April 2015 Extreme Team News, Official News of Texas High School and Junior High Rodeo

ranch family: the Barker family Kolton white SPONSOR SPOTLIGHT:

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Past THSRA Members Shine at RFD-TV’s American

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EXECUTIVE BOARD STATE PRESIDENT STEVE DICKEY

PO Box 862, Centerville, TX 75833 903.536.4098 (home) steve@txriatarealty.com

1ST vice president Mike Cook

375 Tokio Loop • West, TX 76691 254.829.1788 • scarface@kencook.net

2ND vice president alan bohlen

In This Issue

EXTREME TEAM NEWS Official Publication of the Texas High School Rodeo Association

Past THSRA Members Shine at RFD-TV’s American

HOLLY DeLAUNE Marketing Director

830.815.1800 • delaune.holly@gmail.com

LAUREN TUTTLE STUMBERG Graphics/Layout Director lauren@distinct-graphics.com 830.249.8020

page 6

PO Drawer 468 • Hondo, TX 78861 830.741.4485 • alanbohlen@yahoo.com

AVA ANDERSON

secretary/treasurer Susan baldwin

Advertising ava.anderson@yahoo.com 830.540.3737(H) • 512.576.2275(C)

NATIONAL DIRECTOR COTTON GEORGE

Computer Programmer brian.roberts53@att.net 281.213.9143

704 1/2 Southview Circle • Center, TX 75935 936.590.4447 texashighschoolrodeo@gmail.com

PO Box 30 • Martinsville, TX 75958 936.564.8993 (home) cottongeorgetx@gmail.com

Junior High national Director john bland PO Box 112 • Turkey, TX 79261 806.220.7108 • jeblandnspade@yahoo.com

BRIAN ROBERTS

sponsor spotlight – PAGE 13

r e m m u s & spring

ARIAT PERFORMANCE REPORTERS REGION I

KENNADY JOHNSON REGION II

Brenna Hartley REGION III

CHEYENNE BRITTAIN

queen coordinator Dee dee dunda

8819 Holiday Drive • Odessa, TX 79765 432-413-2358 • prettywoman1965@hotmail.com

MARKETING Holly DeLaune

REGION IV

McKENZIE RAY REGION V

starts on page 15

HANNAH HEMPHILL REGION VI

CIERA GOODE

73 Breeze Way, Boerne, TX 78006 830.815.1800 delaune.holly@gmail.com

Delegates at large Mikey Duggan

PO Box 1414 • Canyon, TX 79015 806.655.9910 • m.j.duggan@att.net

REGION VII

SKYLER STONE REGION VIII

MONTANA COX

STEVE MCCONNELL chris wolfe

student officers

thsraofficers@hotmail.com student president cheyenne britain student vice president mckenna greene student secretary kadie beth wisener Queen kennady johnson

THSRA OFFICIAL SPONSORS

PAGE 49

bubba bennight

robert sbrusch

REGION X

Ranch family: the bARKER family

630 E FM 813 • Palmer, TX 75152 214.403.4638 • chris.wolfe@bldr.com

821 Manor Drive • Angleton, TX 77515 979.848.3805 • sbrusch@sbcglobal.net

KELSEY THOMPSON BROOKE BOILES

425 CR 510 • Hereford, TX 79405 806.276.5671 • lindam@wtrt.net

143 Bailey Blvd. • Bastrop, TX 78602 512.461.6091 • bubbabennight@yahoo.com

REGION IX

KOLTON WHITE - PAGE 38

A New era in rodeo page 50

REGION

news

REGION REGION REGION REGION REGION

I II III IV V

08 11 12 20 22

REGION REGION REGION REGION REGION

VI VII VIII IX X

Texas Junior high division 33

24 26 28 30 32

TEXAS ram DEALERS

THSRA is a non-profit organization (501-C).

Production of this publication was funded by membership dues and is provided complimentary to members of THSRA. Non-members may purchase annual subscriptions for $25.00

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Past THSRA Members Shine at RFD-TV’s American photos courtesy of RFD-TV American Presented by Polaris Ranger

A

young relatively unknown pair of cowboys – a bareback bronc rider and tie-down roper – bested the world’s top-ranked athletes on March 1 to split more than $1 million at RFD-TV’s The American, presented by Polaris RANGER. However, they are well known in the Texas High School Rodeo family as they are both past Texas State High School Rodeo Champions.

“Words can’t express what this can do for my life,” said 24-year-old Reese Riemer of Stinnett, Texas, who tied his calf in 7.25 seconds to edge threetime world champion Tuf Cooper and past THSRA State Champion. “When I threw my hands up and looked at the clock – I’ll remember that moment the rest of my life.”

In just its sophomore year, RFDTV’s The American attracted a crowd of 42,563 into AT&T Stadium despite a winter snowstorm, and again offered the most money the sport has ever paid out in one day. In addition to $125,000

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cash up in each event, the payoff included a $1 million bonus pool awarded to any “underdog” who could out-ride or rope the top 10 rodeo athletes in the world, or awarded equally to all event champions if unclaimed.

Earlier in the evening, Taylor Price also a THSRA alumni of Huntsville, Texas, had scored 89 points on Frontier Rodeo’s bronc Show Stomper to defeat a bareback riding field that included defending world champion Austin Foss.

“I’m still just blown away,” Price said. “This is the coolest rodeo I’ve ever been to! I was too broke so my parents had to pay my entry fees to the Semi-Finals.

This takes away a lot of the financial troubles I’ve had.”

Price and Riemer had each paid a $500 entry fee to qualify via the American Semi-Finals. Veteran steer wrestler KC Jones, 44, of Decatur, Texas, also qualified through the Semi-Finals, where he told reporters he would “bulldog a grizzly in a parking lot” for the chance to earn a million dollars. A week later, Jones recorded a time of 4.19 seconds in the finals of RFD-TV’s The American, which tied with Nick Guy of Wisconsin for first place. Some post rodeo discussions revealed that Jones would also share in the million dollar payout due to unclear wording in the rules. “I would be excited about this even if all I got was this buckle,” Jones said during a post-event press conference, holding up the custom diamond-encrusted platinum-embellished Bohlin trophy buckle. “Plus, I earned more than $8,000 at the two qualifiers I went to and another $5,000 at the Semi-Finals. That SemiFinals is a great rodeo – it pays $25,000 to win. And then you get to come here and hang out with all the big rodeo stars!”

Kaleb Driggers of Albany, Ga., was one of four champions who became repeat winners from 2014, including all-around champion and past THSRA member Trevor Brazile, saddle bronc

rider Wade Sundell and barrel racer Lisa Lockhart. Driggers, who also this week pocketed $42,500 as the high seller at an innovative new sponsor patch auction, won the rodeo last year with Patrick Smith and did it again this time with Travis Graves.

Price, Riemer and Jones shared in the million dollar payout, while every event champion also took home nearly $50,000 in prizes that included new Polaris RANGERs. The rodeo also paid out $500,000 through its semi-finals and a week earlier and raised nearly another half-million dollars via RFD-TV’s The American Sponsor Patch Auction.

“This event speaks for itself,” said Brazile. “Every year they add something better and I can’t wait to see what’s around the corner next. For Reese to have won $600,000 in one day, that just provides endless opportunities.”

photos (clockwise from far left): Tuf Cooper, past THSRA State Champion, during the athlete introduction brought home $25,000 in the one day rodeo; One of the great stories of the night was THSRA’s very own mother - daughter team, Lindsey and Michele McLeod, competing in the barrel racing; Trevor Brazile, past THSRA State Champion, brought home the All Around title at The American; RFD-TV The American event champions during the awards ceremonies brought home the largest amount of money won in a one-day rodeo, plus over $50,000 in prizes each.

2015 RFD-TV's The American, presented by Polaris Ranger Shoot Out Results

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Bareback Riding 1 Taylor Price, Huntsville, Texas – $600,000 2 Jake Vold, Ponoka, Alberta – $25,000 Team Roping 1 Kaleb Driggers (HD), Albany, Ga., and Travis Graves (HL), Jay, Okla. – $100,000 2 Jake Barnes (HD), Scottsdale, Ariz., and Junior Nogueira (HL), Scottsdale, Ariz. – $25,000 Saddle Bronc Riding 1 Wade Sundell, Coleman, Okla. – $100,000 2 Cody DeMoss, Heflin, La. – $25,000

Tie-Down Roping 1 Reese Riemer, Stinnett, Texas – $600,000 2 Tuf Cooper, Decatur, Texas – $25,000 Steer Wrestling 1 KC Jones, Decatur, Texas – $100,000 2 Nick Guy, Sparta, Wis. – $25,000 Barrel Racing 1 Lisa Lockhart, Oelrich, S.D. – $100,000 2 Kassidy Dennison, Tohatchi, N.M. – $25,000

**

Bull Riding 1 Silvano Alves, Pilar Do Sul, Brazil – $100,000 2 J.W. Harris, May, Texas All-Around Champion Trevor Brazile, Decatur, Texas – $25,000

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*

indicates past THSRA members!!

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Run

joel kirkpatrick 2388 HWY 82 • Crosbyton, Texas 79322 806.697.2336 • jrtzkirkpatrick@hotmail.com

student officers President - shelby spielman vice president 1- kory mcconnell vice president 2- dylan myers Secretary/historian - sierra white

REGION I

state directors / region officers

ted white PO Box 341 • Happy, Texas 79042 806.764.3469 • ted.white99@yahoo.com secretary - Mikey Duggan PO Box 1414 • Canyon, Texas 79015 806.655.9910 • m.j.duggan@att.net

michele spielman 12036 FM3139 • Dalhart, Texas 79022 806.570.7470 • spielman@xit.net President- Steve Mcconnell 425 CR 510 • Hereford, Texas 79045 806.346.2492 • stevem@wtrt.net

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PERFORMANCE REPORT

By Kennady Johnson

“D

– ARIAT Performance Reporter

o you not know that those who run in a race all run, but only one receives the prize? Run in such a way that you may win.” -1 Corinthians 9:24 Spring has sprung! We’ve had a cold winter here in the panhandle, and we couldn’t be any more excited to be covered in our

horses’ shedding hair! With that warm weather also means our spring rodeo semester is just getting under way. While some regions have already awarded saddles, we’re just getting started! There’s still a lot up for grabs in Region I! Everyone is in this race, running with all that they have in hopes of coming out on top. Hopefully you’ve prepared for this race. Working when others might find excuses. This is what separates winners from the rest. Winners are people who are committed year round, and are doing everything possible to obtain the goal they have set for themselves. They are running in such a way to win.

Anything is possible with hard work and determination. No matter where you are sitting in the standings, whether it’s first or sitting on the line to go to state, anything is possible. Those who are sitting first still have to work just as hard as everyone else. Anything is up for grabs and everyone is a contender in the race. Run so that you may win!

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The Real MVP’s

PO Box 843 • Andrews, Texas 79714 817.371.8882 • hooper9319@yahoo.com

state directors / region officers melissa hooper

student officers President - cadi wood vice president - delani wood Secretary - megan powell

2522 CR C3500 • Stanton, Texas 79782 432.940.1136 • woodrodeogirls@yahoo.com

kelly wood

REGION II

secretary - jody mcelroy Box 224 • Balmorhea, Texas 79718 432.940.0385 • secretary@thsra2.com

2347 FM 829 • Stanton, Texas 79782 432.458.3439 • kwstewart93@gmail.com

kenny stewart

President- kenny stewart 2347 FM 829 • Stanton, Texas 79782 432.661.5084 • kwstewart93@gmail.com

PERFORMANCE REPORT

By BRENNA HARTLEY – ARIAT Performance Reporter

I

n the sport of rodeo, the stars of the show are inevitably the contestants, along with their equine partners.

When people come to watch a rodeo, all they see is the talent and competition between the people participating in the rodeo, but what they don’t get the opportunity to witness are the countless hours of preparation and dedication that go into making any rodeo possible. The people who work so hard to ensure that the event runs smoothly and that the competitors are able to compete in the best circumstances so often go completely unnoticed. The truth is, without the people volunteering to work out in the arena, the secretaries keeping all of the paperwork organized, and the board members who give their time and effort to improve the rodeo in any way possible, there would be no rodeos. The

our secretary, jody mcelroy

contestants are obviously an extremely important aspect of the sport, but no one is more vital to rodeo than the people behind the scenes.

In Region 2, one of the most vital players in our sport is our secretary, Jody McElroy. Jody is in charge of every contestant’s entry and information, upholding the rules and regulations of the organization, and keeping things in order throughout the numerous rodeo weekends. Without her, our rodeos would more than likely be a disaster. When asked why she continues to work so hard for this region when she doesn’t even have any children competing, she can sum it up in five words: “It’s all about the kids.” Her biggest reward in being a part of this region is simply being able to work with the contestants, and that is a quality that truly cannot be replaced.

This just shows how invested she really is in making the arena director, sport of rodeo, particularly Region 2, the best it can be no johnny powell matter what the cost.

Another exceptionally important group of workers and supporters in our region are the numerous event directors and arena director, Johnny Powell. He is in charge of overseeing every event in the entire rodeo, making sure the livestock are prepared for their events, and ensuring that both the contestants and workers are where they need to be when needed. Mr. Powell has a very important job in Region 2, and without all of his hard work, we would not be able to have such efficient rodeos every weekend.

The event directors are in charge of making sure that their event runs smoothly at every rodeo, and that everything is ready to go when the time comes to begin. Deedra Glass, the pole bending director, says that being a director can be a real challenge. “The hardest part is definitely trying to find enough help to ensure that the event runs smoothly,” Glass states. However, she says that there are still several rewarding aspects to being a director, such as getting the draw sheets before anyone else! Our rodeos would not be near as well-run and efficient if it weren’t for these people who donate their time and effort to making the show run well.

Overall, Region 2 is extremely blessed to have such an amazing and helpful group of people who are willing to work and help to make this the best organization it can be, and we would never have the success that we do if it wasn’t for them. When people think about rodeo, they should think about more than just the contestants, but rather the people who put all of the effort into making these things happen, while expecting nothing in return. dEedra glass, the pole director, recording times

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mike Britain 645 CR 393 • Stephenville, Texas 76401 254.485.1170 • mjbfarmsinc@aol.com

student officers President - tillar murray vice president - Cheyenne Britain Secretary - catherine clayton

REGION III

state directors / region officers

fulton murray 7 Westover Road • Fort Worth, Texas 76107 214.789.4884 • jfmurray3@mac.com

940.365.1548 • mhairford@matadorresources.com

matt hairford 6464 Paradise Drive • Aubrey, Texas 76227

president - mike Britain 645 CR 393 • Stephenville, Texas 76401 254.595.0563 • mjbfarmsinc@aol.com secretary - Kelley Williams 8853 Greenhaven Dr. • Fort Worth, Texas 76179 817.706.8236• kelley.williams@thsra3.com

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PERFORMANCE REPORT

The Final Ride

By cheyenne britain

A

– ARIAT Performance Reporter

s the regular High School rodeo season is coming to a close, it's time that we start to prepare ourselves to say goodbye to some of our fellow contestants who will move on to the next chapter of their lives this fall, our seniors! The seniors here at Region III have all become very close with each other, almost like our own little family!

I mean if you think about it, we've been with each other since at least our 6th grade year in the TJHRA division, and for some of us even longer than that because of the youth division Region III offers, and that's a lot of time together! We've been together through the wins, the losses, the long nights at the rodeo or driving to the next one, the weeks we spend at our State Finals, and everything in between! Add all of that together, and you've got a lot of unforgettable memories with some special people! This year Region III is going to be saying goodbye to a lot of talented seniors on Saturday night, March 21 during our senior ride at our Region Finals. During the senior ride each contestant will ride into the arena with a rose and meet

their parents in the middle of the arena, present their mom with a rose and take a picture with their parents, then they will get back on their horses and stand in line with the rest of the seniors until each of them are out there, then it's time for them to make their final ride around the arena!

It's a very special moment for everyone who's watching and tillar murray and her horse getting down at the stockyards championship especially the seniors and their parents! This year Region III will be turning loose of 37 graduating seniors, and over half of those 37 have qualified to our Region Finals! Here are just a few of them that are sitting at the top of their events going into our Region Finals! Chase Chambers and his partner Andrew Hill are currently winning the team roping, with 9 other seniors qualifying in the team roping! Then sadie hairford breakaway roping in the steer wrestling Keegan at the roy cooper calf roping Dement is a close second with a few other seniors qualifying in that event as well. In the goat tying, Shayna Johnson is also a close second with 5 other seniors qualifying in the top 15 spots! In the barrels, Tillar Murray is in the lead by 2 points, with 6 other seniors moving on to our finals. In the pole bending, we have 6 seniors qualifying to our region finals, and in the tie down we have 7 seniors qualifying to our region finals!

In the breakaway Sadie Hairford is in second place by a close 2.5 points, with 6 other seniors qualifying to the finals! We also have a few seniors who qualified to our region finals in the saddle bronc, bull riding, and our girls cutting! With so many competitive senior athletes in Region III, we can definitely look forward to seeing there names in the college, and even the professional ranks, in the near future! I would like to wish all of our seniors as well as the rest of the seniors in the state of Texas a great rest of the year and a memorable Final Ride as the season comes to a close!

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r e m m u s & g n i r p

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by Ashlyn Rossa – Ranchers Daughter

While writing this letter for the Extreme news there’s snow on the ground in Texas covering most of the state, but with Spring Break only weeks away, it’s time to be thinking warm maybe even hot. So gazing down at my snow boots, here’s the Rancher’s Daughter’s suggestions on what will be hot couture come spring and summer.

We’re cowgirls here so speaking of boots, boots for us are always in fashion. Cinch is now in the boot business and has created some edgy designs for their new line for guys and girls. Hence the name Cinch Edge. They are fun and affordable. While I’m still on boots… Boot Rugs by Boot Rug for fashion boots have been a hit in our store. I have worn mine in Vegas and other rodeos and have gotten many compliments. Again they are fun and if attention is what you like with your wardrobe, these do it. They are beautiful tapestries that are hand stitched and studded with leather lacing in the back. This summer I plan on wearing mine with my Johnny Ringo boots and shorts!! Another brand that we love at the Rancher’s Daughter is Bedstu!!! Their handcrafted boots, shoes and accessories are rustic, trendy and fiercely unique and don’t all of us celebrate our unique. We have Bedstu booties and sandals in store that will look great in the spring and summer.

Fringe Fringe Fringe still in….still cool need we say more! Ditto for Denim. Denim tops, paired with denim shorts or jeans always looks nice. And speaking of jeans strinny’s are ariat Pages 02, 19 & 56 the new skinny’s in the fashion world. buck fergueson originals page 10 They are still like a skinny but more boych graphics page 19 friendish and have a little more bag to them cinch mens and womens apparal page 55 than the ultra-fitted skinny. RocknRoll Cowboy militia page 09 jeans for guys and girls by Panhandle Slim is still a favorite in our store. And custom tack page 54 since I’m dreaming of the heat and warmdale brisby page 40 er weather, I don’t want to forget BEX hy o silver page 48 sunglasses and outerwear. Cowboys and nothing but rodeo page 17 Cowgirls love their sunglasses and accesPink panache page 43 sories because they are sophisticated and Quincy tack & belts page 44 stylish with polarized lenses, less eye strain and UVA &UVB protection. These are rancher’s daughter page 17 just a few tips from Rancher’s Daughter the ranch gypsy page 39 but remember as Oscar De La Renta says resistol hats page 19 “Fashion is about dressing according to twisted J Pages 14 & 53 what’s fashionable, but style is more about Wheeler’s Feed Page 47 being yourself.” wrangler page 04

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continued on page 39

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chuck sinks 555 Sinks Road • Rockwall, Texas 75032 214.869.4719 • ssbarexcavating@aol.com

student officers President - cal wolfe vice president - cheyenne swoope Secretary - kolton white state directors / region officers bill chinners 740 Jim Jones Rd • Van Alstyne, Texas 75495 903.482.0544 • wchhinners@aol.com

REGION IV

secretary - julie white 2469 CR 33100 • Sumner, Texas 75486 903.737.7750 • julzjo66@yahoo.com

chad folmar 406 Briarwood Trail • Sulphur Springs, 75482 903.439.6412 • cwfolmar@gmail.com President- chris wolfe 630 E FM 813 • Palmer, Texas 75152 214.403.4638 • chris.wolfe@bldr.com

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PERFORMANCE REPORT

Family is what it’s all about

By MCKENZIE RAY– ARIAT Performance Reporter

O

ne of the most important (and appealing) aspects of the western way of life, is being able to spend quality time with family and loved ones. It's something that not all lifestyles can boast, but seeing large families of brothers, sisters, mothers, and fathers competing side-byside has become the norm within rodeo. At high school rodeos, family becomes especially important.

They become coaches, #1 fans, and sometimes, our best critics. Family is the driving force behind most rodeo athletes, they're the ones that are in it with you for the long haul.

Moms and Dads make those late night drives, and are always there to handle every situation, no matter how big or small. They do so many of those little things that we never even think about, be it filling out entry forms, videoing our runs, or standing in the alley way or box with us. Grandparents, I've learned, can be our biggest supporters, traveling anywhere to see us compete

and wishing us the best throughout the way. And then there are our brothers and sisters, who can definitely be a pain in the neck, but we love them anyways - no matter how many times they've used our stuff without asking.

Another great thing about this lifestyle are the friendships you forge. It's always awesome to see friends push each other to be their absolute best, and it's something that you see often in our sport. Your friends are usually the first to say "Good luck!" before a run, and "Good job!" right after. They are the people that we confide in, and who we go to for advice when things aren't going our way. For some people they're the brothers and sisters that they never had. Friends are the family that you choose.

So be sure to appreciate the days to come with your loved ones, and let them know how much it means to you that they've supported you no matter what. Our friends and families are pillars or strength and love in our lives.

They are those we share our happiness and laughter with, and in the end, that's all you really need.

"Honor your father and your mother, so that you may live long in the land of the LORD your God is giving you." -Exodus 20:12

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President - shellie lummus vice president - ck wright Secretary - shaylon elms

student officers

REGION V

state directors / region officers Gene Arceneaux 13448 Coon Road • Winnie, Texas 77665 409.296.3818 • garceneaux@sigindserv.com

jeff lummus PO Box 646 • Orangefield, Texas 77639 409.313.7765 • jhlummus@yahoo.com

carter elliott 17125 FM 850 • Arp, Texas 75750 903.521.2034 • candjcattle@gmail.com

President- gene arceneaux 13448 Coon Rd • Winnie, Texas 77665 409.296.3818 • garceneaux@sigindserv.com secretary - phyllis arceneaux 13448 Coon Rd • Winnie, Texas 77665 409.656.8088• regionvsecretary@gmail.com

PERFORMANCE REPORT

FAMOUS IN FIVE Champion was a member of the original Cowboy’s Turtle Association which later became the PRCA, He won the 1952 Houston Fat Stock Show and Rodeo bull-dogging title By hannah hemphill – ARIAT Performance Reporter and numerous other titles id you know that Region while competing for the V, THE BIGGEST, THE Turtle Association. Mr. BADDEST, THE BEST Champion could definitely has some famous faces in our hold his own in the rodeo rodeo family! You may be famil- arena but was most proud iar with the hit TV Reality show of his horses and their abilon GAC called THE HIGHWAY ity to perform in and out COWBOYS; well our very own Ima of the arena. In 1953 you Champion along with her brother could find him roping tieNational and their parents Bob and down at the Houston Stock Tonya star in this series about cow- Show off one of his mares boying and rounding up cattle off placing third in the round the highways and byways of Leon and then taking the same shane young and family County. Not only is this family horse out in the pasture famous in a small town but they are penning and roping some wild cattle, now that is an example of good stock fourth generation Rodeo Cowboys, and good horsemanship. Mr. Champion passed his love of rodeo and ranchStock Contractors, Pick up Men, ing on to his children, this love of the western heritage is evident in the and Ranchers. The Patriarch of names that his son Bob and wife Tonya chose for their children, National the family Maurice Champion, Champion and Ima Champion. With these monikers in place each have National and Ima’s grandfather earned the respect of cowboys and cowgirls alike both in and out of the recently passed away but leaves arena. Ima works four events in our region barrels, poles, goat tying and behind a legacy rich in the history breakaway roping and true to her grandfather’s legacy works all four events of rodeo and the western heritage on one horse and then takes him home and works cows on him in the pasthat his family enjoys today. Mr. ture or National may use him as a pick up horse!!! National Champion has been successful in high school and college rodeo and is a well-respected pick up man REGION V rodeo industry winning Pick Up Man 2014-2015 THSRA Rodeo Schedule inof the the Year for the last three years in the U.P.R.A. The spirit and heritage of rodeo, stock contracting, and the western lifestyle 4/11 & 4/12/2015 | Marshall | Finals is a way of life for this family and Region

D

CESAR DE LA CRUZ

CESAR DE LA CRUZ

CLAY O’BRIEN COOPER

RICH SKELTON

9X WNFR Qualifier

7X World Champ 28X WNFR Qualifier

8X World Champ 21X WNFR Qualifier

CLAY O’BRIEN COOPER

RICH SKELTON

maurice champion “pops” and his grandkids

V is proud to be a part of their story.

Another famous face in our region may not be TV famous but she is famous to us just the same, is Mrs. Phyllis Arceneaux, our rodeo secretary for the past seven years. Mrs. Phyllis is famous for her great attitude, her sweet smile, and for helping make region V--- THE BIGGEST, THE BADDEST, THE BEST. Mrs. Phyllis shared with us that she will be retiring at the end of this year and we just want her to know that she will be missed and we appreciate everything phyllis arceneaux she does for us.

Region V is also famous for our rough stock which is provided to us

by Shane Young of SYJ Productions.

Shane has some of the toughest rough stock in the THSRA and all 32 of our rough stock riders will agree they national champion doing his job are RANK!!! SYJ Productions helps keep our cowboys competitive and sharp and allows Region V to have numerous rough stock riders compete at the national level. So Thank you Shane Young your stock fits right in at the BIGGEST, THE BADDEST, THE BEST!!

So until next time….LET GO AND LET GOD!!! ima champion

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President - bailey bennight vice president - lindsei harvey Secretary - morgan fajkus

student officers

state directors wesley caldwell 3918 Kerr Creek Drive • Gonzales, TX 78629 830.672.3902 • wcaldwell@gvec.org

riede myrick 154 Center Cove • Giddings, Texas 78942 979.542.2306 • riedemyrick@yahoo.com

REGION VI

secretary - nena boettcher PO Box 833 • East Bernard, Texas 77435 281.468.8973 • region6thsra@gmail.com

matt mueller 1344 CR 203 • Paige, Texas 78659 979.966.9548 • circlemranch2008@yahoo.com president - bubba bennight 143 Bailey Blvd • Bastrop, Texas 78602 512.461.6091 • bubbabennight@yahoo.com

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PERFORMANCE REPORT

One Last Ride for the Region

By CIERRA GOODE

A

– ARIAT Performance Reporter

s we look around the arena we are realizing that the 2014-2015 high school rodeo year is coming to an end. The seniors are feeling anxious about what is to come after their high school rodeo career.

Not only are the seniors feeling nerves but so are the other contestants with this being the last rodeo before state. Every contestant has worked very hard to try and make it in the top 10.

At our last rodeo we had the rose ceremony. Emotions were running high for all the seniors and their parents. It was bittersweet to see the seniors ride in that arena for region 6 one last time. As the bios were being read, tears were being shed. But the sadness only lasted for a little while. For some seniors they would continue on to college to rodeo but for others they would just go to college and rodeo when they can.

Listening to the seniors talk some would say they are ready to see what their future holds and are ready to move on to bigger and bet-

ter things. While other seniors were saying they don’t want to leave high school rodeo and wish time would slow down. But they eventually knew that this moment would come.

Putting aside the seniors, the contestants have been working hard for this one last chance to make it to state. They have been continuously practicing non-stop to reach their goals of state. This last rodeo was about giving it their all and not looking back.

As the last rodeo finishes the contestants are ready for next year.

As for the seniors they are ready for the next chapter in their life. Region 6 finished another great year and is wishing all the seniors good luck as they move on to whatever is to come!

PROUD SPONSOR Of THSRA & TJHRA

Untitled-1 1

2/26/15 4:16 PM

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Going Out With a Bang!

President - kassie kersh vice president - brady barham Secretary - marci raley

student officers

state directors / region officers JOHN ATKINSON PO Box 540 • Anderson, Texas 77830 979.482.2018 • johnstephenatkinson@hotmail.com

melissa raley 6100 Hoddeville School Rd • Brenham, Texas 77823 979.830.0878 • melissaraley@texasbb.com

REGION VII

secretary - anne dollery PO Box 886 • Caldwell, Texas 77836 979.272.2249 • adollery@aol.com

russell barham 8389 Oxford Cemetary Rd., Madisonville, Tx 77864 936.348.5994 • barham1965@gmail.com President- clint rawlinson 12432 N. SH 71 • El Campo, Texas 77437 979.637.0500 • rawlinsonclint@gmail.com

PERFORMANCE REPORT

By SKYLER

T

STONE – ARIAT Performance Reporter

he long hard years have paid off. It was bitter sweet taking our final ride as a THSRA member. Many of us seniors have been in the sport of rodeo since before we could walk. We wouldn’t be where we are today without all the long nights, hard practice, horse changes, and the wins and losses.

It would have been awesome if all 32 Seniors that graduated this year would have been state qualifiers but it wasn’t in the cards for all of us. Not only are

payton powell

32 of region 7 contestants leaving, but so is Anne Dollery, the heart and soul of our region. She has been with our Seniors for many years. Including their time spent in Junior High Rodeo, YRA, and TYRA. She has helped us through a lot as Region 7 secretary, keeping us on track. She will be sadly missed by all of us.

Out of 32 seniors 25 of them made it to the state finals this year.

Though we had many seniors make it in one or two events, we had some kids that went out with a bang! Paden Hurst made it in all five of his events. Bailey Reina and Payton Powell made it in four

bailey reina

events, and Haley Allison and Dylan Schroeder made it in three events.

These kids have had an outstanding senior year.

This year Dylan Schroeder was the All Around paden hurst Boy and Payton Powell was the All Around Girl. I know not only these five kids, but all 32 seniors will have a very bright future. Even though as Seniors we are closing a chapter of our lives, a new one is about to begin.

Congratulations to all of our graduating seniors and good luck to everyone at state!

dylan schroeder

27

student officers President - lindy swaim vice president - abby slagle Secretary - matt gutierrez kellie beall PO Box 1107 • Woodsboro, Texas 78393 361.220.2533 • cowgirlkellie@gmail.com

state directors / region officers

kim stegman 5202 Foerster School • Needville, Tx 77461 979.793.6067 •kimstegman@aol.com

REGION VIII

PO Box 833 • East Bernard, Texas 77435 281.468.8973 • region8thsra@gmail.com

secretary - Nena Boettcher

ken slagle 954 CR 140 • Floresville, Texas 78114 254.424.5833 • slaglekl@yahoo.com 115 Thompson Rd. • Jourdanton, Texas 78026 830.570.7754 • randy.watt@f-e-t.com

President- randy watt

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PERFORMANCE REPORT

Getting Ready for State with Region 8!

By Montana

E

Cox – ARIAT Performance Reporter

very competitor no matter what sport sets goals for themselves before competing at a state competition, whether its to be able to shoot as many baskets as they can in a row or to be able to rope a pen of calves with out missing a single one. Well for our own region 8 secretary Matt Gutierrez, he tells us how he prepares for state “ I prepare for state by going to the practice pen and roping the best run I can, over and over again until the run becomes muscle memory.

Also, I have to mentally prepare myself for the pressures that come with competing in big competitions. I hope to win a state title and make it to nationals.” says Matt.

Matt placed 3rd in our region in tie down roping and also was awarded with the BK Dillard memorial award. This is a special award that is given to the highest placing senior tiedown calf roper from our region.

It is an award that he will treasure forever.

Another competitor that trains hard for state is Jordan Stephenson. Jordan tells me that “I rope the dummy 50 times in a row every day, if I miss I start back from zero. I try and rope every day that the weather will let me. I do all these things so at state I can accomplish my goals of catching both of my calves and not breaking out like I did last year, also making it to nationals.” Jordan made it to state placing 3rd in the region. Last but not least Brooke Branscum is going in to state sitting in

the top 10 of the state. Brooke tells me “ I prepare for state by practicing on different sizes of goats and using goats that move so I can have a more versatile style of tying. If you tie the same size goat and a goat that just stands there you will not know what to do if you have a bad goat. Also I practice over and over again until I make the perfect run and that involves working with my horse to make sure he doesn’t duck out. The best thing I can do to prepare for state is to go and practice with other competitors to push me to be as good or better than them.” brooke branscum Brooke won the region 8 goat tying. For all competitors practice makes perfect even if it is in your own way. Good luck to all the competitors competing in Abilene this June.

matthew gutierrez

jordan stephenson

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TEXAS ram DEALERS

6717 FM 1452 • W. Madisonville, Texas 77864 979.268.4994 • jschueneman@shorthornres.com

President - jake hughes vice president - megan wright secretary - hailey bruening

student officers

state directors / region officers john schueneman

3951 CR 3385 • Lovelady, Texas 75851 936.348.0220 • starnsranch@windstream.net

chris starns

secretary - kim ackel PO Box 67• Hamshire, Texas 77622

REGION IX

409.781.3902 • kimackel@thsra9.com

119 CR 451 • Buffalo, Texas 75831 903.388.6164 • j_w_westbrook@yahoo.com

President- eddie dyson

julie jordan

204 CR 6763 • Dayton, Texas 77535 713.553.6421 • eddiedyson@thsra9.com

PERFORMANCE REPORT

By KELSEY THOMPSON– ARIAT Performance Reporter

I

f you're from the southern part of Texas you know this statement well, 'When it rains it flippin pours'. And here lately down in Region IX territory we know that to be true not only weather wise, but to life as well. Especially for us seniors!!! It seems like once the responsibilities of becoming Seniors hit us at the beginning of March and they haven't slowed down ONE BIT. I've always heard horror storys about being a senior and how much there is to do, to be honest I thought that was some bull. But trust me underclassmen, it is true!!! We've basically have to go down a check list in our heads.

1. Do I want to rodeo in college?

2. If so what college has a good track record?

3. Do they offer Scholorships?

4. Where could I live?

5. Oh yeah I have to study something.. What do I study?

6. Is what I want to study going to allow me to rodeo?

Most importantly though... (our parents wouldn't agree) 7. Is there a starbucks, arena with lights, and a whataburger in this town???

I'd say that last one is a make it

dustin brewster

or break it honestly...Just kidding! But in all reality though between worrying about SAT scores and writing 5 million essays for scholorships, we are all busy and stressed!! It is so much to deal with and you have to learn how to manage your time in order to acchieve what you want. And in Region IX we have some awesome kids who did just that and are actually furthering their careers in rodeo to the Collegiate level!

Jake Hughes- Trinity Valley Community College Dustin Brewster- Sam Houston State University Kelsey Thompson- Sam Houston State University Region IX is so proud of them and all of our kids; freshman to senior! And on the 20th of March in Crockett I know there will be no dry eye watching the Seniors of our region walk and give a rose to their parents. Not only because it's their last High School Rodeo ever, but because of the amazing memories we will leave behind. But Region IX is not just a region, it is life long family that you can count on for the rest of your life. But you will make new memories and friends just as the previous seniors have proven true. I will say though, High School Rodeo family are hard to beat... Because I wouldn't of traded my 4 years in Region IX for THE WORLD.

kelsey thompson

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31

student officers President - clint webster vice president - katie keith secretary/tres. - KAMBRIA MCDOUGAL vanessa halford 1817 CR 177 • Stephenville, TX 76401 254.595.1211 • vanessa.halford@sville.us

joseph thomas 4312 Conveyor Drive • Burleson, Tx 76028 817.454.2059 • jthomas@chemical.com secretary - ANGELiA CUDD 150 CR 327 • Gatesville, Texas 76528 254.394.3888• cuddranch@yahoo.com

state directors / region officers

jamie mcdougal 3046 Dusk Drive • Weatherford, Tx 76088 817.598.9560 • jthomas@chemical.com president - jerry wright 434 CR 315 • Oglesby, Texas 76561 254.290.4965 • jerrywrighthomes@hughes.net

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PERFORMANCE REPORT

Ambition

By BROOKE

D

BOILES– ARIAT Performance Reporter

o nothing from selfish ambition or conceit, but in humility count others more significant than yourselves.

-Philippians 2:3.

Ambition is a positive characteristic until it begins to take over your life. There is a definite line when it starts to become selfish.

With the region rodeos over and state ahead of us, now is really the time that practicing this trait of Godly and positive ambition will set aside the champions.

This year our contestants put forth the work in and out of the arena to capitalize on their wins.

For the fourth year in a row, Samantha Chick won the girls all-around. Along with that, she won the goat tying for the year end. Samantha will be attending Sam Houston State University in the fall, and plans to continue her rodeo career with them. Our boys all-around champion, champion tie-down roper, and boys champion

cutter is Chantz Webster. Daniel Keeping took the win for the bull riding and Parker Fleet won the saddle bronc. In the pole bending, Heidy Sieperda is our champion and Ava Antolik won the barrel racing for the region.

Clayton Coone took the win in the steer wrestling. Your girls breakaway champion is Katie Keith, and taking the win over the region in team roping is Garett Chick and Ross Ashford. Sadye Simpson won the girls cutting and Katy Davis is the reined cow horse champisamantha chick on. Congratulations to all our champions and state qualifiers.

Region X is genuinely proud of each and everyone of the seniors graduating this year and want to recognize y'all for everything you all have done. So much more is to come! We are thankful for the chantz weber phenomenal group of kids who helped make this region what it was. We can't wait to see everybody's accomplishments to come. Until then, practice positive ambition and God bless!

JUNIOR HIGH

Texas Junior High Rodeo Association News Letter from the TJHRA Secretary

D

ear Junior High Members and Families: Can you all believe that the region rodeos are either over or a few have one more weekend and they will be done? This year has really flown by! We are putting finishing touches on the state finals as I write this article. Don’t forget if you are shooting this year the contest will be on Saturday, May 23, 2015! The trailer and horse stalls will be ready for your arrival on Friday, May 22, 2015, the gates will be open until 7pm on Friday if you would like to arrive early. At 7pm on Friday the gates will be closed and reopen on Saturday, May 23, 2015 at 7am with twenty-four hour check in.

If you know any vendors we still have some extra spots open in the tent. Please have them contact me as soon as possible so we can get them at the finals! We are excited about having new vendors coming to the finals this year. I feel like the vendor booths will have something for everyone this year!

Don’t forget to go and talk to your schools now to let them know that you will need to miss the last week of school for many of you. I do not mind sending a letter to your school, just contact me.

I do want you all to know I get emails and phone calls daily on when you would like to be up. I wish we could accommodate you all, but the runs are drawn, so as we all know in rodeo we have to go with the luck of the draw! So many of you have conflicts with yourself or an older sibling there is no way to accommodate everyone. So hopefully the draw will work in your favor.

With the last region finishing up in April as soon as I receive their information I will begin the draw. When it is completed the Region secretaries will be notified to pass on to you all, it will also be posted on the Jr. High Website www.tjhra.com be looking for it!Keep practicing so you will be on top of your game when you get to Gonzales. Hope everyone has a blessed Easter.

We are currently selling spots on the live web feed that will be broadcasted during the finals. If you would like to advertise on the live feed please contact the office we have many ways of handling this. The live feed will be on our own website at www.tjhra.com Remember the last day to get a refund is May 1, 2015 and also if you are planning on running for an student officer position I will need that in the office by May 1 too. If you need anything, please do not ever hesitate to contact me.

Anne Dollery Texas Junior High Secretary

www.tjhra.org 33

Texas Junior High Rodeo Association News

Region V Finishes with a Bang!

By Emmi Lummus – TJHRA Region V Jr Officer

R

egion V ended this season with a bang at the region finals in the tall pines of Nacogdoches, Texas.

Every contestant fought til the end and gave it everything they had all year long.

It was a long weekend with a lot of heart, sweat, and tears. Although everyone was working hard trying to reach the goal of making it to the state finals in Gonzales, Texas only the top 10 will get to compete.

This was a bittersweet time for our 8th graders, but we are looking forward to what THSRA has in store for them.

Our Region V Princess, Ms. Abbie Suggs, which is also our Texas Jr. High state princess, passed on her title to Ms. Kalli McCall. Kalli, who is a sixth

region V eighth graders

34

grader from Huntington, Texas. Kalli has big shoes to fill, but we have no doubt she will represent Region V very well.

And now big congratulations to our Rookie’s: Jack Kayla is a sixth grader from Jasper, Texas. He is one rowdy, tough cowboy who knows how to get the job done.

Jaydon Gould is an eighth grader from Lufkin, Texas who has a lot of talent, with a deep rodeo background.

Last, we have two outstanding contestants who have brought lots of competition to the arena all year long.

First, Mr. Thomas Wallace or better known as Tom Cat by his friends and family. This fierce cowboy is a true definition of a champion, who knows how to give his all at every performance and this is exactly why he is our All Around Cowboy for this year.

Also, Ms. Haley Horn who wears a pink feather in her hat, but don’t let the color fool you. She is one rank, longlegged cowgirl who gives 100% in every event she competes in. That is why she is the All Around Cowgirl.

We are proud to be Region V, where the biggest, the baddest, and the best, are made!

Ayyyyeee Gonzales, Where Ya At??

Region V is coming for you!

kalli mccall and abby suggs

Texas Junior High Rodeo Association News

go big!

By Wells mitchell – TJHRA Region VI Vice President

G

Madison ended up 6th in Ribbon Roping, 2nd in Pole Bending, 2nd in Goat Tying, 2nd in Breakaway and took home the overall saddle in barrels!

Ending out this year in the top spot for Boy’s All Around is Casey Crow from La Vernia, Texas.

Casey is an 8th grader ending out his three year run in the TJHRA. He finished out the season winning the saddle in Tiedown, 9th in Heeling, 6th in Ribbon Roping, 2nd in Chute Dogging, and 4th in Goat Tying. His family includes proud parents Kelly and Cheri and older brother Kelbie.

Way to go Casey, can’t wait to watch you at State!!

It has been a memorable 2014-2015 TJHRA season for Region 6! Next on our list is the State Rodeo in May! We would like to congratulate all TJHRA participates this rodeo season for their accomplishments, and wish them the best of luck at State! Let’s go Region 6!!!

o big or go to another region!!

That seems to have been the motto for all of Region 6 Cowboys and Cowgirls this rodeo season, and boy did they go big in everything they did!

With the region reaching over 60 TJRHA members this year, big was an understatement. Each and every one was extremely motivated to represent Region 6 at State in 2015, and it showed in some lightning fast runs throughout the past 12 rodeos.

Congratulations to all that qualified!

Ending up on top in the girl’s event this rodeo season was Madison Outhier.

Not only was she the Region 6 All Around Rookie, but the Region 6 All Around Cowgirl!

What an amazing accomplishment! She is a super talented 6th Grader from Utopia, Texas. Her family includes proud parents Mike and Kristi casey crow and little brother Ace.

2014-2015 JUNIOR HIGH STATE DIRECTORS EXECUTIVE BOARD NATIONAL DIRECTOR JOHN E. BLAND

940-537-1354

jeblandnspade@yahoo.com

PRESIDENT VICKIE JAROSEK

254-774-8303

vickie@bettertreesoftexas.com

1ST VICE-PRESIDENT TONY LACINA

806-676-1042

nobaro@sbcglobal.net

DELEGATE JOHN ATKINSON 979-482-2018

DELEGATE CINDY CLAYTON 254-485-9466

midtexlivestock@hotmail.com clayton@our-town.com

DELEGATE BRAD CRONE

409-296-3686

dps2422@aol.com

DELEGATE AMANDA GORHAM

830-676-3373

gypsydoll75@yahoo.com

DELEGATE JASON KEY

936-558-8326

key.jason@ymail.com

DELEGATE CHUCK SINKS 972-771-5721 ssbarexcavating@aol.com

SECRETARY ANNE DOLLERY 979-272-2249 adollery@aol.com

STATE DIRECTORS REGION I GARY FIELDS CHAD HIATT ROBB WELLS

806-946-6138 gsfields@fivearea.com 806-676-4402 chad.hiatt@yahoo.com 806-346-5109 Robb_Wells45@yahoo.com

REGION II CASEY BAIZE 512-618-9233 CLINT GRIFFIN 325-226-0430 CHUCK SENTER 806-562-0041

REGION III MIKE BRITAIN 254-595-0563 KEN BRAY 817-219-0436

mjbfarmsinc@aol.com kbray@equibrand.com

REGION IV DAVE CLARK MATT INGLE

tricbad@embarqmail.com ingleropehorses@gmail.com

903-880-5919 903-355-8318

csbaize@yahoo.com cgriffin@kgelaw.com csenter@FirstBankLubbock.com

REGION V DAVID COGBILL 409-781-8254 dlcogbill@icloud.com Joe Glen Kahla 409-489-1012 jgk@mklawyers.com JEFF PARSLEY 903-842-4720 jparsleygeraniums@earthlink.net

REGION VI NATALIE BENNIGHT 513-304-8507 nbennight@yahoo.com DANNY DUCKETT 512-289-0724 Dkconcreteconstruction@gmail.com CLAY BASS 512-847-5056 Construction.BASS@yahoo.com REGION VII CHRIS OATES DEE ANN RAWLINSON SCOTT SHOOK

936-661-1783 979-578-1420 281-437-8214

chrisoates@sbcglobal.net drawlinson@reatarealty.com scottshook@yahoo.com

REGION VIII MATT SCIBA 361-571-7888 matt@lifepointevictoria.com BILL SCIBA 361-582-6711 bill_sciba@yahoo.com JASON UNDERBRINK 210-854-7718 jasonunderbrink@yahoo.com

REGION IX DON EDWARDS 281-387-8383 Edwards_Saddles@yahoo.com MIKE GHORMLEY 281-785-0077 mghormley@me.com JOHN SCHUENEMAN 979-268-4994 jschueneman@shorthornres.com

REGION X RENEE WHITE 512-217-8165 weitzrr@gmail.com JOHN DOWNING 254-770-7064 cdowning@vvm.com ANTHONY WILLIAMS 512-269-9903 jwilliams852@yahoo.com

STUDENT OFFICERS

PRESIDENT AVERY SULAK

V.PRES MAKENNA SHOOK

SECRETARY KATE JOHNSON

madison outhier

35

Texas Junior High Rodeo Association News

Goal Accomplished!

great state, as well as to Denver and Las Vegas representing the TJHRA. I started my year in the panhandle at Region II - a frigid outdoor rodeo in Midland. Although cold, the welcome I received was very warm. From there, I traveled to Graham and represented at the Region III Tough Enough to Wear Pink rodeo. I was honored to present national championship buckles to members of the region. What an awesome experience. The next month I stopped at a Region VII rodeo in Edna where I assisted the secretaries and invited girls to By abbi suggs – Miss TJHRA Princess compete for my title. A Region X rodeo in Hamilton at the Circle T Arena was t is with great pride that I now can say, “I have the next stop. If you have never been to those facilities, make it a point to swing reached my destination!” What destination is by on your next rodeo run. The facilities and region members were fantastic! that, you ask? No, it’s not my regional finals, From there, I met up with Chloe Costello, THSRA Region IV Queen, in Terrell. state finals or the next chapter in my life. It is the She and I carried flags, represented and had a chance to catch up. Following the LAST of TEN REGIONS in the Texas Junior Northeast Texas region, I came back a little closer to home. I attended a Region High Rodeo Association, which was accom- IX rodeo in Crockett where I, again, helped with the announcing. Maybe I have plished on Saturday, March 14, in Hereford, a new hobby. The last stop for the 2014 year came in Gonzales at a Sizzlin’ Texas.

Region VI rodeo. Good thing it was close to the holidays because they sure put What started out as a simple goal turned into a me to work, setting up poles and tracking out cattle. After the Christmas and year-long experience that has left me with a bet- New Year’s holidays, I had only two more rodeos to attend. I started out 2015 ter understanding of what this great association in Sinton at a Region VIII rodeo, setting up barrels and assisting the secretaries. offers and more friendships than a girl can almost For my final stop, everything came full circle to the panhandle of Texas. Other handle! And I am happy to report: the TJHRA than my home region – Region V, where I competed all year in barrels, poles members are fired up for Gonzales and deter- and ribbon roping, as well as serving as the student barrel director – I had one mined to bring back gold buckles and another last region to make. Although 10 hours away from my hometown in deep East national championship from Des Moines.

Texas, I made it to Region I in a record one hour! No, my mom did not fly down Leaving the J.B. Wells Arena last June, I made the highway, this time; we had the opportunity to fly in the sky. Thanks, Region the decision to represent this association to the I, for your hospitality. best of my abilities… and beyond. With the love What a year! I have made so many memories and lasting friendships. I greatand support of my mom, I was able to travel this ly appreciate the TJHRA for supporting me along the way and allowing me to do what I love – represent the greatest youth rodeo association in the state. I am grateful for this opportunity and have enjoyed every minute of it. So glad I still have a couple of months left to make a few more memories.

Trust me; I now completely understand the song lyrics... “I’ve been everywhere man, I’ve been everywhere!”

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Texas Junior High Finals Golf Cart Rental May 24- May 30, 2015

Golf Cart Rental Rates: 2 passenger cart $356.00 + tax $22.25= $378.25 2 passenger w/ utility bed

$365.00 + tax $22.50= $382.50 4 passenger

$365.00 + tax $22.50= $382.50 6 passenger

$388.00 + tax $24.25= $412.25 There will be limited quantities of each type of car available. Cars will be reserved based on date and time the reservation form was received.

It will be CASH only at pick up! No credit cards or checks at pick up.

All credit cards on reservation form will be charged 1-2 weeks prior to rental. No Exceptions!

Cars will be checked out starting on: Saturday May 24, 2015 & Sunday May 25, 2015 Cars are to be checked in to our location on: May 30, 2015 by 4pm

Reservation forms will be accepted by FAX or EMAIL starting on February 7th through May 1st, 2015.

For more information or to send in your reservation form please contact: Andrea Wieghat Phone# 281-341-7755 Fax# 281-239-8822

andrea@richmondequipment.com

JUNIOR HIGH STATE FINALS WILL BE LIVE ON OUR OWN WEBSITE

www.tjhra.org

You will be able to watch the TJHRA state finals on our website live....we will have many ways to advertise during those rodeo performances.

Would you like to showcase your contestant?

The first 100 to place an order will be showcased during the rodeos to the side. These spots are going fast - all you have to do is contact Anne at www.texasjuniorhighrodeo.com or call her at 979-412-2551. We will put it together for you once you scan a picture to us......let the world see your child for only $100 for the whole week. We will have a place on the side that will showcase all the contestants!

It will look like this

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Kolton White

by Catelyn Felts

The Whataburger Whatakid is selected due to their ability to excel both in and out of the rodeo arena. Whataburger is proud to recognize a THSRA member from each of the ten regions who truly upholds the title “Whatakid!” One of the nominees will be chosen at the State Final Rodeo in June as the Whatakid of the Year. In recognition of this accomplishment they will receive free Whataburgers for an entire year!

C

ongratulations to Whatakid, Kolton Kevin White!

The 18-year-old senior is attending Roxton High School in Roxton, Texas. Kolton is a Region IV native and is an all around guy both in and out of the arena. He competes on both ends of the arena and participates in several extracurricular activities at his high school.

Kolton has been a varsity athlete in three sports including basketball, baseball and track, his entire high school career. He is also an FFA officer, Spanish Club president, and BETA club member. On top of extracurricular, Kolton has managed to stay on top of his grades as he has been an A honor roll student throughout his four years of high school.

Though busy with school, Kolton does not let his extracurricular activities interfere with his dedication and success in the rodeo arena. He is a competitor in the team roping, calf roping, steer wrestling and bull riding. When asked his life motto, Kolton replied, “If you’re going to do something, go all out. Don’t halfway do anything.” I think it’s apparent that Kolton lives by these words as he has seen success on both ends of the arena, and has gained several championship titles in each of his events. In 2009 he was the Jr. High National Champion Breakaway roper.

Since then, he has gained several all around titles, as well as, Region IV rookie of the year, Region IV champion bull rider 2012-2014 and he is currently leading the bull riding for Region IV’s 2014-2015 rodeo season.

A day in the life of Kolton consists of waking up and taking care of his livestock. He then takes a shower and goes to school all day. Afterwards, he attends basketball or baseball practice (depending on the season). After

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practice he heads home to practice team roping, calf roping and steer wrestling. He also makes time to ride all four of his colts, as well as any outside horses he has.

On the rare occasion that Kolton is not at school or practicing for rodeos or sports, he enjoys hunting, fishing and riding his colts.

Napoleon Hill once quoted, “With great success comes great sacrifice,” and when asked what sacrifices he has had to make for rodeo Kolton replied, “Throughout my rodeo career, I have had to deal with many injuries. From these injuries I have gained patience, and pure love of the game because whenever you can’t participate and you just have to watch you realize how much fun it really is.”

Kolton credits his dad for instilling in him a good work ethic and says, “My dad is my hero, because of his work ethics and everything he has done for our family and me.” Kolton also looks up to his close friends, Bryce Braden, Carson Hicks, Jase Holder and Shawn Luman.

Aside from success, Kolton has gained a lot of friends through rodeo and THSRA and has made a lot of memories that he will never forget; however, he looks forward to the friends and memories he will make in the next chapter of his life. Kolton plans to continue his rodeo career on the collegiate level at Southeastern Oklahoma State University on a rodeo scholarship this fall.

We know Kolton will continue to see great success and we want to wish him the best of luck in all of his future endeavors!

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The folks at McCoy’s Building Supply understand that it takes a lot of hard work and the whole family pitching in to get things done on a farm or ranch. That’s why we’d like to take some time out to salute Texas High School Rodeo Association families who are farmers and ranchers. In our monthly Farm & Ranch Family Spotlight, we’ll feature one family, sharing their story of how they work together as a family to make their farm or ranch successful. The spotlight will run for 10 months; each month will feature a different region. Each Regional McCoy’s Farm and Ranch Family will receive a $100 McCoy’s Gift Card. The McCoy’s Farm and Ranch Family of the Year will receive a $500 McCoy’s Gift Card and will be announced at the 2015 THSRA State Finals.

The Barker Family of Region IV C

by Catelyn Felts

ongratulations to the Barker family of Region IV! The Barker’s, Tom, MiMi, Cheyenne Swoope and Thomas, have been chosen as McCoy’s Ranch Family of the Month. Cheyenne, a sophomore, is a member of the THSRA and competes in the barrel racing, pole bending, goat tying, and breakaway roping while Thomas, a fourth grader, enjoys basketball, roping and ranching.

The family resides in Winona, Texas where the father, Tom, has been the manager of the 7P Ranch for five years. The ranch is 2000 acres of established Coastal Bermuda pasture that includes 550 acres of hay meadows. They run a cow-calf operation with 950 head of cattle. The ranch has an Annual Simmental and SimAngus Bull sale in February and an Annual production sale in October, selling Simmental and SimAngus bulls, and bred Heifers as well as Commercial F1 Braford heifers bred to Angus bulls.

When asked why they chose the ranching lifestyle, MiMi replied, “This is what our families have done for 100s of years and this is what we love to do.”

Tom and MiMi are passionate about the ranching industry and each come from a long line of ranchers. Tom’s family was a part of the Sugar Cane business and raised cattle, while MiMi’s family farmed soybeans and cattle as well.

Daily tasks on the ranch include: (depending on the season), Artificial Inseminations, breeding, baling hay (round bales), daily fence mending, cattle tending and working cattle. In order for the operation to run smoothly, the family works together, especially during

sales. “Tom works on the ranch daily where as I am an Accountant and work for Cudd Energy Services as a Regional Accounting Manager.

I work the office during sales, Cheyenne and Thomas help with loading out cattle and Thomas has begun learning how to weld since last summer. He goes out after school and on weekends to help Tom weld,” says MiMi. Ranching is definitely a family affair and it is all that the Barker’s have ever known, MiMi stated, ”When we can spend time together we value that, we have learned - Life is short, and we are to enjoy everyday we have together.

Family is everything to us!”

She also stated that the 7P Ranch is still ran with the same values her and her husband were taught as kids which is another important asset to the ranch life as well has their family life.

On rodeo weekends, MiMi and Cheyenne travel to the THSRA rodeos, while Tom and Thomas take care of business on the ranch. When the family is not ranching or rodeoing, they enjoy attending Sunday Mass, visiting the Stockyards in Fort Worth and participating in Western Swing events. Cheyenne, an active member of the FFA, also spends a lot of time working her sheep during stock show season.

The Barker family enjoys shopping at the McCoys located in Longview and Tyler for fencing supplies and other hardware needed to help with the up keeping of their ranch. They want to thank McCoys for their involvement in the THSRA and they are honored to have been chosen as the Ranch family of the month.

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It’s a New ERA in Rodeo

T

by Kennedy Johnson, Miss THSRA

he announcement of the Elite Rodeo Association has taken the rodeo world by storm. The Elite Rodeo Association, or the ERA, is owned by fifty five rodeo cowboys, forty two of which are World Champions. Bareback rider, Bobby Mote, has been working with the ERA for over a year and is one of the association’s main founders. Having been involved in rodeo for over twenty years, Mote has a unique point of view of how a rodeo should be run in order to better benefit the contestants and also the fans.

Most of the time if you buy a ticket to a rodeo, you will see two or three big names in each event

filled in with cowboys and cowgirls you have never heard of before. “For instance, Trevor Brazile could be up in the morning slack and be winning the round, but none of the fans saw it because it was in the slack.

That’s not what the fans want to see.” Mote explains.

With the formation of the ERA you have the top twelve cowboys and cowgirls up in each performance at every rodeo. Rodeo fans are getting a better overall experience when they buy a ticket to an ERA tour rodeo.

Not only is the Elite Rodeo Association making rodeo a more marketable sport to the consumer, it is allowing cowboys and cowgirls to view rodeo as a real career option- not just a hobby.

The ERA gives an incentive to pursue professional rodeo as a career choice, where in the past that has been very difficult to undertake. Mote, a four time PRCA World Champion, says, “I have accomplished about all I can in my event, and I’m not in a position where I could just retire. I feel like someone should be a little better off. I would like to see professional rodeo as a more viable career choice.” Mote wants to see the number of rodeo athletes increase overall, but especially in the riding events where participation is lacking on all levels.

The Elite Rodeo Association is creating an environment to see membership and participation in rodeo as a whole skyrocket. This is accomplished when you spot-

photos (left to right): Bobby Mote with his wife Kate, daughter Laura and sons Trey and Charlie poses for a quick picture before Rodeo Houston; Miss THSRA, Kennady Johnson, interviewing Bobby Mote at the San Antonio Stock Show and Rodeo; Four-time World Champion Bareback Rider, Bobby Mote, showing everyone how the pros ride.

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light top athletes through live events, but especially when the public gets to know athletes through a nationally televised broadcast. Think about what star athletes like Michael Jordan and Tiger Woods have done for their sports in increasing their popularity.

The founders of the ERA don’t only want a better rodeo experience for themselves but also for generations to come, which means high school, rodeo athletes today will be the big winners in the formation of the ERA. In the years to come, High school rodeo will benefit from the added exposure the ERA will bring to the sport as a whole.

By reaching a broader audience, ERA will also increase the interest outsiders have in rodeo, therefore bringing in more members, dollars for scholarships and sponsorships, which will enhance high school rodeo and help students currently rodeoing have a better career option if they choose to rodeo professionally. The ERA is going to expand the opportunities for high school rodeo athletes after graduation and also help increase current membership.

“Every time you buy an ERA ticket it will be the best rodeo performance you’ve ever seen, from the contestants to the animal athletes.

We will have nothing but the best. Pair that with a world championship race that will go on through the season and you’ll have an event that is really exciting to follow.” says Mote. The Elite Rodeo Association wants to make its athletes stars, just like in the NBA or the NFL. But, they also at the same time want to carve a path for the next generation to break in and become stars themselves. Hold on tight, because there is a new ERA in rodeo!

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