WELCOME LETTER
WELCOME W
ith the 2020 rodeo season coming to an end, I think we can all agree it’s been an incredible season, to say the least. The leadership from both the PBR and PRCA CEOs has been outstanding despite the challenges of navigating through COVID-19. Rodeo athletes and stock contractors also faced many challenges as well: weekly testing, venue changes, and event cancellations. Despite all of this, the rodeo sport once again has proven why it is the “Toughest Sport on Dirt.” In this World Finals edition of American Buckle Magazine, we interview the 2020 PBR World Champion José Vitor Leme. After falling short in 2019 to PBR World Champion Jess Lockwood, Leme tells us how he managed to move past 2019 by relying on his faith and hard work ethic to get him over the top. If winning the 2020 PBR World Championship wasn’t big enough, he tells us he and his wife are expecting their first child in 2021. When ProRodeo fans hear the name Cooper, no doubt Hall of Famer Roy “Super Looper” Cooper comes to mind. However, his three sons are carrying on the family’s rodeo legacy, and one of them, Tie-down Roper and Steer Roper Tuf Cooper, is making a Hall of Fame career himself. This 12-time NFR Qualifier and 4-time World Champion is at the top of his career as he makes a bid for the 2020 World All-Around Champion title. We look at his accomplishments and how Tuf has managed to become one of the best in the business. We also look back up and down the 2020 PRCA season. These PRCA riders had to work harder than ever to prove themselves worthy of a spot in the forthcoming Wrangler National Finals Rodeo. It has been quite a year for everyone, including the usual favorites, the rising stars, and everyone in between.
In our last edition of American Buckle Magazine, the cowgirls of rodeo were making headlines as the World Champions Rodeo Alliance had partnered with the Professional Bull Riders to put on the very first Women’s Rodeo World Championship. After a change in venues from Las Vegas’s South Point Casino all the way to Arlington, TX, at the Will Rogers Memorial Center, the ladies showed up and showed why they deserve the spotlight. We cover the winners and highlights of this historic event. A special thank you to our sponsors and everyone who contributed to making this magazine such a great success. We are continuously making strides to be one of the best resources for rodeo fans across the globe. Lastly, I wanted to dedicate this edition to my father, Thomas W. Dize, who is turning 80 years old in a few days. Love you, Dad. Chris Dize Publisher American Buckle Magazine
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
INSIDE PBR CHAMPION JOSE VITOR LEME pg.8
JOSE VITOR LEME: PBR CHAMPION........................................................8 PBR BULL RIDER PROFILES.....................................................................13 PBR BULL PROFILES.................................................................................18 SPOTLIGHT ON: TUF COOPER.................................................................22 BAREBACK RIDER PROFILES..................................................................30 TEAM ROPER PROFILES..........................................................................34 2020 PRCA SEASON ROUND-UP.............................................................42 WPRA BARREL RACER PROFILES..........................................................50 STEER ROPING PROFILES.......................................................................52
WOMEN’S RODEO WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP pg.58
TIE-DOWN ROPER PROFILES..................................................................55 WOMEN’S RODEO WORLD CHAPIONSHIP.............................................58 STEER WRESTLING PROFILES...............................................................64 BULL RIDER PROFILES............................................................................68 SADDLE BRONC RIDER PROFILES..........................................................71 2021 PBR SCHEDULE...............................................................................74 2021 PRCA RODEO SCHEDULE...............................................................76 2021 WPRA BARREL RACING SCHEDULE.............................................80
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AMERICAN BUCKLE MAGAZINE | WORLD FINALS EDITION
MASTHEAD
1 Source Media, LLC 1524 South Prescott Avenue Clearwater, Florida 33756 Tel: (972) 740-9008 Email: info@americanbucklemagazine.com Website: www.americanbucklemagazine.com Follow us on social media: Facebook & Instagram @americanbucklemagazine President & Publisher: Chris Dize Graphic Designer: Big Bear Designs Senior Writer & Editor: Whitney Meers Contributing photos as follows: Photos Courtesy of the PRCA Credited Photographers: Mary Peters, James Phifer, Steve Gray, Clay Guardipee, Dan Hubble Photos Courtesy of WPRA Credited Photographers: Dan Hubble, Kenneth Springer, James Phifer Photos Courtesy of PBR Credited Photographer: Andy Watson/Bull Stock Media Bucking Stock News Copies available at $7.95 + $5.55 shipping & handling by Visiting our website: www.americanbucklemagazine.com
PRINTED IN THE USA Reproduction of any part of this publication in part or whole without written permission of American Buckle Magazine(ABM) is strictly prohibited. Š 2020, all rights reserved. All advertisements and/or editorials are accepted by ABM on the representation that the advertiser, its advertising company and/or the supplier of the editorials are authorized to publish the entire contents and subject matter thereof. The advertiser, its advertising company and/or the supplier of the editorial will defend, indemnify and hold ABM harmless from any liability resulting from any claims or suits led for libel, violation of privacy, plagiarism, copyright, or trademark infringement and any
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AMERICAN BUCKLE MAGAZINE | WORLD FINALS EDITION
other claims or suits that may rise out of publication of any such advertisements and/ or editorials. Press releases are expressly covered within the definition of editorials. No part of this publication may be reproduced without written permission from American Buckle Magazine. Readers are advised that use of the information contained is at their own risk. ABM assumes no responsibility for unsolicited editorial, photography or art submissions. In addition, no Terms and Conditions agreements for either solicited or unsolicited photography submissions are recognized by American Buckle Magazine unless signed and returned by the editor.
Photo By Mary Peters
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PROFESSIONAL BULL RIDERS FEATURE
Photo: Andy Watson / bullstockmedia.com
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AMERICAN BUCKLE MAGAZINE | WORLD FINALS EDITION
PBR WORLD CHAMPION JOSÉ VITOR LEME BLAZES NEW TRAILS IN RODEO
Photo: Andy Watson / bullstockmedia.com
PBR WORLD CHAMPION JOSÉ VITOR LEME BLAZES NEW TRAILS IN RODEO
J
osé Vitor Leme represents the future of the PBR. Humble about his success and dignified in his approach to the sport, the 24-year-old Brazilian rodeo star raises the bar for competition with his consistent high placements and unparalleled ride rates. Ever since he first arrived at the 2017 PBR World Finals as Photo: Andy Watson / bullstockmedia.com a relatively unknown rider, he’s shown time and again that he could go down in history as one of the greats. In just a few short years of competing in the US, he’s already achieved more than the majority of bull riders could hope to accomplish in a lifetime, including this year’s PBR World Champion title and $1,601,931.57 in qualified earnings throughout the 2020 season. “Everything is happening very fast in my career. I think this is all a consequence of how hard I work for it. It’s very crazy when I look back and see that I was a stranger so recently, and today I am at the top of the world ranking,” he said in an interview with American Buckle Magazine just ahead of the 2020 PBR World Finals.
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PROFESSIONAL BULL RIDERS FEATURE
Photo: Andy Watson / bullstockmedia.com
Leme took the rodeo world by storm after sweeping the 2017 PBR World Finals by going 6-for-6, the only rider to do so that year. Three of those rides were 90 points or above, including a 94.5 ride on Magic Train. It was clear he was destined for big things. In both 2018 and 2019, he ended the year with the number two spot in the world rankings. By 2020, he was more determined than ever to earn that coveted World Champion designation. In the interim, he managed to rack up an impressive list of sponsors that includes many of the top brands in rodeo, including Ariat, Monster Energy Drink, Yeti and Marquis Metal Works. His persistence, dedication and kindness have amassed the attention of a fervent fanbase that transcends international borders.
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Photo: Andy Watson / bullstockmedia.com
AMERICAN BUCKLE MAGAZINE | WORLD FINALS EDITION
Photo: Andy Watson / bullstockmedia.com
"IF GOD WANTS, ME TO BE THE WORLD CHAMPION THIS TIME." -JOSÉ VITOR LEME
HUMBLE BEGINNINGS IN BRAZIL Unlike many pros that begin training to ride last two years, trying to ride my bulls and catch bulls at a young age, Leme didn’t even get on a points on them and, if God wants, me to be the bull until 18 years old. Before that experience, he world champion this time.” was a semi-professional soccer player. He quickly It appears his faith in God’s plan paid off. After discovered that his strong balancing abilities could several years of close calls, he finally earned the also transfer to success in bull riding, making him a PBR World Champion title after a career-best natural rodeo athlete. 95.75-point ride on Woopaa in Round 3 of the It wasn’t long before he began competing in World Finals ensured no other bull rider could PBR events in Brazil. It seems his experience earn enough points to outrank him. Although there prepared him well for the rigorous buckoffs in Round 4 and Round 5 precluded an competition on the international PBR stage, with event win, the Round 3 ride was the highestits home in the US. marked ride of the event and the fourth highest in “I rode on a lot of types of bulls in Brazil before PBR World Finals history. coming here,” he said. “I think this may have helped A World Champion title is a particularly me a lot in adapting when I came. The biggest exceptional accomplishment in what has been, difference is the style of the bulls, in my opinion.” for people everywhere, an extremely challenging In the subsequent years, he proved time and year. Even the PBR itself suffered setbacks in light again his success was no fluke. He quickly showed of the coronavirus pandemic, including several the world he was an expert rider who, when in postponements, cancellations and a change of control, showed a remarkable command of the bull venue for its World Finals event. But none of that below him. stopped Leme from ending the regular season with However, as is the nature of the rodeo, luck more than half a million in earnings. won’t always be on a bull rider’s side. While he was “This pandemic has affected the whole world. It on track to win the PBR World Champion title in has been very difficult for everyone,” Leme said. 2019, he found himself edged out by Jess Photo: Andy Watson / bullstockmedia.com Lockwood, who is perhaps Leme’s toughest competition in all of rodeo. Lockwood had an uncannily strong run in the 2019 PBR World Finals, while Leme wasn’t quite able to perform to the top of his abilities. And, with so much on the line at the year’s biggest rodeo event, even a single misstep can cost a rider a title. “The finals are always a surprise. It’s really hard to run all year riding well, and in the last event of the year, you lose a whole year of hard work,” Leme said ahead of the big event. “I’m just trying what I’ve tried in the
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PROFESSIONAL BULL RIDERS FEATURE
Photo: Andy Watson / bullstockmedia.com
He thanks God for tempering the virus and allowing him to continue working despite the circumstances. In addition to his 95.75-point ride on Woopaa at the World Finals, some other highlights of Leme’s 2020 season included a 94-point ride on the PBR’s #1 ranked bull, Chiseled, and a 94.25-point ride on the #2 ranked bull, Smooth Operator. “I particularly like these types of bulls. They’re bulls that, if you manage to beat, you’ll surely have big numbers on them,” he said. “I always try to concentrate to the maximum and give my best.” Only two other riders managed to hang on to Chiseled in the 2020 regular season, and only one other managed to ride Smooth Operator. The fact that Leme has managed both is a feat in and of itself. Still, to those following his career, it’s unsurprising Leme would be the one to dominate the best two bulls in the PBR. With the World Champion title secured, Leme can now look forward to his next big milestone: The birth of his first child. The new addition to his family gives him even more reason to continue to vie for excellence. “Everything is very new for me. It will be my first child, and I’m really looking forward to it for sure,” he said. “Now, I start to think not only about my future but also about his future, too. I am very happy for that. For sure, he will come in the best moment of my career.” During the offseason, he’ll also look forward to caring for his animals. In addition to being a PBR athlete, he’s also a stock contractor. “I started owning bulls because I wanted to have bulls at home to practice. And with that, I ended up falling in love, starting to breed young bulls and selling them,” he said. “It’s really fun. My dad also does it in Brazil, too, so I think I’ll keep doing it after I retire.” 12
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Photo: Andy Watson / bullstockmedia.com
But retirement likely won’t be anytime soon as Leme’s career continues to heat up. The next year will open up even more possibilities for Leme. There will always be more records to break, more legendary bulls to ride and more opportunities to break rodeo barriers. Even in light of all his accomplishments and notoriety, Leme remains surprisingly humble. “I always say to all people that they must put God first in everything they do in life,” he said. “I believe that this is the key to my success — waiting and trusting his time but never failing to do your part. Work hard to deserve the glory. If you do it, for sure, sooner or later, God will honor all efforts.” On November 15th, 2020, José Vitor Leme secured the 2020 PBR World Champion title at the 2020 PBR World Finals: Unleash The Beast at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, TX. He earned a total of 1,573 points throughout the 2020 PBR season and took home $1,601,931.27 . The author interviewed Leme prior to the World Finals event.
PROFESSIONAL BULL RIDERS PROFIELS
JOSÉ VITOR
LEME 2020 PBR STATS
HOMETOWN: RIBAS DO RIO PARDO, MS HEIGHT: 5’6 WEIGHT: 140
RANK: 1 RIDES: 64 ATTEMPTS: 98 RIDE %: 65 WINS: 17 POINTS: 1,573
JOÃO RICARDO
VIEIRA 2020 PBR STATS
HOMETOWN: ITATINGA, MS HEIGHT: 5’6 WEIGHT: 163
RANK: 2 RIDES: 34 ATTEMPTS: 70 RIDE %: 48 WINS: 4 POINTS: 916.91
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PROFESSIONAL BULL RIDERS PROFILES
Photo By Andy Watson/Bullstockmedia.com
KAIQUE
PACHECO 2020 PBR STATS
HOMETOWN: ITATIBA, SP HEIGHT: 5’8 WEIGHT: 145
RANK: 6 RIDES: 34 ATTEMPTS: 70 RIDE %: 48 WINS: 1 POINTS: 685.50
DAYLON
SWEARINGEN 2020 PBR STATS
HOMETOWN: PIFFARD, NY HEIGHT: 5’6 WEIGHT: 150
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RANK: 9 RIDES: 33 ATTEMPTS: 92 RIDE %: 35 WINS: 3 POINTS: 678.66
AMERICAN BUCKLE MAGAZINE | WORLD FINALS EDITION
JESS
LOCKWOOD 2020 PBR STATS
HOMETOWN: VOLBORG, MT HEIGHT: 5’5 WEIGHT: 130
RANK: 5 RIDES: 26 ATTEMPTS: 53 RIDE %: 49 WINS: 1 POINTS: 696
LUCAS
DIVINO 2020 PBR STATS
HOMETOWN: NOVA CRIXAS GOIAS HEIGHT: 5’8 WEIGHT: 160
RANK: 11 RIDES: 33 ATTEMPTS: 76 RIDE %: 43 WINS: 2 POINTS: 571.50
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PBR BULL PROFILES
SMOOTH
OPERATOR 2020 PBR STATS
DAKOTA RODEO / JULIE ROSEN / CLAY STRUVE / CHAD BERGER
OUTS: 17 RIDES: 2 BUCK OFF %: 88.24 SEASON AVG.: 45.40 WORLD AVG.: 46.13
CHISELED 2020 PBR STATS
FLINN / D&H CATTLE COMPANY
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OUTS: 15 RIDES: 4 BUCK OFF %: 73.33 SEASON AVG.: 45.55 WORLD AVG.: 46.03
AMERICAN BUCKLE MAGAZINE | WORLD FINALS EDITION
HOCUS
POCUS 2020 PBR STATS
D&H CATTLE / ALMAND / LONE STAR / OUTLAW
OUTS: 17 RIDES: 3 BUCK OFF %: 82.35 SEASON AVG.: 45.06 WORLD AVG.: 45.43
I’M LEGIT
TOO 2020 PBR STATS
HART CATTLE CO / HALE / BLOYD
OUTS: 18 RIDES: 5 BUCK OFF %: 72.22 SEASON AVG.: 44.71 WORLD AVG.: 45.18
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PBR BULL PROFILES
SPOTTED
DEMON 2020 PBR STATS
JULIO MORENO / DALLAS SCHOTT
OUTS: 9 RIDES: 3 BUCK OFF %: 66.67 SEASON AVG.: 44.78 WORLD AVG.: 44.78
CANADIAN
MIST 2020 PBR STATS
TNT BUCKING BULLS / HART CATTLE CO.
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OUTS: 11 RIDES: 1 BUCK OFF %: 90.91 SEASON AVG.: 44.48 WORLD AVG.: 44.58
AMERICAN BUCKLE MAGAZINE | WORLD FINALS EDITION
EXCLUSIVE SPOTLIGHT
TUF COOPER THE FOUR-TIME PRCA WORLD CHAMPION IS LIVING UP TO THE FAMILY NAME
W
Photo: Clay Guardipee
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AMERICAN BUCKLE MAGAZINE | WORLD FINALS EDITION
hen Tuf Cooper chose to follow in his father’s footsteps, he was well aware he had some big boots to fill. It’s tough for anyone to carry on a family legacy, but it’s especially tough when your father is ProRodeo Hall of Famer Roy “Super Looper” Cooper, himself the son of roping pioneer Dale “Tuffy” Cooper. As such, Roy’s three sons, Clif, Clint, and Tuf, were born into rodeo royalty — meaning they also have to contend with the high expectations that come along with the Cooper family name. It’s no exaggeration to say that Tuf Cooper was born to rope and that rodeo runs in his blood. Bearing his grandfather’s namesake, the 30-year-old cowboy already has four world champion titles under his belt, which puts him halfway to his father’s eight. This year, he’ll head into the Wrangler National Finals Rodeo (NFR) ranked second in tie-down roping and ranked sixth in steer roping, which has already concluded
Photo: James Phifer
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EXCLUSIVE SPOTLIGHT Photo: Clay Guardipee
its season with the Clem McSpadden National Finals Steer Roping (NFSR). He’s currently the all-around world leader with $111,450.14 in earnings, though solid NFR placements from third-ranked Stetson Wright could jeopardize Tuf’s chance at a second all-around title in 2020. Regardless, Tuf has already proven himself to be a star in the rodeo scene. While his brothers are also competitive ropers — all three of them qualified for the NFR in tie-down roping in 2010 and 2011 — Tuf’s consistent performances make him the most likely of the three to surpass their father’s accomplishments. His long list of sponsors includes American Hat Company, Rock & Roll Denim, Essentia Water and MGM Grand. Growing up in the most famous family in rodeo, it was clear early on that Tuf was destined for big things. He won his first all-around title at just 6 years old, at a Junior Rodeo Association event in 1996. Upon turning 18 and meeting the PRCA’s minimum age requirement, he officially joined the organization in 2008. He then qualified for the NFR World Finals event that same year, the first of twelve qualifications to date. Tuf went on to win the world champion title in tie-down roping in 2011, 2012, and 2014 and the all-around title in 2017, which he earned with $341,560 in tow.
“THAT’S BASICALLY HOW THE COWBOY LIVES, LOCKDOWN TO HIS DUTIES AND UNAWARE OF WHAT THE FUTURE HOLDS.” TUF COOPER
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In 2013, at only 23 years old, he became the youngest cowboy ever to earn more than one million dollars in the PRCA, though bull rider Sage Kimszey later broke this record in 2016. Tuf also holds two NFR tie-down roping average titles, earning the best average time in 2009 and 2014. However, his family name alone can’t account for his success. Though he certainly inherited his father’s talent, he admits it takes a tremendous amount of hard work and dedication to hone his skill. Cooper is remarkably driven, as is evidenced by his choice to compete in multiple PRCA roping categories. In some ways, he represents the perfect cowboy archetype: focused, driven, and loyal. But this drive for success doesn’t mean he can’t have fun, too. To watch him laugh alongside friends and family is to see him in his element. With a positive attitude and a smile that could charm the boots off a snake, his fun-loving disposition makes him a personal hero for many within the rodeo scene. Fans flock to see him not just for his skill but also because he’s a natural showman who cherishes his moments in the spotlight. His knack for cracking a solid joke or dishing out a casual compliment renders him a role model. Young ropers everywhere strive to emulate him.
Photo: Clay Guardipee
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EXCLUSIVE SPOTLIGHT
Photo: James Phifer
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AMERICAN BUCKLE MAGAZINE | WORLD FINALS EDITION
Photo: Clay Guardipee
What’s clear in every interaction is how much he cares — about horses, the people around him, and the rodeo in general. He shows a remarkable level of unmistakable passion. Even in his losses, he approaches his competitors with class and tact. Amid difficult challenges such as the COVID-19 pandemic, he retains a positive outlook. “We are on lockdown and unaware,” he said in a recent interview with MontanaSports. com. “That’s basically how the cowboy lives, Photo: Clay Guardipee lockdown to his duties and unaware of what the future holds.” It’s an apt metaphor, especially concerning his rodeo experiences, where unpredictability is par for the course. Still, despite this upbeat spirit, he’s also extremely competitive. Tuf’s stiffest competition is his brother-in-law, Trevor Brazile. But perhaps the fact that his main competitor is also one of his greatest allies is what pushes Tuf to continue to push the envelope in everything he does. Brazile holds an astounding 26 world titles, including a recent win at the 2020 NFSR and the 2020 PRCA World Champion Steer Roping title. Tuf considers Brazile a mentor, and the two are known to practice together and travel together. Working alongside Brazile would be any roper’s dream, and Tuf doesn’t take their relationship for granted. Brazile is married to Tuf’s sister, Shada, and has had an immeasurable influence on Tuf’s career. In fact, Brazile was one of the people who encouraged Tuf to expand his horizons by competing in more than one PRCA event. This, in turn, allowed Tuf to start pursuing all-around titles. The two share a dedicated work ethic, which is perhaps what continually pushes both of them to make their way to the top of the rankings charts.
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EXCLUSIVE SPOTLIGHT Even in light of his success, Tuf remains humble. Rather than claiming full credit for his accomplishments, he readily acknowledges the advantages he’s had throughout his rodeofilled childhood. His earliest memories involve horses and ropes. From the time he was 16 years old, he had a plan to make it big as a roper. Homeschooling allowed him to focus his efforts on practicing even more, giving him the opportunity to spend all of his time outside of coursework on mastering his craft. He cherishes this upbringing and draws on it to drive him toward superior performance. He also puts his trust in God with the knowledge that, whether he wins or loses, it’s all part of a bigger plan. As a man of his faith, he respects that God is ultimately in control of the outcome. It’s easy to admire Cooper as a loyal friend and dedicated family man. His wife, Tiffany, is a fashion icon, photographer, and founder of Fashion Posse. They live in Decatur, TX, and together, they make for a picture-perfect couple. But Tuf’s concept of family extends far beyond his immediate circle. Rather, he considers the entire rodeo community his family.
All eyes remain on Tuf as he continues to elevate what it means to be a rodeo athlete. With his continued pursuit of multiple PRCA events — a grueling prospect in and of itself — he’s no longer competing against his brother-inlaw or attempting to rival his father’s feats. Instead, he’s competing against himself. If his past performance has proven anything, it’s that he’ll continue to push himself as far as his talent allows, seeking better times, better placements, and more thrills. It seems he’s destined for even more success as he continues to compete for glory. There’s no doubt about it: Tuf is one of the best ropers in all of rodeo. He shows no signs of slowing down.
Photo: Clay Guardipee
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PRCA BAREBACK RIDER PROFILES
TIM
O’CONNELL PRCA STATS
HOMETOWN: ZWINGLE, IA AGE: 29
EVENTS: BAREBACK RIDING JOINED PRCA: 2012 2020 EARNINGS: $122,927 WORLD TITLES WON: 3 (2016-18) 2020 WORLD STANDINGS: 1ST WRANGLER NFR QUALIFICATIONS: 7 (2014-20)
KAYCEE
FEILD PRCA STATS
HOMETOWN: GENOLA, UT AGE: 33
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EVENTS: BAREBACK RIDING JOINED PRCA: 2007 2020 EARNINGS: $94,892 WORLD TITLES WON: 4 (2011-14)) 2020 WORLD STANDINGS: 2ND WRANGLER NFR QUALIFICATIONS: 11 (2008-15, 2018-20)
AMERICAN BUCKLE MAGAZINE | WORLD FINALS EDITION
ORIN
LARSEN PRCA STATS
HOMETOWN: INGLIS, MB AGE: 29
EVENTS: BAREBACK RIDING JOINED PRCA: 2010 2020 EARNINGS: $81,391 WORLD TITLES WON: 0 2019 WORLD STANDINGS: 3RD WRANGLER NFR QUALIFICATIONS: 6
TILDEN
HOOPER PRCA STATS
HOMETOWN: CARTHAGE, TX AGE: 32
EVENTS: BAREBACK RIDING JOINED PRCA: 2006 2020 EARNINGS: $77,549 WORLD TITLES WON: 0 2020 WORLD STANDINGS: 4TH WRANGLER NFR QUALIFICATIONS: 7 (2008-09, 2011, 2014, 2018-2020)
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PRCA BAREBACK RIDER PROFILES
CLAYTON
BIGLOW PRCA STATS
HOMETOWN: CLEMENTS, CA AGE: 25
EVENTS: BAREBACK RIDING JOINED PRCA: 2015 2020 EARNINGS: $70,973 WORLD TITLES WON: 1 (2019) 2020 WORLD STANDINGS: 5TH WRANGLER NFR QUALIFICATIONS: 5 (2016-2020)
JAMIE
HOWLETT PRCA STATS
HOMETOWN: RAPID CITY, SD AGE: 30
32
EVENTS: BAREBACK RIDING JOINED PRCA: 2015 2020 EARNINGS: $66,583 WORLD TITLES WON: 0 2020 WORLD STANDINGS: 6TH WRANGLER NFR QUALIFICATIONS: 1
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PRCA TEAM ROPER PROFILES
LUKE
BROWN PRCA STATS
HOMETOWN: ROCK HILL, SC AGE: 46
EVENTS: TEAM ROPING (HEADERS) JOINED PRCA: 1998 2020 EARNINGS: $89,665 WORLD TITLES WON: 0 2020 WORLD STANDINGS: 1ST WRANGLER NFR QUALIFICATIONS: 13 (2008-2020)
CLAY
SMITH PRCA STATS
HOMETOWN: BROKEN BOW, OK AGE: 29
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EVENTS: TEAM ROPING (HEADERS) JOINED PRCA: 2012 2020 EARNINGS: $82,068 WORLD TITLES WON: 2 (2018-19) 2020 WORLD STANDINGS: 2ND WRANGLER NFR QUALIFICATIONS: 6 (2015-2020)
AMERICAN BUCKLE MAGAZINE | WORLD FINALS EDITION
CODY
SNOW PRCA STATS
HOMETOWN: LOS OLIVOS, CA
AGE: 24
EVENTS: TEAM ROPING (HEADERS) JOINED PRCA: 2015 2020 EARNINGS: $69,228 WORLD TITLES WON: 0 2019 WORLD STANDINGS: 3RD WRANGLER NFR QUALIFICATIONS: 5 (2016-2020)
COLBY
LOVELL PRCA STATS
HOMETOWN: MADISONVILLE, TX AGE: 33
EVENTS: TEAM ROPING (HEADERS) JOINED PRCA: 2006 2020 EARNINGS: $65,509 WORLD TITLES WON: 0 2020 WORLD STANDINGS: 4TH WRANGLER NFR QUALIFICATIONS: 7
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PRCA TEAM ROPER PROFILES
DUSTIN
EGUSQUIZA PRCA STATS
HOMETOWN: MARIANNA, FL AGE: 25
EVENTS: TEAM ROPING (HEADERS) JOINED PRCA: 2016 2020 EARNINGS: $64,176 WORLD TITLES WON: 0 2020 WORLD STANDINGS: 5TH WRANGLER NFR QUALIFICATIONS: 3
ANDREW
WARD PRCA STATS
HOMETOWN: EDMOND, OK AGE: 30
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EVENTS: TEAM ROPING (HEADERS) JOINED PRCA: 2013 2020 EARNINGS: $63,872 WORLD TITLES WON: 0 2020 WORLD STANDINGS: 6TH WRANGLER NFR QUALIFICATIONS: 1
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JOSEPH
HARRISON PRCA STATS
HOMETOWN: MARIETTA, OK
AGE: 33
EVENTS: TEAM ROPING (HEELERS) JOINED PRCA: 2007 2020 EARNINGS: $70,299 WORLD TITLES WON: 0 2019 WORLD STANDINGS: 1ST WRANGLER NFR QUALIFICATIONS: 4 (2017-2020)
JADE
CORKILL PRCA STATS
HOMETOWN: FALLON, NV AGE: 33
EVENTS: TEAM ROPING (HEELERS) JOINED PRCA: 2005 2020 EARNINGS: $69,704 WORLD TITLES WON: 3 2020 WORLD STANDINGS: 2ND WRANGLER NFR QUALIFICATIONS: 11
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PRCA TEAM ROPER PROFILES
BUDDY
HAWKINS PRCA STATS
HOMETOWN: COLUMBUS, KS AGE: 34
EVENTS: TEAM ROPING (HEELERS) JOINED PRCA: 2011 2020 EARNINGS: $63,872 WORLD TITLES WON: 0 2020 WORLD STANDINGS: 3RD WRANGLER NFR QUALIFICATIONS: 3
JAKE
LONG PRCA STATS
HOMETOWN: COFFEYVILLE, KS AGE: 36
38
EVENTS: TEAM ROPING (HEELERS) JOINED PRCA: 2003 2020 EARNINGS: $63,227 WORLD TITLES WON: 0 2020 WORLD STANDINGS: 4TH WRANGLER NFR QUALIFICATIONS: 10
AMERICAN BUCKLE MAGAZINE | WORLD FINALS EDITION
JUNIOR
NOGUEIRA PRCA STATS
HOMETOWN: PRESIDENTE PRUDENTE, SP
AGE: 30
EVENTS: TEAM ROPING (HEELERS) JOINED PRCA: 2014 2020 EARNINGS: $58,084 WORLD TITLES WON: 1 2019 WORLD STANDINGS: 5TH WRANGLER NFR QUALIFICATIONS: 7
TRAVIS
GRAVES PRCA STATS
HOMETOWN: JAY, OK AGE: 36
EVENTS: TEAM ROPING (HEELERS) JOINED PRCA: 2002 2020 EARNINGS: $56,514 WORLD TITLES WON: 0 2020 WORLD STANDINGS: 6TH WRANGLER NFR QUALIFICATIONS: 12
WORLD FINALS EDITION | AMERICAN BUCKLE MAGAZINE
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2020 PRCA SEASON
2020 PRCA
SEASON ROUND-UP
eo A Wild Ride to the Wrangler National Finals Rod
T
his year may go down as the wildest one in PRCA history. PRCA riders had to work harder than ever to prove themselves worthy of a spot in the forthcoming Wrangler National Finals Rodeo (Wrangler NFR). COVID-19 concerns meant balancing logistical challenges, competing in crowd-free venues, and exercising social distancing precautions in the backdrop of a global pandemic. Still, rodeo’s best and brightest stars kicked the dirt off their boots in proper cowboy form to earn their coveted spots at the prestigious finale event. The event will now take place in Arlington, TX at Globe Life Field, after a pandemic-related venue change. Despite such an unusual season, the riders and their crews kept fans’ adrenaline pumping in an action-filled series of rodeo events. It’s been quite a year for everyone, including the usual favorites, the rising stars, and everyone in between. Now, with the Wrangler NFR right around the corner, it’s time to look back at the PRCA’s 2020 regular season in preparation for the season’s grand finale event.
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AMERICAN BUCKLE MAGAZINE | WORLD FINALS EDITION
Photo: Alexander Connor
Photo: Alexander Connor
WORLD FINALS EDITION | AMERICAN BUCKLE MAGAZINE
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2020 PRCA SEASON
Bareback Riding With $122,927.22 in 2020 PRCA earnings, Tim O’Connell holds the regular-season lead in bareback riding. The threetime world champion looks poised to reclaim this title after placing only third in 2019. It will be tough to beat him as long as he performs as consistently in the Wrangler NFR as he has over the past few years. O’Connell claimed second place in the Wrangler NFR bareback riding average in 2019 after three consecutive wins between 2016-2018 (split with Stephen Dent in 2018), coinciding with his world champion titles. His 2020 regular season earnings placed him more than $28,000 above second-place Kaycee Feild. Still, it’s a rivalry for the ages as Feild sets out to try to reclaim the world champion title he held for four consecutive years from 2011 to 2014. He also won the NFR average each of those years. Third-place Orin Larson also has plenty to prove after taking home second in the world standings in 2019. Larsen has yet to claim a world championship title or an NFR average title. He’s no doubt hungry to show the world that this is his year to shine.
Saddle Bronc Second-place Ryder Wright will have a tough time ahead if he wants to defeat Wyatt Casper for the saddle bronc world champion title at the Wrangler NFR. With regular season earnings of $145,138.01, Casper fought hard to earn the top spot in the regular season. With consistent rides throughout 2020, including wins at The American (Arlington, TX), the World’s Oldest Rodeo (Prescott, AZ), and the Kit Carson County Pro Rodeo (Burlington, CO), all eyes are on Casper in what looks to be his best season ever. But all it would take is a strong Wrangler NFR showing from Wright to bump Casper from the lead. Or, both could face an upset by Brody Cress, who won the Wrangler NFR saddle bronc average with 840.5 points on 10 head last year. A repeat performance could be enough to propel him to his first world champion title. His 2019 Wrangler NFR earnings alone totaled $180,500, which was enough to secure him second place in the world standings that year with a total of $286,372.
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AMERICAN BUCKLE MAGAZINE | WORLD FINALS EDITION
Steer Wrestling Bull Riding It’s no surprise that Sage Kimzey holds the regular-season lead in Bull Riding. Kimzey stole the show last year, earning both the world champion title for the sixth year in a row and his third NFR average title. He topped off the year with a record $480,797 in earnings. But if either Ky Hamilton or Boudreaux Campbell claim a big win at the Wrangler NFR, they could easily knock Kimzey out of the lead. Less than $10,000 stands between 2020’s top three PRCA bull riding pros as of the end of the 2020 regular season. With so much at stake during the main event, a single buck off could be the deciding factor. Hamilton made a strong showing with numerous PRCA event wins this year, including a victory at the Spanish Fork Fiesta Days Rodeo (Spanish Fork, UT). These collective wins also make the strongest candidate for Resistol Rookie of the Year in bull riding. It all goes to show that no matter what happens at the finals, this young rider has a big future ahead of him. However, Campbell is indeed a worthy challenger as well. Notable wins this season include the Matagorda County Stampede Xtreme Bulls & Broncs (Bay City, TX) and the San Antonio Stock Show & Rodeo Xtreme Bulls (San Antonio, TX), a win worth $15,000.
Longtime Steer Wrestling pro Matt Reeves had an excellent year, earning the regular-season title with in qualified earnings $86,944.23. Headed into the Wrangler NFR, he’s a solid $25,000 ahead of second-place Jacob Talley. Reeves is on a hot streak. In 2019, he won the Wrangler NFR average to secure sixth in the world standings. This year’s wins at The American, the Texas (Waco) Circuit Finals, the San Angelo (TX) Rodeo, and Cave Creek (AZ) Rodeo Days contributed to a well-deserved lead. Talley, who earned only 50th place in the 2019 world standings, made his presence known this year on the steer wrestling scene as he climbed the PRCA ranks. Last year’s world champion Ty Erickson is out of the picture this time around, having failed to qualify for the Wrangler NFR in the 2020 season.
WORLD FINALS EDITION | AMERICAN BUCKLE MAGAZINE
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2020 PRCA SEASON
Tie-Down Roping After some incredible early-season victories, including a hefty $600,000 win at The American that contributed $50,000 to his 2020 qualified PRCA earnings, it’ll be tough to upstage Shad Mayfield for the 2020 world champion title. He leads the regular season with $156,668.36 in eligible PRCA winnings, more than double second-place rider Tuf Cooper’s $67,189.04. Last year’s Wrangler NFR Tie-Down Roping average winner and 2020 world champion Haven Meged is currently hot on Cooper’s trail with $66,747.95.
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AMERICAN BUCKLE MAGAZINE | WORLD FINALS EDITION
Steer Roping The Clem McSpadden National Finals Steer Roping took place at the Kansas Star Arena in Mulvane, KS, on Nov. 7-6. It would be an event to remember as longtime PCRA pro Trevor Brazile earned his eighth world champion title. The stakes were high in the final round, when Brazile stood second to Scott Snedecor in both the event average and the steer roping world standings. But when Snedecor failed to rope and registered a no time, Brazile bounced into action by roping his steer in 12.4 seconds, making him the only competitor to tie down ten at the event. The event win, which amounted to $69,072, allowed Brazile to claim the world champion title with $117,459.33. Snedecor ended the year as the runner up with $110,779.41, while Vin Fisher took third with $105,513.71. Photo: Clay Guardipee
Team Roping (Headers and Heelers) Luke Brown leads the pack in team roping headers at $89,664.97 in earnings in the 2020 season. With more than $20,000 setting him apart from second-place header Clay Smith, this could be Brown’s chance to win his first world champion title. Notably, Brown won The American with heeler Joseph Harrison as his partner. Harrison currently leads team roping heelers with $70,299 in season earnings. However, Brown has most recently partnered with heeler Patrick Smith, presently ranked 13th in season earnings for heelers. There’s a much slimmer margin between the secondand third-ranked team roping headers. Smith earned $69,703.55 in the 2020 regular season while Cody Snow earned $69,228.06. Smith partnered with team roping heeler Jade Corkhill throughout the 2020 season, who ended the regular season just behind Harrison with $69,704 in earnings. Snow earned some solid placements throughout the season with Junior Nogueira as well as with Paul Eaves. Nogueira and Eaves are ranked fifth and eighth as heelers, respectively.
Photo: James Phifer
BARREL RACING The race for first place in regular-season earnings came down to a showdowdown between longtime riders Brittany Pozzi Tonozzi and Hailey Kinsel Lockwood. While Lockwood earned $78,460.86 throughout 39 events, Tonozzi edged her out with $86,724.83 for the regular-season lead throughout 41 events. Still, the finals are fair game for anyone to spring into the lead. Last year, consistent runs from Ivy Conrado-Saebens earned her the NFR title and second place in overall earnings. However, Conrado-Saebens failed to qualify for the Wrangler NFR this year, leaving an opportunity for another underdog to try to unseat mainstays Tonozzi and Lockwood at the finals event.
WORLD FINALS EDITION | AMERICAN BUCKLE MAGAZINE
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2020 PRCA SEASON
Breakaway Roping This year, the Wrangler NFR will introduce the National Finals of Breakaway Roping, bringing some new faces to the big event. Utah native Cassie Bahe took the lead in the regular season with $26,524.14 in earnings, including the top prize at the Fort Worth Stock Show and Rodeo’s inaugural breakaway event in February. But 19-time breakaway world champion Jackie Crawford will be roping for two when she participates in the national finals event with a baby on the way in the near future. Crawford currently holds second place in earnings with $21,649.11. A big win at the Wrangler NFR will give her yet another reason to celebrate.
All-Around Representing the most talented and versatile cowboys in the PRCA, the all-around standings celebrate the rodeo athletes who earned the most PRCA money while competing in more than one event. At the conclusion of the Clem McSpadden National Finals Steer Roping event, Tuf Cooper held first in the all-around category, having solidified his place after earning more than $16,000 that event for a total of $111,450.14 in qualified earnings. Cooper, who competed in steer roping and tiedown roping in 2020, was just ahead of his brother-in-law, Trevor Brazile. In 2020, Brazile competed in steer roping, team roping (headers) and tie-down roping for a total of $94,803.20 in qualified earnings. But, the all-around title will ultimately come down to the Wrangler NFR. At the big event in Arlington, Cooper can earn widen his lead with a strong placement in tie-down roping. Still, it’ll be tough to defeat last year’s all-around world champion Stetson Wright, who will compete in both saddle bronc riding and bull riding. At the end of the 2020 PRCA season, Wright was ranked #13 in saddle bronc and #8 in bull riding. Last year, he made history as the first rookie to win the all-around world championship title. Brazile, who is unranked in both tie-down roping and team roping (headers), won’t be competing at the NFR. Cooper surely won’t let Wright claim the title without a fight. The all-around title looks to be a heck of a showdown between two one of rodeo’s best riders and one of its best ropers.
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AMERICAN BUCKLE MAGAZINE | WORLD FINALS EDITION
Get Ready for the Grand Finale Even amid such a challenging season, rodeo’s toughest athletes showed their true grit and determination. Each of these individuals, along with dozens of other Wrangler NFRqualified riders and ropers, proved they had what it takes to persevere in the face of adversity. And, if years past are any indications, this season will feature no shortage of stunning upsets, underdog victories, and outrageous antics. These cowboys and cowgirls are used to facing life’s ups and downs head-on, making for an incredible rodeo experience. It’s with that spirit in mind that fans can look forward to an explosive finale at Globe Life Field in Arlington, TX. The Wrangler NFR takes place from Dec. 3 through Dec. 12, 2020.
This article reflects the most recent PRCA rankings and information as of Nov. 13, 2020. Rankings are unofficial until confirmed by the PRCA. Up-to-date PRCA rankings data is available at www.prorodeo.com/standings.
WPRA BARREL RACER PROFILES
HAILEY KINSEL
LOCKWOOD WPRA STATS
HOMETOWN: COTULLA, TX
BORN: OCT. 3, 1994
EVENTS: BARREL RACING JOINED WPRA: 2015 2020 EARNINGS: $78,461 WORLD TITLES WON: 1 2020 WORLD STANDINGS: 2ND WRANGLER NFR QUALIFICATIONS: 4
BRITTANY POZZI
TONOZZI WPRA STATS
HOMETOWN: LAMPASAS, TX
50
BORN: FEB. 9, 1984
EVENTS: BARREL RACING JOINED WPRA: 2003 2020 EARNINGS: $86,725 WORLD TITLES WON: 2 2020 WORLD STANDINGS: 1ST WRANGLER NFR QUALIFICATIONS: 14
AMERICAN BUCKLE MAGAZINE | WORLD FINALS EDITION
NELLIE
MILLER WPRA STATS
HOMETOWN: COTTONWOOD, CA
EVENTS: BARREL RACING JOINED WPRA: 2008 2019 EARNINGS: $235,899
BORN: FEB. 14, 1988
WORLD TITLES WON: 1 2020 WORLD STANDINGS: 5TH WRANGLER NFR QUALIFICATIONS: 4
LISA
LOCKHART WPRA STATS
HOMETOWN: WOLF POINT, MONT.
EVENTS: BARREL RACING JOINED WPRA: 1993 2020 EARNINGS: $40,904
BORN: NOV. 11, 1965
WORLD TITLES WON: 0 2020 WORLD STANDINGS: 13TH WRANGLER NFR QUALIFICATIONS: 14
SHALI
LORD WPR STATS
HOMETOWN: GUYMON, OK
EVENTS: BARREL RACING JOINED WPRA: 2003 2019 EARNINGS: $173,391
BORN: NOV. 12, 1980
WORLD TITLES WON: 0 2019 WORLD STANDINGS: 9TH WRANGLER NFR QUALIFICATIONS: 2
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PRCA STEER ROPER PROFILES
TREVOR
BRAZILE PRCA STATS
HOMETOWN: COLUMBUS, KS AGE: 34
EVENTS: STEER ROPING JOINED PRCA: 1995 2020 EARNINGS: $121,209 WORLD TITLES WON: 26 2020 WORLD STANDINGS: 1ST NFSR QUALIFICATIONS: 31
SCOTT
SNEDECOR PRCA STATS
HOMETOWN: COFFEYVILLE, KS AGE: 36
52
EVENTS: STEER ROPING JOINED PRCA: 1996 2020 EARNINGS: $110,779 WORLD TITLES WON: 0 2020 WORLD STANDINGS: 2ND NFSR QUALIFICATIONS: : 18 (2001-11, 2013-19)
AMERICAN BUCKLE MAGAZINE | WORLD FINALS EDITION
VIN
FISHER PRCA STATS
HOMETOWN: ANDREWS, TX
AGE: 39
EVENTS: STEER ROPING JOINED PRCA: 2001 2020 EARNINGS: $105,514 WORLD TITLES WON: 0 2019 WORLD STANDINGS: 3RD NFSR QUALIFICATIONS: 16 (2002-03, 2005-06, 2008-19)
COLE
PATTERSON PRCA STATS
HOMETOWN: PRATT, KS
AGE: 25
EVENTS: STEER ROPING JOINED PRCA: 2018 2020 EARNINGS: $87,405 WORLD TITLES WON: 0 2020 WORLD STANDINGS: 4TH NFSR QUALIFICATIONS: 1 (2019)
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PRCA STEER ROPER PROFILES
JESS
TIERNEY PRCA STATS
HOMETOWN: HERMOSA, SD
AGE: 38
EVENTS: STEER ROPING JOINED PRCA: 2002 2020 EARNINGS: $70,103 WORLD TITLES WON: 0 2020 WORLD STANDINGS: 5TH NFSR QUALIFICATIONS: 7 (2011-16, 2019)
TUF
COOPER PRCA STATS
HOMETOWN: DECATUR, TX
54
AGE: 30
EVENTS: STEER ROPING JOINED PRCA: 2008 2020 EARNINGS: $128,748 WORLD TITLES WON: 4 2020 WORLD STANDINGS: 6TH WRANGLER NFR QUALIFICATIONS: 12
AMERICAN BUCKLE MAGAZINE | WORLD FINALS EDITION
PRCA TIE-DOWN ROPER PROFILES
SHAD
MAYFIELD PRCA STATS
HOMETOWN: CLOVIS, NM
AGE: 20
EVENTS: TIE-DOWN ROPING JOINED PRCA: 2018 2020 EARNINGS: $157,156 WORLD TITLES WON: 0 2019 WORLD STANDINGS: 1ST WRANGLER NFR QUALIFICATIONS: 2
TUF
COOPER PRCA STATS
HOMETOWN: DECATUR, TX
AGE: 30
EVENTS: TIE-DOWN ROPING JOINED PRCA: 2008 2020 EARNINGS: $128,748 WORLD TITLES WON: 4 2020 WORLD STANDINGS: 2ND WRANGLER NFR QUALIFICATIONS: 12
WORLD FINALS EDITION | AMERICAN BUCKLE MAGAZINE
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PRCA TIE-DOWN ROPER PROFILES
HAVEN
MEGED PRCA STATS
HOMETOWN: MILES CITY, MT
AGE: 22
EVENTS: TIE-DOWN ROPING JOINED PRCA: 2018 2020 EARNINGS: $68,709 WORLD TITLES WON: 1 2020 WORLD STANDINGS: 3RD WRANGLER NFR QUALIFICATIONS: 2
TYLER
MILLIGAN PRCA STATS
HOMETOWN: PAWHUSKA, OK
56
AGE: 23
EVENTS: TIE-DOWN ROPING JOINED PRCA: 2016 2020 EARNINGS: $60,919 WORLD TITLES WON: 0 2020 WORLD STANDINGS: 4TH WRANGLER NFR QUALIFICATIONS: 2
AMERICAN BUCKLE MAGAZINE | WORLD FINALS EDITION
WESTYN
HUGHES PRCA STATS
HOMETOWN: CALDWELL, TX
AGE: 23
EVENTS: TIE-DOWN ROPING JOINED PRCA: 2015 2020 EARNINGS: $60,391 WORLD TITLES WON: 0 2019 WORLD STANDINGS: 5TH NFSR QUALIFICATIONS: 1
TY
HARRIS PRCA STATS
HOMETOWN: SAN ANEGELO, TX
AGE: 22
EVENTS: TIE-DOWN ROPING JOINED PRCA: 2017 2020 EARNINGS: $58,414 WORLD TITLES WON: 0 2020 WORLD STANDINGS: 6TH WRANGLER NFR QUALIFICATIONS: 2
WORLD FINALS EDITION | AMERICAN BUCKLE MAGAZINE
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WOMEN’S RODEO WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP
WRWC
FIVE WOMEN CROWNED WOMEN’S RODEO WORLD CHAMPIONS IN AT&T STADIUM AT INAUGURAL EVENT
RECAP PRESENTED BY:
In front of electrifying crowds FIVE WOMEN CROWNED WOMEN’S RODEO WORLDinside AT&T Stadium, five women became the first in STADIUM history toATclaim the coveted CHAMPIONS IN AT&T INAUGURAL EVENTtitle of Women’s Rodeo World Champion and
I
took home a minimum of $60,000 each. The seven-day $750,000 equal money n front championship of electrifyingevent crowds dished inside out equal AT&T money to the 254 entered athletes, paying an Stadium,average five women of $2400became per check. the first in history to claim the coveted title of Women’s Rodeo World Champion and took home a minimum of $60,000 each. The seven-day $750,000 equal money championship event dished out equal money to the 254 entered athletes, paying an average of $2400 per check.
Photo: Andy Watson / bullstockmedia.com
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AMERICAN BUCKLE MAGAZINE | WORLD FINALS EDITION
Photo: Andy Watson / bullstockmedia.com
TEAM ROPING As the first discipline of the championship round, team roping had fans inside the home of the NFL’s Dallas Cowboys on the edge of their seat Friday night throughout the action-packed performance where challengers prevailed. After no qualified times in the first four runs of the performance, the team roping duo Rylie Smith (Whitsett, Texas) and Hope Thompson (Abilene, Texas) backed into the box calm and collected and logged the only qualified run of
the night with a 13.66-second effort. With only one qualified run in the team roping, all athletes who did not record a qualified time were paid a $5,000 appearance fee, adding an additional $30,000 EACH in ground money to Smith and Thompson’s payday. The Texas natives took home $90,000 individually, a Jesse Jaymes Silversmith’s buckle and a Women’s Rodeo World Champion Title.
HEADER HEELER TIME PAYOUT RYLIE SMITH HOPE THOMPSON 13.66 $90,000.00 BEV ROBBINS
JESSY REMSBURG
NT
$5,000.00
RUBY MAGNUS
JACKIE CRAWFORD
NT
$5,000.00
TAYLOR SCHMIDT
JENNA DALLYN
NT
$5,000.00
RYLEA FABRIZIO
DEBBIE FABRIZIO
NT
$5,000.00
JAYME MARCRUM MARTHA ANGELONE NT $5,000.00
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WOMEN’S RODEO WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP Photo: Andy Watson / bullstockmedia.com
Photo: Andy Watson / bullstockmedia.com
BARREL RACING As the championship round continued on Saturday evening, a hotly contested battle in the barrel racing began to unfurl. Fifteen-year-old Jada Trosper (Ponder, Texas) led the pack with a 15.582-second run edging out Ivy Saebens (Nowata, Oklahoma) and Randee Prindle (Gilman City, Montana). Four-time WCRA Major qualifier and No. 1 athlete
on the WCRA W20 Leaderboard Hallie Hanssen (Hermosa, South Dakota) and mare Vida expertly navigated the course as her 14.735-second run was the quickest, distancing runner-up Jessie Telford (Caldwell, ID) who recorded a 15.339-second run. Hanssen earned a total of $60,000 in only three runs as she was seeded directly in the main event.
ATHLETE HOMETOWN TIME PAYOFF HALLIE HANSSEN
HERMOSA, SD
14.707
$60,000.00
JESSIE TELFORD CALDWELL, ID 14.73 $20,000.00 STEPHANIE FRYAR WACO, TX 14.731$ 12,500.00
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JADA TROSPER
PONDER, TX
14.678
$10,000.00
RANDEE PRINDLE
GILMAN CITY, MO
14.606
$7,500.00
IVY SAEBENS
NOWATA, OK
14.581
$5,000.00
AMERICAN BUCKLE MAGAZINE | WORLD FINALS EDITION
Photo: Andy Watson / bullstockmedia.com
Photo: Andy Watson / bullstockmedia.com
BREAKAWAY ROPING In Breakaway roping Sunday Night, 18-year-old Madison Outhier (Utopia, Texas) was the undeniable star of the discipline, delivering what would be the most groundbreaking performance of the event. As the quickest athlete to earn a qualified time, her 2.05-second effort elevated her to a $60,000 payday. For Outhier, the event marked her career first WCRA Championship, advancing to
the main event through the Leaderboard Pool. Not only did Outhier emerge victorious, but did so by defeating WCRA Royal City Roundup Champion, Kelsie Chace (Dublin, Texas) who logged a 3.43 second time. Outhier also defeated Kanas State High School Breakaway Roping Champion Beau Peterson’s (Council Grove, Kansas) 2.14-second time.
ATHLETE HOMETOWN TIME PAYOFF MADISON OUTHIER UTOPIA, TX 2.05 $60,000.00 BEAU PETERSON
COUNCIL GROVE, KS
2.14
$20,000.00
SAWYER GILBERT
BUFFALO, SD
2.54
$12,500.00
LONI LESTER GONZALES, TX 2.56 $10,000.00 KELSIE CHACE DUBLIN, TX 3.43 $7,500.00 PAISLEY PIERCE SWEENEY, TX 100 $5,000.00
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WOMEN’S RODEO WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP Photo: Andy Watson / bullstockmedia.com
ALL-AROUND COWGIRL Legendary cowgirl Jackie Crawford (Stephenville, Texas) earned the first-ever Women’s Rodeo World Champion AllAround Cowgirl title. She won a $20,000 bonus and a custom saddle donated by Coats Saddlery, after earning 1,520 points during the seven-day event along with nearly $15,000 in additional prize money. The 38-year-old cowgirl, who has over $135,000 in career-earnings with the WCRA, made history in Chicago during the WCRA Windy City Roundup becoming the first women breakaway roper to win $50,000 in prize money.
Photo: Andy Watson / bullstockmedia.com
WCRA and PBR have announced the 2021 Women’s Rodeo World Championship will take place in Las Vegas at South Point Arena alongside the PBR World Finals. Nominations for the November 2021 event (leaderboard W21) are underway. With the Conclusion of the Women’s Rodeo World Championship, the WCRA and its partners have awarded more than $8,500,000 in new money to rodeo athletes since May of 2018. Fans can relive all the action from the Women’s Rodeo World Championship on RidePass, at RidePass.com or via the RidePass app available on iOS, Android and Roku.
Photo: Andy Watson / bullstockmedia.com
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AMERICAN BUCKLE MAGAZINE | WORLD FINALS EDITION
About WCRA WCRA is a professional sport and entertainment entity, created to develop and advance the sport of rodeo by aligning all levels of competition. In association with the PBR, WCRA produces major rodeo events, developing additional opportunities for rodeo-industry competitors, stakeholders, and fans. To learn more, visit wcrarodeo.com. For athletes interested in learning more about the WCRA Virtual Rodeo Qualifier (VRQ) system, visit app.wcrarodeo.com.
For hands, neck & face
PRCA STEER WRESTLER PROFILES
MATT
REEVES PRCA STATS
HOMETOWN: CROSS PLAINS, TX
AGE: 42
EVENTS: STEER WRESTLING JOINED PRCA: 2002 2020 EARNINGS: $86,944 WORLD TITLES WON: 0 2020 WORLD STANDINGS: 1ST WRANGLER NFR QUALIFICATIONS: 8
JACOB
TALLEY PRCA STATS
HOMETOWN: KEATCHIE, LA
64
AGE: 29
EVENTS: STEER WRESTLING JOINED PRCA: 2010 2020 EARNINGS: $61,623 WORLD TITLES WON: 0 2020 WORLD STANDINGS: 2ND WRANGLER NFR QUALIFICATIONS: 3
AMERICAN BUCKLE MAGAZINE | WORLD FINALS EDITION
TYLER
WAGUESPACK PRCA STATS
HOMETOWN: GONZALES, LA
AGE: 30
EVENTS: STEER WRESTLING JOINED PRCA: 2011 2020 EARNINGS: $52,678 WORLD TITLES WON: 2 2019 WORLD STANDINGS: 3RD WRANGLER NFR QUALIFICATIONS: 6
DAKOTA
ELDRIDGE PRCA STATS
HOMETOWN: ELKO, NV
AGE: 29
EVENTS: STEER WRESTLING JOINED PRCA: 2011 2020 EARNINGS: $50,085 WORLD TITLES WON: 0 2020 WORLD STANDINGS: 4TH WRANGLER NFR QUALIFICATIONS: 7
WORLD FINALS EDITION | AMERICAN BUCKLE MAGAZINE
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PRCA STEER WRESTLER PROFILES
CURTIS
CASSIDY PRCA STATS
HOMETOWN: DONALDA, AB
AGE: 42
EVENTS: STEER WRESTLING JOINED PRCA: 1998 2020 EARNINGS: $51,199 WORLD TITLES WON: 0 2020 WORLD STANDINGS: 5TH WRANGLER NFR QUALIFICATIONS: 7
TANNER
BRUNNER PRCA STATS
HOMETOWN: RAMONA, KS
66
AGE: 27
EVENTS: STEER WRESTLING JOINED PRCA: 2013 2020 EARNINGS: $46,885 WORLD TITLES WON: 0 2020 WORLD STANDINGS: 6TH WRANGLER NFR QUALIFICATIONS: 3
AMERICAN BUCKLE MAGAZINE | WORLD FINALS EDITION
PRCA BULL RIDER PROFILES
SAGE
KIMZEY PRCA STATS
HOMETOWN: STRONG CITY, OK
AGE: 26
EVENTS: BULL RIDING JOINED PRCA: 2013 2020 EARNINGS: $92,334 WORLD TITLES WON: 6 2020 WORLD STANDINGS: 1ST WRANGLER NFR QUALIFICATIONS: 7
KY
HAMILTON PRCA STATS
HOMETOWN: MACKAY, QL
68
AGE: 20
EVENTS: BULL RIDING JOINED PRCA: 2019 2020 EARNINGS: $89,447 WORLD TITLES WON: 0 2020 WORLD STANDINGS: 2ND WRANGLER NFR QUALIFICATIONS: 1
AMERICAN BUCKLE MAGAZINE | WORLD FINALS EDITION
BOUDREAUX
CAMPBELL PRCA STATS
HOMETOWN: CROCKET, TX
AGE: 22
EVENTS: BULL RIDING JOINED PRCA: 2017 2020 EARNINGS: $85,746 WORLD TITLES WON: 0 2019 WORLD STANDINGS: 3RD WRANGLER NFR QUALIFICATIONS: 4
DUSTIN
BOQUET PRCA STATS
HOMETOWN: BOURG, LA
AGE: 26
EVENTS: BULL RIDING JOINED PRCA: 2013 2020 EARNINGS: $81,566 WORLD TITLES WON: 0 2020 WORLD STANDINGS: 4TH WRANGLER NFR QUALIFICATIONS: 2
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PRCA BULL RIDER PROFILES
BRADY
PORTENIER PRCA STATS
HOMETOWN: CALDWELL, ID
AGE: 25
EVENTS: BULL RIDING JOINED PRCA: 2013 2020 EARNINGS: $73,105 WORLD TITLES WON: 0 2020 WORLD STANDINGS: 5TH WRANGLER NFR QUALIFICATIONS: 1
JEFF
ASKEY PRCA STATS
HOMETOWN: ATHENS, TX
70
AGE: 32
EVENTS: BULL RIDING JOINED PRCA: 2010 2020 EARNINGS: $66,227 WORLD TITLES WON: 0 2020 WORLD STANDINGS: 6TH WRANGLER NFR QUALIFICATIONS: 4
AMERICAN BUCKLE MAGAZINE | WORLD FINALS EDITION
PRCA SADDLE BRONC RIDER PROFILES
WYATT
CASPER PRCA STATS
HOMETOWN: PAMPA, TX
AGE: 24
EVENTS: SADDLE BRONC RIDING JOINED PRCA: 2015 2020 EARNINGS: $145,138 WORLD TITLES WON: 0 2019 WORLD STANDINGS: 1ST WRANGLER NFR QUALIFICATIONS: 1
RYDER
WRIGHT PRCA STATS
HOMETOWN: MILLFORD, UT
AGE: 22
EVENTS: SADDLE BRONC RIDER JOINED PRCA: 2016 2020 EARNINGS: $111,336 WORLD TITLES WON: 1 2020 WORLD STANDINGS: 2ND WRANGLER NFR QUALIFICATIONS: 5
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71
PRCA SADDLE BRONC RIDER PROFILES
BRODY
CRESS PRCA STATS
HOMETOWN: HILLSALE, WY
AGE: 24
EVENTS: SADDLE BRONC RIDING JOINED PRCA: 2014 2020 EARNINGS: $99,539 WORLD TITLES WON: 0 2020 WORLD STANDINGS: 3RD WRANGLER NFR QUALIFICATIONS: 4
SHORTY
GARRETT PRCA STATS
HOMETOWN: EAGLE BUTTE, SD
72
AGE: 28
EVENTS: SADDLE BRONC RIDING JOINED PRCA: 2014 2020 EARNINGS: $90,005 WORLD TITLES WON: 0 2020 WORLD STANDINGS: 4TH WRANGLER NFR QUALIFICATIONS: 1
AMERICAN BUCKLE MAGAZINE | WORLD FINALS EDITION
ALLEN
BOORE PRCA STATS
HOMETOWN: AXTELL, UT
AGE: 29
EVENTS: SADDLE BRONC RIDING JOINED PRCA: 2012 2020 EARNINGS: $73,269 WORLD TITLES WON: 0 2019 WORLD STANDINGS: 5TH WRANGLER NFR QUALIFICATIONS: 2
COLE
ELSHERE PRCA STATS
HOMETOWN: FAITH, SD
AGE: 31
EVENTS: SADDLE BRONC RIDER JOINED PRCA: 2010 2020 EARNINGS: $54,351 WORLD TITLES WON: 0 2020 WORLD STANDINGS: 6TH WRANGLER NFR QUALIFICATIONS: 4
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73
2021 SCHEDULES
Photo: Andy Watson / bullstockmedia.com
2021 SCHEDULE PBR DATE CITY VENUE JAN 8 - 9
DULUTH, GA
INFINITE ENERGY CENTER
JAN 22 - 24
BILLINGS, MT
METRAPARK
JAN 30 - 31
JACKSONVILLE, FL
VYSTAR VETERANS MEMORIAL ARENA
FEB 5 - 6
OKLAHOMA CITY, OK
CHESAPEAKE ENERGY ARENA
FEB 13 - 14
INDIANAPOLIS, IN
BANKERS LIFE FIELDHOUSE
FEB 20 - 21
LITTLE ROCK, AR
SIMMONS BANK ARENA
FEB 27 - 28
ST. LOUIS, MO
ENTERPRISE CENTER
MAR 6 - 7
NEW ORLEANS, LA
SMOOTHIE KING CENTER
MAR 13 - 14
GLENDALE, AZ
GILA RIVER ARENA
MAR 20 - 21
KANSAS CITY, MO
T-MOBILE CENTER
APR 9 - 11
SIOUX FALLS, SD
DENNY SANFORD PREMIER CENTER
APR 16 - 17
LAS VEGAS, NV • PBR GLOBAL CUP T MOBILE ARENA
APR 23 - 25
ALBUQUERQUE, NM
THE PIT
APR 30 - MAY 2
NEW YORK, NY
MADISON SQUARE GARDEN
JUL 26 - 27
CHEYENNE, WY
FRONTIER PARK ARENA
JUL 31 - AUG 1
TULSA, OK
THE BOK CENTER
AUG 6 - 8
SACRAMENTO, CA
GOLDEN 1 CENTER
AUG 21 - 22
NASHVILLE, TN
BRIDGESTONE ARENA
AUG 28 - 29
FORT WORTH, TX
DICKIES ARENA
SEP 10 - 11
ANAHEIM, CA
HONDA CENTER
SEP 24 - 25
DETROIT, MI
LITTLE CEASARS ARENA
OCT 2 - 3
MANCHESTER, NH
SNHU ARENA
OCT 9 - 10
GREENSBORO, NC
GREENSBORO COLISEUM
OCT 23 - 24
LINCOLN, NE
PINNACLE BANK ARENA
NOV 3 - 7
LAS VEGAS, NV • PBR WORLD FINALS T MOBILE ARENA *All Dates Subject To Change
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AMERICAN BUCKLE MAGAZINE | WORLD FINALS EDITION
Photo By Andy Watson/Bullstockmedia.com
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www.americanbucklemagazine.com
2021 SCHEDULES
Photo: Clay Guardipee
PRCA 2021 SCHEDULE DATE CITY VENUE DEC 31 - JAN 2
WACO, TX
TEXAS CIRCUIT FINALS
JAN 8 - 16
ODESSA, TX
SANDHILLS STOCK SHOW & RODEO
JAN 15 - 16
DOTHAN, AL
NATIONAL PEANUT FESTIVAL RODEO
JAN 22 - 23
DAVIE, FL
SOUTHEASTERN CIRCUIT FINALS
FEB 4 - 19
SAN ANGELO, TX
SAN ANGELO RODEO
FEB 7
SAN ANGELO , TX
SAN ANGELO XTREME BULLS
FEB 19 - 21
LOS FRESNOS, TX
LOS FRESNOS RODEO
FEB 25 - 27
LEESVILLE, LA
LEESVILLE LIONS CLUB RODEO
MAR 12 - 14
LAKE CITY, FL
FLORIDA GATEWAY PRO RODEO
MAR 19 - 21
GOLIAD, TX
GOLIAD COUNTY FAIR & PRICE RODEO
MAR 19 - 20
OCALA, FL
SOUTHEASTERN PRO RODEO
MAR 26 - 27
BEAUMONT, TX
YMBL CHAMPIONSHIP RODEO
MAR 27
ENID, OK
ULTIMATE CHALLENGE PRCA XTREME BULLS
MAY 7 - 8
GRAND COULEE, WA
COLORAMA
MAY 29 - 30
COULEE CITY, WA
PRCA LAST STAND RODEO
SEP 24 - 26
POWAY, CA
POWAY RODEO *All Dates Subject To Change
76
AMERICAN BUCKLE MAGAZINE | WORLD FINALS EDITION
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Finals
@americanbarrels
2021 SCHEDULES
Photo: James Phifer
WPRA 2021 SCHEDULE DATE CITY VENUE JAN 8 - 16
ODESSA, TX
SANDHILLS STOCK SHOW RODEO
JAN 22 - 23
DAVIE, FL
SOUTHEASTERN CIRCUIT FINALS
FEB 12 - 14
YUMA, AZ
76TH ANNUAL YUMA JAYCEES SILVER SPUR RODEO
FEB 19 - 22
KISSIMMEE, FL
SILVER SPUR RODEO
FEB 19 - 21
LOS FRESNOS, TX
LOS FRESNOS RODEO
FEB 25 - 27
LEESVILLE, LA
LEESVILLE LIONS CLUB RODEO
MAR 12 - 14
LAKE CITY, FL
FLORIDA GATEWAY PRO RODEO
MAR 19 - 20
CALA, FL
SOUTHEASTERN PRO RODEO
APR 16 - 17
MADISON, WI
MIDWEST HORSE FAIR
MAY 5
SENATOBIA, MS
TATE COUNTY FAIR RODEO
JUN 4 - 5
KISSIMMEE, FL
SILVER SPUR RODEO - BREAKAWAY *All Dates Subject To Change
80
AMERICAN BUCKLE MAGAZINE | WORLD FINALS EDITION
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