June 2022 Extreme Team News

JOHN CRIMBER 2021 THSRA ROOKIE ALL AROUND COWBOY

SPONSOR SPOTLIGHT:

LUCY RICHARDS 2021 THSRA ROOKIE ALL AROUND COWGIRL PRSRT STD STD PRSRT US POSTAGE POSTAGE US PAID PAID BRYAN TX TX 77802 77802 BRYAN PERMIT ## 23 23 PERMIT

PRESRT STD U.S. POSTAGE PAID FULTEK

ABILENE ENTERTAINMENT GUIDE

2

EXECUTIVE BOARD STATE PRESIDENT KEN BRAY

In This Issue

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

PO Box 1634 • Granbury, TX 76048 817.219.0436 • kbray@equibrand.com

HOLLY DeLAUNE

1ST VICE PRESIDENT JOHN SCHUENEMAN

Marketing Director

PO Box 1177 • Madisonville, TX 77864 979.268.4994 • john.schueneman@gmail.com

210.632.3208 • delaune.holly@gmail.com

LAUREN TUTTLE STUMBERG

2ND VICE PRESIDENT BRENT CHARLESWORTH

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

PO Box 362 • Marathon, TX 79842 432.386.6214 • brent@crcompany.net

BRIAN ROBERTS

SECRETARY/TREASURER SUSAN BALDWIN

Computer Programmer brian.roberts53@att.net 281.213.9143

722 Southview Circle • Center, TX 75935 936.590.4447 texashighschoolrodeo@gmail.com

NATIONAL DIRECTOR MIKE GHORMLEY

ARIAT PERFORMANCE REPORTERS

PO Box 1177 • Madisonville, TX 77864 281.785.0077 mghormley@gmail.com

Region I

KATIE HARTER Region II

JUNIOR HIGH NATIONAL DIRECTOR JOHN SCHUENEMAN 979.268.4994 john.schueneman@gmail.com

MARKETING HOLLY DELAUNE

73 Breeze Way, Boerne, TX 78006 210.632.3208 delaune.holly@gmail.com

LUKE CARPENTER

ABILENE ENTERTAI NMENT GUIDE STARTS ON PAGE 06

Region III

GEORGIA SHIELDS Region IV

LULU EAKES Region V

LIEZA KLEIN Region VI

TABER GARCIA

QUEEN COORDINATOR RACHEL ROBBINS

Region VII

SPONSOR SPOTLIGHT

361.894.5749 rachel.robbins3690@gmail.com

JAYCI LEE BYLER Region VIII

LYNLEY WRIGHT Region IX

DELEGATES AT LARGE

TYLIE MCDONALD

MICHAEL AKINS

RILEY ARRINGTON

Region X

2449 West Line Road • Whitesboro, TX 76273 9410.368.9390 • makins1@yahoo.com

THSRA OFFICIAL SPONSORS

PAGE 28

LARRY DOWELL

370 CR 220 • Marlin, TX 76661 254.715.8814 • fivedowell@gmail.com

JEFF PARSLEY

655 CR 4703 • Troup, TX 75789 903.574.3910 • jparselygeraniums@earthlink.net

JOE RICHARDS

5101 Hwy 214 • Hereford, TX 79045 806.676.5970 • joe@diamondcattlefeeders.com

BRANDON SMITH

6800 E FM 476 • Pleasanton, TX 78064 830.570.7157 • bmsmith1996@sbcglobal.net

STUDENT OFFICERS

thsraofficers@hotmail.com STUDENT PRESIDENT Quay Lloyd STUDENT VICE PRESIDENT Garrett Talamantes STUDENT SECRETARY Riley Otwell QUEEN Vie Vie Blanchard

LIZZY WEB PAGE 31

Region

ABI DUPRIEST

news

PAGE 37

REGION REGION REGION REGION REGION

I II III IV V

RILEY JO CHEATHEM PAGE 45

26 32 34 36 38

REGION REGION REGION REGION REGION

VI VII VIII IX X

40 42 44 46 50

DR. TANDY FREEMAN

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

5

Letter to the 2022 THSRA State Qualifiers

F

irst of all, let me congratulate you on qualifying for the Texas High School Finals Rodeo. It is truly an accomplishment just to get to this level of competition. Please read this letter in its entirety so you are aware of all rules and time frames for the Finals.

CHECK-IN --- The contestant check-in will be Sunday, June 5th from 9:00 AM until 1 :00 PM. Just because you enter the rodeo grounds before 1 :00 PM on Sunday does not mean that you are checked in. Every contestant must come to the Capital Farm Credit Display Building between those hours to check in with your region secretary to pick up your back number and to vote for student event directors. When you come to check-in, you must bring the following: a) final report card or a letter on school stationary that states report cards have not been issued but that student has passed at least 70% of his/her 2nd semester classes. Even if you graduated early, you must bring a copy of your final report card; and, b) coggins papers on each horse that you brought onto the grounds.

If you show up without your report card or letter from the school, you will only have until 1:00 PM on Sunday to have either one of these faxed to the rodeo office. NO REPORT CARDS OR LETTERS WILL BE ACCEPTED AFTER 1:00 PM -- NO EXCEPTIONS!!!! If fax is needed, please fax to (832) 553-7232. The report card will come directly to my computer. Any contestant that does not meet this requirement will be disqualified.

ALL CONTESTANTS MUST BE PRESENT AND CHECK IN ON SUNDAY!!

If you think you will have a problem making the check-in deadline, you MUST call the State office at (936)590-4447 ahead of time to make arrangements. The only excuse for a late check-in is a school related function. If you run into problems on that Sunday and think you may miss the check-in deadline, you MUST call the State Secretary at (936)332-4011.

CUTTERS & REINERS --- If you are entered in the cutting horse and/or Reined Cow Horse competition, you will have until 4:00 PM Wednesday, June 1st to check in with the secretaries, Angie Key and Anne Dollery.

You must bring the same 2 items listed above with you to the rodeo office. The 1st go round will be Thursday, June 2nd, starting at 9:00 AM and the 2nd go round will be Friday, June 3rd, starting at 9:00 AM. Cutting will take place in the Guitar Arena and Reined Cow Horse in the First Financial Arena. The Short Go rounds will be Saturday, June 4th, starting with the cutting at 9:00 AM followed by the Reined Cow Horse. Working order will be drawn after the 4:00 PM deadline Wednesday. Girls will cut first Thursday, boys first on Friday and girls

6

first again for the Short Go. To try to save some confusion at the entrance gate, I am asking for everyone entered in either of these events • to call or email me the names of anyone who will be coming to help you -- trainers, turnback help, etc. I will be giving this list of names to Rochelle Johnson, General Manager of the Taylor County Expo, to try to expedite their entrance to the rodeo grounds.

SEASON PASSES --- all prepaid season passes will be given to you by the event secretaries or by your region region secretary at the Sunday check-in along with your back number. You will still be able to buy season passes during check-in on Sunday. There will be an "Information Booth" table set up in the Display Building.

All Event, Saddle & Buckle Sponsors will pick up season passes and programs there as well.

STUDENT EVENT DIRECTOR VOTING --- cutters and reiners will vote for student directors when you check in on Wednesday. All other student event directors will be voted on during Sunday check-in.

There will be a specific table set up just for voting. Contestants only vote for event directors in the event(s) you are a state qualifier in.

Student directors are a very important position so please vote for who you think will do the best job!

POSITION DRAW --- The draw has been sent to the region secretaries and posted on the THSRA website. You should know by now what day(s) you have drawn up. Due to unforeseen circumstances, there could possibly have been some changes once the daysheets were sent to the printer. The official position draw along with the stock draw will be posted at the Information Booth. The booth will be located on the west side of Taylor Telecom arena. CONTEST ANTS - it is your responsibility to make sure you know which day you are to compete!!!! The daysheets are provided as a courtesy only and are not the Official Draw.

HOOKUPS - When you arrive at the Taylor County Fairgrounds, you will enter the facility through Gate G (rock gate) and will be taken to your hookup location by a member of the Taylor County personnel.

Cutters and reiners may start arriving Wednesday, June 1st at 8:00 AM. All other contestants may start arriving on Friday, June 3rd, but please note that gates will close at 5:00 PM daily so you MUST arrive before that time or you will have to wait outside the gates until they are opened back up the next morning. Starting Saturday, June 4th at 8:00 AM, the gates will be open around the clock.

• The Expo personnel has the list of contestants with the type of RV hookup each one has so please do not try to make any variations to their list!!! Your RV site will have already been assigned by the Expo personnel.

• They will try their best to honor requests.

• NOTE FROM THE EXPO - The 30 amp RV plugs are GFI (ground fault interrupter) - if your trailer/camper does not work on GFI, you will need to have this corrected in advance of you parking on the grounds.

STALLS - all stalls will be locked when you arrive and will not be unlocked until the horse is actually on the grounds. Stalls will be preassigned.

SCHOLARSHIP RECIPIENTS - we will have a virtual sponsor scholarship presentation again this year. Recipients will receive the actual scholarship certificate in Abilene. We ask all scholarship winners to pick up your certificate at the manned table by the state finals backdrop during check-in on Sunday. YOU WILL NEED TO BE IN FULL DRESS CODE WHEN YOU PICK UP YOUR CERTIFICATE!!!

OFFICER CANDIDATES & VOTING DELEGATES - You will have a meeting on Thursday, June 9th in the Ranch House right after the morning performance. The Ranch House is located directly behind the West Texas Fair office. Delegates will meet the candidates at this time and voting will take place right after all the introductions.

SHOOTING CONTESTANTS - if you arrive before 5:00 PM Friday afternoon, please come check in with me at the Rodeo Office in the Taylor Telecom arena to turn in your report card and pick up your back number. Any shooters not able to check in on Friday, there will be a THSRA representative at the shooting range Saturday before the shoot starts. The trap contest will start at 8:00 AM Saturday, June 4th at Callahan County 4-H Range. The light rifle contest will start at 10:00 AM Saturday, June 4th at Big Country Three Guns Range. If you are entered in both contests, you will be given ample time to get to the light rifle range after you have completed the trap portion.

GOLF CARTS - golf carts are available for rent again this year. A flyer was sent to the region secretaries to pass along to all contestants.

You MUST be a licensed driver to rent the golf carts and ONLY licensed drivers are allowed to drive them. You MUST adhere to the seating capacity of the golf cart rented!!!

SPONSOR PATCHES - the patch policy is attached to this letter.

Please make sure you read it and adhere to it the entire week of state finals. It is YOUR responsibility to know the patch rules!!!! State directors will be busy with running the rodeo and will not have time to be Patch Police!!! If you have any questions on the policy, please feel free to contact the state office at (936)590-4447.

NO DOGS ARE ALLOWED IN TAYLOR TELECOM FACILITY!!!!!

If anyone has any questions, please feel free to contact me either at the number listed above or by email at texashighschoolrodeo@gmail. com. I look forward to seeing familiar faces and to meeting new ones!!!

Again, congratulations on making it this far and good luck to each and everyone of you. Here's to bringing that National Team Trophy back to Texas for the 7th consecutive year in 2022!!!!!

NOTES FROM THE JUDGES

The judges will be going over a few things during the General Membership Meeting Sunday afternoon starting at 2:30 PM but wanted to send a few highlights to you so you will be prepared.

ROUGH STOCK RIDERS - mandatory equipment check and safety seminar starting at 1:00 PM on Sunday, June 5th on the coliseum floor.

You must be in FULL dress code (this includes your back#) and you must bring every piece of equipment with you: helmet, vest, glove, mouth piece, spurs, chaps, bull rope, bareback rigging and/or saddle bronc saddle. Judges say you must be ready when called upon - not start getting ready when called upon.

BARREL RACERS & POLE BENDERS - forward motion will be at the plane of the rollup door and you may pivot or turn once in the alley.

Hat Rule - hat must stay on to the plane of the rollup door.

Helpers - all helpers must be in full dress code and may provide assistance up to the plane of the rollup door. One helper per contestant.

Barrel racers and pole benders will have 2 minutes to enter the arena from the time their name is called.

Make sure all metal and/or wire is completely covered where it touches your horse.

GOAT TYING - There must be a wrap around all three (3) legs of the goats and then a hooey. The hooey is not considered a wrap. Please step back three (3) feet as soon as you can. If the rope is around your leg, you may remove it and step back.

BREAKAWAY - rope must be tied to your saddle horn at the end of your rope and must be tied tightly so it cannot come off when throwing your slack. FLAG MUST BE A SOLID COLOR! TIEDOWN - after tying the calf and mounting your horse, ride up at least one step (would prefer the rope to touch the ground) for the six (6) seconds. If the rope is already on the ground when mounting, you must still take a step forward. Please do not back your horse up and drag the calf as this will result in a NO TIME! The jerk down rule will be in effect -five (5) second penalty!

TEAM ROPERS - this is not a jackpot. You must be dallied and faced with ropes tight and all four legs of your horse on the ground.

Make sure to hold dally until you get a flag. NO UNNECESSARY PULLING BACK!! No throwing heel loops after the header has missed.

PRCA crossfire -make sure the steer has completed his switch. This is a judgment call. Judges will call what they see from the position they are in.

STEER WRESTLING - no hitting horse on the head with your bat.

ALL ROPING EVENTS & STEER WRESTLING - there can be NO contact from the helper after the contestant has nodded/asked for cattle or contestant will be disqualified.

There is to be no one in the arena except the rodeo personnel and the contestant competing.

Everyone else is to be behind the panels.

7

8

TRAMPOLI NE AND OBSTACLE PARK

949 S. Judge Ely Blvd.

Abilene, TX 79602 For Birthday Parties, Private Events, Corporate Events, Fund Raisers and Over-Night Events Contact Us At: office@maxxairpark.com or birthday@maxxairpark.com PLEASE FILL OUT YOUR WAIVER ONLINE

MaxxAirPark.com (325) 704 - 2547 9

STATE FINALS FREE BBQ LUNCH MONDAY, JUNE 6 11:30-1:00 FREE TO ALL

Capital Farm Display Building

Courtesy Abilene Convention & Visitors Bureau

2022 STATE FINALS REGION ASSIGNED SPONSORS REGION 1: HEEL O MATIC REGION 2: PURINA / CH GRAPHICS REGION 3: KUBOTA / LONE STAR TRANSMISSIONS REGION 4: HOOEY / THE ARMSTRONG COMPANY REGION 5: PRIEFERT / MCCOYS REGION 6: TEXAS FARM BUREAU INSURANCE/ RESISTOL HATS REGION 7: WHATABURGER / CLASSIC & RATTLER ROPES REGION 8: BOOT BARN / DR. TANDY FREEMAN REGION 9: BILL FICK FORD REGION 10: BLOOMER

10

TEXAS HIGH SCHOOL RODEO ASSOCIATIOn 2022 STATE FINALS RODEO

GOLF CAR RENTAL

June 6 - 11

state finals format barrel racing, pole bending & bull riding

1st Go Perf.

Monday AM Monday PM Tuesday AM Tuesday PM Wednesday AM

2nd Go Perf.

Wednesday PM Thursday AM Thursday PM Friday AM Friday PM

bareback & saddle bronc

1st Go Perf.

Monday PM Tuesday PM

2nd Go Perf.

Wednesday PM Thursday PM

breakaway, calf roping, goat tying, steer wrestling & team roping

1st Go Perf.

Monday AM Tuesday AM Wednesday AM Thursday AM Friday AM

2nd Go Perf.

Monday PM Tuesday PM Wednesday PM Thursday PM Friday PM

cutting and reined cow horse events will be held thursday, friday & saturday june 2 thru 4, 2022

CART RENTALS INCLUDES TAX

1 2 3 4 5 6

DAY: $150.00** DAYS: $227.20 DAYS: $277.06 DAYS: $326.84 DAYS: $376.81 DAYS: $421.14

7 DAYS: $477.66 8 DAYS: $525.31 9 DAYS: $576.29 10 DAYS: $626.16 11 DAYS: $670.49 12 DAYS: $714.82

** (ONLY IF AVAILABLE-NO RESERVATIONS) CREDIT CARDS WILL BE CHARGED WHEN RESERVATION IS MADE. 100% REFUND IF CANCELLED 7 DAYS PRIOR TO PICK UP DATE AFTER THAT 50% REFUNDABLE. NOTE: UNDERAGE NON LICENSE DRIVERS WILL NOT BE PERMITTED TO OPERATE THE GOLF CART IN ANY CAPACITY. IF CAUGHT OR REPORTED DOING SO WILL RESULT IN THE CART BEING PICKED UP AND NO REFUND GIVEN OUT.

CALL JOHNNY PILCHER RENTAL MANAGER 817-921-5491 X 101 IF YOU HAVE ANY QUESTIONS JOHNNY@METROGOLFCARS.COM

11

schedule of events WEDNESDAY, JUNE 1

4:00 PM - Deadline for Cutting and Reined Cow Horse Contestants to be Checked In

THURSDAY, JUNE 2

9:00 AM - 1st Go Reined Cow Horse Event - First Financial Pavilion 9:00 AM - 1st Go Girls' Cutting -Guitar Arena - 1st Go Boys' Cutting -Guitar Arena

FRIDAY, JUNE 3

9:00 AM - 2nd Go Reined Cow Horse Event - First Financial Pavilion 9:00 AM - 2nd Go Boys' Cutting -Guitar Arena - 2nd Go Girls' Cutting -Guitar Arena

SATURDAY, JUNE 4

8:00 AM - NRA Trap Shoot - Callahan County Shooting Range NRA Lift Rifle Contest - Big Country Three Guns Range 9:00 AM - 1st & 2nd Go Round and Top 15 Awards for Cutting and Reined Cow Horse - Guitar Arena 10:00 AM - Cutting Short Go Round: Girls followed by Boys (Guitar Arena) - Reined Cow Horse Short Go Round (following cutting) (First Financial Pavilion) 2:00 PM - Cutting and Reined Cow Horse State Champion Awards (Taylor Telecom Arena )

12

SUNDAY, JUNE 5

HOOEY BACKPACKS & CAPS, KUBOTA TRACTORS & RESISTOL HATS SPONSORS OF THE DAY 9:00 AM - CHECK-IN - Open - Display Building 1:00 PM - ALL CONTESTANTS MUST BE CHECKED IN - MANDATORY EQUIPMENT CHECK/INSPECTION for ALL Rough Stock Riders and MANDATORY Safety Seminar (Taylor Telecom Arena - behind chutes) 2:30 PM - CONTESTANT'S MEETING - Taylor Telecom Arena ALL CONTESTANTS MUST ATTEND - Awarding of Ft. Worth & San Antonio Rodeo Scholarships - 2022-23 MISS THSRA PRESENTED - Resistol Tip of the Hat Presentation to State Directors - FCA Rodeo Message by Trey Johnson - Directly after the meeting Region Team Pictures taken 7:00 PM - Classic Equine Jackpots - First Financial Pavilion

MONDAY, JUNE 6

CH GRAPHICS, LONE STAR TRANSMISSION & BILL FICK FORD SPONSORS OF THE DAY 7:45 AM - Grand Entry - Regions II & V 8:00 AM - MORNING PERFORMANCE Start of 1st GO-ROUND 11:30 - 1:00 PM - FREE BBQ LUNCH & RIBBON CUTTING (Capital Farm Display Bldg.)

All contestants/family members are invited. Provided by ACVB Motivational message provided by Trey Johnson 1:45 PM - Grand Entry - Regions II & V - Team Cinch members will be introduced

2:00 PM - AFTERNOON PERFORMANCE Start of 2nd GO-ROUND After Rodeo - Classic Equine High Stakes Jackpot (BA,CR,TR)

(First Financial Pavilion)

TUESDAY, JUNE 7

CLASSIC & RATTLER ROPES & HEEL O MATIC SPONSORS OF THE DAY 7:45 AM - Grand Entry - Regions III & VI 8:00 AM - MORNING PERFORMANCE 1st GO-ROUND Continued 12:00 - 1:00 PM - FCA RODEO LUNCH - Capital Farm Display Bldg.

-First 50 get $5 off their lunch Motivational message provided by Trey Johnson 1:45 PM - Grand Entry - Regions III & VI 2:00 PM - AFTERNOON PERFORMANCE 2nd GO-ROUND Continued 7:30 PM - Sponsors, Abilene Officials, & THSRA Leadership Dinner

(Joe Allen's Ranch)

WEDNESDAY, JUNE 8

PURINA, BOOT BARN & LET’S TALK LAND SPONSORS OF THE DAY 7:45 AM - Grand Entry - Regions I & VIII 8:00 AM - MORNING PERFORMANCE 1st GO-ROUND Continued 12:00 - 1:00 PM - FCA RODEO LUNCH - Capital Farm Display Bldg.

- First 50 get $5 off their lunch Motivational message provided by Trey Johnson 1:45 PM - Grand Entry - Regions I & VIII 2:00 PM - AFTERNOON PERFORMANCE 2nd GO-ROUND Continued After Rodeo - Classic Equine High Stakes Jackpot (BA,CR,TR)

(First Financial Pavilion)

FRIDAY, JUNE 10

BLOOMER TRAILERS & WHATABURGER SPONSORS OF THE DAY 7:45 8:00 1:45 2:00

AM - Grand Entry - Regions IX & X AM - MORNING PERFORMANCE 1st GO-ROUND Continued PM - Grand Entry - Regions IX & X PM - AFTERNOON PERFORMANCE 2nd GO-ROUND Continued WHATARODEO DAY - Introduction of Bloomer Team & Drawing for Bloomer Trailer 7:00 PM - THSRA Board of Directors Meeting - Ranch House

SATURDAY, JUNE 11

DR. TANDY FREEMAN, YETI & TEXAS FARM BUREAU INSURANCE SPONSORS OF THE DAY 8:30 AM - 1st & 2nd Go & Top 15 Awards Presentation

(Taylor Telecom Arena) 9:45 AM - Grand Entry - All Regions 10:00 AM - Final Performance - Top 15 Contestants in each event - Drawing for Bill Fick Ford Truck After Rodeo - N H S R A FINALS CONTESTANT'S MEETING STATE CHAMPION AWARDS - ROUND BUILDING ENTRY BLANKS AND OTHER FORMS FOR THE NHSRA FINALS WILL BE COMPLETED BEFORE THE AWARDS PRESENTATION SATURDAY NIGHT. ALL NATIONAL QUALIFIERS AND THEIR PARENTS ARE REQUIRED TO ATTEND!!!

THURSDAY, JUNE 9

McCOY'S, PRIEFERT & THE ARMSTRONG COMPANY SPONSORS OF THE DAY 7:45 AM - Grand Entry - Regions IV & VII 8:00 AM - MORNING PERFORMANCE 1st GO-ROUND Continued 12:00 - 1:00 PM - FCA RODEO LUNCH - Capital Farm Display Bldg.

- First 50 get $5 off their lunch Motivational message provided by Trey Johnson 12:00 PM - Voting Delegates, Student Officers and Officer Candidates Mandatory Meeting - Ranch House 1:45 PM - Grand Entry - Regions IV & VII 2:00 PM - AFTERNOON PERFORMANCE 2nd GO-ROUND Continued McCoy's Mutton Busting & Family Day - $3 Hot Dog and a Coke After Rodeo - Classic Equine Jackpots - First Financial Pavilion

PLEASE NOTE: Due to unseen conflicts, this schedule is subject to change. Current as of 5.19.22. Please check the OFFICIAL DAILY SCHEDULE posted outside the rodeo office. It is the responsibility of each contestant to be in the arena and ready when their respective event is underway.

Rodeo Events: Taylor Telecom Arena Reined Cow Horse: First Financial Pavilion Cutting Events: Guitar Arena

GO TO THSRA.ORG FOR LATEST SCHEDULE 13

2022 THSRA State Finals Grand Entry

W

e will have morning & afternoon grand entries Monday through Friday and also for the short go on Saturday. Each region has been assigned a day and will need to have members there for both performances that day!!! Please have at least 5 members from your region to help carry flags.

If there are not enough contestants for all of the flags, then they will be asked to carry a second flag. If you have a member that likes to carry sponsor flags, they are welcome to help at any performance. Some understand it is a good way to get their horse in the arena before competition.

Contestants will be asked to hold the flag pole upright and make one lap around the edge of the arena at a slow lope so that the sponsor flag is displayed behind them while the announcer reads the script for their flag.

REGION ASSIGNMENTS FOR THE WEEK: Monday – Regions 2 & 5 Tuesday – Regions 3 & 6 Wednesday – Regions 1 & 8 Thursday – Regions 4 & 7 Friday – Regions 9 & 10 Saturday – All Regions

MORNING PERFORMANCES: Line up at 7:30 am in the back of the alley. Start at 7:45 am.

EVENING PERFORMANCES: Line up at 1:30 pm in the back of the alley. Start at 1:45pm.

SATURDAY’S GRAND ENTRY STARTS AT 9:45AM. All regions are asked to send contestants to help with this one.

Line up at 9:30am in the back of the alley – or as quickly as you can following the Go Round and Top 15 awards.

14

15

Sell 3 Bloomer Tickets and Get One Free That's right, if you sell 3 Bloomer Tickets, your family will get to enter one time for free!

Claim this offer when your turn in your Bloomer tickets to your Region Secretary and she will give you a free ticket to put your families name on!

ADVERTISE IN THE NEXT ISSUE!!

Contact Us at 210-632-3208 for More Info!

16

2022 STATE FINALS RODEO OFFICIALS: Rodeo Coordinators:

Mike Ghormley & Ken Bray

Computer Secretaries:

Jody McElroy & Kelley Williams

Programs/Trade Show:

Susan Baldwin & Richard Baldwin

Sponsor Appreciation:

Holly Delaune, Quay Lloyd, Garrett Talamantes, Riley Jay Otwell & Vie Vie Blanchard

Rodeo Stock Contractor: Cutting Contractor: Reined Cow Horse Contractor: Jackpot Arena Contractor:

J & J Rodeo Company Brandon Smith Brandon Smith J & J Rodeo Company

THSRA Scholarship:

Mike Ghormley, David Freeman, Renee Weitz & Holly Delaune

Bullfighters: Photographer:

Hunter Allen, Cagney Anderson & Ross Johnson Jennings Photography

Videographer:

D & C Productions

Grand Entry:

Ken Bray, Holly Delaune, Quay Lloyd, Garrett Talamantes, Riley Jay Otwell & Vie Vie Blanchard

Cowboy Church Service:

FCA Rodeo

Arena Directors: Rodeo: Rough Stock: Barrier Events: Timed Events: Cutting & Reined Cow Horse: Queen: Judges: Rodeo: Cutting: Reined Cow Horse: Queen:

Richard Baldwin Larry Dowell Brent Charlesworth Mike Ghormley Brandon Smith Rachel Robbins

Teddy Alleman, Gip Allen & Bobby Flores Randy Butler & Mark Harden Buddy Fisher & Aaron Brookshire Van Hargis, Billy Harris, Jamie Harrison, Brenna Smidt, Shirley Spears & Courtney Small

Announcers:

Chris Rankin

Secretaries: Rodeo: Cutting: Reined Cow Horse:

Susan Baldwin Angie Key Anne Dollery

Rodeo Timers:

Pam Ghormley & Angie Key

2022 THSRA STATE FINALS ADULT EVENT DIRECTORS Bareback Barrels Breakaway Roping Bull Riding Cutting Goat Tying Pole Bending Saddle Bronc Steer Wrestling Team Roping Tiedown Roping Arena Tractor

Brandon Jones, Shelley Townsend & Rene Weitz Tom Aasbo, Ben Ellis & Jason Underbrink Barry Braden, David Schreck & Guy Yarbrough Justin Klein, Shane Paschal & Bill White Brandon Smith & Executive Board Members Casey Baize, Jody McElroy & Chuck Senter Brad Dyer, Roger Hanagriff & Mike Yargo David Christian, Randy Martin & Jerad Stokern Amber Bass, Scott Shook & Dan Simpton Eric Huston, Daryl Shelton & Dale Snow David Freeman, Justine Hunt & Tommy Ohrt Mike Berberich

17

COWBOY SHOPPING MALL HOURS LOCATED ON THE CONCOURSE OF THE TAYLOR TELECOM ARENA 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM

|

|

FRIDAY, JUNE 3

Trade Show Vendors start setting up in Taylor Telecom Center

SATURDAY, JUNE 4

Trade Show Vendors continue with setting up in Taylor Telecom Center

SUNDAY, JUNE 5

8:00 AM - 6:00 PM

|

TRADE SHOW WILL BE OPEN

MONDAY, JUNE 6

8:00 AM - 12:00 PM & 1:00 PM - 7:00 PM | TRADE SHOW WILL BE OPEN

TUESDAY, JUNE 7

8:00 AM - 12:00 PM & 1:00 PM - 7:00 PM

|

TRADE SHOW WILL BE OPEN

WEDNESDAY, JUNE 8

8:00 AM - 12:00 PM & 1:00 PM - 7:00 PM

|

TRADE SHOW WILL BE OPEN

THURSDAY, JUNE 9

8:00 AM - 12:00 PM & 1:00 PM - 7:00 PM

|

TRADE SHOW WILL BE OPEN

FRIDAY, JUNE 10

8:00 AM - 12:00 PM & 1:00 PM - 7:00 PM

|

TRADE SHOW WILL BE OPEN

SATURDAY, JUNE 11

9:00 AM - 2:00 PM TRADE SHOW WILL BE OPEN 2:00 PM Trade Show Closes 2:00 pm till 8:00 pm | Vendors may begin tearing down

SUNDAY, JUNE 12

Starting at 9 AM - Trade Show tear down

19

2022 NJH FR & N HSFR RULE BOOK CORRECTIONS RI BBON ROPI NG ▪ [ PAGE 117 ] RULEBOOK CORRECTION – EVENT RULES #15: A contestant will receive a 5 second penalty for the run if they bring the animal over backwards (between 10 and 2 on a standard clock) with the animal landing on his back or head with all four feet in the air.

• SCORING AND PENALTIES #10 SHOULD BE DELETED – Old rule and no longer in effect.

TI E DOWN ROPI NG ▪ [ PAGE 106 & PAGE 107 ] RULEBOOK CORRECTION – EVENT RULES – ADD AFTER #10 AND RENUMBER: A contestant will receive a 5 second penalty for the run if they bring the animal over backwards (between 10 and 2 on a standard clock) with the animal landing on his back or head with all four feet in the air.

• SCORING AND PENALTIES #13 SHOULD BE DELETED – Old rule and no longer in effect.

TI E DOWN ROPI NG ( JUN IOR H IGH ) ▪ [ PAGE 109 ] – ADD LIVESTOCK REQUIREMENTS FOR TIE DOWN ROPING JH CATTLE: • Livestock Requirements. Weight recommendations: a. A minimum of 160 lbs. b. A maximum of 185 lbs.

RE I N E D COW HORSE ▪ [ PAGE 134 ] – UNDER WHISTLES, 4TH SENTENCE – SHOULD READ: If a judge awards a new cow the contestant must accept the new cow, or the score will result in a zero (0).

• REFERENCE PAGE 136, UNDER 0 SCORE, #M. STE E R WRESTLI NG ▪ [ PAGE 100 ] – LIVESTOCK REQUIREMENTS, ADD #8: Horns to be tipped to the size of a dime.

• Livestock Weight Requirements: #8 will become #9

BREAKAWAY ROPI NG ▪ [ PAGE 73 ] RULEBOOK CORRECTION – EQUIPMENT #1: Cattle neck ropes on calves must be tied with string or rubber bands or break- TEAM ROPI NG away hondo. This rule was NOT approved and added to the rulebook by ▪ [ PAGE 114 ] – LIVESTOCK REQUIREMENTS, ADD #6: Horns to be mistake. THE USE OF THE HONDO IS NOT LEGAL. tipped the size of a dime.

GROUN D RULES FOR NATIONAL FI NALS CH UTE DOGGI NG ▪ [ PAGE 102 ] – EVENT RULES #3: With steer loaded in chute, dogger gets beside steer with hand and arm in front of shoulder of steer, or behind shoulder if dogger desires, and can wrap under neck. When dogger calls for steer the chute gate will be opened. Dogger must maintain his arm and hand position without impending forward progress of steer. Should dogger grab horn, ear, or impede forward progress by choking steer, a 10-point penalty will be assessed. Steer must cross score line before being thrown or starting to slow the steer’s forward progress to start throwing process. If steer is thrown before crossing line, it will result in a disqualification since time has not started. Dogger cannot do anything to start throwing process until time has started in the field.

• PAGE 102, #4 SHOULD BE DELETED – Old rule no longer in effect as it is addressed in new rule.

▪ [ PAGE 104 ] – LIVESTOCK REQUIREMENTS, ADD #1, B. Chute Dogging Cattle: Weight recommendations a. A minimum weight of 350 lbs. b. A maximum weight of 475 lbs.

20

GOAT TYI NG - BOYS & GI RLS ▪ [ PAGE 74 ] – GENERAL RULES, #10, ADD: Collars should be tightened to have approximately one (1) inch of slack. Collars must be nylon or leather; no chains may be used as a collar in the event.

LIGHT RI FLE & TRAP SHOOTI NG ▪ NOW AN OFFICIAL EVENT – TOP 20 POINTS WILL COUNT TOWARDS TEAM POINTS, NOT ALL-AROUND POINTS • Official Qualifications, Event Rules, Equipment, Dress Code, Contestant Disqualifications, Scoring and Officials are provided separately in the contestant’s packet.

GE N E RAL RULES FOR CONTESTANTS ▪ [ PAGE 28 ] #21 – WESTERN SHIRT: wrist length sleeves shirt with collar and cuffs, ADD: shirts must be tucked in.

2021-2022 Region All Arounds REGION I - Gus Gaillard & Jaylee Lane REGION II - Cutter Pareo & Emilee Charlesworth REGION III - Dylan Hancock & Acey Pinkston REGION IV - Brennen Wilson & Makenzie Mayes REGION V - Sam Shofner & Mallory Moore REGION VI - Heath Harkins & Amy Ohrt REGION VII - Colin Fox & Jayci Lee Byler REGION VIII - Tres Colvin & Tess Underbrink REGION IX - Bryce Jensen & Tylie McDonald REGION X - Mason Vaculin & Rainey Skelton

21

FCA RODEO LUNCH MONDAY - WEDNESDAY | 12:00-1:00 | DISPLAY HALL

First 50 through the door receive $5 OFF YOUR LUNCH!* Courtesy of FCA Rodeo

* Monday Lunch is FREE BBQ Lunch for Contestants and Families courtesy of the City of Abilene

CHECK SOCIAL MEDIA FOR DAILY MENU! 22

MOTIVATIONAL MESSAGE GIVEN EACH DAY

BY TREY JOHNSON

CONGRATULATIONS TO ALL 2022 STATE QUALIFIERS 301 South 11th Street ✯ Abilene, Texas 79602 325-672-6082 | Catering - 325-672-9948

23

24

STUDENT OFFICERS PRESIDENT - WYATT MASK VICE PRESIDENT- JAYDA JAMESON SECRETARY/HISTORIAN - RIDLEY TIMBERLAKE STATE DIRECTORS / REGION OFFICERS

DAVID CHRISTIAN 10200 S Blessen Rd • Amarillo, TX 79119 806.674.1397 • david.christian@11ranch.com

JERAD STOKER PO Box 1693 • Canyon, Texas 79015 806-676-6969 • jared_stoker@cargill.com SECRETARY - MARCY SESSIONS 1611 El Paso • Wellington, Texas 79095 806.205.0350 • thsra1@yahoo.com

Region I

RANDY MARTIN PO Box 334 • Vega, Texas 79092 806-670-2113 • randyleemartin@hotmail.com RANDY MARTIN PO Box 334 • Vega, Texas 79092 806-670-2113 • randyleemartin@hotmail.com

26

PERFORMANCE REPORT

Bittersweet

also got recognized and awarded the Tri-State High School Region One scholarship. Taylor Thompson and Cason Christian were awarded the $2,500 scholarship. The Kooper Zane Preston Memorial Scholarship was also awarded at the finals.

By KATIE HARTER – Performance Reporter Kooper Preston was a former he last rodeo of the season can member of the region one rodeo be pretty bitter sweet. For some, family and he passed away in a it was their last regular region car crash October 18th 2021. His JAYLEE LANE rodeo forever, and some it was just the family wanted to keep his memory alive and spread his joy by giving photo by Jennings end of their first year in high school.

The end of a rodeo season is sad, but away a scholarship in honor of him. it is also sometimes the most fun. The Shaylee Hill was the recipient of the Kooper Zane Preston Memorial Scholarship. event winners and all around winners Along with scholarships being given, there were a lot of awards given. There get recognised for all their hard work were buckles given for the finals average event champions, year end event winthroughout the year. Here in region ners, and year end reserve event champions. The reserve all around winners got one, we had our high school rodeo a buckle and the all around champions got a buckle and a saddle. Every year end finals two weekends ago. We had a event winner got the choice of either a check, or they got a saddle certificate to super successful weekend, and a lot of order and design a saddle. Region one board of directors did a great job picking out these awards. Without them none of this would have been possible. awards were handed out.

All the contestants worked very hard all year and we saw some of the fastest The weekend started out by recognizing all the seniors and their par- times at our finals. Jaylee Lane showed up and won the girls All Around for the ticipation in region one. Some seniors year end, and Gus Galliard won the boys All Around for the year end. The girls All Around was very close with Ridley Timberlake coming in a close second, and Benny Proffitt coming in second for the boys All Around. The girls Rookie of the Year went to Abby McCreary who was also the year end Champion Breakaway roper. The boys Rookie of the Year went to Jaxon Stoker who was also the year end Champion Team Roper. Also, I would like to congratulate all the other champions and the contestants that will be competing in Abilene. These kids have worked hard and are going to do great things in and out of the arena.

Everyone in Region One is super excited for Abilene and ready to do their best to get a shot to compete in Wyoming. It was a very successful rodeo season in Region One, and none of it could have GUS GALLIARD been done without the great board members and great leaders we photo by Jennings have here in Region One.

T

HIGH STAKES JACKPOTS

NEWEST THSRA / TJHRA STATE SPONSOR Let's Talk Land Real Estate Team led by Kyla Dodson proudly serves the entire great State of Texas! Let's talk about where you are; let's talk about where you want to be, and let's talk about how to get there! Let's Talk Land Real Estate Team at Keller Williams Heritage West is the official real estate partner of THSRA and TJHRA.

27

Sponsor Spotlight:

I

n a world where you can be anything, we choose to stick to the values that helped us establish Bloomer Trailers, 24 years ago.

Although things are changing, we are still as hungry as ever to stay motivated to develop new ideas that make your life easier and your horses haul, safer. Determination might be our motivation, but reliability and trust are still at the core of our business. One thing that we have always aspired to be was trustworthy, people trust that we are putting in the time and effort to develop a product that speaks for itself when it comes to the components we use and the thought that is put forth when we send your Bloomer Trailer out on the road. For years, we have spoken about the components we use and the products we build, but did you know that beneath the surface is a story that truly defines the American success story.

At 34 years old, Randy Bloomer, was a trailer dealer who was quickly standing out for his passion for the industry and his compassion towards customer’s needs. However, he knew that something was missing in the industry. As someone who was

28

familiar with the products, but also using them, he challenged the brand that he was working for to develop a safer trailer and utilize products that would help revolutionize the industry. When he eagerly presented this idea to the owners of the company, they shot him down. They believed that what they were doing was working, so why change it? If you know anything about Randy Bloomer, you know that good is not good enough. From a payphone, he called his wife Kim, and told her that he was going to start his own brand of horse trailers and even if they built one, it would be the best trailer on the road. You see Bloomer Trailers today, but many do not know that the original trailer was designed on a Denny’s napkin, drawn by Bloomer himself and that was the beginning. Randy and Kim sold their belongings and jumped headfirst into creating Bloomer Trailers. They started with humble beginnings, in the middle of chemical alley in LaMarque, TX. From the beginning, they have always focused on hiring the best people to build Bloomer Trailers, many of which are still with us today. For years, they hustled and worked long hours, with minimum

sleep, but they thought it was worth it to ensure that everything that is important to you is as safe as possible. Only two years after starting, we had hit our stride and had introduced many new components the horse trailer industry had never seen.

In 2003, Bloomer made the decision to build a state-of-the-art facility in Salado, TX. Directly in the middle of Texas, Salado, was the perfect location in regard to convenience for dealers, customers and vendors. Stepping away from the old building in chemical alley, they designed a building fitting for Texas, a large Alamo inspired building graced the side of I-35 and that would be the home of Bloomer Trailers. For many, the irony of the symbolic Alamo appearance serves as a reminder that within these walls, we will continue to fight for what is important, which has always been our customers. When the building was completed, Bloomer Trailers moved over forty employees and their families to Central Texas to continue the craftsmanship that was expected and desired by the Bloomer Trailers customers.

Our employees have always been what makes

us stand apart, but the way that Randy Bloomer leads is what lights a fire under us to strive for excellence. When we named our newest model, The Evolution, it was to remind ourselves that we have yet to build the perfect trailer, so we have to continuously search for new ideas to improve our trailers. Although we strive to build the best trailer, we also have always worked towards making the industry better.

We are proud to say that no other custom horse trailer company has done more for youth rodeo athletes than Bloomer Trailers.

In 2009, we became the Official Trailer of Texas High School Rodeo and vowed to build a trailer to raffle off every year, with the proceeds going directly to THSRA athletes. To this date, THSRA athletes have raised over $2,000,000 by raffling off a Bloomer Trailer. “I don’t think people truly grasp how impactful the Bloomer sponsorship program has been to our scholarship program. At this point after 12 years of sponsorship, Bloomer has enabled THSRA to give scholarships to literally hundreds of high school rodeo seniors. Their sponsorship not only makes a difference in enhancing our organization, but also in the futures of our members,” says Holly DeLaune, THSRA Marketing Director.

Our support for youth did not stop there, in 2008, we started the Bloomer Youth Team in 2008, and since then, hundreds of youth rodeo athletes have undergone interview training, acquired sponsorships and had the support to compete at IFYR each year. The support doesn’t stop there, Bloomer Trailers has continued to support these athletes throughout their careers, in and out of the arena. “I’ll never forget the day that Randy called me and told me that I had gotten on the Bloomer Team, I was leaving basketball practice and when he told me the news, I tried to hide my excitement and be professional. I had wanted to be on the team for so long because you knew that you were one of

the best if you got the opportunity to represent them. That opportunity changed my life,” says 6X World Champion Bull Rider, Sage Kimzey, “I think that is part of the reason I got confidence in my riding is because I was selected. When I was at the team meeting, they taught us so many valuable lessons that I still use today in my career.”

Today, several of those youth rodeo athletes are on our Pro Team. To name a few, Clayton Biglow, Jess Pope, Marty Yates, Sage Kimzey. Several of them have went on to win World Titles and many past members went on to qualify for the WNFR. “It’s rare for a brand as big as Bloomer to support you from the time you are in high school, all the way until you are a professional athlete.

They have kept up with me and it was neat to win not only a National High School title as a Bloomer team member, but also my first NFR Average title as a team member as well,” said Jess Pope, the 2020 WNFR Champion.

At Bloomer, we are family, so when you work here or become a team member, you feel like you are a part of something much bigger than a trailer company. We started as a family company and today, we are proud to say that our family is heavily involved. Randy still runs the company and continues to develop new ideas. Kim went from receiving a call from a payphone that would change the fate of our family to running the accounting department. As for the children, Alexis was raised at the Bloomer Trailers facility in LaMarque and she now runs our Marketing Department. Jake Bloomer went from drawing Bloomer Trailers for school art projects, to being the Vice President of Operations. Today, Randy Bloomer, refuses to take all the credit, “There is no such thing as self-made man, there are so many people that attributed to our success. I would not be here today without the help and support of so many people along the way,” says Randy Bloomer, Bloomer Trailers CEO. We never imagined that our dream would lead to being used by several World Champions, Award-Winning Musicians, Actors, Athletes and would even be used on a hit television series like Yellowstone. We dreamed of being the Official Trailer of the pillar organizations of our industry and now we are proud to be the Official Trailer of the PRCA, NFR, NHSRA, THSRA, NRCHA, BFI, The American and the iconic Pendleton Round-Up. We know that half of businesses fail after the first five years and we are humble enough to know that our success is a testament to the support of our incredible dealers, employees and loyal customers. We have been through recessions, a plane crash, and a pandemic but we have never taken a shortcut when it comes to your safety and comfort. When you purchase a Bloomer Trailer, you are purchasing a dream that started as a quest to build one perfect trailer. Although that was over 6,000 trailers ago, we are still working hard to build the best trailer on the road.

29

Taking care of all your Conditioning & Rehab Live Large, Ride Hard with God in your Heart

30

LIZZY WEBB OF REGION III

by Ashtyn Carr

C

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!

ongratulations to Lizzy Webb for being nominated as a “WHATAKID!” representative. Lizzy is a member of THSRA Region 3, where she resides in Grandview, TX with her family. Including her mom, Lauren Herod, her father, Justin Webb, and her siblings, Hannah, Hailey, and Dalton.

As Lizzy puts it, she has been on the back of a horse since she was a baby. So riding just comes natural nowadays! She has been playdaying since the age of three and has been rodeoing ever since. Now as an 18 year-old high school senior, Lizzy competes in the breakaway roping and goat tying events.

Although Lizzy likes competing in both events, she noted that she really enjoys goat tying! Lizzy was even a National High School Finals Qualifier for goat tying in 2021.

Lizzy’s current horse is an 11 year-old mare named Tick. She ties and ropes off Tick! Lizzy said that Tick is question a unique horse, has a big personality, and holds a special place in her heart.

“I had to retire my goat tying horse,” Lizzy said. “I bounced from horse to horse for a little bit.

Finally, I had to find something and she filled that role for me. She has done really well.”

Lizzy is not all about rodeo though. She is also involved in her high school’s FFA chapter.

Through that extracurricular, Lizzy has shown, swine, lambs, and dairy cattle. She is also a member of the dairy cattle judging team. Additionally, Lizzy is an active member in her school’s National Honor Society.

A typical day in the life of Lizzy starts off with school. After the final bell rings, she heads home to work. She’ll spend the afternoon doing barn chores, riding and working horses. Once all the horse work is done, she heads over to her job working for a cow horse trainer. But the day is not over yet! When Lizzy gets off of work, she goes home to practice roping or goat tying. Although her days are busy with school, work, and practice, Lizzy has lots of help keeping herself on track.

As her high school days come to an end, Lizzy has plans for continuing her education and rodeo career. Lizzy will be attending Panola College where she will compete on the rodeo team and major in ag business.

Looking back on all of her rodeo days, Lizzy has a lot of special memories in the arena and on horseback. She has two moments in particular that stick out to her. The first being her time at the Texas High School State Finals.

The other being achieving her goal of making it to nationals. Last year, after the short go, Lizzy made it to the National High School Finals. Though her high school rodeo days are almost over, Lizzy’s love and passion for the industry is never ending!

31

PO Box 62862 • San Angelo, Texas 76904 512.618.9233 • csbaize@yahoo.com

STUDENT OFFICERS PRESIDENT - MADALYN RICHARDS VICE PRESIDENT - EMMA KENT SECRETARY - ALLISON VAUGHN STATE DIRECTORS / REGION OFFICERS CASEY BAIZE

Region II

SECRETARY - JODY MCELROY Box 224 • Balmorhea, Texas 79718 432.940.0385 • secretary@thsra2.com

JODY MCELROY Box 224 • Balmorhea, Texas 79718 432.448.7810 • rodeosecretary1@gmail.com CHUCK SENTER 6698 Tiger Road • Ropesville, Texas 79358 806.392.3487 • csenter@armlend.com PRESIDENT- CASEY BAIZE PO Box 62862 • San Angelo, Texas 76904 512.618.9233 • csbaize@yahoo.com

32

PERFORMANCE REPORT

R

By LUKE CARPENTER – Performance Reporter

egion II seniors have officially ended their region rodeo careers. This year we had a very tough group of seniors that set the bar high for us next year. Region II’s seniors made up over twenty-five of our state qualifications. Members of the senior class also took the top spot in five events for the year end.

This tough group is a true testament of Region II. We continue to graduate some of the top contestants in the state year after year. This years senior class includes: Kaden Alcorn, Taylor Baize, Bryce Davis, Jacob Derrer, Kaitlyn Foster, Skylar Garza, Dusty Hancock, Travis Handley, Rj Hernandez, Kohen

Hudman, Kyna Hudman, Trey Hughes, Riley Jenkins, Emma Kent, Cort Mcfadden, Kallie Montalvo, Morgan Northcutt, Trea Peterson, John Ragan, Lane Reed, Cierra Rimer, Rohde Riojas, Ryelynn Skelton, Penny Jo Stanford, Kaylee Stroud, Ashlin Stumberg, Caden Tinsley, Grant Vinson, Garrett Watkins, and Ryleigh Whitehead.

LANE REED From this point forward are photo

by Jennings seniors have their eyes set on a state title and their fall plans.

Throughout the end of the year these competitors are looking forward to their college rodeo season. Many of these young men and women will be going on to college to continue to compete with the best. Region II has prepared these athletes for the next step of rodeo.

Region II senior Lane Reed, son of Kevin and Judy Reed, plans to attend and rodeo for Cisco College. Reed was the Region II champion bull rider for 2022.

Reed also qualified for state in the calf roping and the team roping heading for his brother Dax Reed.

Jacob Derrer of Portales, New Mexico is another Region II graduate. Derrer has been homeschooled throughout his life. Derrers After school plans are to train team roping horses and rodeo as often as he can. Derrer qualified for state in the calf roping and team roping.

Kaden Alcorn is another one of our graduating seniors.

Alcorn has lived in Wyoming the past 11 years and came back to Andrews, Tx for his senior year. He plans to attend Odessa College for a couple years then hopefully go on to Texas Tech University to get his degree in veterinary school. Alcorn qualified for state in steer wrestling. The Region II rodeo family is behind these student athletes as they go on to compete at the next level. We wish them all the best of luck in their future rodeo careers. #RegionIITougherThanEver

JACOB DERRER

photo by Jennings

GOOD LUCK TO ALL CONTESTANTS, COME BY AND SEE US!

CALF ROPES STRINGS TEAM ROPES BITS HEADSTALLS SADDLE PADS

REINS HALTERS BELL BOOTS SPLINT BOOTS GIRTS SKID BOOTS

FARRIER SUPPLIES FLY SPRAYS FLY SHEETS SHOW SHEEN & HAIR CARE ITEMS

431 North 7th – Abilene, Texas 79601

325-677-8677 | wtvsupply.com DIRECTIONS: South 11th all the way to Treadaway, turn right on Treadaway, go North on for 11 blocks, go under railroad tracks, travel straight ahead for 7 blocks, building with rock front and dark brown sides on the right or East side of Treadaway.

33

ERIC HUSTON PO Box 945 • Decatur, Texas 76234 817.368.0159 • ehuston1972@gmail.com

STUDENT OFFICERS PRESIDENT - DUSTIN MONTGOMERY VICE PRESIDENT - GRACIE GAMBINO SECRETARY - LARAMIE DEARING

940.841.1403 • dsnow@qualitytransferservices.com

Region III

817.706.8236• redhotregion3@gmail.com STATE DIRECTORS / REGION OFFICERS

DALE SNOW 467 Gilbert Rd • Nocona, Texas 76255

7217 Denver City Dr. • Fort Worth, Texas 76179

SECRETARY - KELLEY WILLIAMS

13196 Burns Branch Rd • Krum, Texas 776249 940.255.0738 • dshelton@rdoequipment.com

DARYL SHELTON

PRESIDENT - ERIC HUSTON PO Box 945 • Decatur, TX 76234 817.368.0159 • ehuston1972@gmail.com

34

PERFORMANCE REPORT

CADE WALKER’S MARATHON

A

By GEORGIA SHIELDS

– Performance Reporter

s region 3 competitors were making last minute preparations for the finals, the Thursday before they were to start, prayers were called for one of our fellow competitors. Cade Walker had an accident in the practice pen, that eventually sent him to Cooks Hospital, and is still there currently.

The accident was a pretty bad one, in which Cade is fighting daily to regain the basics of living. On Facebook Shannon Walker, Cade’s

mother, has called this event “Cade Walker’s Marathon” if you would like to follow.

The accident put Cade in a situation where it was pretty much touch and go for a while. Cade has more fight, heart and try then most people; being the competitor that he is, has steadily fought each day. Though not all days are good, Cade continues to make strides every day, be they small, or large.

Please keep in mind that this accident has been almost two months ago, Cade is just now starting to walk and get out of bed. I do not know all of the information about Cade’s rehabilitation, but the information that I read or hear about him is positive.

Please keep Cade and his family in your thoughts and prayers. I would like to take this opportunity to pass on some thoughts that I have taken from this experience, and maybe in reflection it might help you as well. When hearing about the accident, I felt helpless for Cade and his family. The event was completely out of my control. What was in control, was my feelings, my thoughts, and efforts towards others. This accident was eye opening for kids, parents, and friends as a whole. In one brief moment, life changes.

After reflection, I have come to this conclusion. Live life, enjoy life. Make a positive difference in someone else’s life, day, or week. I have to roll

DYLAN HANCOCK & CLAYTON HUSTON photo by Jennings

with the punches, and get up and figure out how to overcome obstacles with a purpose. If I want to accomplish something, go out and try to accomplish it. If I fail, I did not fail, I simply gained life experiences that I will be able to use and cherish forever.

I had the chance to interview Acey Pinkston, Region 3 girls All Around champion, on what she planned to do after High School. She plans on going to Tarleton State University on a rodeo scholarship to continue her academic and rodeo career. While at Tarleton, she will be pursuing a business degree and compete for the rodeo team in the NIRA as well as the PRCA. Acey also ended the year at Region 3 fifth in the goat tying, tied for first in the barrels, third in girls cutting, and seventh for the girls breakaway.

I was unable to get in touch with Dylan Handcock to interview our boys All Around champion, but he as well had a good region finals. He was team roping champion with his partner Clayton Huston, was reserve in steer wrestling, and was the year end tie down champion.

ACEY PINKSTON photo by Jennings

35

STUDENT OFFICERS PRESIDENT - BRYLEE BRADEN VICE PRESIDENT - MARY BETH BEAM SECRETARY - DIXIE TABB

DR. TANDY FREEMAN

BARRY BRADEN PO Box 549 • Horatio, AR 71842 870.584.2308 • tbbraden@earthlink.net

STATE DIRECTORS / REGION OFFICERS

GUY YARBROUGH 438 Oates Rd • Palmer, Texas 75152 214.906.1595 • guyamy97@yahoo.com SECRETARY - KATHY JOHNSON 4941 FM 269 • Pickton, Texas 75471 903.245.2725 • thsra4@yahoo.com

Region IV

DAVID SCHRECK 209 Sarah Way • Murphy, TX 75094 214.403.5606 • dschreck@intelemedia.com MICHAEL AKINS 2449 West Line Road • Whitesboro, TX 76273 makins1@yahoo.com • 904.368.9390

36

PERFORMANCE REPORT GET TO KNOW

Sulphur Springs

L

By LULU EAKES – Performance Reporter

et's get to know our beloved Region IV city. Sulpher Springs has been home to region IV for over a decade. It was founded in 1884 and has been supporting rodeo since the beginning. This town was first settled by Indians who found springs hence the name. The Indians kept horses on these lands for over a century because of the never-ending natural spring water. Over the course of a few hundred years, it became known for its geography and the horses that roamed it.

When rodeo became a huge impact on our society the arena was built.

The arena was built on the spot where

the horses roamed to symbolize that they are always welcome in Sulpher Springs.

This town has hosted us for a few years and has been more than hospitable to us.

The restaurants stay open late for us, the police officers and medics are always there keeping us safe and cheering for us, and the Civic Center staff is always there to lend a helping hand whenever we need it. Thank you Sulpher springs for all you do for us and our sport we are truly grateful.

Our secretary Mrs. Kathy Johnson has been a great help this year making sure our rodeo runs smoothly. Not only does she help in the office but she works hard behind the scenes to ensure everything in is the perfect order for our weekends. This year has been amazing with you and we hope to see you for years to come. Thank you for making these kids' high school memories one to remember. thank you for all you do for these kids and their dreams.

With our 2021-2022 rodeo season coming to end we would like to wish everyone going to state good luck we know you will represent our region well. To all of our seniors, you will be greatly missed and we wish you the best of luck wherever your travels take you. You are always welcome at Region IV.

ABI DePRIEST OF REGION V

by Ashtyn Carr

C

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!

ongratulations to Abi DePriest for being nominated as a “WHATAKID!” representative. Abi is a high school junior and member of THSRA Region 5. She lives in Tenaha, TX with her parents, Colette and David DePriest.

Like many rodeo athletes, Abi started to ride horses at quite a young age. She remembers getting on horseback as early as two or three years old. Uniquely, Abi began competing in rodeo events when she was four years old

as a contestant in the Pineywoods Youth Rodeo 6 and Under category. As the years went on, Abi’s talent grew.

She competed in light rifle shooting, ribbon roping, goat tying, barrel racing, and pole bending. Now, as a high school competitor, Abi competes in light rifle shooting, barrel racing, pole bending, and goat tying.

Abi’s favorite event to compete in is pole bending.

Partially due to the fact that the horse she rides on, Maverick, she has had since she was six years old! She also was the one who trained this horse in poles. So, it is a special event and special horse in her eyes.

During her junior year season, Abi had a particularly challenging obstacle to overcome. Her main barrel horse died in the middle of the season. Luckily, Abi had a fellow athlete and friend who lent her a horse until she finds a permanent replacement. Having to transition between two different riding style in the middle of the season was tough.

But, Abi is still proud as she qualified for state and reminded in the top five of her region despite this hardship!

Abi also has her goat tying horse. Daisy, otherwise known as Crazy Daisy, has a sweet demeanor. However, Abi said you have to watch out for her “Daisy Moments”. “You never know what kind of Daisy Moment she’s going to have,” Abi said. “It’s just simple things just get her. So you really just have to have lots of patience with her…She keeps you on your toes, which is an amazing thing for her. It's also fun for us because it keeps us alert and always has us doing something different every day.”

There are many things that Abi loves about being involved in the industry. One of the things that is so important to her is being with her family and knowing their background.

Her mother, Colette, and her aunt, Cicily Cross-Blair, have done many grand entries in their life. Although they have never competed in rodeo events, they introduced Abi to horses and the rodeo industry. On the other hand, Abi’s father, David, was a college baseball player. On that same note, Abi’s family have always ran cattle. There is a long lineage of cattlemen and cowboys!

Abi’s life isn’t all about rodeo! She remains busy with many extracurriculars. Such as the Carthage Varsity Girls Golf team, National Honor Society, Student Council, and the Pineywoods Youth Rodeo Association. Abi is also very active in her school’s FFA chapter. She serves as an officer on their leadership team and is a member of the FFA Broadcasting, Public Relations, and Horse Judging teams. She also really enjoys spending time with her family on the weekends, swimming, and “hitting up jackpots every weekend [they] can”.

It’s safe to say that Abi is a busy girl! She said her “amazing mom” is the reason she keeps herself on track. Colette helps organize her schedule. For which Abi is very grateful! Abi also tracks her days with her planner. But she is sure to pencil in some rest time too. Abi has one more year of high school left. But she has already thought about what the future might hold. There are two roads she will potentially go down. She either plans on going to Texas A & M University or attending Panola College then transferring.

Whatever path she chooses, Abi said she still plans on competing in rodeo events at the college level. “I absolutely love the sport of rodeo,” Abi said. “There are so many wonderful, great things about rodeo. You could just go on for days about it. But the main thing I like is you’re always pushing. You’re trying to be a better you. You want to be a better person for the little kids that look up to you. You want to be a better person as an athlete to compete…Rodeo allows you to..show everyone good people are still out there.”

37

PRESIDENT - ABI DEPRIEST VICE PRESIDENT - RILEY JAY OTWELL SECRETARY - PEYTON MATHIS

STUDENT OFFICERS

JUSTIN KLEIN PO Box 2107 • Center, TX 75935 936.590.0229 • sendtojustin@yahoo.com

STATE DIRECTORS / REGION OFFICERS

BILL WHITE 277 Billy White Rd • Singer, LA 70660 337.304.0748 • whiteacres55@yahoo.com

Region V

SECRETARY - SUSAN BALDWIN 722 Southview Circle • Center, Texas 75935 936.590.4330 • regionvsecretary@gmail.com

SHANE PASCHAL PO Box 123 • Nome, Texas 77629 409.253.2553 • spaschal@paschalweld.com

PRESIDENT- KIRK MATHIS 777 Freeman Cemetery Rd • Lufkin, TX75904 936.676.3495 • kmathis@cmzlaw.net

38

PERFORMANCE REPORT

“M

By LIEZA KLEIN – Performance Reporter

ental toughness is the ability to control thoughts and actions and maintain a focus on what is truly important in a calm and poised way under competitive pressure.” Sports Psychology does apply to a wide variety of serious athletes. Most students (junior, high school, college, and professional athletes) are highly committed to excellence and seeing how far they can go in sports. They love competition and testing themselves against the best in their sport. They understand the importance of a positive attitude and mental

toughness. These athletes want every possible advantage they can get including the mental edge over the competition. - Healthy Lifestyles Living With the 2022 regular season of Region V coming to an end, I can’t help but to reflect on our finals. With the double point system, it is most definitely a love hate relationship with the process. We, as contestants find ourselves counting points instead of just doing what we know how to do. Our minds are distracted, and we enter the weekend a ball of nerves. At the end of the weekend, there are always surprised outcomes.

The mental side of our competition takes a back seat until you realize something is missing. Then you find yourself scrambling for information and knowledge to help you focus, balance nerves and etc. As a competitor, take a moment from your week and study up and practice your mental game. You will be surprised how much farther and how much stronger you will be if you take in the mental side of your competitions.

With that being said, we had a great finals. Our cowgirls and cowLAUREN WHITE boys rallied those 2 days and when the dust cleared, the winners were photo by Jennings announced:

2022 Reg V All Around Cowboy Sam Shofner 2022 Reg V All Around Cowgirl Mallory Moore 2022 Reg V Rookie Cowboy Huel Willis 2022 Reg V Rookie Cowgirl-Mallory Moore 2022 Reg V Saddle Bronc Champ Landon Cook 2022 Reg V Bare Back Champ Kash Martin 2022 Reg V Bull Rider Champ Ethan Winckler 2022 Reg V Goat Tyer Briley King 2022 Reg V Steer Wrestler Cole Pugh 2022 Reg V Barrel Racer McKinlee Paschal 2022 Reg V Tie Down Roper Sam Shofner 2022 Reg V Breakaway Roper Avery Landry 2022 Reg V Team Roper (Header) Landon Cook 2022 Reg V Team Roper (Heeler) Boston Oliver 2022 Reg V Pole Bender Lauren White 2022 Reg V Girl Cutter Madi Stanley 2022 Reg V Boy Cutter Peyton Mathis 2022 Reg V Rein Cow Horse Whitney Moody Congratulations to all of my fellow competitors and the Top 10 Finalists of each event who are headed to Abilene in June. We are all excited to compete and reunite with our long-distance friends. Wishing everyone a big GOOD LUCK!!

MALLORY MOORE photo by Jennings

LANDON COOK photo by Jennings

SAM SHOFNER photo by Jennings

PEYTON MATHIS photo by Jennings

39

PRESIDENT - MEKENNA DAVIS VICE PRESIDENT - BAYLEE BURLESON SECRETARY - BRADI FREEMEAN

STUDENT OFFICERS

STATE DIRECTORS DAVID FREEMAN 1039 Mockingbird Lane • Eagle Lake, TX 77434 832.221.1253 • chlfreeman@yahoo.com

361.550.5202 • t07cattle@yahoo.com

TOMMY OHRT

SECRETARY - ANNE DOLLERY P.O. BOX 866 • Caldwell, Texas 77836 936.412.2551 • region6thsra@gmail.com

Region VI

8971 Lower Mission Valley Rd • Victoria, TX 77905

JUSTINE HUNT 2433 Witte Rd • Bellville, TX 77418 979.525.7098 • rodeohuntboys@gmail.com PRESIDENT - DAVID FREEMAN 1039 Mockingbird Lane • Eagle Lake, TX 77434 832.221.1253 • chlfreeman@yahoo.com

40

PERFORMANCE REPORT Region VI Boys All Around Champ Heads to State

H

By TABER GARCIA

– Performance Reporter

eath Harkins Jr. is a fifteen-year-old freshman from Beeville, Texas. Heath started rodeoing when he was around six years old. He is from a rodeo family where both him mom, Katherine, his dad, Heath, and even his sister, Jacqueline, all participate/d in rodeo. Heath gets his drive and his work ethic from his dad. Heath describes his dad as the most hard-working person he knows. “Between flying helicopters, ranching, running our oilfield business, along with our solar pump business, he still finds the time to practice with me almost every night,” said Heath.

Harkins has made it to state in tie-down and cutting. He plans on preparing for state by practicing as much as he can and going to as many cuttings as well. On most weeks, he practices cutting in the morning and ropes almost every single

night. His dad built a covered calf lane which allows him to practice anytime.

Heath mentally prepares himself for each of his events by focusing primarily on what he is about to do.

Heath’s biggest supporters are hands down his family. His parents not only drive him to be great, but they help him achieve his goals. His grandparents along with his parents have bought his very cool horses. His dad pushes him to do his best and his mom drives him everywhere to practice, rodeos, and to cuttings. His mom is also his homeschool teacher. He is part of the Preifert Junior Elite Team.

Heath’s grandparents keep him mounted on good horses and plenty of calves to rope.

Harkin’s most recent accomplishments include being the THSRA Region 6 Highschool Rookie All-Around Champion, the All-Around Champion, and Boys Cutting Champion. In 2020, he tied for reserve in the average at Tuff Coopers Jr World Finals. Last year he was the TYRA Year End All-around Champion, All Around Finals Champion, Year End Tiedown Champion, Finals Tiedown

HEATH HARKINS photo by Jennings

Champion, the Year End Breakaway Champion, and the Finals Breakaway Champion. The TYRA finals were his favorite rodeo memory because of the runs he made. “It felt great to be a freshman and not only win the Rookie All-Around title, but the All-Around title as well,” said Heath. “The feeling of having a goal, working hard, and achieving it was an amazing feeling.” Cutting was very helpful to him in achieving the All-Around title, and it was something he had always wanted to try. “It was an amazing experience and an amazing feeling to ride a cutting horse.”

Heath plans on finishing college then working alongside his dad in their ranching and oilfield businesses. He has also started taking helicopter flight lessons with the hopes of flying with his dad.

His advice to people who want to achieve their goals is to never be afraid to try something new, find great people to learn from, work hard, and do whatever it takes to achieve your goals.

This year THSRA is adding $100,000 to the State Finals. Heath thinks this is an amazing opportunity for THSRA members.

CLASSICROPE.COM

41

PRESIDENT - KERA LAMB VICE PRESIDENT - CARLI RAWLINSON SECRETARY - PAISLEY PIERCE

STATE DIRECTORS / REGION OFFICERS AMBER BASS 6808 Cedar Hill Road • Brenham, Texas 77833 979.851.9553 amberbass@greatertexasfoundation.org

STUDENT OFFICERS

DAN SIMPTON 24543 SH 6 • Navasota, Texas 77868 936.870.5779 • dansimpton@yahoo.com

Region VII

SECRETARY - NENA BOETTCHER PO Box 833 • East Bernard, Texas 77435 281.468.8973 • region7thsra@gmail.com

SCOTT SHOOK 5750 FM 360 • Needville, Texas 77461 713.851.9553 • sshook@troyconstruction.com SCOTT SHOOK 5750 FM 360 • Needville, Texas 77461 713.851.9553 • sshook@troyconstruction.com

42

PERFORMANCE REPORT

Behind The Scenes

I

By JAYCI LEE BYLER

– Performance Reporter

n every rodeo competition, we keep our focus on the competitors. We watch in high hopes that the roper’s loop hits its target for a fast catch to win the rodeo. In the rough stock events, we sit on the edge of our seats watching as riders try to stay aboard a high kicking bronc or a spinning bull for eight seconds. In the steer wrestling, we see cowboys from a propelling jetlike horse jump down onto a steer for an impact of technique and strength. We watch rodeo for that particular purpose. But I would like to focus on who works behind the scenes to make those rodeos happen: the stock contractors and the directors who do the sorting.

The stock contractors are a key piece of the puzzle when it comes to putting a rodeo together. Weeks out before the rodeo the stock contractor is busy doctoring sick animals, putting out hay and moving stock onto fresh pastures. They make sure that every stock animal is vaccinated and any sick animal is medicated.This is to ensure stock is healthy and strong for upcoming rodeo. Stock is selected in the weeks leading up to the rodeo. In the few days prior to the rodeo, the stock contractor will be responsible for loading animals in stock trailers to be safely transported miles away from their home pastures. Even through rain and sleet, they make sure that the animals will get to their destination. As soon as the stock animals are unloaded from the big trailers and placed into open pens on the rodeo grounds, the work begins to fill water troughs and to put out grain and hay. This reduces the stress of hauling the animals.

The next important piece of the puzzle is the directors/parents and judges who sort through the stock. This gives them an opportunity to pull off any animal that does not fit the majority of the stock (bigger in size or too weak).

A hour or so before the rodeo starts, the directors/parents & judges are already starting to work to run stock through the arena. Bucking stock are turned out in the arena then pushed through the side chute to get them use to the stock exit gate. Cattle are turned out of roping chutes and lined down the center of arena to the stripping chutes. When the rodeo begins the directors/parents are who are sorting and loading the bucking stock and the roping stock. They make sure that all the stock is sorted according to what the secretary and judges drew before the rodeo. If an animal comes through and has a lamenes or is showing to be ill, they notify the secreatary and replace the animal with the extra one on the draw sheet. This keeps the stock even for all competitors. Thank you Mr Davis, Mr & Mrs Seay, Mrs Kenney, Mrs

Johnston, Mr Muege, Mr Raasch for keeping the behind the chutes flowing smoothly.

During our region 2021-22 year, we have had some amazing stock contractors that have supplied Region VII with some of the best stock they could offer. Haecker Cattle Company who supplied all the calves and Cody Jo Leopold who brought steers for the team roping, chute dogging and the steer wrestling. As well as Kolton Mazzoch for bringing the goats for the goat tying and Garrett Gossett for bringing all the rough stock. Thank you for your hard work and for contributing to our region. Every region should give a big thanks to their stock contractors for contributing to such an amazing sport and for being a part of the rodeo family. Every one of them have spent countless hours making sure that we have the best stock to use so that we could have a fun rodeo to put on. They have put all their demanding work into making our rodeos happen. Even as the Texas High School State Finals is coming around the corner, our stock contractors are making sure that the finals will be ready and we will have the stock to use at the finals.

Deuteronomy 15:11 “That's why I'm giving you this command: you must open your hand generously to your fellow Israelites, to the needy among you, and to the poor who live with you in your land."

follow us on facebook, instagram, twitter & tiktok Texas high school rodeo social media: YOUR SOURCE FOR INSIDER INFORMATION! 43

STUDENT OFFICERS PRESIDENT - KATE MCNEIL VICE PRESIDENT - RYLEE DODSON SECRETARY - SYDNEY BLAIR PO Box 787 • Asherton, TX 78837 830.999.3344 • tom@catarosaranch.com

STATE DIRECTORS / REGION OFFICERS TOM AASBO

Region VIII

SECRETARY - CELINA FETTY

3005 Santa Ana St. • Corpus Christi, Texas 78415 361.739.9858 • region8thsra@gmail.com

BEN ELLIS PO Box 1845 • Orange Grove, Texas 78372 361.701.1886 • ben.ellis78@yahoo.com JASON UNDERBRINK 520 Phillips Rd • Pleasanton, Texas 78064 210.854.7718 • jasonunderbrink@yahoo.com PO Box 787 • Asherton, TX 78837 830-999-3344 • tom@catarosaranch.com

PRESIDENT- TOM AASBO

44

PERFORMANCE REPORT

The Countdown Begins

lives as they go on to pursue what they have been called to do, whether that is college, trade school, or taking over the family business. Many of our seniors also ended the year as champions in their event, including Clay Tom Hurt in Steer Wrestling, Tess Underbrink in Pole Bending, and James Colvin in

By LYNLEY WRIGHT – Performance Reporter Tie Down Roping. The later two were he countdown to high school finals also awarded the title of Region 8 AllCLAY TOM HURT is under way, and in the up and Around Cowgirl and Cowboy. photo by Jennings coming weeks the top ten in each Many of our seniors this year, myself event will spend countless hours making included, have been with Region 8 sure they are prepared to represent their since the start of their time in TJHRA region in Abilene. For many contestants or THSRA, and have made the region a second home. Now we are moving on to start who are seniors, this will be the last time our lives of adulthood, but will always remember and cherish the time spent with our to compete in Texas High School State friends in family in THSRA. Finals. Then those who make it will go For me, Region 8 was an outlet to make lifelong friends, while also providing me on to Nationals in July, striving to make with a way to learn about responsibility and accountability. I have had the chance to Texas the World Champion Team for the look back and see how much I’ve grown as a person, both in and out of the arena, and I 7th consecutive year in a row. have gained priceless knowledge from the people who I’ve encountered along the way.

Those in Region 8 were proud to It is because of the families I’ve met through Region 8 that have helped me decide on send off 35 seniors this year, with hopes the path that I would like to take after school. That plan is to attend college to major in that they will enjoy the next step of their Criminal Justice with a double minor in Pre-Law and Political Science, in order to join Homeland Security or become a U.S. Marshal.

As a graduating senior who has been with THSRA since 6th grade, my advice to those younger would be to take advantage of every opportunity that you can while you can. Try new events, enter big rodeos you’ve seen on TV, hop on every kind of horse that is available to you. Never let an opportunity to gain experience or better yourself pass you by. Maybe you’ll surprise yourself, and find you have a knack for roping calves, or meet a lifelong friend from another state. There’s opportunity to grow and learn all around. All it takes is seizing those kinds of chances when they’re available to you.

It was a privilege to get to be the Region Reporter for Region 8 in the 20212022 rodeo season, and to have the chance to cover the happenings of my region. Good luck to those of you who will be attending state finals in June, and to those of you who go on to compete in Nationals this year. And to my TESS UNDERBRINK fellow seniors out there, no matter if you know what your major is, or what photo by Jennings school to go to, or even if you should pursue college, remember to “Commit your work to the Lord, and your plans will be established.”— Proverbs 16:3

T

RILEY JO CHEATHEM OF REGION IX

by Ashtynn Carr

C

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!

ongratulations to Riley Jo Cheathem! Riley Jo was nominated to be a “WHATAKID!” representative.

Riley Jo is a member of the THSRA Region 9, where she resides in Edge, TX. Riley Jo is raised by her parents Kristy and Justin Cheathem. She also has two siblings, Shelbi Bayer (31) and Cash Cheathem (15).

Riley Jo started riding at the rip age of three. She soon began competing in play days and other small events. However, Riley Jo says that she did not start taking rodeo seriously until the fifth grade. Now as an 18 year-old senior in high school, Riley Jo competes in breakaway roping and goat tying.

There are two horses that Riley Jo mainly rides, Hemi and Junebug. Riley Jo ropes off of Hemi. Although he is a little older, Hemi has a young spirit! As Riley Jo put it, Hemi runs around, kicking like every five year-old.

He might act young but Hemi still knows when to go into work mode. Especially in the breakaway events.

“He’s super honest,” Riley Jo said. “He’s really sweet in the breakaway. He is straight flat across the line and does everything you ask him to.”

Junebug is Riley Jo’s goat tying horse. Although their relationship is fairly new and the two struggled toward the beginning, it is a special one. In fact, Riley Jo said Junebug surprises her each time they step into the arena. Junebug is known to be a people pleaser and wants to help get the job done in the best way she can!

“I hit one goat in Decatur at a jackpot and that kind of scared me,” Riley Jo said. “When those goats step right, some horses just don’t move over. They’ll just hit them. I took her to the practice pen one time and showed her how to go around the goat. Ever since then, she has been working like a charm.”

When it comes to horsemanship, Riley Jo has a few people that she looks up to. But there are two people that have shaped her into the rider and athlete that she is today. Stephanie Sculla introduced Riley Jo to goat tying. She also taught Riley Jo how to make a horse do what you want, how to work with them.

On the other hand, Matt Garrett is a friend of Riley Jo’s father. He has been a part of Riley Jo’s life since she began riding almost 15 years ago. Riley Jo said that Matt is “big on horsemanship and taking care of your horses over everything”.

Outside of rodeo, Riley Jo has a variety of extracurriculars she is involved in. As a student at Normangee High School, Riley Jo is active in her school’s FFA chapter. Similarly, she is in the work program. So, Riley Jo leaves school around noon each day and goes to work at Stanley’s Feed Store in Iola, TX. Riley Jo was also involved in her school’s volleyball and tennis programs during her freshman year. But she decided the only kind of athlete she wanted to be was a rodeo athlete!

As the end of her high school career approaches, Riley Jo has made plans to continue her education and rodeo career. She signed with Southwest Texas Junior College in Uvalde, TX where she will continue to compete inside the arena on a full ride scholarship.

Even though riley Jo’s mom, Kristy, does not have a rodeo background, she does have a small agriculture background as she exhibited livestock animals in high school. That being said Kristy, along with other members of the Cheathem family, loves everything that rodeo is and the people that are involved.

“What it teaches these kids as far taking care of their animals is the dedication of practicing and hardwork,” Kristy said. “You have success and you have failures. So it really humbles these kids too. Not everybody gets to win. You have to learn to deal with the failure.”

Kristy also noted that rodeo has significantly shaped Riley Jo into the individual that she is today. She feels as though the relationships that Riley Jo has formed with other contestants and rodeo athletes have aided in her success in and out of the arena. It’s a reminder that it’s “not all about rodeo” as Kristy puts it. “It might not pay in your checkbook,” Kristy said. “But it pays just in your life, all around it. It pays to be in.”

45

PRESIDENT - RILEY JO CHEATHAM VICE PRESIDENT - BOYD HANAGRIFF SECRETARY - CHASE MCBEE

STUDENT OFFICERS

149 Willow Creek • Huntsville, Texas 77340 832.928.1647 • braddyer@live.com

979.251.4131 • reionixsecretary@gmail.com

Region IX

STATE DIRECTORS / REGION OFFICERS BRAD DYER

MIKE YARGO

SECRETARY - LACEY AUBIHL 1326 PR 5011 • Ledbetter, Texas 78946

PO Box 551 • New Waverly, Rexas 77358 936.581.0527 • mjyargo@yahoo.com

198 Pool Road • Richards, Texas 77873 936.661.4163 • rhanagriff@gmail.com

ROGER HANAGRIFF

198 Pool Road • Richards, Texas 77873 936.661.4163 • rhanagriff@gmail.com

PRESIDENT- ROGER HANAGRIFF

46

PERFORMANCE REPORT

R

By TYLIE

MCDONALD – Performance Reporter

egion IX is locked, loaded, and ready to roll. Some familiar faces will be returning to Abilene to compete for a chance to bring home another state title and punch their ticket to the National High School Finals Rodeo in Gillette, Wyoming.

Before planning a trip to the Texas High School Rodeo Association state

finals, the state qualifiers from all regions across the state had to com-

pete against athletes within their region. While it is exciting to see who the top ten in an event are, it is even more thrilling to watch the champions of each region, especially the ones from Region IX. Competitors such as Kiley Hargrave-Batten and Tyler Calhoun know what it takes to be a champion. Both of these individuals have state and national accomplishments on their resumes. When asked what their plans are for the state finals, both explained that they plan to do their very best and just let the chips fall.

Batten, Region IX’s champion pole bender, says, “My plans are not to win again, although it would be nice; I really just want to be the best rodeo athlete I can be. I want clean, safe, and hopefully fast runs.” Batten and her famous pony, Socks, have high expectations since they are the reigning state and national champions. This duo has been through ups and downs over the past seven years of being in Batten’s barn. She and her grandpa trained the 19-second pole horse that has provided Batten with so many wonderful opportunities. Batten says that as long as she reminds herself to do what she knows how to do, the pressure and stress will not get between her and her goals.

Along with Batten, Region IX’s champion tie-down roper Tyler Calhoun has a similar approach to competing at the state finals. Calhoun is the reigning reserve state champion tie-down roper. After being just a few points shy of a state championship, Calhoun is actually not out for redemption. Calhoun says, “Last year, I roped my best and did everything I could on the calves I drew. The champion (Koby Douch) just out roped me.

I will go back this year with the same mindset of doing what I can on what I draw.” Calhoun gives credit to his equine partner, Wayne, and says, “He has his own personality, and we have grown together over the years. I like our TYLER CALHOUN chances as long as I continue to photo by Jennings work with him and keep him as

sharp as possible.”

Along with stellar event champions, Region IX will also bring an exceptional barrel racer to the state finals. Ansley Smith of Bedias, Texas, received the Yates Manahan Sportsmanship award at the end of Region IX’s season. Smith claims that having a positive attitude on both good and bad days is important to her.

Smith explains, “I think it can be easy to get caught up in the competition and forget to have fun, which was one of my goals this senior rodeo season.

In reality, we can only control so much of what happens inside of the arena but how we react to it is all our choice.” As Smith closes out her final year of youth rodeos, she is blessed to be able to do it alongside her twin brothers, Walker and Will Smith.

Smith has confidence that her horse, Ruby, will make consistent runs that hopefully get her to the short-go, where she will then “see where things

KYLIE HARGRAVE-BATTEN photo by Jennings

WALKER & WILL SMITH photo by Jennings

go from there.” Watching Ansley Smith compete at her last state finals will, without a doubt, be bittersweet for so many. But, Smith has proved herself to be an extraordinary individual. So as her youth rodeo door comes to a close, it will be exciting to see which ones continue to be opened for her.

Best of luck to Kiley, Tyler, Ansley, and all other state qualifiers! We will see ya’ll at the Taylor County Expo Center. God Bless!

47

100 % TEXAS. 100% TEXAN. From life-changing events to everyday miracles, we’re here to help you protect the people, places and things that matter most. For great rates and no-hassle service, contact us for a FREE 360 Review® today.

877.FARM.BUREAU TXFB-INS.COM

Coverage and discounts are subject to qualifications and policy terms, and may vary by situation. Life insurance products are offered through Southern Farm Bureau® Life Insurance Company. ©2021 Texas Farm Bureau Insurance Companies.

49

BRANDON JONES 194 CR 427 • Lorena, Texas 76655 254.833.0251 • crystal_jones1991@yahoo.com

STATE DIRECTORS / REGION OFFICERS

Faith & Family Ties 817.648.2728 • texasregion10@gmail.com

SECRETARY - STEPHANIE SHOEMAKER 6500 CR 1202 • Cleburne, Texas 76031

PRESIDENT - LARRY DOWELL 370 CR 220 • Marlin, Texas 76661 254.715.8814 • fivedowell@gmail.com

STUDENT OFFICERS PRESIDENT - SAIGE SEALY VICE PRESIDENT - MAKENZIE DOWELL SECRETARY - CHAINEY WEITZ

PERFORMANCE REPORT

T

By RILEY ARRINGTON

– Performance Reporter

he bright lights of Abilene will not bother the All Around Veterans or Rookies. Their family ties and faith are strong. They have plans on their year ending in Gillette, Wyoming.

Region X’s All Around Rookie Boy is none other than Gabe Williams of Comanche, Texas. He is a freshman at Ignite Christian Academy.

The William’s family is well known for their roping abilities. However, they had NO idea he (would be named) Rookie of the Year! When Gabe’s name was called out,

he and his family were surprised! The reason for the shock and surprise was that he was a one-event cowboy; only heeling for Mason Vaculin. Both Gabe and his sister, Hali Williams, recently won 5th at the US Finals in the #14. He and his dad, Speed Williams, have qualified for the WCRA finals in Corpus Christi. It is truly a family affair to help Gabe prepare and reach his full potential. If you know Gabe, you know he is a fun and positive energy to have around, as well. He will be riding his trusty steed, Romeo, in Abilene.

Mason Vaculin was our All Around Cowboy. He said his proudest moment of the year was roping his last team roping steer of his high school career with his partner, Gabe Williams. This accomplishment made them Region X Champion Team Ropers and gave them 2 All Arounds to celebrate. We have no doubt Mason Vaculin and Gabe Williams will be a team to watch in Abilene!

Another fun-loving, full of positive energy is our Cowgirl Rookie All Around, Spring Pennington. Spring is from Stephenville, Texas and a freshman at Huckabay High School.

While the rookie accomplishment was a surprise to Gabe, Spring set out to win Rookie of the Year. This was a goal she set after she narrowly missed it her 6th grade year in Jr. High. It was not a done deal till the dust settled on the last rodeo. She had to fight for this goal she wanted so badly. Spring’s tribe is made up of horses her family has raised and trained. Her mom, Sissy, helped her with the barrel GABE WILLIAMS

50

and pole horses, while Dad, Sean, is more involved in the training on the roping end.

She said her roping and goat tying stepped up the most this year helping her accomplish her goal. Kelsie Chace-Domer helped Spring improve her roping, winning the last rodeo with a 2.6, jumping her into the top ten! She loves to go fast in all areas of the arena. She qualified in all of her events; breakaway, barrels, poles, and goat tying. Watch out for

2021-2022 JUNIOR HIGH STATE DIRECTORS EXECUTIVE BOARD NATIONAL DIRECTOR JOHN SCHUENEMAN

979-268-4994

john.schueneman@gmail.com

PRESIDENT SCOTT SHOOK

281-437-8214

scottcshook@yahoo.com

1st VICE PRESIDENT ERIC HUSTON

817-368-0159

duaneoverton6113@gmail.com

2nd VICE PRESIDENT CHARLES HENRY EXEC BOARD AT LARGE DELEGATE 2 YEAR TERM: DELEGATE 2 YEAR TERM: DELEGATE 2 YEAR TERM: DELEGATE 1 YEAR TERM: DELEGATE 1 YEAR TERM:

CHAD CURRINGTON (SERVING 2ND YEAR) LANDON EHLINGER (SERVING 2ND YEAR) DAVID FREEMAN (SERVING 2ND YEAR) JUSTIN CLINTON WESTLEY WHITE

MARKETING HOLLY DELAUNE MACI MEYER

SECRETARY ANNE DOLLERY 979-412-2551 texasjuniorhighrodeo@gmail.com PRINCESS CORD DONNA ODOM, RACHEL ROBBINS, SARAH ROWLANDS

STATE DIRECTORS Region I MONROE TIMBERLAKE CASEY ARMSTRONG KYLE ANDERSON

SPRING PENNINGTON

Spring in Abilene as she continues to work to prepare.

Rainey Skelton was our All Around Cowgirl. She will be going to state in 4 events; team roping, goat tying, barrel racing, and breakaway. She was Region X’s Champion Barrel Racer, Reserve Champion Goat Tyer and Team Roper. She has enjoyed getting to spin one for a life long friend, Carson Sonnier, her senior year. She continues to prepare for state with plans on making a trip to Nationals.

They may be rookies in high school, but they are not showing any signs of fear as they head into the state finals! I’m sure their role models have helped make them confident in themselves.

SPRING PENNINGTON & GABE WILLIAMS

806-344-6846

Region II COY IRWIN CADE SCHNEEMANN KELLY WOOD 432-940-1136

Region III JOHN ROBERTSON 817-475-6377 SHANE CRISWELL 325-347-2656 WESLEY WHITE

monroetimberlake@gmail.com

woodrodeogirls@yahoo.com jrober5729@att.net kodyhorses@yahoo.com

Region IV JASEY DAVID TOBY ROGERS JR YOUNG

RAINEY SKELTON photo by Jennings

Region V RICHARD BALDWIN 936-332-5466 STACEY MARTIN 225-505-7645 CODY ODELL

Region VI ANN WENTZEL DENNY PATTERSON 832-330-3054 CLAY OHRT 361-571-1040

pattersondenny@gmail.com ohrt6@hotmail.com

Region VII DUSTIN FRANKUM ROSS IVEY DAN SIMPTON

dansimpton@yahoo.com

936-870-5779

r.baldwin147@icloud.com nextlevelgoattying@gmail.com

Region VIII ERIC DURBIN JUSTIN SPEER CASS RINGLESTEIN 210-885-0902 cass.oasis@yahoo.com

Region IX JARED ANDERSON BOBBY JACOBS BO WILLIAMS 979-220-5898 dwilliams@midsouthenergy.com

Region X TREY JOHNSON TRACY SWAN ZAC THOMPSON

STUDENT OFFICERS

MASON VACULIN photo by Jennings

PRESIDENT AVERY ARMSTRONG

VICE PRESIDENT KYE TOMLINSON

SECRETARY PAIGE WILLIAMS PRINCESS DALLEE MAE ROBISON

51

White Horse Christian Academy Education Tailored to Meet Your Child’s Individual Needs

W

hite Horse Christian Academy is an accredited private school that offers a wide variety of services for a wide variety of students. It is our desire to meet the educational needs of each individual student by providing curriculum, instruction, planning/grading and college preparation. Students can choose from a full time, part- time or distant learning plan.

We provide online instruction as well as classes in traditional text books. If you are interested in a different educational setting for your child, contact us and we will tell you about our program.

Vanessa Halford

B.S. Education, M. ED. Counseling / Psychology

254-592-1211 52

kimesranch.com 53

56th Annual Burleson County Youth Rodeo July 22-24th, 2022 Buddy & Edile Lightsey Covered Arena South Hwy 36 – Rodeo Drive, Caldwell, Texas 77836 60% Payback = 30% long go, 10 % short go, 60% average Stalls and hookups available when you arrive (no reservations)

25 Event Buckles | 6 All Around Saddles SHORT GO FOR TOP 10 IN EACH EVENT WILL BE @10:00AM ON SUNDAY, JULY 24TH

Free Admission to Rodeo Families and Public To Download an Entry Form Go to:

www.burlesoncountysaddleclub.com

54

55