tammy, is a PRCA timer who has worked the Wrangler National Finals Rodeo. “I remember growing up and following my dad,” Hardy said. “He rode saddle broncs forever, and I was a teeny tiny tike and I’d get to sit in his saddles before he’d get on. It’s just something I always wanted to do. It’s bred into me. “It’s a lifestyle that not everybody gets to live. People who sit in the stands don’t realize what they’re missing.” Braden pointed to the fans in Estes Park, pointing out that a large number of tourists fill the stands every night. It makes life on the rodeo trail more exciting for the contestants when they can compete in front of an uproarious crowd. “They get into it,” he said. “When they get it to it, it makes us get pumped up and want to even excite them more.” It all adds up to a top-flight experience for everyone who makes a stop at Rooftop Rodeo. “It’s the perfect grounds,” Braden said. “It’s beautiful weather for the first of July. It’s a great rodeo.” And Braden is one of the leaders through four nights.   Rooftop Rodeo Estes Park, Colo. July 6-11, 2016 Leaders through fourth performance Bareback riding: 1. Brian Bain, 84.5 points on Cervi Rodeo’s Sugar Daddy; 2. Joel Schlegel, 83.5; 3. (tie) Richmond Champion and Shane O’Connell, 83; 5. Blaine Kauffman, 82; 4. Bill Tutor, 80.5; 6. Kody Lamb, 80; 7. (tie) Caleb Bennett, Orin Larsen, Tim O’Connell and Grant Denny, 79 each. Steer wrestling: First round: 1. Wade Sumpter, 3.8 seconds, $1,597; 2. K.C. Jones, 4.4, $1,321; 3. Cody Cabral, 4.6, $1,046; 4. (tie) Dakota Eldridge, Billy Bugenig and Josh Peek, 4.87, $514. Second round leaders: 1. Cole Fulton, 4.0 seconds; 2. (tie) Jarret New and Brian Snell, 4.1; 4. (tie) Josh Peek and John Franzen, 4.2; 6. (tie) Dirk Tavenner and Dakota Eldridge, 4.3. Average leaders: 1. Josh Peek, 9.0 seconds on two runs; 2. Dakota Eldridge, 9.1; 3. Jarret New, 10.3; 4. Cole Dorenkamp,  10.5; 5. Jacob Shofner, 10.7; 6. Cody Pratt, 10.8. Team roping: 1. Luke Brown/Jake Long, 4.4 seconds; 2. (tie) Cody Snow/Dugan Kelly and Colby Lovell/Travis Graves, 4.5; 4. Clay Smith/Paul Eaves, 4.8; 5. Aaron Macy/Bret Tonozzi, 5.1; 6. (tie) Kolton Schmidt/Shay Carroll and Billy Bob Brown/Garrett Jess, 5.3; 8. J.D. Yates/Trey Yates, 5.4. Saddle bronc riding 1. Hardy Braden, 84 points on Cervi Rodeo’s Hell’s Fire Hostage; 2. CoBurn Bradshaw, 82; 3. Jesse Bail, 81; 4. Jacobs Crawley, 80.5; 5. Landon Mecham, 80; 6. Tyler Corrington, 79.5; 7. Rusty Wright, 79; 8. Taygen Schuelke, 78.5. Tie-down roping: 1. (tie) Seth Hall and Ross Tucker, 8.6 seconds each; 3. Cory Solomon, 8.7; 4. Joseph Parsons, 8.8; 5. Josh Peek, 8.9; 6. Rhen Richard, 9.0; 7. Marshall Leonard, 9.1; 8. (tie) Cody Quaney and Clint Nyegaard, 9.3; 10. Brent Lewis, 9.4. Barrel racing: 1. Katie Carroll, 17.51 seconds; 2. Sherry Cervi, 17.69; 3. Trula Churchill, 17.78; 4. McKinley Goodger, 17.85; 5. Brenda McMahan, 17.91; 6. Lorie Manning, 17.94; 7. (tie) Sabra O’Quinn and Stevi Hillman, 17.95; 9. Taylor Langdon, 17.99; 10. Kayla Jones, 18.00; 11. Tori Morris, 18.03; 12. (tie) Katelyn McLeod and Ari-Anna Flynn, 18.06; 14. (tie) Christine Laughlin and Jenna Waggoner, 18.07. Bull riding: 1. Derek Kolbaba, 79 points on Cervi Rodeo’s Wolf Greeley Hat Works; 2. Dustin Muncy, 78; no other qualified rides.