Monthly Archives: May 2026

Garrett Yerigan, a two-time PRCA Announcer of the Year, will return to West Texas to announce the West of the Texas Rodeo. He teamed with fellow emcee Anthony Lucia a year ago, but this year he takes the reins by himself. (PHOTO BY ROBBY FREEMAN)   PECOS, Texas – Garrett Yerigan is a full-fledged Texan now. He’s lived in the Lone Star State for several years. It’s quaint. It’s home. A two-time PRCA Announcer of the Year, Yerigan will return to Pecos to emcee the West of the Pecos Rodeo, set for 8 p.m. Wednesday, June 24-Saturday, June 27, at Buck Jackson Arena. He arrived a year ago, loping into the arena horseback with a microphone in hand. It was a similar scene to dozens of rodeos he calls annually. Pecos, however, offers Yerigan a glimpse of the sport’s history. It’s home to the World’s First Rodeo, a claim laid nearly a century and a half ago on these West Texas streets. That’s where he shines. “I wholeheartedly believe this is what God put me on Earth to do,” said Yerigan, originally from Pryor, Oklahoma, but now living in Weatherford, Texas. “When He gives you opportunities … it removes any doubt in your mind.” He announces some of the biggest rodeos in the country, from Cheyenne to Fort Worth to The American. He calls 40 rodeos a year, and 11 of them are in Texas. “We brought Garrett in last year to co-announce our rodeo with Anthony (Lucia),” said Clay Ryon McKinney, chairman of the volunteer committee that produces the West of the Pecos Rodeo. “They worked well together, but circumstances changed, We’re very excited to see how Garrett stands by himself.” He fits in just fine. After all, he was raised around rodeo. He’s tried his hand at competing, but his knack for announcing was developed early. His parents have been active in the game since before his birth: Dale Yerigan was a bulldogger, and Kathy Yerigan ran barrels. Their kid tagged along and found his own way. He was around 6 or 7 years old when he first started announcing slack at rodeos, then just picked up more gigs along the way. “I tried a little bit of everything,” he said. “I tried sliding the steer saver at home. I tried roping steers at home. I tried riding steers at home. Nothing grabbed me. In going to all these rodeos and playing around with announcing slack, it became more of the announcer’s stand as the cool place to be.” While there are events he calls from the stand, his place in Pecos will be in the arena alongside the competitors. It’s true to his nature and a testament to how he was raised. He’s not afraid to put in the work necessary, whether it’s homework on the hundreds of contestants who will compete inside Buck Jackson Arena or helping with production at each stop he makes. “When I was growing up, I was in a trailer full of steer wrestlers,” Yerigan said. “I didn’t grow up around kids my age. I went to public school for all 13 years, but as far as the summers, I was around adults. When you’re in a trailer with big, hairy-legged bulldoggers, you have to learn to hold your own.”

Eight scholarship recipients are honored while riding in the back of a horse-pulled wagon from Broken Spoke Clydesdales during last weekend’s Will Rogers Stampede. (PHOTO BY ROBBY FREEMAN)   Eight Rogers County students were recognized during Saturday’s second performance of the Will Rogers Stampede with scholarships to help with the next level of their education. “We were able to provide students from the five FFA groups with scholarships,” said David Petty, a longtime director for the rodeo. “Ash Valley Ranches matched what our Heritage Association raised to provide $16,000 in scholarships. These kids all had a 4.0-or-better grade-point average, and five FFA chapters in Rogers County were represented.” Over the last two years, $26,000 has been distributed in scholarships. This year’s winners were McKenzie Boyer and Conner Ragland, Claremore FFA; June Guzman and Jake Gilbreath, Sequoyah FFA; Alex Chambers and Dakota Equels, Chelsea FFA; Delaney Gibson, Inola FFA; and Mallory Pendergraft, Foyil FFA. “For these kids, it’s proof that FFA makes a difference in their lives,” said Louie Gardner, chairman of the Rodeo Arena Interlocal Cooperative and one of the major contributors to the fund. “Three of those kids made the effort to find me and tell me how much they appreciate the scholarships.” The Heritage Association is a 501(c)(3) organization, which relies on people who are dedicated to helping with community causes. “We had a souvenir Heritage poster auctioned at the annual Dinner in the Dirt fundraiser, and it raised $7,000,” Petty said. “We’re tickled to have an avenue to do something like this, but we could certainly use more members to help carry on that tradition.”

In addition to increased prize money, the record number of entrants into the Big Spring Cowboy Reunion and Rodeo will also be trying to win championship buckles. (PHOTO BY ZACH HERRIN)   BIG SPRING, Texas – The good news about the Big Spring Cowboy Reunion and Rodeo is making headlines. Members of the volunteer committee made the decision to increase local dollars in the same year they opted to change the dates, moving the annual rodeo up two weeks on the calendar. The contestants took notice, and 490 have entered for their chance at the inflated purse for this year’s event, set for 7:30 p.m. Thursday, June 4-Saturday, June 6, at the Surge Energy Rodeo Bowl. “We’ve always tried to cater to the contestants,” said Cash Berry, the committee’s chairman. “It’s been that way for as long as I can remember. We decided to try some things to attract more cowboys to town, and we’re seeing it with a record number of entries.” He should know. Berry is the fourth generation of his family to be part of the volunteer group that organizes the event. The rodeo is also a brand of entertainment for spectators, and drawing top-name cowboys and cowgirls goes a long way toward that. “People in West Texas know rodeo, and they follow rodeo,” said Scot Herrin, a longtime committee member. “When they come to our rodeo, they want to see the (National Finals Rodeo) guys and the world champions.” Their wish is coming true. Of the nearly 500 contestants who have put their names in the hat, 70 have played the game at its highest level. Cowboys and cowgirls battle all year for a chance to advance to the NFR, which features only the top 15 on the money list in each event at the conclusion of the regular season. “We’re going to have NFR qualifiers all three nights of our rodeo,” Herrin said. “People are still talking about (PBR world champion) J.B. Mauney being here a few years ago and (two-time winner) Shad Mayfield competing last year.” This year’s field of entrants includes 17 world champions who account for 67 gold buckles, from newly crowned PBR champ John Crimber to 23-time WPRA titlist Jackie Crawford to eight-time world champion Rich Skelton. They’re not only battling for their share of the prize money, event champions will also receive a buckle that can be either worn or placed in a trophy case. The hardware is just another touch to prove the growth and importance of Big Spring’s rodeo. “Rodeo is still evolving in some ways, but the basics of it go back to being a cowboy,” Berry said. “We, as a committee, want our rodeo to evolve, too, and we stuck our necks out a little bit. Now, the cowboys are seeing it, and I think the fans are seeing it, too. This is an exciting time for our rodeo.”

Estes Park man pens book about the history of Rooftop Rodeo ESTES PARK, Colo. – The state of Colorado was just 52 years old when folks in Estes Park decided to establish a gathering now called Rooftop Rodeo. Over the years since the first competition, a tradition has continued. As the community prepares to celebrate the 98th anniversary of its annual rodeo, local organizers expect to commemorate it with the book Rodeo With Altitude: The History of Estes Park’s Rooftop Rodeo, written by local rodeo historian Howell Wright. In collaboration with the Estes Park Museum, the book is expected to be completed by this year’s Rooftop Rodeo, set for 7 p.m. Monday, July 6-Saturday, July 11, at Granny May Arena inside the Estes Park Fairgrounds. From those early beginnings, the book chronicles how the rodeo and parade have evolved over time. Filled with images of each era, Wright adds words that accentuate the details of life in Estes Park from the rodeo’s origins in the 1920s, through the decades that followed. The timing of the book also coincides with Colorado’s 150th anniversary and the 250th celebration of the United States of America. Wright is a retired Marine Corps colonel, and in 2005, he moved to Estes Park. He and his wife immediately became involved with the rodeo, volunteering their time and efforts into producing an event that accentuates the Western heritage in the Estes Valley. Wright grew up on a cattle ranch in central Arkansas, so his affection for being around livestock was developed early. So was his love of rodeo, and the knack for writing just added to the flair. His love for the game enhanced over time, even though he failed to make a qualified ride in 22 bull riding attempts. After graduating from the University of Arkansas, he joined the Marine Corps and was part of two tours of duty in Vietnam. In a career that took him around the world, he also returned to his roots. He became involved rodeo while in the Marine Corps, and that passion for the sport never waned. As one of the volunteers, Wright and many others worked diligently to not only continue the decades-long traditions of rodeo but also help launch its status. He served as the committee president. “We were (PRCA) Small Rodeo of the Year three times during that period, and we were in the top five (nominees) all six years,” Wright said. “When I resigned as president, I created the nonprofit organization and played around with that for three or four years. Now, I’ve moved on to other deals, and just three years ago, I decided I needed to get back to working on this doggone book.” It took two and a half years to write, but it’s a passion. He spent countless hours researching and writing to produce a definitive history of Rooftop Rodeo. This is Wright’s third book, and it’s a tale about parades, cowboys, cowgirls, rodeo queens and a passion for the Western way of life. Just like Rooftop Rodeo, the book is a tribute to Estes Park’s ranching and Western heritage.   Gates for Rooftop Rodeo open at 5 p.m. Monday, July 6-Saturday, July 11, with the preshow beginning at 6:30 p.m. and the rodeo beginning at 7 p.m. For more information about Rooftop Rodeo, which is a Town of Estes Park signature event, or to order tickets online, log on to www.RooftopRodeo.com. Other ticket inquiries may be made by contacting the Town of Estes Park Events office at events@estes.org or (970) 586-6104.

National Finals Rodeo veteran Tanner Aus rides Frontier Rodeo’s Bottom Line for 81 points Sunday night to share the bareback riding victory at the Will Rogers Stampede with Jason Wilson and Ty Hawkes, who rode Saturday. It is the third time Aus has won Claremore’s title. (PHOTO BY ROBBY FREEMAN)   CLAREMORE, Okla. – There are a lot of reasons why veteran Tanner Aus continues to thrive at the Will Rogers Stampede. The highest among them is that it’s a place he consistently wins money. Over his 17-year career, Aus has won at least a share of the bareback riding title in Claremore three times. That includes the 80th edition, which wrapped with Sunday’s third performance at RCB Bank Arena. “I’m happy to be back in Claremore; this is one we rarely miss,” said Aus, 35, of Granite Falls, Minnesota. “It’s the perfect time of year. I’m glad it dried up a bit today.” Aus matched moves with Frontier Rodeo’s Bottom Line for 81 points on the final chapter of this year’s championship. That matched the scores from Jason Wilson and Ty Hawkes, who rode Saturday night. Each man pocketed $2,397. “That horse felt better than I thought he was going to,” said Aus, an eight-time National Finals Rodeo qualifier. “I knew that horse was a good chance to win something, and that’s why I’m here. He just felt a little better, and I was really happy with the way it ended up.” Every dollar counts, because that’s how points are tabulated in ProRodeo. Only the top 15 on the money list in each event at the end of the regular season advance to the NFR each December. He first qualified in 2015 and only missed it one time through 2023 – an injury kept him away from Las Vegas in 2018, but he still finished among the top 20 in the world standings. He’s missed the last two NFRs, though; he was 16th in 2024 and 23rd last year, but the economics of rodeo have changed. He won just shy of $100,000 a season ago and was still eight spots out of the top 15. “I wouldn’t say I’m riding the best I ever have, but I feel good about where I’m at,” he said. “I’ve learned – especially over the last few years – that it takes just a little bit more. I’ve got to change how I approach the sport, my training, how much rest I get, and everything I do. I’ve got to prioritize things differently to get to that peak level of performance, which is what everyone’s striving for.” That’s where those years of experience come into play. He isn’t the same bareback rider he was in 2012, when he won the intercollegiate bareback riding national championship. He’s also not the same man who first made the NFR 11 seasons ago. Since then, he’s married his wife, Lonissa, and the two of them are raising three children, Bristol, Rowan and Ember. “As your career goes on, you’ve just got to get there in different ways, and that’s fine,” Aus said. “We’re just always learning what we can do to have that edge when we show up, and I’m still having fun. “I’ve got a lot of support behind me yet, and I just love it. I’m just happy to still be showing up and still be trying my butt off.” Will Rogers Stampede Claremore, Okla. May 22-25 All-around cowboy: Jake Clay, $4,389, team roping and steer roping. Bareback riding: 1. (tie) Tanner Aus, on Frontier Rodeo’s Bottom Line, Ty Hawkes, on Frontier Rodeo’s Rocket Line, and Jason Wilson, on Frontier Rodeo’s High Heels, 81 points, $2,397 each; 4. Kooper Heimburg, 79, $1,130; 5. (tie) Kash Martin, Gauge McBride, Lane McGehee and Collin Roland, 78, $488 each. Steer wrestling: 1. Tayelen Seabrook, 3.5 seconds, $3,356; 2. Trisyn Kalawaia, 4.4, $2,961; 3. (tie) Juan Alcazar Jr and Ben Kilburg, 4.5, $2,369 each; 5. Logan Mullin, 4.6, $1,974; 6. Myles Neighbors, 4.7, $1,777; 7. Chance Howard, 4.8, $1,579; 8. Tucker Ravenscroft, 5.1, $1,382; 9. (tie) Walt Arnold, Colin Fox and Jake Holmes, 5.2, $658 each. Team roping: 1. Denton Parish/Joseph Harrison, 5.1 seconds, $4,035 each; 2. Andrew Ward/Jake Long, 5.4, $3,560; 3. (tie) Jhett Trenary/L.J. Yeahquo and Jaxson Tucker/Cooper Freeman, 5.6, $2,848 each; 5. (tie) Cooper Cowan/Cade Cowan and Kolton Good/Steve Orth, 5.7, $2,017 each; 7. Curry Kirchner/Tanner Braden, 5.8, $1,661; 8. (tie) Jake Clay/Whip Peterson and Wheston Jones/Cordell Collins, 5.9, $1,305 each; 10. Kyler Kreder/Gralyn Elkins, 6.4, $949; 11. Justin Pruitt/Travis Holland, 6.5, $712; 12. Peyton Holliday/Derrick Jantzen, 6.7, $475. Saddle bronc riding: 1. (tie) Wyatt Lavergne, on Double J Rodeo Company’s Stacy’s Mom, and Ross Price, on Double J Rodeo Company’s Peak A Boo, 85 points, $2,924 each; 3. Jett Williams, 84.5, $1,876; 4. Carson Bingham, 83, $1,214; 5. Skinny Parsons, 81, $772; 6. Brady Hill, 79.5, $552; 7. Cauy Masters, 79, $441; 8. (tie) Dane McPhail, Blake Steuck and Tom Webster, 78, $110 each. Breakaway roping: 1. Lari Dee Guy, 2.2 seconds, $4,615; 2. Lauren Hopkins, 2.5, $3,692; 3. (tie) Camden Crain, Mable McAbee and Abbie Williams, 2.6, $2,385 each; 6. Hannah Giger, 2.7, $1,385; 7. Kelsey Hallin, 2.9, $1,154; 8. (tie) Sydney Herrin and Marlee Quarles, 3.0, $981 each; 10. (tie) Hannah Hughes and Brandi McDowell, 3.1, $750 each; 12. Madalyn Richards, 3.2, $577; 13. Maelee Wade, 3.4, $462; 14. Kate Brisbane, 3.5, $346; 15. (tie) Baylee Lester and Josey Murphy, 3.7, $115 each. Tie-down roping: 1. Pax Vogel, 9.7 seconds, $3,596; 2. Hunter Herrin, 10.7, $3,173; 3. Paul David Tierney, 10.8, $2,750; 4. Wade Perry, 10.9, $2,327; 5. Haze Wright, 11.5, $2,115; 6. Jarvis Demery, 11.9, $1,904; 7. Chizm KuyKendall, 12.0, $1,692; 8. Zane Rampey, 12.2, $1,481; 9. Mason Stueve, 12.7, $1,269; 10. Bodee Boggs, 13.1, $846. Barrel racing: 1. Emily Beisel, 17.35 seconds, $3,956; 2. Emily Griffin, 17.75, $3,164; 3. Alona James, 17.82, $2,571; 4. Chelsea Moore, 17.85, $1,978; 5. Jody McKay, 18.06, $1,582; 6. Randi Holliday, 18.16, $1,187; 7. Ashley Sanders, 18.25, $989; 8. Prairie  Continue Reading »

Mud flies as Tay Seabrook wrestles a steer in 3.5 seconds to take the bulldogging lead during Saturday’s second performance of the Will Rogers Stampede. (PHOTO BY ROBBY FREEMAN)   CLAREMORE, Okla. – If the mud was affecting the competition much during Saturday’s second performance of the Will Rogers Stampede, it didn’t show. Take steer wrestler Tay Seabrook, who grappled his animal to the ground in 3.5 seconds to jump into the bulldogging lead. He was a lot wetter and dirtier after his run than he was before, but his smile and demeaner proved that he was untroubled. “This ain’t nothing new to me,” said Seabrook, 23, of Williston, Florida, a community of 3,660 just southwest of Gainesville. “It’s a little more wet than I expected. We get a lot of rain down there. We’ve got a couple indoor arenas, but the majority are outdoors. It’ll rain for a month, so this was no difference for me.” Sloppy conditions can be a trump card in rodeo. Some animals handle it better than others. Riding a powerful sorrel owned by his buddy Garrett Guillot, Seabrook took advantage of a good steer and made magic happen in the muck. “That’s just a good horse, and I had my buddy, Garrett Oates, on the hazing side with his horse,” Seabrook said. “Everything’s just set up for me, and I’m so happy they’re mounting me out. “You’ve got to have a horse that’s going to stand there (for the start), do his job, love his job and give you a good shot every time you get after it. You want him to focus so you can focus. The more that horse is set, the better you’re set.” That’s something he’s learned over time. Rodeo is something he’s been doing all his life, and it’s a life he loves. “I’ve been doing rodeo since I was 3 years old,” he said. “I did it all the way from peewee up through high school. I dropped my first steer at 14. My uncle and them butcher cows and pigs. We raise cows, we do hay. “They team rope, calf rope … that’s what I did before I started bulldogging. They went and got me a horse, and I was just dumb enough to jump off it.” That’s the nature of steer wrestling. They ride fast horses chasing fast cows, then dismount their steads at high speed. It’s a test of will and a testament to talent. It takes passion to follow this dream, but he has it. He’s leaving the comfortable confines of home, where his goal is to qualify for the Southeastern Circuit Finals Rodeo, which will feature the top 12 contestants from most of the Southern states. This year, though, he’s expanding his reach. This is his first venture to Claremore, but he expects to be back. “I like to get out there and give myself a chance,” Seabrook said. “I’m getting a shot, and I’ll do everything I can to give myself a chance.” Will Rogers Stampede Claremore, Okla. May 22-25 Bareback riding: 1. (tie) Jason Wilson, on Frontier Rodeo’s High Heels, and Ty Hawkes, on Frontier Rodeo’s Rocket Line, 81 points; 3. Kooper Heimburg, 79; 4. (tie) Kash Martin, Gauge McBride, Collin Roland and Lane McGehee, 78; 8. Tate Papszycki, 76. Steer wrestling: 1. Tay Seabrook, 3.5 seconds; 2. Trisyn Kalawaia, 4.4; 3. Ben Kilburg, 4.5; 4. Logan Mullin, 4.6; 5. Myles Neighbors, 4.7; 6. Chance Howard, 4.8; 7. Tucker Ravenscroft, 5.1; 8. (tie) Walt Arnold and Jake Holmes, 5.2 each. Team roping: 1. Denton Parish/Joseph Harrison, 5.1 seconds; 2. Andrew Ward/Jake Long, 5.4; 3. (tie) Jhett Trenary/L.J. Yeahquo and Jaxson Tucker/Cooper Freeman, 5.6 each; 5. Cooper Cowan/Cade Cowan, 5.7; 6. (tie) Wheston Jones/Cordell Collins and Jake Clay/Whip Peterson, 5.9; 8. Justin Pruitt/Travis Holland, 6.5; 9. Payton Holliday/Derrick Jantzen, 6.7; 10. Mason Stueve/Kingston Chang, 6.8; 11. Jay Crain/Jace Steenhoek, 7.3; 12. Dalton Turner/Clay Clayman, 7.7. Saddle bronc riding: 1. (tie) Ross Price, on Double J Rodeo’s Peak A Boo, and Wyatt Lavergne, on Double J Rodeo’s Stacy’s Mom, 85 points; 3. Carson Bingham, 83; 4. Skinny Parsons, 81; 5. Brady Hill, 79.5; 6. Cauy Masters, 78; 7. Tom Webster, 78; 8. (tie) Warwick Southern and Jake Finlay, 76. Breakaway roping: 1. Lari Dee Guy, 2.2 seconds; 2. Lauren Hopkins, 2.5; 3. (tie) Camden Crain, Mable McAbee and Abbie Williams, 2.6 each; 6. Hannah Giger, 2.7; 7. Kelsey Hallin, 2.9; 8. (tie) Marlee Quarles and Sydney Herrin, 3.0; 10. Brandi McDowell and Hanna Hughes, 3.1; 12. Madalyn Richards, 3.2; 13. Maelee Wade, 3.4; 14. (tie) Baylee Lester and Josey Murphy, 3.7. Tie-down roping: 1. Pax Vogel, 9.7 seconds; 2. Wade Perry, 10.9; 3. Haze Wright, 11.5; 4. Jarvis Demery, 11.9; 5. Zane Rempey, 12.2; 6 Mason Stueve, 12.7; 7. Bodee Boggs, 13.1; 8. Colton Greene, 14.1. Barrel racing: 1. Randi Holliday, 18.16 seconds; 2. Ashley Sanders, 18.25; 3. Andee Haden, 18.33; 4. Tiffany Teehee, 18.35; 5. Ashley Parks, 18.45; 6. Kim Squires, 18.51; 7. Suzanne Van Ness, 18.53; 8. Josey Murphy, 18.54; 9. Emily Stiles, 18.61; 10. Megan Stoll, 18.64; 11. Wenda Johnson, 18.65; 12. Kallie Gates, 18.69; 13. Cacee Hendrick, 18.80; 14. Alyssa MacDonald, 18.95; 15. Hailey Kinsel, 19.00. Bull riding: 1. Ethan Winckler, 88.5 points on Frontier Rodeo’s Revved Up; 2. Harrison Kalinka, 82; 3. Afonso Quintino, 76; no other qualified rides.

This pocket watch – provided by Caffey Horse Co. and given to the Will Rogers Stampede all-around champion – is one of a few donations provided by local businesses each year. From the watch to a Benefield Saddlery breast collar to a set of Leon Hughes bits to headstalls provided by the Tulsa Stockyards, Claremore champions are rewarded handsomely. (PHOTO PROVIDED BY CAFFEY HORSE CO.)   CLAREMORE, Okla. – A world champion’s gold buckle is the most cherished prize in rodeo, and for good reason. It’s the trophy given to the contestants the top contestants in each event, the culmination of a year’s worth of excellence. At the Will Rogers Stampede, local businesspeople have stepped up to offer their own rewards for some of the top players over four days of competition in Claremore. “Because these contestants take their time to come to our rodeo when we know other rodeos going on, we want to reward them for their efforts,” said Linda Caffey, who owns Caffey Horse Co. with her husband Keith. “We’ve always felt like the all-around champion should get an award or recognition for their accomplishment.” The Caffeys, who have helped put on the rodeo for 38 years, gift the all-around champion with a pocket watch commemorating his victory. “We wait and order it after the rodeo’s over, and it’s engraved with their name and the date,” she said. It is one of four prizes passed out in Claremore. The steer roping champion earns a breast collar from Benefield Saddlery; the top breakaway roper gets headstalls from the Tulsa Stockyards; and the team roping titlists receive custom bits from local bit-maker Leon Hughes. “I know about those guys, and I just like them,” said Hughes, who has been making bits most of his life, especially over the 27 years as something to do post-retirement. “I like visiting with them. They’re not pulling in a whole lot of money, so every little bit they can get will help.” His specialized tack goes to the winners of the only team event, so he provides two to the rodeo each year. The Caffeys’ pocket watches are issued to the competitor who won the most money in multiple events. “Roping is something every real cowboy has to do,” Linda Caffey said. “If they’re a real working cowboy, they have to know how to rope and do the pasture work. I watch the guys that have the ranch next to me, and they’re out there bulldogging and roping, so that’s what it takes. “At the rodeo, it takes somebody that has a cowboy set of skills, a Western tradition of skills.” Each business that donates items has a specific reason. Clark Benefield started several years ago, and his breast collars have been worn by some of the best steer ropers in the business. “I enjoy watching the steer roping,” Benefield said. “It’s one of the first two events in rodeo, and you don’t get to see steer roping just everywhere. I went to Cheyenne (Wyoming) three years go to watch it up there for the first time ever, and I’ve seen it at Vinita and Claremore. I’ve been to Pawhuska to watch the Ben Johnson.” These Will Rogers Stampede prizes are not only reminders of success in Rogers County, but they can also be used in a practical sense. That makes them the perfect trophies for Claremore champions.

Rookie Ross Price rides Double J Rodeo’s Peak A Boo for 85 points to take the saddle bronc riding lead on opening night of the 80th Will Rogers Stampede. (PHOTO BY ROBBY FREEMAN)   CLAREMORE, Okla. – Ross Price just started riding bucking horses a few years ago when he was in high school. Now, he’s in his inaugural year in the PRCA trying to spur broncs for a living. He didn’t look like the No. 12 man in the Rookie of the Year standings during Friday’s opening performance of the Will Rogers Stampede, riding Double J Rodeo’s Peak A Boo for 85 points to take the saddle bronc riding lead. “That was a really fun little horse,” said Price, 21, of Sikeston, Missouri. “One of my buddies has been on it in Colorado, so I knew she was going to be pretty cool.” Price will have to wait out the final two performances at RCB Bank Arena to see where he lands in the final tally, but he’s riding a wave of momentum. A week ago, he placed third in Franklin, Tennessee; more importantly, he kicked off the month by winning the bronc riding title in Springfield, Nebraska. He actually leads the bronc busting standings in the Great Lakes Circuit, a region that features rodeos and contestants primarily in Missouri, Iowa, Minnesota, Illinois, Wisconsin, Michigan, Kentucky, Indiana and Ohio. “My goal this year is to win my circuit and possibly win the rookie title,” Price said. “That’s the plan.” His swing of good fortune continued during his first trip to Claremore for the biggest event in town. The rodeo has been named the PRCA Small Rodeo of the Year six times, though it has grown in payout and is featured in the medium category these days. The key to success is in the cooperation between the city, the county and the volunteer committee, which put in extra work Friday. Because of heavy rainfall Thursday and into Friday morning, the arena dirt had turned to a mud pit. Workers removed the wet soil and laid a drier track for the contestants and livestock. Cowboys and cowgirls took notice. “We knew it was going to be a little muddy, but we weren’t scared of it,” Price said. “They did an amazing job and got it right for us. “The rodeo was awesome; good energy.” Will Rogers Stampede Claremore, Okla May 22-25 Bareback riding: 1. Kooper Heimburg, 79 points on Frontier Rodeo’s Sundance Kid; 2. (tie) Gauge McBride and Kash Martin, 78; no other qualified rides Steer wrestling: 1. Ben Kilburg, 4.5 seconds; 2. Logan Mullin, 4.6; 3. Tucker Ravenscroft, 5.1; 4. (tie) Walt Arnold and Jake Holmes, 5.2 each; 6. Kaleb Summers, 5.3; 7. (tie) Chase Crane and Sam Shofner, 5.4. Team roping: 1. Denton Parish/Joseph Harrison, 5.1 seconds; 2. Andrew Ward/Jake Long, 5.4; 3. (tie) Jhett Trenary/L.J. Yeahquo and Jaxson Tucker/Cooper Freeman, 5.6 each; 5. (tie) Wheston Jones/Cordell Collins and Jake Clay/Whip Peterson, 5.9; 7. Justin Pruitt/Travis Holland, 6.5; 8. Peyton Holliday/Derrick Jantzen, 6.7; 9. Mason Stueve/Kingston Chang, 6.8; 10. Jay Crain/Jace Steenhoek, 7.3; 11. Dalton Turner/Clay Clayhman, 7.7; 12. Jeryn Ellerd/Caden Beatty, 8.1. Saddle bronc riding: 1. Ross Price, 85 points on Double J Rodeo’s Peak A Boo; 2. Carson Bingham, 83; 3. Warwick Southern, 76; 4. Blaise Freeman, 74.5; 5. Lavern Borntreger, 74; 6. Tegan Smith, 73; 7. Tagg Bond, 72; 8. Cooper Thatcher, 69. Breakaway roping: 1. Lari Dee Guy, 2.2 seconds; 2. Lauren Hopkins, 2.5; 3. (tie) Camden Crain, Mable McAbee and Abbie Williams, 2.6 each; 6. Hannah Giger, 2.7; 7. Kelsey Hallin, 2.9; 8. (tie) Marlee Quarles and Sydney Herrin, 3.0; 10. Brandi McDowell and Hanna Hughes, 3.1; 12. Maelee Wade, 3.4; 13. Baylee Lester, 3.7; 14. Tia Wallace, 3.9; 15. (tie) Rheagan Colton, Jenna Adams, Chenoa VandeStouwe and Kaydin Finan, 4.0. Tie-down roping: 1. Pax Vogel, 9.7 seconds; 2. Wade Perry, 10.9; 3. Haze Wright, 11.5; 4. Zane Rempey, 12.2; 5 Mason Stueve, 12.7; 6. Bodee Boggs, 13.1; 7. Colton Greene, 14.1; 8. Roy Lee, 14.2. Barrel racing: 1. Randi Holliday, 18.16 seconds; 2. Ashley Sanders, 18.25; 3. Andee Haden, 18.33; 4. Tiffany Teehee, 18.35; 5. Kim Squires, 18.51; 6. Suzanne Van Ness, 18.53; 7. Megan Stoll, 18.64; 8. Cacee Hendrick, 18.80; 9. Hailey Kinsel, 19.00; 10. Brandie Inman, 19.02; 11. Leslie Kinsel, 19.08; 12. Cari Titsworth, 19.09; 13. Gracen Harman, 19.13; 14. Molly Harper, 19.21; 15. Randee Hendrick, 19.23. Bull riding: 1. Ethan Winckler, 88.5 points on Frontier Rodeo’s Revved Up; 2. Harrison Kalinka, 82; 3. Afonso Quintino, 76; no other qualified rides.

Australian Tom Webster rides Pete Carr Pro Rodeo’s Saya’s Eyes during the 2025 Big Spring Cowboy Reunion and Rodeo. The Carr firm has been the stock contractor in Big Spring for two decades. (PHOTO BY ROBBY FREEMAN)   BIG SPRING, Texas – Folks in this West Texas community understand that change can be a good thing. There are a lot of adjustments this year, from the increased local influx of dollars to the purse to the biggest move of all, the changing of dates. Traditionally, the rodeo has taken place the third weekend of June, around the first days of summer. This year, though, begins a new standard for the Big Spring Cowboy Reunion and Rodeo, set for 7:30 p.m. Thursday, June 4-Saturday, June 6, at the Surge Energy Rodeo Bowl. It’s similar to a move made by the volunteer committee two decades ago, when Pete Carr Pro Rodeo became the producer and stock contractor. Since then, the Texas-based livestock firm has been recognized as one of the premier companies in ProRodeo. “We were his first rodeo a long time ago,” said Dane Driver, a longtime board member. “He’s professional in what he does and how he treats us, and the quality of his stock is always amazing. He’s willing to keep reinvesting in his livestock, and it shows in a lot of ways. For us, we know we can trust him to put on a great rodeo, and his animals help attract the cowboys to town.” Over the last decade, no other PRCA stock contractor has had more animals selected to the National Finals Rodeo. This past December, 21 Carr animals bucked in Las Vegas, a couple were part of round wins. Another bucker, Larry Culpepper, returned to the NFR after a stellar year in which he was selected as the reserve world champion saddle bronc horse in a vote of the cowboys that ride them. “He’s just everything you want to feel on a bucking horse,” said Zeke Thurston, a four-time world champion from Big Valley, Alberta. “He’s a big boy; he weighs a lot, and he’s athletic. That’s a large animal to be able to do what he does, and when he does it, he does it really good. It’s pretty impressive.” The firm has had a lot of incredible animals since the company’s inception, which is why Carr has been inducted into the Texas Cowboy Hall of Fame and the Texas Rodeo Cowboy Hall of Fame. It’s that type of herd that will buck inside the storied Rodeo Bowl. In addition to a top-level breeding program, the Carr team works hard to make each performance as entertaining as possible for fans while also keeping the competition elite. “Pete and his crew not only produce our rodeo and do a dang good job, but Pete is instrumental in our success,” said Cash Berry, the fourth generation of his family to be part of the rodeo. “The best part of our rodeo is the people, the contract acts, Pete Carr and his people. Those guys are professionals, and they do their best to make our rodeo a world-class event. “I’ve made lifelong friends because of the people we bring in to help us with our rodeo. It’s nice to see them come back every year.”

With the Rodeo Arena Interlocal Cooperative supporting upgrades to Stampede Park, the Will Rogers Stampede continues to have big crowds watch the action every Memorial Day weekend. (PHOTO BY ROBBY FREEMAN)   CLAREMORE, Okla. – Over the last decade, the Will Rogers Stampede has gone from a blossoming product to a full-fledged extravaganza. That’s thanks to the Rodeo Arena Interlocal Cooperative, which has expanded the mission of the Will Rogers Roundup Club and its award-winning ways into a highly anticipated event. Organizers are expecting crowds to once again flock to this year’s rodeo, set for 8 p.m. Friday, May 22-Sunday, May 24, at RCB Bank Arena in Stampede Park at Claremore. Gates open at 6 p.m., with mutton bustin’ and other entertainment beginning at 7. “The roundup club has been around for years and years and has always had a lot of nice volunteers and worker bees,” said Louie Gardner, a Rogers County businessman and chairman of the coop. “As time went on, things became tougher to get accomplished, and they also became very expensive to get accomplished. “As far as a quality of life and a good venue to keep kids interested in FFA and all kinds of things, the rodeo needed a better direction. The coop became a benefit; we have a way to obtain funds from the county and from the city. With those funds, we have been able to redirect the rodeo and the rodeo grounds.” The cooperative now owns the rodeo grounds and has been able to make significant upgrades to the property near Claremore Lake. That type of infrastructure improvements has not only changed the look of the complex but also has helped the rodeo status citywide, state wide and regionally. The five-member board helps direct funds to assist with the rodeo and the upgrades, said Marshall Perkins, one of the directors. He and Gardner are joined by Rogers County Commissioner Dan DeLozier, Claremore City Manager John Feary and Amber Gillian, a vice president at BancFirst. “We are allotted money from both the city and county every year for improvements on the facility,” said Perkins, a former rodeo cowboy and pickup man who has been part of the stampede since 2015. “My top priority is that we have got to take care of contestants. “We want to draw better contestants, and, with that, we’re hoping to draw more people to the rodeo. Of course, we also want better viewing for the spectators.” Every aspect of the rodeo goes hand-in-hand with its growth. This year’s stampede has nearly 850 contestants scheduled to compete. That’s a record list of entries for the rodeo that will celebrate its 80th year over Memorial Day weekend. “We try to increase our added (local) money every year, and we have top-notch hospitality,” Perkins said. “Contestants need special accommodations, and we try to do everything possible to accommodate every contestant that comes, from special requests to just making sure somebody from our rodeo is shaking their hand as soon as they walk to the gate.” That frame of mind is why the Will Rogers Stampede has been named PRCA Small Rodeo of the Year six times since 2014. Those honors have tracked well, and the reflection will be seen during the 2026 edition of Claremore’s marquee event. It’s a much different rodeo than it was 15 years ago, and credit goes to the cooperative, the volunteers, the sponsors and the community that supports it. “We have been blessed that we have done nothing but grow the last five or so years and continue to grow almost to a capacity limit, where we almost need more room,” Gardner said. “The coop is so intricate that they have the funding and the wherewithal to continue to improve the facility for a big rodeo while also continuing to be a place for the roundup club to have play days and other things that can start coming. “The coop’s main objective is that they are in charge of the facility maintenance and future growth.” The complex shows the signs of a good facelift. It was necessary, and the rewards keep coming. “Back when I was a contestant in the early 2000s, the facilities were a little bit rough,” Perkins said. “I don’t know if the rodeo would even still be a thought today if it had not been for the coop. “The community has gotten behind it. It’s unreal. We’re sold out every night. I think we’ve got to figure out a way to add more bleachers. I think the team behind the scenes – the ones making sure the production is good with Frontier and (announcer) Scott Grover – makes it a show that everybody wants to see.” Based in Freedom, Oklahoma, Frontier Rodeo is an 11-time PRCA Stock Contractor of the Year. Grover has been the voice of the Will Rogers Stampede since 2005, when he was still new to the game and shared the microphone with Rogers County legend Clem McSpadden. Like virtually all professional sports, contests also hold an entertainment value. Producing a quality show helps attract bigger audiences. Rodeo also lends its name to Western heritage in the United States. It’s a tip of the cowboy hat to ranchers and horsemen. It provides urban residents with a test drive of what the Wild West was like. “Rodeo has evolved into a venue of its own, and it’s actually a show to watch,” Gardner said. “City folks kind of get a glimpse for a few nights – or even just one night – what it used to be like in Claremore and in Oklahoma and how a lot of ranches still operate that way. “In my opinion, the rodeo for Claremore gives folks insight, a time to reflect on how history was and how it still is.”

Announcer Anthony Lucia interacts with fans during the opening performance of the 2025 Big Spring Cowboy Reunion and Rodeo. (PHOTO BY ROBBY FREEMAN)   BIG SPRING, Texas – Anthony Lucia was born into rodeo, but he didn’t have to like it. He loved it anyway. Raised by legendary rodeo entertainer Tommy Lucia, Anthony was raised around the sport. He roped and trick roped, helped with specialty acts and was an entertainer himself before he found his way to a microphone and a knack for sharing his passions with hundreds of thousands of fans a year. Lucia will return to Howard County as the voice of the Big Spring Cowboy Reunion and Rodeo, set for 7:30 p.m. Thursday, June 4-Saturday, June 6, at the Surge Energy Rodeo Bowl. The new dates for the West Texas shindig will provide renewed energy while retaining its fabled tradition. “It’s a great rodeo, and that, coupled with the history, just makes it all very, very special,” said Lucia, the reigning three-time PRCA Announcer of the Year from Weatherford, Texas. “It’s a very unique setting, and it’s just got that old-school, fun, summer-rodeo feel.” The atmosphere comes in the way the Rodeo Bowl was built 76 years ago. Fans get a front-row seat to the action and the entertainment no matter where they sit. But there’s also the tradition that stands the test of time. Lucia hopes to follow suit. He’s making a significant name for himself as one of rodeo’s elite announcers. Later this month, he will call the action at Reno (Nevada) Rodeo. His biggest flex, though, came in 2025, when he was selected to be one of three emcees at the National Finals Rodeo, the sport’s grand finale that takes place each December in Las Vegas. “The fact that the National Finals Rodeo Committee thought enough of me to give me that opportunity is the coolest thing in the world that’s happened in my career,” Lucia said. “When I got the call, I cried, because I cry when things like that happen. “It’s very seldom that I am at a loss for words, but I have been just because of the fact that I get the opportunity to be part of that team.” He gathered his words quick enough, projecting his talents for about 17,000 fans every time he held a microphone inside the Thomas & Mack Center, the NFR’s home since 1985. Joined by veteran NFR announcers Wayne Brooks and Roger Mooney, Lucia found his place and his rhythm in the rotation. He shined when the world’s best cowboys and cowgirls were battling for gold buckles. It’s nothing new to those who have seen him at work in Big Spring. “Anthony has been a great partner for us,” said Cash Berry, chairman of the volunteer committee that produces the annual event. “He is not afraid to roll up his sleeves and go to work, which is something we appreciate. Lucia has a lifetime of experience and an undying passion for rodeo, and it shows with every phrase he utters. It’s a nice match with rodeo fans in Big Spring

Knudsen happy to share his voice for others on PRCA council MANAWA, Wis. – Jesse Knudsen is more than a rodeo music director and announcer. First and foremost, he’s a cowboy. Raised in central Wisconsin, Knudsen knew at an early age what it means to care for livestock. That’s the primary purpose of a cowboy, and it’s a lifelong trait he shares with many others. After early years as a competitor, Knudsen has spent the last several on the production side of rodeo. It’s both a contest featuring incredible athleticism and a brand of entertainment for fans. That’s where his dual roles come into play, knowing the right words or the right music to go with the action that’s happening in the arena. “Being involved in rodeo is such a great way to make a living,” said Knudsen, who still lives in Manawa. “I love the travel, the fellowship, a chance to be a witness for Christ throughout our travels. We’re in a different state every weekend, and you get to meet different people.” It’s the best part of his job and always has been, but there’s much more to him than meets the eye. Several years ago, he was approached by an announcer to consider being the group’s representative on the Contract Personnel Executive Council. He ran for the post and began the first of his two-year terms. Since then, though, announcers and sound directors have continued to have Knudsen be their voice. He began his fifth term April 1. “It means a lot that they value my opinion and that they believe in me to do battle for each and every one of them,” he said. “Yes, it’s a thankless job, but when guys each out to tell you ‘thank you,’ it means the world. “It’s very humbling that those people believe enough in me to be their representative.” It’s a necessary piece of the PRCA’s administrative efforts. Rodeo’s premier association is controlled by the board, which includes four representing contestants, two representing stock contractors, two representing rodeo committees and one for contract personnel. Knudsen shares his voice to the personnel director, Josh Edwards, who also hears from timers, clowns, bullfighters, specialty acts, laborers, secretaries, pickup men and photographers. “The biggest phrase that everybody says to me is, ‘You communicate,’ ” Knudsen said. “The communication part is something I take pride in.” Being the representative isn’t about his personal agenda or about just sharing his thoughts. It’s about being the voice of the majority. That’s why he fills all other announcers and sound directors in on the topics up for discussions. “I think it’s about giving people a head’s up,” he said. “I want to let them know what’s going on, and sometimes there’s not a lot to communicate. Other times, there’s stuff going on that they need to know about. Those of us on the council don’t have a vote on the board, but Josh does. If there are situations we need to vote on, I poll the room and give Josh the vote we decided on. “Ultimately, I have to put my feelings aside because those are the people that put me in that position, and I’m supposed to represent the group as a whole.” It’s a vital cog that is the rodeo machine, just like every other aspect of the sport with which Knudsen has been involved. Being on the council is the next phase for the Wisconsin man, who has been involved in the sport since the day he was born. “My dad was on the Little Britches of Wisconsin Board of Directors,” Knudsen said, who will begin his “summer run” of rodeos May 15 in Abbyville, Kansas. “He used to keep all the bucking bulls at our house during the winter. He was the flank man and kind of the ramrod, like livestock director. “I was 8 years old the first time I actually got to enter an official rodeo.” He rode bulls and bucking horses, even doing both at Fort Scott (Kansas) Community College. Once he turned his attention to ProRodeo, he focused more on bull riding. “I was never really successful in bull riding,” he said. “I had to have reconstructive shoulder surgery twice in the matter of 358 days, so I transitioned to bullfighting. “It was a lot of fun; I got hooked on the first one I fought. A little Mexican (fighting bull) hooked me, and I was like, ‘OK, I’m going to keep doing this.’ I was only going to do it to give my shoulder a break, but when you weren’t real successful at riding them and you’re getting paid every time you fought them, it was kind of a no-brainer to just stick with bullfighting.” Rodeo is unique in that contestants only get paid when they beat most of the field, and they have to pay a fee in order to compete. Contract personnel are paid for the work, so the money was guaranteed, unlike his days on the backs of bulls. It’s not the only thing he’s done in rodeo, though. Before he got into announcing and sound directing, he was a pickup man, a flank man, a laborer and even served as a judge at a couple of rodeos. Every post has influenced how he works today. That experience is why Knudsen is the man others want as their voice on the council. “It’s quite an honor for me to represent these people,” Knudsen said. “I don’t take their trust in me for granted.”

CLAREMORE, Okla. – When roper Jesse Stipes was injured a week ago, it wasn’t long before a call for help was made. His cowboy friends went to work to help raise money to cover the expenses that have been and will be incurred because of a seriously broken leg that happened during the steer roping competition April 30 at Clovis, New Mexico. “I got my slack under my stirrup as I was leaving to trip my second steer, and it just shot me out in front of my horse,” said Stipes, 41, of Salina, Oklahoma. “I landed on my feet, which, it turns out, might have been the wrong way to land.” He suffered a compound fracture of his right leg, was transported to a hospital in Amarillo, Texas, and had surgery soon after. He is back in Salina recovering, but follow-up appointments and rehabilitation are now on his schedule. Before the weekend came to a close, fellow steer ropers were already organizing a benefit that will take place during the Clem McSpadden Tub Handle Classic during the Will Rogers Stampede in Claremore. There will be a Calcutta auction at 10:45 a.m. Thursday, May 21, at Stampede Park, with a cowboy luncheon. A live auction will follow between the first and second rounds of competition, roughly 3:45 p.m. “I can’t take credit for it, because Riley O’Rourke kind of came up with it and his dad called me and asked if we could do something like this,” said Brodie Poppino, 35, a four-time National Finals Steer Roping qualifier from Big Cabin, Oklahoma. “I called Marshall (Perkins) and David (Petty) in Claremore to make sure that would be alright, and they were good with it and asked me to handle it.” “Anytime you get to help somebody that needs it, it’s just a blessing,” Poppino said. “You hate the situation of needing the help, but Jesse’s a good dude, a good Christian man. He’s got a good family, so we just want to help.” Poppino is counting on his fellow cowboys and neighbors in northeastern Oklahoma to lend a helping hand. Poppino is one of a record 843 contestants that have entered the Will Rogers Stampede, about 80 of which are steer ropers competing at the Tub Handle Classic. Claremore’s rodeo has been a hot spot for cowboys and cowgirls who compete for big prize money, and that trend continues this year. “We have always had a big number of timed-event contestants, but this year stands out,” said Petty, a longtime director of the rodeo. “To have almost 1,000 contestant says something about what Claremore is doing with its rodeo. On top of that, the cowboy mentality is something that’s hard to beat. Cowboys all come together to help out our friends. “That’s why we were happy to host the benefit.” Handmade bits and bridles, artwork and a stud fee are just a few of the items donated, and there are a number of smaller items that will be up for auction, like boots, packs and buckets. “I think the cool thing is that we had an African safari donated that has like a $17,000 value to it that’s been donated,” Poppino said. “We’ve still got a little time before the auction, but it’s amazing to watch and see a community come together to help somebody. “To see the sheer number of people willing to donate items or who are willing to be there to help out is amazing.” The injury is a small part of what’s happening for Stipes. He’s been through them before, though this is significant. He will be out of competition for a few months; surgeons placed a rod from knee to ankle and included some plates and screws for good measure. That, combined with a hip replacement four years ago, means Stipes will have a right leg full of metal. Nonetheless, the healing has begun. “This may not be the toughest part of it, but being able to accept some help is up there,” Stipes said. “I’m usually the guy that would like to help others, and I get a little uncomfortable when other people offer to help. It’s very humbling and very appreciated.”

Chase Brooks, a six-time National Finals Rodeo qualifier, celebrates after making an 85-point ride during last year’s Big Spring Cowboy Reunion and Rodeo. Brooks is one of many NFR qualifiers who have competed at Big Spring, and with a change of dates and an increase in the purse, organizers are expecting even more to compete at the legendary rodeo. (PHOTO BY ROBBY FREEMAN)   BIG SPRING, Texas – The volunteer committee that produces the Big Spring Cowboy Reunion and Rodeo is making a statement. “We want to do everything we can to make the experience better for the fans, the sponsors and the contestants,” said Cash Berry, the committee’s chairman. “Without the fans and the sponsors, we don’t have a competition for the cowboys. Without the cowboys, we don’t have a rodeo to put on for the fans. Everything has to come together to make it work” The proof is in the prize money. The committee has increased its “added money” starting in 2026. It’s an investment of more than $33,000 over last year. Local dollars are set per event, and then mixed with contestants’ entry fees to make up the overall purse. Eight of the nine disciplines will feature $8,000 in added money; bull riding will be at $14,400. “None of this happens without a community that’s behind our rodeo,” Berry said. “We’ve made some important updates to the Rodeo Bowl, and we’ve been able to increase our added money to help us pull more contestants to town.” This year’s event – set for 7:30 p.m. Thursday, June 4-Saturday, June 6, at the Surge Energy Rodeo Bowl – moves up a couple weeks to a cooler part of the month, but that’s just the tip of the iceberg. “Another part of the decision for us to change the dates is to make our rodeo easier for the contestants to work,” Berry said. “Rodeo is a big sport out here in West Texas, and the fans want to see the best.” Money is certainly an enticement for those who make a living in the sport. World champions and NFR veterans have included Big Spring on their schedules, but the changes made for this year offer a bigger incentive. Knowing that the community has raised $78,400 toward the overall purse will certainly spark interest. “Anytime rodeos can coordinate like that, guys will take advantage of it and make sure the enter those rodeos,” said bareback rider Jacob Lees, a two-time National Finals Rodeo qualifier originally from Caldwell, Idaho, but now living in Boyd, Texas. “Guys are more likely to hit Big Spring now. “With that rodeo raising the ‘added money,’ that also helps a lot. The fact of the matter is we do this for a job, so I have to be smart with the rodeos I go to. When it comes down to it, we do this to provide for our families and to pay the bills.” The committee’s decision to up its part of the prize money will play well among contestants. “Increasing the added money is always going to help a rodeo like that gain more interest,” Lees said. “Having good hospitality is amazing, but most of the time it comes down to money.”

Holly Spreitzer, the 2016 Rooftop Rodeo queen, is now the rodeo’s royalty coordinator and would love to involve more young people in the program, which allows youth to grow through Estes Park’s Western legacy. (PHOTO BY TED HARBIN)   Rodeo’s royalty program helps mold Estes Park’s young people ESTES PARK, Colo. – For many, rodeo is much more than a sport. Sure, there’s a rough-and-tumble attitude toward it, just based on the brawn and tests of talent that are part of every ride and run. But there’s also a beauty to it, whether it’s a high-leaping bucking horse seemingly floating through the air or a barrel racer speeding around the arena on her athletic partner. There’s also majesty in the form of rodeo royalty, and that’s certainly the case for Rooftop Rodeo, set for 7 p.m. Monday, July 6-Saturday, July 11, at Granny May Arena inside the Estes Park Fairgrounds. “Being in the royalty program builds confidence, and it builds an understanding of animals and the relationships you can have with animals,” said Toni Brown, who was Rooftop Rodeo attendant in 1978 and queen in 1979. “I think continuing strong horsemanship is a good quality.” Rooftop Rodeo has a long and storied history of royalty alumni, from Patty Moomaw in 1941 to Sharidan Huggins in 2025. The rodeo is also interested in maintaining communication with its former royalty members, so a form has been established at https://www.rooftoprodeo.com/past-queens.html for alumni to provide information. “We’d love for all our Rooftop Rodeo royalty alumni to fill that form out so we can contact them and keep the communication flowing,” said Cindy Schonholtz, the Rooftop Rodeo coordinator. That will help open the dialog while also trying to make the program the best it can be. “There are a lot of other things that being a queen helps with that you will need going forward,” Brown said. “You need the ability to speak, the ability to understand the rodeo and the ability to understand the town and be a good representation of the town.” It’s been several decades, but everything Brown gained during her reign is still being used today. “I think the big things are to be respectful and responsible,” she said. “I think that holds true today more than ever given the use of technology.” Queens and attendants are ambassadors for Rooftop Rodeo, but they’re not the only ones. Estes Park’s rodeo is unique in that it has a program designed for boys to learn and grow within the values of representing one of the community’s marquee events. “The royalty program is ultimately the development of youth,” said Holly Spreitzer, the 2016 Rooftop Rodeo queen and the Rooftop Rodeo royalty coordinator. “The youth is our future. Rodeo is becoming more popular, but it’s also becoming more challenging to continue on what we have in our Western heritage. Being able to cultivate an environment where youth can grow up in an environment that helps preserve our past while building our future is the goal with our royalty program. “Ours extends not just for the young women but also the young men in our program. We have young men that are able to be wranglers and junior wranglers. Not only do we teach the girls the side of rodeo, but I also want to teach the men to cultivate the next rodeo athlete or the next rodeo supporter in some way.” There is something to be said about cowboy culture, where folks look out for their neighbors, care for animals like loved ones and are willing to work for everything they have. “I want to help build and create an environment for them to grow into amazing human beings that are going to be successful in any facet that they choose to go into in their lives,” she said. Spreitzer has experienced those benefits. “It was an amazing opportunity,” she said. “The year before I got into the Rooftop Rodeo Royalty program, I was part of the Larimer County Sheriff’s Posse, and it really started there because that was my first rodeo experience as a local queen. They took me under their wing. “Because I was in the royalty program, I got some amazing opportunities that helped me propel into the future of working inside of rodeo, not just being a representative of rodeo. That was a very positive experience to kind of kick-started my entrance into the rodeo industry.” While there have been changes to the royalty program over the decades, one thing remains constant: The mission is for the betterment of youth involved. “We were part of every performance and part of both parades,” Brown said. “Back then we had four days and five performances, so we had a double-performance day in there. On Saturday afternoon, there was a kids’ rodeo gymkhana, which was super fun. We also had other requirements that we tended to, like going to five or six parades and rodeos in our area. “Our job was representing Estes Park, representing Rooftop Rodeo and representing Estes Park as a Western-heritage town.” It sparks pride in the community as well as in oneself and continues to be a major part of the program. “I think one of the biggest benefits I gained out of it is having initiative and being able to have confidence to enter any environment not only with an open mind, but also a learning heart,” Spreitzer said. “The biggest thing in rodeo is that there’s always something to learn. Something I took away from when I first started as the attendant and went on to carry through with as the queen is that there’s a lot of responsibility that goes into it. “There are so many other things that a queen does. It’s not just a pretty face you see. It’s the person that helps sit you down and talks to you about your life experiences and how you got yourself here and what brought you to the rodeo industry. It’s also the person that is  Continue Reading »

All-around talent Trell Etbauer wrestled his steer in 3.6 seconds Saturday to take the third-round lead at Guymon Pioneer Days Rodeo. It was the fastest run of the rodeo so far. (PHOTO BY DALE HIRSCHMAN)   GUYMON, Okla. – Colemon Proctor, Travis Graves and Trell Etbauer can write an Oklahoma history book on rodeo. Between them, they own 25 qualifications to the National Finals Rodeo, four Linderman Awards and three Guymon Pioneer Days Rodeo championship belts. During Saturday afternoon’s second performance, all three put their chips on the table and were in position to rake in a lot more with just one day remaining in the seven-day rodeo. “I definitely wanted to take over the lead in the average with Nicky Northcott and Tyler Tryan, who have made this muley roping ag Guymon look like the goat roping at Bob’s the other night,” said Proctor, a header from Pryor, Oklahoma, who ropes with Graves, a heeler from Jay, Oklahoma. “They’re so far ahead that I just wanted to be taking the lead and maybe win something round right there. “We’ve had a long winter, but we’ve started stacking checks together, and we’re just trying to get things going in the right direction.” Proctor is a three-time Pioneer Days Rodeo titlist, with one in team roping and two coming in the all-around. He is in great shape to get another belt, if not two, by the time the weekend comes to a close. He and Graves – a 16-time NFR qualifier – stopped the clock in 7.2 seconds Saturday but own the aggregate lead with a three-run cumulative time of 21.1 seconds. They placed in the first two rounds and have already collected $1,074 in team roping dollars. Proctor also placed in a steer-roping round, adding $1,114 to his coffers, so he leads the race for a third all-around crown. He and Graves could catch a check in the third round, too, and will most likely earn their biggest payday in the Oklahoma Panhandle via the average race. They trailed Tryan and Northcott by 2 seconds heading into the third round, but now they have the targets placed on their backs. “Travis and I have jackpotted a lot and roped a lot our whole lives, but it just wasn’t clicking this winter like we thought it would right off the bat,” said Proctor, a nine-time NFR qualifier. “Now, it’s just good that things are starting to come together. We started putting a lot of good runs together.” After a soft couple of days wrestling steers earlier in the week, Etbauer knew he needed something good to happen in his third-round run. It did. He bulldogged his animal to the ground in 3.6 seconds to post the fastest run of the rodeo so far. By moving into the round lead, he set himself up for a significant payday; should he win the round, he will pocket nearly $2,400. “I was kind of down in the average a ways, and in order to have a chance to get out of here with money, I needed to go for the round,” said Etbauer, 41, of Goodwell, Oklahoma, which is just 10 miles west of Guymon. “The key there was getting a good start and riding a fast horse. That’s Mason Couch’s horse, and he was kind enough to let me on.” Etbauer is the son of two-time saddle bronc riding world champion Robert Etbauer, who raised his children to be all-around cowboys. For years, Trell Etbauer added tie-down roping and bronc riding to his repertoire; he was so successful that he won four Lindermans, which is awarded to cowboy who earns the most money competing in roughstock and timed events. While Proctor is the only man to have won a Guymon title, it’s something all contestants want, especially those raised miles from Henry C. Hitch Pioneer Arena. “This is my favorite rodeo of the year, where I get to come and compete in front of the hometown crowd,” Etbauer said. “I’ve had a lot of luck here, placed a bunch, but I have never won it. I’ve come close a few times, but I always enjoy getting to come here.” Guymon (Okla.) Pioneer Days Rodeo May 1-3 Bareback riding leaders: 1. Carson Hildre, 87 points on Double J Rodeo’s Café Risque; 2. Logan Patterson, 82.5; 3. (tie) Bryce Eck and Tim O’Connell, 82; 5. (tie) Colt Eck and Lane McGehee, 81; 7. (tie) Payton Lackey and Ty Pope, 80. Team roping: Third round leaders: 1. Jake Clay/Whip Peterson, 5.7 seconds; 2. Luke Brown/Buddy Hawkins, 5.9; 3. Austin Crist/Dave Tripp, 7.0; 4. Coleman Proctor/Travis Graves, 7.2; 5. Tee McCleod/Trey Yates, 7.3; 6. Roan Oldfield/Creed West, 7.4; 7. Johnny Salvo/John Hisel, 7.8; 8. J.C. Yeahquo/Logan Moore, 8.2.  Average leaders: 1. Coleman Proctor/Travis Graves, 21.1 seconds on three runs; 2. J.C. Yeahquo/Logan Moore, 21.7; 3. Luke Brown/Buddy Hawkins, 23.1; 4. Denton Parish/Corey Hendrick, 24.0; 5. Jake Clay/Whip Peterson, 25.0; 6. Tee McLeod/Trey Yates, 26.1; 7. Johnny Salvo/John Hisel, 28.8; 8. Austin Crist/Dave Trip, 29.9. Steer wrestling: Third round leaders: 1. Trell Etbauer, 3.6 seconds; 2. (tie) Jace Melvin and Tristan Martin, 4.0; 4. (tie) Seth Peterson and Trace Harris, 4.2; 6. (tie) Dane Haas and Riley Westhaver, 4.4; 8. Trey Bohmbach, 4.7. Average leaders: 1. Seth Peterson, 11.9 seconds on three runs; 2. Tristan Martin, 13.5; 3. Cole Pugh, 13.9; 4. Winsten McGraw, 14.2; 5. Trell Etbauer, 14.4; 6. Jacob Daniell, 14.5; 7. Jake Holmes, 14.9; 8. Ryden Martin, 15.1. Saddle bronc riding leaders: 1. Wyatt Lavergne, 86.5 points on Frontier Rodeo’s Ed Bishop; 2. (tie) Blake Steuck and Coleman Shallbetter, 83.5; 4. Wyatt Casper, 83; 5. Tegan Smith, 82; 6. Isaac Diaz, 81; 7. (tie) Cauy Pennington and Joe Macqueen, 79. Breakaway roping: Third round leaders: 1. Beau Peterson, 2.6 seconds; 2. Melyssa McDonald, 2.7; 3. (tie) Josie Conner and Libby Winchell, 2.8;53. Carlee Potter, 2.9; 6. Shay Clements, 3.0; 7. Taylor Munsell, 3.2; 8. Cali Griffin, 3.3. Average leaders: 1. Beau Peterson, 9.9 seconds on three  Continue Reading »

Wyatt Lavergne rides Frontier Rodeo’s Ed Bishop for 86.5 points to take the early saddle bronc riding lead during Friday’s first performance of Guymon Pioneer Days Rodeo. (PHOTO BY DALE HIRSCHMAN   GUYMON, Okla. – Wyatt Lavergne just wants to have a percentage of the accomplishments of his Friday night dance partner during the opening performance of Guymon Pioneer Days Rodeo. Lavergne rode Frontier Rodeo’s Ed Bishop for 86.5 points to take the saddle bronc riding lead, setting the early stage during the Craig Latham Memorial Bronc Riding at Oklahoma’s Richest Rodeo. “That’s a horse you see at the NFR almost every year,” Lavergne said, referring to the National Finals Rodeo, the sport’s super bowl. “You’ve seen her at every rodeo, and this is one you dream of getting on. I thank the good Lord above for giving me the opportunity to get on him.” It was a big deal. Ed Bishop has been selected to the NFR in both bareback riding and saddle bronc riding. He’s shown his versatility in that capacity, because only the top 100 bucking animals in each event are selected each year. “Frontier has the pen of horses I’d love to draw out of at every rodeo,” Lavergne said. “I get excited whenever I see my name next to their’s. I’d say me and Ed Bishop made a pretty good team.” It takes two to tango. Judges mark each ride on a 100-point scale, with half the score coming from how well the animal bucks and the other half on how well the cowboy spurs in rhythm with the horse’s bucking style. Guymon is well known for its bronc-riding prowess. Dozens of NFR qualifiers have either lived in Texas County, Oklahoma, or attended Oklahoma Panhandle State University. The event is named after Latham, a nine-time NFR qualifier who coached the Panhandle State rodeo team for several years. “It was perfect bronc-riding weather,” Lavergne said of the evening in which temperatures dipped into the 50s. “This is a great rodeo. We had a handful of great guys, and everybody rode good. I was just blessed to compete in the bronc riding like it is here. I loved the atmosphere.” He will await the final three performances to see where he finishes, but Lavergne’s first venture to the Oklahoma Panhandle is paying off so farm. Guymon (Okla.) Pioneer Days Rodeo May 1-3 Bareback riding leaders: 1. Bryce Eck, 82 points on Double J Rodeo’s Annabelle; 2. Colt Eck, 81; 3. Koltdyn Heath, 77.5; no other qualified rides. Team roping: First round: 1. Luke Brown/Buddy Hawkins II, 5.7 seconds, $2,354 each; 2. Tyler Tryan/Nicky Northcott, 5.9, $2,047; 3. James Arviso/Levi Lord, 6.6, $1,740; 4. J.C. Yeahquo/Logan Moore, 6.7, $1,433; 5. Wawa Ben Jr./Brandon Ben, 6.9, $1,126; 6. Jaxon Hill/Jessen James, 7.0, $819; 7. Andrew Ward/Jake Long, 7.1, $512; 8. (tie) Coleman Proctor/Travis Graves and Kreece Thompson/Cutter Pake Thomison, 7.2, $102 each. Second round: 1. Shay Dixon Carroll/Denton Dunning, 5.7 seconds, $2,354 each; 2. Lightning Aguilera/Kaden Profili, 5.8, $2,047; 3. Tyler Tryan/Nicky Northcott, 6.0, $1,740; 4. Curry Kirchner/Tanner Braden, 6.4, $1,433; 5. (tie) Coleman Proctor/Travis Graves and Blaine Turner/Scout McElroy, 6.7, $972 each; 7. J.C. Yeahquo/Logan Moore, 6.8, $512; 8. Jet Toberer/Casey McCleskey, 6.9, $205. Third round leaders: 1. Luke Brown/Buddy Hawkins, 5.9 seconds; 2. Austin Crist/Dave Tripp, 7.0; 3. Tee McCleod/Trey Yates, 7.3; 4. Johnny Salvo/John Hisel, 7.8; 5. J.C. Yeahquo/Logan Moore, 8.2; 6. Denton Parish/Corey Hendrick, 8.3; 7. Wawa Ben Jr./Brandon Ben, 16.7; no other qualified runs.  Average leaders: 1. J.C. Yeahquo/Logan Moore, 21.7 seconds on three runs; 2. Luke Brown/Buddy Hawkins, 23.1; 3. Denton Parish/Corey Hendrick, 24.0; 4. Tee McLeod/Trey Yates, 26.1; 5. Johnny Salvo/John Hisel, 28.8; 6. Austin Crist/Dave Trip, 29.9; 7. Wawa Ben Jr/Brandon Ben, 36.9; 8. Tyler Tryan/Nicky Northcott, 11.9 seconds on two runs; 8. Coleman Proctor/Travis Graves, 13.9. Steer wrestling: First round: 1. Walt Arnold, 3.6 seconds, $2,390; 2. Cole Pugh, 3.8, $2,078; 3. Colin Fox, 3.9, $1,767; 4. (tie) Seth Peterson and Talon Roseland, 4.0, $1,299 each; 6. Rhett Witt, 4.1, $831; 7. (tie) Eli Lord and Gavin Soileau, 4.2, $364 each. Second round: 1. Cody Harmon, 3.6 seconds, $2,390; 2. Seth Peterson, 3.7, $2,078; 3. (tie) Winsten McGraw and Gavin Soileau, 3.9, $1,611 each; 5. Cody Devers, 4.0, $1,143; 6. (tie) Trace Harris and Rhett Witt, 4.1, $675 each; 8. (tie) Tristan Martin, Cole Pugh and Sawyer Strand, 4.3, $69 each. Third round leaders: 1. Trace Harris, 4.2 seconds; 2. Dane Haas, 4.4; 3. Trey Bohmbach, 4.7; 4. (tie) Coy Johnston and Tory Johnson, 4.8; 6. Andrew Morian, 6.9; 7. Cade Fedor, 17.5; no other qualified runs. Average leaders: 1. (tie) Trace Harris and Tory Jonson, 15.5 seconds on three runs; 3. Andrew Morian, 16.5; 4. Coy Johnston, 19.7; 5. Dane Haas, 20.2; 6. Trey Bohmbach, 20.4; 7. Cade Fedor, 32.2; 8. Seth Peterson, 7.7 seconds on two runs. Saddle bronc riding leaders: 1. Wyatt Lavergne, 86.5 points on Frontier Rodeo’s Ed Bishop; 2. (tie) Blake Steuck and Coleman Shallbetter, 83.5; 4. Tegan Smith, 82; 5. Isaac Diaz, 81; 6. Brett Larsen, 778; 7. Carson Neal, 76; 8. (tie) Cooper Thatcher, Cauy Masters and Warwick Southern, 73. Breakaway roping: First round: 1. Cali Griffin, 2.3 seconds, $2,060; 2. (tie) Reagan Davis and Brandi McDowell, 2.5, $1,657 each; 4. (tie) McKenna Brennan and Jacelyn Frost, 2.6, $1,120 each; 6. (tie) Molly Hamilton and Amy Ohrt, 2.7, $582 each; 8. (tie) Alyssa Bigon and Jessi Everett, 2.8, $90 each. Second round: 1. Kelsie Domer, 2.9 seconds, $2,060; 2. Sawyer Gilbert, 3.0, $1,791; 3. (tie) Shalee King and Josey Murphy, 3.2, $1,388 each; 5. (tie) Addie Beth Denton and Taylor Engesser, 3.3, $851 each; 7. Brooke Bruner, 3.4, $448; 8. (tie) Sydney Herrin and Emma Ricke, 3.5, $90 each. Third round leaders: 1. Carlee Potter, 2.9; 2. Alyssa Bigon, 3.3; 3. Brighton Bauman, 3.8; 4. Whitney Profilli, 3.7; 5. Shalee King, 3.8; 6. Sawyer Gilbert, 10.1. Average leaders: 1. Alyssa Bigon, 9.9 seconds on three runs; 2. Carlee Potter, 11.5; 3. Sawyer Gilbert, 17.4l  Continue Reading »