Monthly Archives: September 2020

Rider, Roper to showcase individual talents at Prairie Circuit Finals DUNCAN, Okla. – Before he became one of the top saddle bronc riders in the Prairie Circuit, 26-year-old Roper Kiesner was a jack-of-all-trades showman and part of the Kiesner Family’s Wild West Review. He and his brother, Rider, were part of the traveling circus that hit rodeos and Western events all across the world, led by their dad, Phillip, and their mom, Julie. They were quite the spectacle for several years, beginning in 2005. Now, though, Rider has taken over the family’s reins as far as an entertainer, and Roper is chasing his bronc riding dreams. “We don’t cross paths as much as you’d think, but we still see each other a few times a year,” Roper Kiesner said. “It’s always fun to be at shows when I see my brother perform. If it works out with what I’m doing, I may help him out. “He’s one of my biggest fans, and I love watching him perform, too.” Their lives and lifestyles will come to fruition at the Chisholm Trail Ram Prairie Circuit Finals Rodeo, set for 7:30 p.m. Friday, Oct. 16-Saturday, Oct. 17, at the Stephens County Arena in Duncan. Roper is the third-ranked saddle bronc rider in the circuit, made up primarily of events primarily in the Oklahoma, Kansas and Nebraska region; Rider will be the barrelman and featured performer, along with his girlfriend, Bethany Iles. “When we first started, I was doing trick roping and whip cracking,” said Rider Kiesner, 28. “Back then, Roper wasn’t part of the act, but he helped out. Then after a couple of years, he wanted to do some roman riding and trick riding, so we got him some ponies. “In the act, we always had a back-and-forth. I would do some trick roping, then Dad would go, then my brother would go. There was always something going on.” Their lives are as hectic as ever. In addition to handling their respective businesses in rodeo, the brothers remain active. From team roping to knife-making to countless other adventures, they find many ways to not only make ends meet but also entertain others. “The difference between being a competitor and a specialty act is quite a bit,” Roper Kiesner said, noting that contract acts receive a fee for their services but cowboys pay an entry fee in order to compete and must finish near the top just to earn money on the rodeo trail. “A guaranteed paycheck is nice sometimes, and you get to be around people more – you’re there for one rodeo the whole week or the weekend. “As a competitor, you’re always going and doing a lot more driving. You don’t have the guaranteed paycheck, but I love being on the road and doing this.” It’s a passion that’s been handed down from father to sons, and it’s a lifestyle the Kiesner brothers expect to live the rest of their lives. That’s one reason why Rider Kiesner has added clowning to his repertoire. “When I first started doing rodeos by myself, I just wanted to be a specialty act,” he said. “A lot of the smaller rodeos couldn’t afford a clown and a specialty act, so I wanted give them a chance to hire me for both. “It’s really cool working the Prairie Circuit Finals as the clown, because that circuit is known for having some of the best clowns at their finals. I’m following Keith Isley (last year’s clown and barrelman who is destined for the ProRodeo Hall of Fame). That’s pretty scary but pretty fun, too.” That’s what comes with trying to be one of the best. Both brothers know it. Rider Kiesner has performed at some of the biggest events in the game – including the Cheyenne (Wyoming) Frontier Days Rodeo and the National Finals Rodeo – and he’s been credited for being one of the best in his business for a long time. Now, he and his baby brother get to showcase their specific skills in the same arena on the same weekend. It’s a chance to celebrate all the years they’ve been in the arena – whether together through their family’s act or in different locales across the country as they chase their dreams. “I think this is going to be really cool,” Rider Kiesner said. “I’m hoping he wins, then we can have matching buckles. Being able to share the arena is always a lot more fun.” It’s something they’ve done in some regard most of their lives. “Ever since I was little, I’ve wanted to do this,” Roper Kiesner said. “My dad was riding saddle broncs when I was little. When I was a baby, my first word was bull or bully because I just wanted to ride roughstock. I’ve always been in rodeo; I was riding when I could walk. We grew up on a horse’s back. “I’m more of a get-on-and-go type of guy, whereas Rider’s more about training and practicing. That’s why I ride saddle broncs and why he’s an entertainer. It works well for both of us.”

HEMPSTEAD, Texas – For several years, the Waller County Fair and Rodeo has prided itself on amazing concerts that close down many nights of the exposition. Though about half of the traditional fair and rodeo events are taking a one-year hiatus, the concerts continue to be a vital part of the entertainment cog that is the county’s annual showcase. In fact, because of restrictions in place with the pandemic, organizers have decided to make their grandest shows a nice mix in the same complex. “Just as a way to keep a better control of everyone’s surroundings, we decided to move the concerts to our rodeo arena,” said Steven Pfeiffer, a Waller County Fair Association board member. “This way we can produce the concerts right after what is going on in the arena and keep it a seamless transition for everyone involved.” The festivities kick off with the Extreme Bull Riding and Freestyle Bullfighting competition, which begins at 7:30 p.m. Saturday. Glen Templeton – who has been around for about a decade and who was selected by the children of Conway Twitty for a touring musical tribute to the late country star – will follow the bull power and pure athleticism of the night. Five nights later, the top cowboys and cowgirls in ProRodeo will be at center stage showcasing their own athleticism in what’s become known as a hidden gem of the sport in southeast Texas. With three nights of the best action in the state, that means the door opens for some top acts to showcase their musical talents in the arena following each performance of the rodeo. Randall King will perform on Thursday, Oct. 1, after the opening night of the rodeo. Jon Stork is the act following the second rodeo performance on Friday, Oct. 2. Josh Ward, who has been at the top of the Texas Regional Radio Chart multiple times, will close down the several days of the Waller County Fair and Rodeo after the final performance of the PRCA rodeo on Saturday, Oct. 3. “While we came up with this format out of necessity this year, I think we’re all excited to see what it’s going to look like to have the concerts in our rodeo arena,” said Paul Shollar, a board member and rodeo captain. “To just add to the fun of each evening, we’re going to have fireworks right after the rodeo to get everyone charged up for the concerts.” It’s the perfect mix to help showcase the family-friendly entertainment the fair and rodeo has been known for over the last several years. “The reality for the Waller County Fair Association was that we could just cancel this year and go on like it wasn’t a big deal, but the Waller County Fair and Rodeo is a big deal to everyone in this area,” board president Matt Hyatt said. “We knew a long time ago we were going to do everything we could to make this year’s fair and rodeo happen. We’re doing a few things different this year, but we’re doing them. “We have worked really hard to make everything happen, and we’re all excited to see how this goes. This will look a lot different than it has, but it’s still going to be a great show. We all need a bit of normalcy in our lives, and we need to return to the things that make us tick. I think the fair and rodeo is just a good starting point, especially with these concerts, and we’ll see what happens after this.”

Top names in the UBF will fight for Southern Classic title in tiny Bowersville BOWERSVILLE, Ga. – At first glance, there doesn’t seem to be much to this tiny hamlet of less than 500 people in northeastern Georgia. Over the last couple of years, though, it has become the mecca for freestyle bullfighting in the United States. On Saturday night, the best men in the game will prove that during the Ultimate Bullfighters Southern Classic, set for 7 p.m. at 228 W. Main St, on the north edge of town. “We built this arena to have events like this,” said Luke Kaufman, the UBF’s event producer. “We hung nine miles of guardrail fence to make a facility that caters to the needs of these animals. Because they’re fighting bulls, they can easily tear through normal fences, so that’s why these pens are built the way they are. “Other than in Spain, this is the nicest bull compound in the world. The guardrail pens lead up to a working facility on top of the hill. We had the first event back in May, and we’ve just converted a practice pen into a full-blown venue.” The top 12 bullfighters in the game will be part of Saturday’s competition. There will be four three-man bullfights, with the highest scores in each bout advancing to the Franklin County Livestock championship round. “I’m excited to get back to it,” said Justin Josey, the No. 3-ranked bullfighter in the UBF who has missed the last few events while tending to other promotional opportunities. “I’m ready to see the boys, hang out, be at an event and just start experiencing it again. This opens the door for me, and I’m happy with the opportunities that are in front of me.” Josey has been one of the top freestyle bullfighters in the sport for several years. He’s proven that on various levels but has been a premier talent in the UBF. Had he been able to perform at several events that he was forced to miss, there’s a good chance he would be seeded higher in a game where dollars earned equal points. Louisianan Sage Seay leads the standings with $14,200, followed by Nebraskan Beau Schueth, who is locked in at $10,000. Josey is just $2,650 behind Scheuth, so Josey could make a big move during Saturday night’s challenge, which features a purse of $20,000. “More than anything right now, I just want to fight some bulls,” Josey said. “I fought a bull in Arkansas a few days ago, and it went OK. I just want to get back to the competition. “I’m pretty happy with my bullfighting about 80 percent to 85 percent of the time. You can’t get down on yourself, because it’s bullfighting. It’s you against the beast, so you do the best you can. I’m just getting it all figured out. It’s fun fighting bulls.” That’s for the men who do it for a living, but it’s not for the faint of heart. The men who play the game overcome any fears and trepidation, and they challenge themselves and their athleticism against equally athletic and incredibly agile bulls that are bred for this type of competition. With the Southern Classic being an invitational, the UBF sought out the top men in the game to chase a prestigious title. “I know it’s going to be a sellout crowd and high energy, and it’s going to be a blast,” Josey said. “We’re going to get all fresh (unfought) bulls from Chad Ellison. I think we’ll be able to do what we know how to do and have a lot of fun doing it.”

Waller County to celebrate 75th fair and rodeo while focusing on kids HEMPSTEAD, Texas – Although appearances will be considerably different, the heart of the Waller County Fair and Rodeo will still beat this fall. The COVID-19 global pandemic has forced cancelations of events around the world, but the Waller County Fair Association is pushing forward with a slimmed-down version of its annual exposition. While it may be skinnier, there’s still plenty of meat on the bones, along with the fair’s mission of agriculture and education. “In the best interest for public health, we decided as a fair board to focus on the things we could control while still being able to put on our fair and rodeo,” said Mike Higgins, first vice president of the WCFA. “We are happy that we will be able to have our livestock shows, our livestock judging and the annual exhibit auctions, which are all a very important part of our fair. “We introduced our high school welding competition last year, and we’re excited that we can bring that back this year.” While there won’t be a carnival and the shape of the concerts has changed, the fair association has taken the steps necessary to still produce a memorable 75th edition of Waller County’s annual exposition, set for Saturday, Sept. 26-Saturday, Oct. 3, at the Waller County Fairgrounds in Hempstead. “This is a big year for Waller County and for this fair and rodeo,” said Sharon Burger, a member of the executive board. “We knew we had to have it this year, so we’re putting together the best fair and rodeo we can possible produce. With that, the planning has already been under way for the youth to be able to show their steers, calves, swine, lambs, and other livestock. Those, along with the creative living exhibits, have historically been the foundation behind fairs across this land. “We know it’s an important part of our youth program to have these kids understand how to care for the animals and to get them ready for the fair,” Higgins said. “This is a process, and it’s important for our young people to go through that process. “Once we get to fair time, that’s when all the work comes to fruition, and they are celebrated for the work they do. We couldn’t take that away from these kids this year.” The same can be said about all the exhibitors and those involved in other aspects of the traditional fair experience. In creative living, the exhibitors have a chance to showcase their talents as well as their passions. For those involved in livestock judging, the expo offers them a chance to put their lessons to task. “Of course, we believe in every aspect of the fair and rodeo experience, but the biggest thing for us is to give these kids their avenue to shine,” Burger said. “It’s also important for this community. They want to see the exhibits and the exhibitors. We have a great community that supports these kids, and it’s always fun to see that dynamic come together.”

STEPHENVILLE, Texas – The people in this neck of the woods know a thing or two about the sport of rodeo. Stephenville is, of course, the Cowboy Capital of the World, a testament to the dozens of elite rodeo stars that live in Erath County. Some claim it as a secondary home, like world champion heeler Jade Corkill, who still lists Fallon, Nevada, as his hometown though he lives in Stephenville year-round. The members of the volunteer committee that produce the Cowboy Capital of the World PRCA Rodeo know how special it is to have such a prestigious event for the locals to attend, to witness and to compete in every year. This year’s rodeo is set for 7 p.m. Friday, Sept. 25, and Saturday, Sept. 26, and 2 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 26, at Lone Star Arena. When it comes to the actual production of those three performances, though, the locals rely on the professional crew from Pete Carr Pro Rodeo, one of the most recognized livestock production firms in the game. “What Pete brings us is good stock and good personnel,” said James Andrea, the committee’s president. “With John Gwatney on the timed-event side, we don’t have to worry about anything there. With Billy Jones on the other side, he runs the whole deal. “When Pete shows up, we don’t have to worry about anything. We know it’s going to be a first-class show.” That’s important, because rodeo is a fantastic mix of world-class competition and family friendly entertainment. Stephenville’s rodeo will feature the comedy of clown Matt Tarr, who has been recognized as one of the top young acts in the game; a year ago, he was the alternate barrelman for the National Finals Rodeo. Announcer Justin McKee, who is best know for his work on national television, will be back to call the action. “Matt’s from around here, so we really wanted to support the hometown guy, and there’s bee a lot of buzz about him,” Andrea said. “The thing we get with Justin is he understands the vital statistics that come with us being on that final weekend of the regular season. He’ll know how much money the people need to earn here just to make the NFR.” McKee and Tarr are just part of the mixture that makes the Cowboy Capital of the World PRCA Rodeo tick. “It’s not just a rodeo; it’s entertainment, and Pete understand that,” Andrea said. “Our committee goes above and beyond for the entertainment side of it, and we really try to grow the rodeo every year. This year, though, we’ve done our best just to keep everything the same. “We’re trying to do the best we can to make it happen.” That’s where Carr and his team of experts comes in. “Our committee is real rodeo-oriented and knows a lot about rodeo, but there’s a difference between putting on a rodeo and going to a rodeo,” Andrea said. “That’s the comfort of having Pete and the people he has working for him. They can take care of things before we even think of it.”

STEPHENVILLE, Texas – There was never any hesitation in the minds of the committee members that organize Stephenville’s annual ProRodeo. “It was something from Day 1 when this stuff with COVID started, we wanted to have the rodeo,” said James Andrea, president of the volunteers that work hard all year to have the Cowboy Capital of the World PRCA Rodeo, set for 7 p.m. Friday, Sept. 25, and Saturday, Sept. 26, and 2 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 26, at Lone Star Arena. “We just stayed after it. We were worried about sponsorships, but the city of Stephenville, the businesses and the people from Stephenville got behind us. We wanted it for the sport of rodeo, but we also wanted it for Stephenville. We’re glad to be doing it, and not just for the cowboys.” The contestants have responded, too. As has been the case in ProRodeo, events that have continued through the COVID-19 global pandemic have seen increased numbers. The folks in Stephenville had more than 650 cowboys and cowgirls put their names in the hat to compete. “The numbers have been good,” Andrea said. “We’re up about 100 contestants from last year’s rodeo. That’s a good sign, but it’s also pretty telling.” Like most events across the globe, COVID has taken its toll on rodeo. More than half the events originally scheduled for 2020 were canceled and many others postponed from their original dates. Because of limitations in Las Vegas, the 2020 National Finals Rodeo will take place at Globe Life Field in Arlington, Texas, to ensure the championship could continue with fans in attendance while also allowing for social distancing measures. That makes the Cowboy Capital of the World PRCA Rodeo the last major stop of the regular season. Money won in Stephenville over those three days will make a difference as to which contestants in each event will advance to the NFR. “We’ve always had the biggest names in rodeo at our event,” Andrea said. “Of course, many of them live here or around here, so this is more of a hometown rodeo for them.” It’s also a big-time stop for the cowboys and cowgirls that live thousands of miles away and are eager to make fast Texas money with hopes of chasing their gold buckle dreams. In a year that’s made it difficult for ProRodeo contestants to actually make a living in the game they love, they’ll take every chance they can get. “Probably the biggest challenge we faced with our rodeo was just not knowing,” said Andrea, who has been part of the volunteer committee for several years. “Even though we kept planning to have it, you always have that uncertainty. “In the long run, it wasn’t going to be up to us. All we could do was the leg work and hope the politicians allowed us to have it. Now it’s a go, and we get to do it. That’s exciting for us, for the cowboys and everybody in Stephenville.”

DUNCAN, Okla. – When the COVID-19 global pandemic hit hard six months ago, doubts were cast across all professional sports. Rodeo has taken as big a hit as any, with cancelations becoming the norm for the cowboys, cowgirls and personnel who make their living in the game. But there’s a resilience that’s been defined through the Plains states of Oklahoma, Kansas and Nebraska, and the perseverance is going to pay off. “We’re pretty excited just to be able to have our rodeo,” said Joe Henderson, chairman of the volunteer committee that produces the annual Chisholm Trail Ram Prairie Circuit Finals Rodeo, set for 7:30 p.m. Friday, Oct. 16-Saturday, Oct. 17, at the Stephens County Arena in Duncan. “This has been a tough year for so many people, and we’ve been hit pretty hard here in southern Oklahoma. “Fortunately, with the help of some key people in rodeo, we’re able to put on a show. It’s going to be a good way to celebrate all that we have to offer as far as our form of Americana. It’s important to this community that we bring a bit of normalcy back to town.” The fall rodeo has been a normal part of the annual calendar for Stephens County for nearly a decade. This will mark the ninth straight year for the circuit finale, which will feature only the top 12 contestants in each event who are primarily from the three-state region. Money earned by those contestants at rodeos in Oklahoma, Kansas and Nebraska count toward the regional titles. This will be a toned-down version of what qualifiers and fans have come to expect. The circuit finals typically features three go-rounds, but given many of the restrictions that have followed COVID-19, there are benefits to having two go-rounds. “Obviously, we’d love to have three rounds and be able to pay money in each round and the average,” Henderson said. “We’re just not able to do that this year, but we will still be able to pay out two rounds and the average. It’s not the greatest scenario, but in a year like the one we’re in, I think this will be just what everyone needs.” Having a regional championship is valuable in ProRodeo. There are several circuits around North America, and the champions from each region advance to the RAM National Circuit Finals Rodeo – the year-end and circuit-finals winners punch their ticket to Kissimmee, Florida, which is the traditional host for the national championship each spring. “The circuit finals is very important to me and every other cowboy this year,” said Cody Devers, the top-ranked steer wrestler in the Prairie Circuit. “We have had a very limited rodeo schedule this year, and I am proud of all the people who have taken the time and effort to give us the opportunity to compete at our prestigious circuit finals.”

After weeks of speculation and ill-advised social media teases, the Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association has found a home for the 2020 National Finals Rodeo at Globe Life Field, home of the Texas Rangers in Arlington, Texas. “When George (Taylor, the PRCA’s CEO) brought the idea to us, we thought it was a little farfetched,” said Jacobs Crawley, the PRCA board chairman and 2015 saddle bronc riding world champion from Stephenville, Texas. It’s not as farfetched as many might think, and it’s a great venue to conduct ProRodeo’s grand championship through a global pandemic. With a retractable roof, Globe Life Field offers the availability to host fans while allowing for social distancing. “When you think of Texas, you think of rodeo; you think of cowboys,” said Trevor Brazile, a 25-time world champion who lives in nearby Decatur, Texas. “I don’t think anybody that could pull through other than the state I’m so proud of. “I’m a little jealous; I retired a little too soon.” This will not be a traditional arena layout, given the dimensions of the diamond. In fact, an image released publicly revealed the dirt will encompass much of the infield area to the dugouts and spread a third of the way into the outfield. The bucking chutes will be in center field, with the out-gate being the entry and exit for barrel racing. Tie-down roping will take place down the right-field line, while team roping and steer wrestling will be down the left-field line. The action of all events will head toward home plate, much like baseball itself. “A lot of us have rodeoed a long time (and) been fortunate to ride in great venues,” Crawley said. “This is going to be the next great spot.” This is a temporary move for the NFR but a necessary one because of pandemic restrictions in Las Vegas. The PRCA sought a new home for this year’s championship that would allow for fans. Seats will be sold in groups of four, with separation between groups. “Contact-limiting measures, such as mobile tickets, have been implemented throughout the event,” the PRCA indicated in its news release. “There will also be metal detector screenings and a no bag policy at entries on performance nights. Globe Life Field is encouraging all guests to check the CDC and the Texas Department of State Health Services websites for any guideline changes prior to the event.” The NFR returns to the Lone Star State for the first time since 1961; the original host of the championship (1959-61) was the Texas State Fairgrounds. It then moved to Los Angeles Sports Arena for three years, before finding a 20-year home in Oklahoma City – first at Jim Norick Arena at the Oklahoma State Fairgrounds, then to The Myriad in downtown Oklahoma City. The NFR made Las Vegas its permanent home in 1985 and will return to Sin City once the pandemic restrictions allow. There was no discussion of how the payout will change without the financial backing from the Nevada desert, but there are bound to be changes. Still, look for the NFR to feature great payouts. In a year that’s seen so many events canceled, it’s refreshing to know world champions will be crowned in December.

GUNNISON, Colo. – When Tanner Butner designated 2020 to be his rookie campaign in ProRodeo, he had no idea what was in store. A global pandemic hit, and his once promising season turned into a year of delays, cancelations and setbacks. Still, the saddle bronc rider sits No. 4 in the Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association’s rookie standings and has an outside chance to catch the leader, Iowan Riggin Smith. “Winning the rookie was one of my goals this year, and I’ve been trying to get that done,” said Butner, 23, of Daniel, Wyoming. “This weekend’s helped me out quite a bit as far as that goes.” Yes, it did. On Saturday night, Butner rode Stace Smith Pro Rodeo’s Dreamliner for 87.5 points to share the Cattlemen’s Days PRCA Rodeo bronc riding victory with 2017 world champion Ryder Wright, who posted the same score Friday. With that, both Butner and Wright each earned $2,003. “I wanted to go ahead and make the finals this year, but I had a rough winter,” Butner said. “So, I just tried to get the rookie done.” Only the top 15 in the world standings at the conclusion of the regular season advance to the National Finals Rodeo, and Butner entered the weekend 38th on the money list. Still, earning the elusive Rookie of the Year crown is quite prestigious in ProRodeo. With struggles through the big events in the winter months, the Wyoming cowboy was left on the outside looking in. Throw in a greatly reduced rodeo schedule, and it was a steep climb that he was unable to traverse. That’s why his ride Saturday night was so special. It inches him up the rookie standings, and he can still move up the list to catch Smith, who held a $12,000 lead heading into this week of rodeos. “This year, I’ve just tried to stay as busy as possible,” Butner said. “I just find anything I could do to make extra money on the side to keep me rolling.” With COVID-19 affecting so many aspects of daily life, the young cowboy understands how important it is to ride well when the opportunities allow. “It’s been a dang good year to have a job,” he said with a laugh. “I think it’s pretty awesome what this community did to have a rodeo. I got to visit with one of the committee guys, and I know how much effort they put into it just to have a rodeo. I’m glad they did it; it’s a good deal for everybody.” Cattlemen’s Days paid out a record $90,636 and featured many big names. In fact, the list of winners included contestants with multiple NFR qualifications, including world champions like Wright and heading titlist Levi Simpson. For Butner, it was nice to have his name in there and get on a great bucking horse in the process. “Some of my buddies knew that horse and knew he was a pretty dang good one,” Butner said. “That’s a fun bugger. If you can beat them to the ground and pick them up a little, it helps them buck better and makes everything look a lot better. If you’re beating them back to the ground, it also feels 10 times better.” So is earning a big win in the Colorado mountains. Cattlemen’s Days Gunnison, Colo. Sept. 3-5 Bareback riding: 1. (tie) Cole Reiner, on United Pro Rodeo’s Pow Wow Nights, and Orin Larsen, on Stace Smith Pro Rodeo’s JBC Bent Rail Sourdough, 88 points, $1,923 each; 3. Wyatt Bloom, 87.5, $1,335; 5. Shane O’Connell, 85.5, $798; 5. Tim O’Connell, 85, $508; 6. (tie) Pascal Isabelle and Paden Hurst, 84.5, $327 each; 8. (tie) Donny Proffitt and Seth Hardwick, 82.5, $109. Steer wrestling: 1. Jesse Brown, 3.7 seconds, $2,335; 2. Bridger Anderson, 3.8, $2,030; 3. Cody Devers, 3.9, $1,726; 4. Winston McGraw, 4.0, $1,421; 5. (tie) Cade Staton, Landon Beardsworth and Will Lummus, 4.1, $812 each; 8. (tie) Kodie Jang, Bill Glaunch and Dirk Tavenner, 4.2, $68. Team roping: 1. (tie) Levi Simpson/Shay Carroll, Jake Cooper/Lane Mitchell and Aaron Tsinigine/Kyle Lockett, 4.5 seconds, $2,525 each; 4. Tanner Tomlinson/Brady Norman, 4.7, $1,931; 5. Matt Sherwood/Trey Yates, 4.9, $1,634; 6. J.B.  James Jr./Brock Hanson, 5.2, $1,337; 7. Coleman Proctor/Ryan Motes, 5.3, $1,040; 8. Kellan Johnson/Carson Johnson, 5.4, $743; 9. Pedro Egurrola/Trevor Nowlin, 5.5, $446; 10. Clay Norell/Jesse Sheffield, 6.0, $149. Saddle bronc riding: 1. (tie) Ryder Wright, on Stace Smith Pro Rodeo’s Flashcard Champ, and Tanner Butner, on Stace Smith Pro Rodeo’s Dreamliner, 87.5 points, $2,003 each; 3. Cody DeMoss, 86.5, $1,285; 4. Jacobs Crawley, 86, $831; 5. Shorty Garrett, 85, $529; 6. Tegan Smith, 84.5, $378; 7. (tie) Spencer Wright and Chase Brooks, 84, $265 each. Tie-down roping: 1. Trampus Quarnberg, 8.6 seconds, $2,800; 2. (tie) Tyler Prcin and Ike Fontenot, 8.7, $2,252 each; 4. Marcos Costa, 9.0, $1,704; 5. Luke Potter, 9.1, $1,339; 6. Charlie Gibson, 9.3, $974; 7. Shad Mayfield, 9.5, $609; 8. (tie) Ty Harris and Caleb Smidt, 9.8, $122 each. Barrel racing: 1. Shali Lord, 17.48 seconds, $1,769; 2. Nicole Drigggers, 17.50, $1,516; 3. Brittany Pozzi Tonozzi, 17.64, $1,263; 4. (tie) Sherry Cervi and Lake Mehalic, 17.65, $969 each; 6. (tie) Brittany Barnett and Nicole Waggoner, 17.67, $590; 8. Megan Champion, 17.74, $337; 9. Emily Miller, 17.76, $253; 10. Lexie Goss, 17.87, $168. Bull riding: 1. Ty Wallace, 87.5 points on Stace Smith Pro Rodeo’s Buck Jam, $2,961; 2. Roscoe Jarboe, 87, $2,270; 3. Chase Dougherty, 85.5, $1,678; 4. (tie) Cole Meloncon and Dustin Boquet, 85, $888 each; 6. Garrett Smith, 84.5, $494; 7. Brady Portenier, 84, $395; 8. Chance Ekins, 83.5, $296.

GUNNISON, Colo. – Orin Larsen had every reason to be excited about his Friday night ride at the Cattlemen’s Days PRCA Rodeo. He matched moves with Stace Smith Pro Rodeo’s JBC Bent Rail Sourdough for 88 points to move into a tie for the bareback riding lead with rookie Cole Reiner, who earned his 88 in Thursday’s first performance. For Larsen, the big score means a chance at big bucks in Gunnison, but it also means a lot more. “I really want to win that rifle,” he said of a specialized gun that is awarded to the top-scoring bareback ride. “This is a great rodeo, but it’s a rodeo I’ve never been to. I know the committee has done a really good job of trying to get it going with the whole COVID deal going on. I know they moved on from their original dates and worked hard to make it happen. “Like a lot of rodeos that have worked to go on through this year, it means a lot to us that they went ahead and had the rodeo.” Like most professional sports, the global pandemic has turned rodeo on its side. More than half the rodeos on the 2020 schedule were canceled, while others, like Cattlemen’s Days, were postponed. That affects the bottom line of the cowboys and cowgirls who make this game their business. A year ago at this time, Larsen had secured more than $100,000 in earnings. This year, though, he’s quite content with the $55,181 he’s pocketed; he sits seventh in the world standings and just needs to close out the final 25 days of the regular season to secure his sixth straight berth to the National Finals Rodeo. “Everybody’s just scrambling right now,” said Larsen, 29, of Inglis, Manitoba, now living in Gering, Nebraska, with his wife, Alexa. “We’re all going to the same rodeos. It’s kind of a grudge match with everybody going to the same places. It makes rodeo a little more exciting.” It was pretty exciting Friday. JBC Bent Rail Sourdough has been around for years, and Larsen recalled getting on the big horse a few years ago at the NFR. “Everyone I talked to said that would be a really good horse to have here,” said Larsen, who earned $123,000 in 10 nights at the NFR last December and finished as the No. 2 bareback rider in the game. “She took a pretty long scoot and had a wild jump, but after that she was just up and down and felt really good. It was the perfect horse to have here. “This has been a hard year to make a living rodeoing. You’re going to every rodeo, so you’re spending money to get there. A lot of committees have had to drop their sponsorship money, so it’s hard to make money. I try to look at things half full; I get to go to rodeos I’ve never been to. I try to make the most of it and have fun with what you’re having to deal with.” That’s why he’s still finding success. Cattlemen’s Days Gunnison, Colo. Sept. 3-5 Bareback riding leaders: 1. (tie) Cole Reiner, on United Pro Rodeo’s Pow Wow Nights, and Orin Larsen, on Stace Smith Pro Rodeo’s JBC Bent Rail Sourdough, 88 points; 3. Wyatt Bloom, 87.5; 5. Shane O’Connell, 85.5; 5. Tim O’Connell, 85; 6. Pascal Isabelle, 84.5; 7. Donny Proffitt, 82.5; 8. (tie) Jamie Howlett and Zach Hibler, 82. Steer wrestling: 1. Jesse Brown, 3.7 seconds; 2. Bridger Anderson, 3.8; 3. Cody Devers, 3.9; 4. Winston McGraw, 4.0; 5. (tie) Cade Staton, Landon Beardsworth and Will Lummus, 4.1; 8. (tie) Kodie Jang, Bill Glaunch and Dirk Tavenner, 4.2. Team roping: 1. (tie) Levi Simpson/Shay Carroll, Jake Cooper/Lane Mitchell and Aaron Tsinigine/Kyle Lockett, 4.5 seconds; 4. Tanner Tomlinson/Brady Norman, 4.7; 5. Matt Sherwood/Trey Yates, 4.9; 6. J.B.  James Jr./Brock Hanson, 5.2; 7. Coleman Proctor/Ryan Motes, 5.3; 8. Kellan Johnson/Carson Johnson, 5.4; 9. Pedro Egurrola/Trevor Nowlin, 5.5; 10. Clay Norell/Jesse Sheffield, 6.0. Saddle bronc riding: 1. Ryder Wright, 87.5 points on Stace Smith Pro Rodeo’s Flashcard Champ; 2. Cody DeMoss, 86.5; 3. Jacobs Crawley, 86; 4. Shorty Garrett, 85; 5. Spencer Wright, 84; 6. Wyatt Casper, 82; 7. Rusty Wright, 80.5; 8. Isaac Diaz, 69; 9. Taos Muncy, 78; 10. Stetson Wright, 77.5. Tie-down roping: 1. Trampus Quarnberg, 8.6 seconds; 2. (tie) Tyler Prcin and Ike Fontenot, 8.7; 4. Marcos Costa, 9.0; 5. Luke Potter, 9.1; 6. Charlie Gibson, 9.3; 7. Shad Mayfield, 9.5; 8. (tie) Ty Harris and Caleb Smidt, 9.8. Barrel racing: 1. Shali Lord, 17.48 seconds; 2. Nicole Drigggers, 17.50; 3. Sherry Cervi, 17.65; 4. (tie) Brittany Barnett and Nicole Waggoner, 17.67; 6. Megan Champion, 17.74; 7. Emily Miller, 17.76; 8. Lexie Goss, 17.87; 9. Lori Todd, 17.89; 10. Andrea Busby, 17.98. Bull riding: 1. Ty Wallace, 87.5 points on Stace Smith Pro Rodeo’s Buck Jam; 2. Roscoe Jarboe, 87; 3. Chase Dougherty, 85.5; 4. Cole Meloncon, 85; 5. Garrett Smith, 84.5; 6. Brady Portenier, 84; 7. Chance Ekins, 83.5; 8. Daylon Swearingen, 82.

Simpson, Carroll snag the top spot on Night 1 of Cattlemen’s Days GUNNISON, Colo. – In the final month of ProRodeo’s regular season, Levi Simpson is trying to be as greedy as possible. Simpson, the 2016 world champion header from Ponoka, Alberta, sits 13th in the world standings and would like to move up by the end of September and secure his spot at just his second qualification to the National Finals Rodeo. On Thursday night, he and heeler Shay Carroll of La Junta, Colorado, stopped the clock in 4.5 seconds to take the team roping lead after the first performance of the Cattlemen’s Days PRCA Rodeo. “We called and got some information on that steer we had,” Simpson said. “They said it had been good at the last place it had been at, so we liked that. Everybody’s going to all the same places, so you have to just go for it. “They’re not giving money away anywhere. You have to hit the barrier as good as you can and take your first throw. I know Shay’s going to take the first throw he can, because you have to be fast if you want to get any of the money.” Money is vital in rodeo. Not only do the contestants pay bills with it and cover their costs with money earned in the arena, but it’s also how champions are crowned. Only the top 15 contestants on the money list in each event at the end of the regular season advance to the NFR; the contestants in each event who finish the campaign with the most money won will be crowned world champions. Simpson knows all about that. He and his then-partner, Jeremy Buhler, became the first Canadian team ropers to earn an NFR bid four seasons ago, then became the first from north of the border to claim team roping gold buckles. “The last few years have been pretty fun,” Simpson said. “It definitely opened up a few more opportunities, and a lot more people know who you are. It’s really been business as usual, though. There’s no clear advantage the next year, because you all start over from zero.” He and Carroll began teaming together about a year ago, and it’s worked well. While Simpson is the 13th-ranked header, Carroll sits eighth in the heeling standings. A two-time NFR qualifier, he stands a good chance to return. Having Simpson leading the way has been a big help. “It’s been really good this year,” Simpson said about their teamwork. “We get a long really well. We’ve been traveling in the same rig most of the year, and if you didn’t get along, it would show up pretty fast. “I don’t have to worry about what he’s going to do. All I have to do is worry about what I’m doing. That makes it easier.” They made it look easy Thursday in Gunnison. Cattlemen’s Days Gunnison, Colo. Sept. 3-5 Bareback riding leaders: 1. Cole Reiner, 88 points on United Pro Rodeo’s Pow Wow Nights; 2. Wyatt Bloom, 87.5; 3. Shane O’Connell, 85.5; 4. Jamie Howlett, 82; 5. Trenten Montero, 78; 6. Craig Wisehart, 76; no other qualified rides. Steer wrestling: 1. Tyke Kipp, 4.3 seconds; 2. Aaron Vosler, 4.5; 3. Shade Tree Etherton, 4.8; 4. Kalane Anders, 4.9; no other qualified runs. Team roping: 1. Levi Simpson/Shay Carroll, 4.5 seconds; 2. Kellan Johnson/Carson Johnson, 5.4; 3. Pedro Egurrola/Trevor Nowlin, 5.5; 4. Jake Orman/Brye Crites, 10.8; 5. Rhett Anderson/Cullen Teller, 20.3; no other qualified runs. Saddle bronc riding: 1. Cody DeMoss, 86.5 points on Stace Smith Pro Rodeo’s Pillow Talk; 2. Shorty Garrett, 85; 3. Spencer Wright, 84; 4. Rusty Wright, 80.5; 5. Isaac Diaz, 69; 6. Taos Muncy, 78; 7. Leon Fountain, 75; 8. Allen Boore, 73.5. Tie-down roping: 1. Logan Wiseman, 10.7 seconds; 2. Josh Eirickson, 11.1; 3. Trevor Thiel, 13.9; 4. Logan Vick, 14.1; no other qualified runs. Barrel racing: 1. Brittany Barnett, 17.67 seconds; 2. Abby Phillips, 18.16; 3. Stephanie Lujan, 18.47; 4. Kari Boxleitner, 18.65; 5. Taryn Boxleitner, 23.06; 6. Ashley Tackitt, 24.07; 7. Ivy Saebens, 29.87; no other qualified runs. Bull riding: 1. Ty Wallace, 87.5 points on Stace Smith Pro Rodeo’s Buck Jam; 2. Roscoe Jarboe, 87; 3. Garrett Smith, 84.5; 4. Brady Portenier, 84; no other qualified rides.

Action-packed Arcadia Roughstock UBF to be broadcast on Wrangler Network ARCADIA, Fla. – There is so much hype centered around the Arcadia Roughstock UBF, the event is receiving national coverage. The Wrangler Network will present a live broadcast of the Premier Bulls Tour and Ultimate Bullfighters showcase, set for 7 p.m. (Eastern) Saturday, Sept. 5. Finding the show is as simple as logging onto WranglerNetwork.com. “The cool part of having it on the Wrangler Network is that it opens the door for more and more people to have a chance to watch it,” said Riley McKettrick, a UBF bullfighter from Arcadia. “It allows them to see that rodeo, bull riding and bullfighting are true sports.” The handy piece of the broadcast is in its accessibility. Mobile devices allow for anyone to watch such programming anywhere. Of course, none of this would be possible without the Arcadia All-Florida Championship Rodeo, which is the promoter of this event. “Thank goodness the Wrangler Network is coming,” said Robert “Blue” Jeanes, a recently retired bullfighter who will serve as one of the announcers. “Those people on that rodeo committee are wonderful, and they are putting this thing on and making it happen.” That’s important in a year that’s seen so many cancelations because of the COVID-19 pandemic. Jeanes, who recently worked his last rodeo as a protection bullfighter after 25 years in the business, is making the transition to the microphone, but it should be rather seamless. “I’ve put on five or six freestyle bullfights, and I’ve done announcing at those,” he said. “As time went on, I started picking up some amateur rodeos, so I’ve been getting my feet wet.” His focus, though, wasn’t always on the protection side of the bullfighting action. He joined the original Wrangler Bullfight Tour as a rookie in 1999 and competed in 2000 before the tour was shut down. “Just about every bullfighter that’s going to be in Arcadia, I either saw them start or I helped them start,” Jeanes said. “I really enjoyed helping the young guys as I was getting toward the end of my career. I know those kids like the back of my hand. “With that knowledge, I’ll be able to let the people in the grandstands know more about those kids, too.” One person he knows the book on is McKettrick, who has proven himself quite well over the last few years. He’s excited to have the UBF in his own backyard. “It’s a really big deal to me,” he said. “They’ve only gotten to see freestyle bullfighting there once, and I didn’t do really good. This is a shot at redemption for me to do better in front of my hometown crowd. “My friends and family can come watch it, and they can be there to support me. I feel like I have a home field advantage.” He should. While many don’t know of Florida’s vast ranching history, McKettrick does, and so do the people who make their livings in the Western lifestyle. Still, this showcase is about competition and entertainment and letting go of months of isolation. “It’s the action, the danger that attracts people to freestyle bullfighting,” Jeanes said. “These kids have taken it to a new level. At my very best, I’m not sure I could even pull a check round They’re doing things now that are just incredible. They’re adding elements I didn’t think I’d ever see in freestyle bullfighting. “It’s a way better product than it used to be. It’s pure excitement.”

With home devastated by hurricane, Louisianan dominates UBF Challenge GRAND ISLAND, Neb. – Sage Seay needed the Ultimate Bullfighters more than any other competitor this past weekend at the Nebraska State Fair. “Knowing that everything back home was devastated, it’s tough to think about,” said Seay, 24, of Hackberry, Louisiana, near the coast of the Gulf of Mexico. “Being on the road has kept my mind off things.” His tiny village back home is a smaller version of what it once was, thanks to Hurricane Laura. Winds of more than 100 mph razed buildings and wrecked lives and livelihoods. In mid-Nebraska, Seay could only console his family, who asked that he remain on the road and take care of his bullfighting business. Things back home would be cared for until he returned. So, the athlete who grew up around the bayous and swamps of the South focused his eyes on the business at hand. He kicked it off with a 91-point bullfight during Friday’s performance, then followed it with a 90 in the championship round to win the inaugural Ultimate Bullfighters Challenge presented by Pump & Pantry. “Hurricane Laura gave me some motivation,” he said. “I really wanted to put ‘Hack’ on my back and give some positive things for the people there to focus on. Everybody’s house is gone. It’s devastating. They’ve grown up in those homes, and now they’re gone. “To be able to take that win back home is a big deal to me. That win went out to my hometown.” This isn’t the first hurricane Seay has experienced. Whether with his father in Hackberry or with his mom outside Beaumont, Texas, high winds, tornadoes and storm surge come at a regular occurrence for people that live along the Gulf Coast. This is, however, his first time to feel the pain that comes with the storms. “I’m at an age where I see and understand what a bind it puts my family in,” he said. “With all the prior storms, we were young, and we didn’t know the heartache of losing something. Seeing this now, I feel it. It hurts to see your parents go through this. “I watched my dad bust his ass day in and day out to build that place, then to see it get demolished in 30 minutes. My dad and my brother told me I needed to stay on the road, that they have this. So, I just want to be the positive light in their lives with all this other stuff going on.” He returns to UBF action this weekend, competing in Ocala, Florida, on Friday and in Arcadia, Florida, on Saturday. He has only his recent memory to give him plenty of insights as he pushes toward the next step as the No. 1 man in the UBF. “The people in Nebraska are great, and they came out to support us Friday night,” Seay said. “On Saturday night, they were hanging from the rafters. When you have a crowd behind you, that makes everything better. We feed off the energy of the crowd. Everyone went out there and laid it on the line because of it.” Ultimate Bullfighters Challenge Grand Island, Nebraska Aug. 28-29, 2020 First round: 1. Sage Seay, 91 points; 2. Beau Schueth, 90; 3. Knox Dunn, 89; 4. (tie) Alex McWilliams and Chance Moorman, 87 each, Championship round: 1. Sage Seay, 90 points; 2. Alex McWilliams, 89.5; 3. Beau Schueth, 87.5; 4. Tyler Washburn, 84.5; 5. Tucker Lane, 81.5.