The Roping Pen - December 2015

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Dec 2015

Vol. 24 No. 12

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USTRC Finals Southeastern Showdown SRA Finals Rodeo: SFR-42

2 • The Roping Pen • December 2015

The Magazine for America’s Roper • 3

Table of Contents Articles & Features 11 Dirt: The Year Is Up!

............................................. Ryan Davis

13 TOP TIPS!.............................................Featuring Bret Beach

14, 16 USTRC National Finals.................................Event Recap 18, 20 The Beast of the East........................................ Event Recap 22 Fire It Up Team Roping.........................................................Event Recap 22 Down the Line........................................................................ Stran Smith 26 Southeastern Showdown, High School.................................Event Recap 28 Southeastern Showdown, Jr Division...................................Event Recap

32 Photo of the Month............... Ashley Hawkins at the S E Showdown

38 In The Loop...............................Travis Graves, Lone Star Ropes 42 Pushing The Barrier: Heeling Dilemmas......Speed Williams 43 Sweat & Balin’ Twine: Priorities.......................... John Rhudy

50 Protecting Your Investment!.......................Jason Strickland 50 Power Team Roping Q&A................................ Rickey Green

51 Round Table: Make me a Champion................Stuart Mitchell 51 Bull in the Chicken House.......................................Crystal Lyons

51 Bull Daddy Cartoon........................................................ Danny Rexwinkle 54 The Other Half: Sponsors.................................. Gracie Mae

55 Events & Advertisers...................................................Index

55 Classifieds.................................................... Free for Subscribers!

57 Fastback Ropes: NEW 4-Strand Centerfire .................. Press Release

Associations

6-10 Southern Rodeo Association ~ SRA

28 Northeast Arkansas Family Rodeo Assoc ~ NEAFRA 40 SC HS, Jr Div, & Youth Rodeo Assoc ~ SCHSRA 56 Foothills Youth Rodeo Association ~ FYRA 26 Georgia Jr High Rodeo Assoc ~ GJHRA

27 Alabama High School Rodeo Assoc ~ AHSRA 44 National Team Roping League ~ NTRL

34 N Carolina High School Rodeo Assoc ~ NCHSRA On the Cover This Month: #11 Shoot-Out • USTRC NFTR (All pics on page 16) ©Brenda Allen - Allen’s Rodeo Photos

Editor: Ryan Davis 505-407-2151 • rdavis@theropingpen.com

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The Magazine for America’s Roper • 5

SFR-42: Rod in N Contestants and spectators are encouraged to visit the official SFR-42 photographer, Ed Wase Smugmug web page to order copies of their favorite photos. www.saycheez123.smugmug.com. All three nights, awards photos and more are there for everyone to purchase. Save your memories and the action of SFR-42!

I

t was rodeo time once again as the SRA (Southern Rodeo Association) headed into Ashville, North Carolina to wrap up the 2015 season. The Southern Finals Rodeo (SFR) completed the season with the top contestants in eight events matched up in a whirlwind of action, excitement and truly great rodeo action. The event marked 42 years and was professionally produced from beginning to end. Those who had the opportunity to witness it first hand at the WNC Ag Center had a great time watching the best of the best compete across three performances. In the end, the season champions were crowned, the SRA added another chapter to their history books and the cowboys and cowgirls of the SRA hung their hat on BAREBACK: 1. Matt Smith, 239.0 a great event that capitalized on a on 3; 2. Chris Smith, 234.0 on 3; 3. Shawn Minor, 233.0 on 3; 4. Shelton Murphy, great season of rodeo action!

Friday, Saturday and Sunday, 228.0 on 3; 5. Harold Miller, 150.0 on 2; November 6-8, 2015 witnessed 6. Josh Cragar, 150.0 on 2 the action of the SFR-42! With proSADDLE BRONC: 1. Eddie fessional announcer, Matt McGee Parlier, 234.0 on 3; 2. Shawn Minor, 213.0 at the helm of each performance, on 3; 3. Andrew Turner, 200.0 on 3; 4. along with rodeo clown and en- Shane Proctor, 154.0 on 2; 5. Ben Maytom, tertainer, Brian Hope, as well as 158.0 on 2; 6. Austin Stewart, 77.0 on the SRA staff, the event played out 1; 7. Preston Fowlkes, 76.0 on 1; 8. Bud without a hitch. From the buck- Humphries, 71.0 on 1; 9. Brandon Rippy, ing horses and bulls that were 58.0 on 1 provided to the event by many of BULL RIDING: 1. Wesley Buckthe South’s top professional stock ner, 234.0; 2. John Leinaweaver, 165.0; 3. contractors, to the contestants Colt Galvan, 158.0; 4. Shane Proctor, 82.5; who left it all on the arena floor 5. Bradney Tart, 71.0; 6. JP Cook, 0.0; 7. throughout each performance the Rick Bynum, 0.0; 8. Wesley Johnson, 0.0; rodeo was one of the best of the 9. Chad Vanamburg, 0.0; 10. Luke Powell, year and will stand side-by-side 0.0; 11. Jeremiah Key, 0.0; 12. Drew any other rodeo throughout the Flynn, 0.0 country.

CALF ROPING: 1. Jacob DagenIn the end, the talent rose to the hart, 29.7 on 3; 2. Cory Kirk, 30.1 on 3; top in each event, however many 3. Glen Freels, 31.2 on 3; 4. Will Charping, of the event did not reveal its year- 32.6 on 3; 5. Cody Mousseau, 34.1 on 3; end champion until the last gate 6. Robbie Murdock, 20.2 on 2; 7. Allen was closed on the event. Specta- Livengood, 23.5 on 2; 8. Bradley Bullard, tors had the chance to see the top 24.5 on 2; 9. Daryl Matthews, 26.8 on 2; 12 contestants on each event fight 10. Justin Thigpen, 36.5 on 2; 11. Thomas it out to the end to see who would Linton, 11.3 on 1; 12. Earl Bradley, 20.6 on 1 be crowned 2015 SRA Champions.

Matt Smith opened up the event STEER WRESTLING: 1. Cody in the bareback riding with three Mousseau, 13.9 on 3; 2. Cord Spradley, solid rides throughout the event, 31.7 on 3; 3. Troy Orr, 7.7 on 2; 4. Brian including the round winning 84-point ride in the final round to drop an exclamation point onto a successful season. Smith finished at the top of the rodeo average as well as ahead of the group of tough cowboys in the bareback riding earning him the 2016 SRA season championship.

In the classic of all rodeo events, the saddle bronc riding, Eddie Parlier took the first round championship of the event and added to that two more great rides to claim not only the average champion-

SFR-42 Avg:

6 • The Roping Pen • December 2015

ship of the SFR-42, but on the SRA standings. His accomplishments of riding them high, and riding them right throughout the season earned him his season championship!

It was a battle throughout the season in the bull riding that did not end until the final bull was bucked at the SFR-42. It came down to three cowboys, Colt Galvan, Bradney Tart and Wesley Buckner.

Galvan rode two out of his three bulls at the Finals, Tart finished the whistle on only one and with a fantastic push at the end, Buckner rode all three of his bulls to earn him the Finals average championship. However, Buckner’s great Barefoot, 8.3 on 2; 5. Joe Cook, 10.8 on 2; showing at the finals was not 6. Brad Stewart, 3.7 on 1; 7. Josh Austin, enough to overtake the top two in 4.2 on 1; 8. Justin Thigpen, 4.6 on 1; 9. the standings and he finished third Chet Kidd, 5.3 on 1; 10. Jake Thomasson, in the season results. Galvin took 6.1 on 1; 11. Joshua Hefner, 0.0 on 0; 12. the 2016 season championship Jason Bagwell, 0.0 on 0 with Tart hot on his heels. The season ahead will start fresh and you TEAM ROPING: 1. Jason Tucker can bet it will be a battle through/ Stephen Britnell, 21.6 on 3; 2. Cody Mousseau / Rick Scruggs, 24.7 on 3; 3. out the year between all of the SRA Justin Thigpen / Alex Brooks, 26.4 on 3; bull riders.

4. JD Young / Clay Futrell, 11.5 on 2; 5.

The calf roping was as excitCory Kidd / Caleb Anderson, 15.6 on 2; 6. ing as any event of the weekend.

JW Baucom / Cory Honeycutt, 18.5 on 2; Cory Kirk continued his winning 7. Casey Hilley / Adam Toole, 36.5 on 2; ways and ended up the 2016 sea8. Jacob Dagenhart / Adam Plyler, 6.8 on son champion, but it was not an 1; 9. Daryl Matthews / Tyler Kile, 0.0 on easy accomplishment. Kirk placed 0; 10. Daniel McLamb / Heath Leroy, 0.0 on 0; 11. Josh Austin / Cody Armstrong, twice at the finals with a win in 0.0 on 0; 12. Langdon Pleasant / Ross the second round and second in Blakeney, 0.0 on 0 the average. However the event belonged to Jacob Dagenhart who BARREL RACING: 1. Rewon the average after roping three becca Owens, 43.260; 2. Nancy Garrison, head in 29.7 seconds and earning 43.529; 3. Danielle McCraw, 43.542; 4. checks in the first two rounds. DaTaylor Earnhardt, 43.626; 5. Tiffany Deal, genhart finished the season in the 43.789; 6. Karla Dagenhart, 44.351; 7. top five and with the 2016 season Carrie Putnam, 47.202; 8. Michelle Lummus, 47.559; 9. Brittany Bell, 47.614; 10. already underway the challenge of Peyton Morrow, 47.823; 11. Megan Lyerly, this year’s calf roping event will be 53.189; 12. Hannah Warlick, 54.363 anyone’s game to win!

The steer wrestling event was BREAKAWAY: 1. Hannah Kirk, fast and furious as the big men of 10.5 on 3; 2. Kristin Mulkey, 5.7 on 2; the SRA took their chances at the 3. Bailey Livengood, 6.1 on 2; 4. Taylor SFR-42 money and the chance to Earnhardt, 6.4 on 2; 5. Carson Denning, be named SRA season champions.

7.7 on 2; 6. Amanda Stewart, 2.9 on 1; 7.

Robin Pruitt, 2.9 on 1; 8. Jamie Ellsworth, It was a mix as Cody Mousseau, 3.3 on 1; 9. Callie Garrison, 3.6 on 1; 10.

Cord Spradley and Troy Orr made Lucinda Fletcher, 0.0 on 0; 11. Hayley Joh big strides in the season standings Knox, 0.0 on 0; 12. Traci Morris, 0.0 on 0 at the Finals event. Mousseau finished first in the average followed

by Spradley and Orr, but could not overtake the number one and two men in the season standings. Josh Austin and Brian Barefoot both placed in one round at the Finals and settled the season with Josh earning the Season championship and Brian finishing a close second in the standings.

The Finals got exciting in the team roping this year as the hot hands of veterans, mixed with rookie sensations on a hot streak

deo Time North Carolina! made for some great action throughout the season-closing event.

It came down between the teams of Jason Tucker and his partner Stephen Britnell and JD Young and Clay Futrell, as well as the team of Cody Mousseau and Rick Struggs and Justin Thigpen and Alex Brooks. Tucker and Britnell earned the rodeo average championship with Mousseau and Scruggs claiming second and the team of Thigpen and Brooks earning third. Finishing the season, Tucker earned the Heading championship with Tucker right on his heels and Futrell claimed the heeling championship with Adam Plyler close behind him.

Fast horses, flashy women and a lots of money was the call for this year’s barrel racing action at the SFR-42. Carrie Putnam put on a show winning the first and last round, but was unable to keep them all standing in round two. Although she collected quite a bit of cash at the rodeo for the two fast times, that also helped her earn the season championship, she did not place in the average. That went to Rebecca Owens who put together three great runs to win the rodeo’s average. Behind her were Nancy Garrison and Danielle McCraw who also kept them all standing throughout the rodeo to earn some of the big average payouts.

One of the fastest events of the rodeo was the breakaway roping. Several times were posted in under 3-seconds. With solid work throughout three rounds, Hannah Kirk earned the average payout. However, it was not enough to overtake the two spots in front of her in the season standings. The season runner-up champion went home with rookie sensation Bailey Livengood and the season championship was awarded to Kristin Mulkey. These ladies roped hard all season long and it was not until the final calf was ran at the SFR-42 that made the decision of the year long race.

As the event closed, the final big winners of the season emerged.

The Men and Women’s All-Around champions revealed. One name sounded steadily throughout the event. Justin Thigpen roped his way into the SRA history books adding his name among many others who have earned the top title in the sport of rodeo. Season, AllAround Champion, Thigpen proved he has what it takes to win in multiple events and capitalize on his talents. In the other corner was the lady who’s need for speed runs deep. Taylor Earnhardt blazed her name into the books with her abilities to turn the cloverleaf pattern fast and furious in the barrel racing event and rope as fast as anyone on the arena floor in the breakaway roping. Earnhardt also made quite a showing throughout the event capitalizing on her talents that will truly continue to carry her to many more championships in the future!

SFR-42 is in the books and the 2015 season once again closed out in great style! The SRA worked hard to make every rodeo a success this season and it showed as several new rodeos were added to the schedule and many of the rodeos that the contestants have come to enjoy throughout the years were bigger and better than ever!

They are continuing to grow the oldest professional rodeo association in the South and look forward to maintain a steady growth with years to come. As the 2016 season is already underway, it is anyone’s game to be in the championship circles next year. With the seasoned pros continuing to ride, rope and race along with the many new rodeo talents coming out of the youth association, the SRA is on a path of great success!

2016 Final Season Standings • Top 12 ALL-AROUND COWBOY: 1. JUSTIN THIGPEN, 11681.85; 2. CODY MOUSSEAU, 11381.87; 3. DARYL MATTHEWS, 10717.40; 4. JACOB DAGENHART, 10059.76; 5. JOSH AUSTIN, 8753.44; 6.

SHANE PROCTOR, 7430.63; 7. JOHN LEINAWEAVER, 5714.74; 8. BRIAN BAREFOOT, 5516.06; 9. CORD SPRADLEY, 5448.05; 10. CHET KIDD, 4241.64; 11. SHAWN MINOR, 4061.80; 12. AUSTIN STEWART, 4012.32 ALL-AROUND COWGIRL: 1. TAYLOR EARNHARDT, 8712.19; 2.

KRISTIN MULKEY, 6412.35; 3. KARLA DAGENHART, 4041.44; 4. MIKAYLA ALMOND, 2858.90; 5. TAYLOR DIGH, 2298.44; 6.

ADDIE FAIRCHILD, 2209.64; 7. HEATHER SHERRILL, 1883.69; 8. KILEY ARRINGTON, 1217.16; 9. KOLBY WHITESELL, 954.31; 10. VANESSA MADISON, 919.08; 11.

BAYLEE WOOTEN, 683.19 BAREBACK RIDING: 1. MATT SMITH, 11109.14; 2. HAROLD MILLER, 6867.88; 3. JOSH CRAGAR, 2997.80; 4. SHAWN MINOR, 2308.40; 5.

WADE DOTSON, 2034.96; 6. CHRIS SMITH, 1819.00; 7. CASEY CASON, 1345.96; 8.

SHELTON MURPHY, 939.00; 9. BRANDON RIPPY, 283.36 SADDLE BRONC RIDING: 1. EDDIE PARLIER, 6264.70; 2. SHANE PROCTOR, 3490.10; 3. AUSTIN STEWART, 3046.50; 4. BEN MAYTOM, 2958.14; 5.

BUD HUMPHRIES, 2686.20; 6. TRAVIS DEAL, 2065.04; 7. ANDREW TURNER, 2019.60; 8. SHAWN MINOR, 1753.40; 9.

LUKE MORGAN, 1015.86; 10. BRANDON RIPPY, 805.00; 11. PRESTON FOWLKES III, 607.20; 12. JOSH MOATES, 598.00 BULL RIDING: 1. COLT GALVAN, 8844.76; 2. BRADNEY TART, 7239.89; 3. WESLEY BUCKNER, 6862.40; 4. JP COOK, 5611.08; 5. JOHN LEINAWEAVER, 5102.74; 6. RICK BYNUM, 4379.23; 7. WESLEY JOHNSON, 4091.90; 8. SHANE PROCTOR, 3940.53; 9. CHAD VANAMBURG, 3802.07; 10. LUKE POWELL, 3132.00; 11. JEREMIAH KEY, 2332.50; 12.

CODY MARTIN, 2125.20 CALF ROPING: 1. CORY KIRK, 6734.32; 2. DARYL MATTHEWS, 5995.78; 3. THOMAS LINTON, 5377.29; 4. WILL CHARPING, 5346.54; 5.

JACOB DAGENHART, 4422.56; 6. BRADLEY BULLARD, 4214.74; 7. JUSTIN THIGPEN, 4040.04; 8. GLEN FREELS, 3506.92; 9.

ALLEN LIVENGOOD, 2629.22; 10. ROBBIE MURDOCK, 2605.15; 11. CODY MOUSSEAU, 2041.51; 12. EARL BRADLEY, 1904.14 STEER WRESTLING: 1. JOSH AUSTIN, 5261.10; 2. BRIAN BAREFOOT, 5032.51; 3. TROY ORR, 4572.10; 4. CODY MOUSSEAU, 4571.01; 5. CORD SPRADLEY, 3568.25; 6. CHET KIDD, 3551.54; 7. BRAD STEWART, 3112.66; 8.

JUSTIN THIGPEN, 2813.95; 9. JOE COOK, 2421.90; 10. JOSHUA HEFNER, 1929.50; 11. JAKE THOMASSON, 1794.58; 12.

JASON BAGWELL, 1534.20 TEAM ROPING (HD): 1. JASON TUCKER, 8684.22; 2. JD YOUNG, 6801.76; 3. DARYL MATTHEWS, 5844.02; 4. JW BAUCOM, 5045.31; 5. JACOB DAGENHART, 5034.20; 6. CODY MOUSSEAU, 4944.85; 7. JUSTIN THIGPEN, 4827.86; 8.

DANIEL MCLAMB, 4091.53; 9. CORY KIDD, 4036.02; 10. JOSH AUSTIN, 3773.86; 11.

LANGDON PLEASANT, 3241.01; 12. CASEY HILLEY, 3218.86 TEAM ROPING (HL):: 1. CLAY FUTRELL, 7761.26; 2. ADAM PLYLER, 6523.81; 3. CALEB ANDERSON, 6299.09; 4. RICK SCRUGGS, 4998.72; 5.

TYLER KILE, 4584.68; 6. CORY HONEYCUTT, 4510.56; 7. STEPHEN BRITNELL, 4482.94; 8. ALEX BROOKS, 4462.50; 9.

CODY ARMSTRONG, 3918.85; 10. HEATH LEROY, 3895.65; 11. ROSS BLAKENEY, 3069.40; 12. ADAM TOOLE, 2995.53 BARREL RACING: 1. CARRIE PUTNAM, 14668.26; 2. REBECCA OWENS, 10050.41; 3. MEGAN LYERLY, 9989.50; 4. TAYLOR EARNHARDT, 5959.24; 5. DANIELLE MCCRAW, 5945.32; 6.

MICHELLE LUMMUS, 4444.44; 7. PEYTON MORROW, 4023.52; 8. HANNAH WARLICK, 3824.56; 9. NANCY GARRISON, 3672.94; 10. BRITTANY BELL, 3577.42; 11. KARLA DAGENHART, 3106.92; 12. TIFFANY DEAL, 2581.95 BREAKAWAY ROPING: 1. KRISTIN MULKEY, 6163.95; 2. BAILEY LIVENGOOD, 6088.34; 3. HANNAH KIRK, 5823.87; 4. JAMIE ELLSWORTH, 5013.41; 5. LUCINDA FLETCHER, 4990.85; 6. AMANDA STEWART, 3564.70; 7. ROBIN PRUITT, 3296.76; 8. CALLIE GARRISON, 3167.76; 9. TAYLOR EARNHARDT, 2752.95; 10.

CARSON DENNING, 2500.82; 11. MARLEE MALCOM, 2430.04; 12. NATALIE FLETCHER, 2345.54

The Magazine for America’s Roper • 7

8 • The Roping Pen • December 2015

Photos courtesy of Ed Wase - order copies and

see more at www.saycheez123.smugmug.com

The Magazine for America’s Roper • 9

2016 RODEO RESULTS OCT 1, 2015 - SEPT 30, 2016

HARRIMAN, TN

OCT 23-24, 2015 SRA/NCA • OUTLAW RODEO CO

BAREBACK

BAREBACK

1. HAROLD MILLER 81

1. TANNER PHIPPS 78 2. COY LUTZ 75

SADDLE BRONC

3. HOUSTON HERBERT 70

1. TRAVIS DEAL 74 2. HAYDEN PHIPPS 73

SADDLE BRONC 1. LEE BURTON 68

BULL RIDING No Qual Rides

BULL RIDING 1. LOGAN MOORE 81

CALF ROPING 1. CORY KIRK 9.3

CALF ROPING

2. JARED GARRETT 10.7

1. JOSH KILLIAN 13.3

3. GREG MCCRARY 11.4

2. CORY KIRK 14.5

4. BEN CARROLL 12.5

3. BEN WALKER 15.8 4. JOE ADCOCK 22.3

STEER WRESTLING Cancelled

TEAM ROPING, HD 1. JAKE WELLS 5.9

TEAM ROPING, HD 2. BILLY BERRY 6.0 1. CLINT MOORE 4.8

3. CHRIS STUBBLEFIELD 6.6

2. CHRIS STUBBLEFIELD 5.6

4. JASON TRISDALE 6.8

3. DARYL MATTHEWS 5.7

5. BRANDON FARLEY 7.4

4. JOSEPH SOUTHERN 5.9

6. DARYL MATTHEWS 7.7

TEAM ROPING, HL

TEAM ROPING, HL

1. JORDAN SOUTHERN 4.8

1. ALEC EDMONSON 5.9

2. DENY ASHLEY 5.6

2. ALEC EDMONSON 6.0

3. TYLER KILE 5.7

3. RORY HALLIBURTON 6.6

4. JOSH KILLIAN 5.9

4. DENY ASHLEY 6.8 5. BRANDON STUBBLEFIELD 7.4

BARREL RACING

6. DENY ASHLEY 7.7

1. JESSICA BROWN 15.391 2. ASHLEY WEAVER 15.478

BARREL RACING

3. LACEY THOMPSON 15.592

1. VICKI MULLINS 14.952

4. VICKI MULLINS 15.645

2. BRONWYN ASHLEY 15.444 3. SOMMER WALKER 15.628

BKAWAY ROPING

4. JESSICA BROWN 15.693

1. HANNAH KIRK 3.3 2. KRISTIN MULKEY 4.7

BKAWAY ROPING

3. JESSIE SOUTHERN 7.8

1. JULIE JOHNSON 2.9

4. KAYCEE MACGIBBON 13.9

2. SHANA ADCOCK 3.1 3. CALLIE GARRISON 3.2 4. LUCINDA FLETCHER 3.8

10 • The Roping Pen • December 2015

The year is up! December brings the close of 2015 and what a year it has been. We have seen a lot of changes in the sport of rodeo and team roping over the past 12 months and although I believe the future is bright for each of them, there seems to be slight concern in both arenas. I believe change and controversy can be good for growth as it sheds light, brings forth new ideas and of course keeps individuals engaged. Change is often positive!

In the sport of rodeo, the ERA (Elite Rodeo Association) is shaking things up and the tension between them and the PRCA continues to build. The ERA continues to lay out their plan, schedule events and promote their season, while the PRCA is pushing ahead as scheduled with the NFR and the 2016 season. All the time they are poking, pushing and bowing-up at each other. It will be interesting to see what happens this year as the PRCA has drawn the line in the dirt so to speak and the ERA is stepping over it.

There are changes in the sport of team roping as well. The news is out that Denny Gentry has sold the World Series of Team Roping to a large corporation, and no, it is not Equibrand whom many speculated would eventually buy it. It is however, a group who is involved in team roping, as well as many other factions of publications, organized events and associations. After communicating with Mr. Gentry about his future plans and the outlook of the WSTR, he said he was staying with the association for several years throughout the transformation and has assured that these changes will be beneficial for the sport as it moves ahead in the coming years.

These are of course the headlines and like I said before it often takes these sorts of movements inside organizations to keep them fresh and progressing ahead. It will be exciting to witness what happens this coming year.

I also just had the opportunity to head to North Carolina and attend the SRA Finals. I have to say it was one of the best rodeos I have witnessed in quite some time. Entertaining, professional and the caliber of contestants were second to none. I want to say “Thanks” to the SRA for their hospitality and looking forward to the 2016 season.

Of course this month is the NFR and WSTR Finale in Las Vegas. Thousands will travel to the city of lights. We will all be watching the scoreboards to see who will be crowned PRCA World champions and who will walk away from the WSTR Finale with the riches of the event in their pockets.

What a time of year!

I was also just reminded that this is the last of the 24th edition of the magazine. Next month will mark 25 years this publication has been in print and I have to say that I am privileged to own it and will continue to support the sports we all enjoy!

In closing, I want to wish everyone a Merry Christmas.

Although it is always a busy time of year, Christmas in my opinion is unsurpassed by any other holiday. A time to share, gather with friends and family and rejoice in the birth of Christ. I enjoy this time of year more than any other and I wish you all the merriest of Christmas and hope all of you enjoy your own special times.

Until next time, Dirt: keep it under your feet

~Ryan Davis The Magazine for America’s Roper • 11

12 • The Roping Pen • December 2015

BRET BEACH: KEEP YOUR ROPE CONSISTENT!

T

his is the time of year for big ropings. The USTRC Finals just ended and the WSTR Finale is this month. It is also an inconsistent time of year when it comes to weather, and many of the ropings this time of year are in temperature-controlled arenas. For instance, take the South Point where the WSTR Finale will be held.

It stays consistently warm. Ropers need to keep that in mind as they head to Vegas.

We went to Bret Beach this month at TotalTeamRoping.com to ask him about how ropers can prepare for this time of year and what they need to focus on.

“With the World Series Finale here, ropers really should have two things they should concentrate on. Number 1 is obviously taking care of your horse and having them conditioned and ready for the roping, ” said Bret. “Number 2 is your rope. I don’t think many ropers really savvy how important it is to take care of their ropes in cold conditions.”

Rope manufacturers change the way they twist and tie ropes depending on the season. They do a great job to offer ropers a consistent feel because they know how weather changes, both heat and cold affect ropes. However, rope companies cannot control what a roper does in avoiding the in-consistent feel of their ropes when taking them in and out of cold weather.

“When a rope gets cold they soften way up and do not feel good,” said Bret. “I recommend ropers take their ropes inside the arena and keep them there or in a consistent warm area throughout the event.

Do not leave them in your truck or trailer overnight and expect them to feel good inside a building where it might be 70 or 75 degrees. It

is just not going to work. You never know what the temperature in Vegas might be. It can be really cold or warm, but the nights get cold regardless and leaving your rope in cold temperatures overnight will affect the way they feel. It takes a while for them to warm up so don’t think just taking them in for a short time before you rope will help either. Keep them warm and give yourself a chance to have that consistent feel that you are used to.”

“In addition, this next summer when it gets really hot outside, keep your ropes cool to keep them consistent,” added Bret. “The worse place to keep your ropes is in your trailer both in the winter and hot summer months.”

So there you go, ropers! It will great to see everyone in Vegas taking this great advice from Bret and carrying their rope bags around all day. For more advice from Bret and the rest of the crew at TotalTeamRoping.com, be sure to sign up. The tips, tricks and advice from these pros are phenomenal and the best thing is, you can do it on your time. You don’t have to go to a team roping school or schedule a practice session, just log in and find the answers to your questions. You can also browse the site for information that might help, or use the “Ask a Pro” feature to answer certain question you may have. All the tools to improve your roping are right at your fingertips at TotalTeamRoping.com.

Get a great deal on an introductory membership at

WWW.THEROPINGPEN.COM Search under Total Team Roping page!

The Magazine for America’s Roper • 13

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he 2015 season ended for the USTRC in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma at the end of October. Team Ropers from across the country once again flocked to the event in hopes of putting their skills to the test and cashing in big! With higher fees than years before, ropers took full advantage new format of the event, which revealed large payouts. Ropers who topped their divisions in the Shoot-Out ropings were rewarded with tremendous payouts. Just under 4.8 million dollars in cash was paid out at the event, not to mention the slew of prizes awarded to the winners throughout each roping.

During the nine-day roping event nearly 3,000 USTRC members comprised some 5,930 teams that ran through the coliseum.

All totaled 1,650 head of cattle were used to make 18,469 runs. More than $5.6 million in cash and prizes was awarded including two Ram Trucks, two Case I-H Tractors, 42 Martin Trophy Saddles, 252 Gist Trophy Buckles, 44 sets of Gist Trophy Spurs, 16 pair of Tony

Lama Ostrich Boots, 16 Western Horseman Framed Prints, 20 tons of Purina Feed, 3 Heel-O-Matic Bones and many other sponsor provided bonus steer awards.

Out of the 7 main, Shoot-Out events, only two did not pay the first place average team over $100,000. The #15 Shoot-Out came close with 96,200 to the first place winners and the #8 Shoot-Out paid $44,000 to the winners, while the rest of the Shoot-Out events topped the $100,000 mark. In addition to the Shoot-Out events, the Finals also enriched many in the Preliminary ropings.

These paid great as well and earned ropers a shot into the Shoot-Out divisions. Along with the Preliminary ropings, the Finals invited the cream of the crop to rope. The Pro-View Open Championship one of the best ropings of the year and many witnessed the best of the best in the business rope for a lot of money! Congratulations to Chad Masters and Travis Graves for winning this year’s prestigious event. The USTRC once again hosted

the Gold Plus Shoot-out ropings where ropers backed into the box and went for broke for a chance to win huge payouts, as well as trucks and tractors. The #12 Gold Plus hit a high mark of $293,040 paid out in the roping and the #10 Gold Plus paid out a total of $378,020 in cash, not to mention the two Dodge Trucks and Case IH Tractors that went home with Gold Plus, high money winners.

The event also captured more attention with its #10 Invitational roping again this year. As a roping that has steadily increased over the years during Finals week in Oklahoma, the #10 Invitational topped the mark at a total cash payout of $185,600.

Life changing amounts of money, indeed, and for those who were mixed up in the winning were showered with attention. It is not an easy feat to win at this event and many leave with only the great memories of roping at the annual roping and the dream of returning next year and cashing in on one of the great payouts! (Photos, pages 16-17...)

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PRO VIEW US OPEN: 1. Chad W Masters (Cedar Hill, TN) / Travis Graves (Morgan Mill, TX), 31.99 on 5, $76,500; 2. Charly Crawford (Stephenville, TX) / Will Woodfin (Marshall, TX), 32.03 on 5, $51,000; 3. David Key (Stephenville, TX) / Travis Woodard (Stephenville, TX), 32.29 on 5, $39,400; 4. Luke S Brown (Morgan Mill, TX) / Kollin VonAhn (Blanchard, OK), 32.88 on 5, $27,800; 5. Manny Egusquiza (Marianna, FL) / Chase Tryan (Helena, MT), 33.2 on 5, $20,900; 6. Blake Hughes (Sulphur, OK) / Bobby Harris (Highmore, SD), 33.88 on 5, $16,400 #15 SHOOT-OUT, TOP 10: 1. Wesley Thorp (Stephenville, TX) / Douglas Rich (Herrick, IL), 27.28 on 4, $96,200; 2. Dustin Egusquiza (Marianna, FL) / Michael Bratton (Phenix City, AL), 27.76 on 4, $54,400; 3. Jade Corkill (Stephenville, TX) / Pace Blanchard (Albuquerque, NM), 27.98 on 4, $37,500; 4. Jared Udy (Smithfield, UT) / Jade Willis (Randolph, UT), 28.3 on 4, $28,100; 5. Billy Bob Brown (Carbon, TX) / Kolton Schmidt (Barrhead, AB), 28.38 on 4, $23,450; 6. Reno Stoebner (Stephenville, TX) / Ben Gambrell (Stephenville, TX), 28.38 on 4, $23,450; 7. Trevor Hedeman (Morgan Mill, TX) / Reno Eddy (Gallup, NM), 28.59 on 4, $18,700; 8. Zachary Small (Afton, OK) / Cody McCluskey (Stephenville, TX), 28.93 on 4, $15,600; 9. Tate Kirchenschlager (Yuma, CO) / Nick Abbott (Bluff Dale, TX), 29.31 on 4, $12,530; 10. Courtney L Small (Welch, OK) / Chris Young (Coleman, OK), 29.6 on 4, $12,530 #13 SHOOT-OUT, TOP 10: 1. Justin Payne (Fairland, OK) / Wesley Thorp (Stephenville, TX), 29.43 on 4, $100,700; 2. Jake Smith (Broken Bow, OK) / Dylan Jay Payne (Valliant, OK), 30.43 on 4, $57,200; 3. Whit Kitchens (Mullin, TX) / Coy Brittain (Rockwall, TX), 31.08 on 4, $39,400; 4. Daniel Reed (Guthrie, OK) / Rocky Ross (Weleetka, OK), 31.48 on 4, $29,600; 5. Justin Payne (Fairland, OK) / Clay Smith (Broken Bow, OK), 31.8 on 4, $26,300; 6.

Chance Taylor (Big Spring, TX) / Ethan Cory (Hico, TX), 32.44 on 4, $23,000; 7. Blake Adams (Macomb, OK) / Mason Allen (Asher, OK), 32.82 on 4, $19,700; 8. Cuyler Winters (Venus, TX) / Ross Ashford (Lott, TX), 33.07 on 4, $16,400; 9. Dusty Warner (Louisville, MS) / Zack Mabry (Piedmont, AL), 33.52 on 4, $13,140; 10. Ginalee Tierney (Broken Bow, NE) / Gage Williams (Foster, OK), 33.6 on 4, $13,140 #12 SHOOT-OUT, TOP 10: 1. Britt Smith (Broken Bow, OK) / Dylan Jay Payne (Valliant, OK), 31.54 on 4, $106,200; 2. Wyatt Dalton Bray (Granbury, TX) / Kirby Blankenship (Lampasas, TX), 31.62 on 4, $60,600; 3. Cody Warner (Louisville, MS) / Dusty Warner (Louisville, MS), 31.93 on 4, $41,800; 4. Jeffrey Parsley (Troup, TX) / Andrew Hill (Corsicana, TX), 32.08 on 4, $31,400; 5. Kasen McCall (Lufkin, TX) / Blake Wheeler (Flint, TX), 32.59 on 4, $27,900; 6. Sonny Mooney (Columbiana, AL) / Dustin Griffith (Danville, AL), 32.68 on 4, $24,400; 7. Ty Harris (San Angelo, TX) / Dylan Jay Payne (Valliant, OK), 32.94 on 4, $20,900; 8. Barrie Smith (Stephenville, TX) / George McQuain (Bluff Dale, TX), 33.22 on 4, $17,400; 9. Leon Stipes (Salina, OK) / Shawn Hambelton (Prairie Grove, AR), 33.46 on 4, $13,970; 10. Taylor Lagasse (Concordia, KS) / Hunter Koch (Vernon, TX), 33.58 on 4, $13,970 #11 SHOOT-OUT, TOP 10: 1. John English (Belen, NM) / Sterlin English (Belen, NM), 31.38 on 4, $115,200; 2. John Kirbow (Kirbyville, TX) / Josh Hudspeth (Batson, TX), 31.76 on 4, $66,300; 3. Dan Brown (Bomoseen, VT) / Jake Edwards (Fort Ann, NY), 32.22 on 4, $45,700; 4. Stran Morris (Woodward, OK) / Jessen James (Atoka, OK), 32.74 on 4, $34,300; 5. Whit Kitchens (Mullin, TX) / Kayden Little (Tatum, NM), 33.32 on 4, $30,500; 6. Tanner Tomlinson (Angleton, TX) / Justin Elms (Thorndale, TX), 33.72 on 4, $26,700; 7. Matt Muniz (Three Rivers, TX) / Efrain Mendiola (Laredo, TX), 33.93 on 4, $22,900; 8. Bob Crooch (Checotah, OK) / Darren Stoner (Palestine, TX), 33.98 on 4, $19,000; 9. Jaxson Tucker (Mount Ulla, NC) / Jessy Remsburg (Bolgee, AL), 34.04 on 4, $15,190; 10. Bruce Barnett (West Plains, MO) / Donnie Ward (Leflore, OK), 34.14 on 4, $15,190 #10 SHOOT-OUT, TOP 10: 1. Mike Sibley (Denham Springs, LA) / Jed Sibley (Denham Springs, LA), 31.49 on 4, $123,000; 2. Aaron Noel (Ft Towson, OK) / Brock Hill (Antlers, OK), 33.45 on 4, $71,300; 3. Walt Arnold (Silverton, TX) / Danny Watson (Lovington, NM), 34.49 on 4, $49,100; 4. Kay Stevens (Maquoketa, IA) / Jeremy Michaelis (Mercer, MO), 35.04 on 4, $36,900; 5. Mark Gordon (Alpena, AR) / Cache Burnside (Mesquite, NV), 36.3 on 4, $32,800; 6.

Paul Bell (Dodson, TX) / Brad Thrash (Cheyenne, OK), 36.42 on 4, $28,700; 7. Brenten Lee Hall (Jay, OK) / Stran Morris (Woodward, OK), 37.01 on 4, $24,600; 8. Michael Nash (Marshall, TX) / Dusty Lout (Center, TX), 37.3 on 4, $20,500; 9. Huk Blackbird (Springdale, AR) / Jordan Johnson (Summers, AR), 37.76 on 4, $16,340; 10. Cutter Duckett (Wimberley, TX) / Lorraine Moreno (Mathis, TX), 37.93 on 4, $16,340 #9 SHOOT-OUT, TOP 10: 1. Dean D Lopez (Clint, TX) / Wesley Salmon (Lubbock, TX), 35.98 on 4, $120,400; 2. Brody Rankin (Roaring Springs, TX) / Hayden Cape (Earth, TX), 36.27 on 4, $69,600; 3. Jp Phillips (Kaysville, UT) / Tommy Anderson (Hockley, TX), 38.83 on 4, $48,000; 4. Michael Wooten (Vinita, OK) / Marty Russell (Spavinaw, OK), 39.32 on 4, $36,000; 5. Wade Snow (Atoka, OK) / Brock Hill (Antlers, OK), 39.82 on 4, $32,000; 6. Robert Valdez (La Junta, CO) / Curtis Cox (Manzanola, CO), 40.3 on 4, $28,000; 7. Mason Johnson (Piney Flats, TN) / Blake Walker (Forest City, NC), 40.68 on 4, $24,000; 8. Guilherme Marchi (Ferris, TX) / Chet Weitz (London, TX), 40.85 on 4, $20,000; 9. Nicholas Lovins (Canadian, TX) / Jordan Lovins (Canadian, TX), 41.26 on 4, $16,060; 10. Caleb Raine (Sulphur Bluff, TX) / Fred Raine (Sulphur Bluff, TX), 41.28 on 4, $16,060 #8 SHOOT-OUT, TOP 10: 1. Rodney Stansbury (Santa Fe, TX) / Jason Mouton (Scott, LA), 37.3 on 4, $44,000; 2. Carlos Estrada (Liberal, KS) / Jessey Osborn (Beaver, OK), 46.62 on 4, $21,400; 3. Mick Summers (Smithville, MO) / Chanse Lair (Unionville, MO), 52.58 on 4, $14,800; 4. Andrew Storey (Cotulla, TX) / Reagan Mathews (Dilley, TX), 52.72 on 4, $11,100; 5. Terry Gilbert (Hardesty, OK) / Lewis Gilbert (Hardesty, OK), 53.74 on 4, $9,800; 6. Jay Rezac (Onaga, KS) / Matthew Rezac (Onaga, KS), 54.56 on 4, $8,600; 7. Todd Martin (Steelville, MO) / Doug L Wann (Hydro, OK), 58.91 on 4, $7,400; 8. Tom Corzine (Monte Vista, CO) / Wayne Spencer (Salida, CO), 62.29 on 4, $6,200; 9. T C Lovins (Canadian, TX) / Butch Nicholson (Canadian, TX), 63.28 on 4, $4,880; 10. Deb Raulerson (San Mateo, FL) / Gina Compton (Mount Ulla, NC), 29.05 on 3, $4,880 #12 GOLD PLUS, TOP 10: 1. Lance Inderman (Goldthwaite, TX) / Tyler Schaffner (Goldthwaite, TX), 30.38 on 4, $62,100; 2. Danny Miller (Lawson, MO) / Jimmie Allen (Spokane, MO), 31.26 on 4, $32,600; 3. Duke Dixon (Nowata, OK) / Casey Hicks (Sperry, OK), 32.13 on 4, $26,000; 4. David Gaddis (Canton, GA) / Billy Lam (Canton, GA), 32.26 on 4, $21,700; 5. James Whitlow (Weatherford, TX) / Bob Knudsen (Fort Worth, TX), 32.62 on 4, $19,500; 6.

Mike Jones (Fort Gibson, OK) / Ryan Lee Dirteater (Hulbert, OK), 33.36 on 4, $17,400; 7. Caleb Fallin (Garrison, TX) / Kevin Bentley (Rose Hill, MS), 34.23 on 4, $15,200; 8. Arnold Felts (Dublin, TX) / Tommy Smithson (Ackerly, TX), 34.37 on 4, $13,000; 9. Shane Ross (Council Hill, OK) / Will Allen (Purcell, OK), 34.39 on 4, $10,900; 10. Tom Epperson (Cherokee, TX) / Toby Wake (Haworth, OK), 34.46 on 4, $8,640 #10 GOLD PLUS, TOP 10: 1. Jay Rueter (Winchester, IL) / Tony Schindler (Frankford, MO), 38.42 on 4, $80,600; 2. Kyle Dailey (Tryon, NE) / Philip Charlton (North Platte, NE), 39.35 on 4, $44,100; 3. Lance Powers (Pauls Valley, OK) / Dane Drake (Gate, OK), 39.77 on 4, $35,300; 4. Michael Martin (Montgomery, TX) / Sam Massey (Wills Point, TX), 40.32 on 4, $29,400; 5. Price Blaylock (Cullman, AL) / Chad Johnson (Las Vegas, NV), 41.07 on 4, $26,500; 6.

Travis Fisher (Beggs, OK) / Tyson Campidilli (Bluejacket, OK), 41.18 on 4, $23,500; 7. Robert Berndsen (Marlow, OK) / Donnie Ward (Leflore, OK), 41.43 on 4, $20,600; 8. James Whitlow (Weatherford, TX) / Gary Jacobs (Vernon, TX), 42.14 on 4, $17,600; 9. Michael Bailey (Aurora, TX) / Bing McGuire (Wheatland, WY), 42.32 on 4, $14,700; 10. Baltazar Gonzalez (Hobbs, NM) / Octavio Espinoza (Lubbock, TX), 42.86 on 4, $11,720 #10 US INVITATIONAL: 1. Eric Guevara (Brazoria, TX) / Rey David Quinonez (Odessa, TX), 38.56 on 4, $45,200; 2. Kyle Dailey (Tryon, NE) / Philip Charlton (North Platte, NE), 40.61 on 4, $28,700; 3. Jack Foster (Stockton, MO) / Russell Batten (Bolivar, MO), 42.83 on 4, $19,600; 4. Jason OBrien (Pineville, MO) / Glenn Girard (Branson, MO), 42.99 on 4, $16,600; 5. Brian Gregg (Guthrie, OK) / Tyson Campidilli (Bluejacket, OK), 43.35 on 4, $13,600; 6. Dick Yates (Pueblo, CO) / Jeff Busby (Millsap, TX), 43.44 on 4, $12,100; 7. Jason Heath (Alva, OK) / Joe Macoubrie (Alva, OK), 43.73 on 4, $9,000; 8. Don LaRue (Republic, MO) / Anthony Trimble (Rose, OK), 49.63 on 4, $6,000 CRUEL GIRL CHAMP: 1. Shawn Tee Rodenberger (Vernon, TX) / Ali Bilkey (Santa Ynez, CA), 36.96 on 4, $16,200; 2. Cheyenne Jinks (Terrell, TX) / Whitney Desalvo (Springfield, AR), 37.07 on 4, $10,300; 3. Ashley Odonnell (Bucyrus, KS) / Courtney L Small (Welch, OK), 39.75 on 4, $7,000; 4. Tibba Smith (Stephenville, TX) / Ashley Richardson (Keithville, LA), 44.86 on 4, $5,900; 5. Jessica Shirley (Zumbrota, MN) / Amanda Kooiker (Adrian, MN), 46.52 on 4, $4,900; 6. Hope Thompson (Abilene, TX) / Lari Dee Guy (Abilene, TX), 49.19 on 4, $4,300; 7. Jana Murphy (Melrose, IA) / Kelly Snow (Virginia, IL), 51 on 4, $3,200; 8. Morgan Sturgeon (Perkins, OK) / Tresa Lackey (Fairview, OK), 67.92 on 4, $2,260 CENTURY: 1. Brother Campbell (Franklin, TN) / Glenn Davis (Salem, AL), 32.32 on 4, $26,100; 2. Paul Walker (Paris, TX) / Gene McCall (Blossom, TX), 35.6 on 4, $16,300; 3. Steve A Taylor (Gonzales, TX) / James Hicks (Amarillo, TX), 36.48 on 4, $13,000; 4. David R Hull (Wilson, OK) / Keith Bacon (Coleman, OK), 36.87 on 4, $9,800; 5. Token Dickerson (Louisburg, KS) / Jimmie Allen (Spokane, MO), 37.11 on 4, $8,700; 6. Steve Nolen (Weatherford, TX) / Lloyd South (Palo Pinto, TX), 37.18 on 4, $7,600; 7. Mike Bridges (Mounds, OK) / Jack Morris (Tulsa, OK), 38.76 on 4, $6,500; 8. Jimbo Martinez (Stephenville, TX) / Kelly Overton (Colorado City, TX), 38.76 on 4, $5,950; 9. Michael Martin (Montgomery, TX) / Duane Russey (Chandler, AZ), 38.8 on 4, $4,300; 10. Kent Latta (Gage, OK) / David Trammell (Muskogee , OK), 38.83 on 4, $4,300; 11. Bill Eckroth (Mandan, ND) / Russ Schirado (Menoken, ND), 39.48 on 4, $3,300; 12. Bob Freeman (Arnett, OK) / Joe Matile (Satanta, KS), 39.52 on 4, $3,270

14 • The Roping Pen • December 2015

• ALLEN’S ROPING PRODUCTIONS•

TEAM ROPING • AUBURN, AL • SAT, NOV 21 • & • SAT, DEC 12 •

• 3-A ARENA (Behind Good Ol’ Boys Restaurant) • 1843 SANDHILL RD • BOOKS OPEN AT 9:30 am • ROPE AT 10:30 am •

JOIN US FOR SOME GREAT TEAM ROPING! #12 pt. $30/man, 4 hd #10 pt. Slide $125/man may enter heading and/or heeling but only once per end - draw 5 partners

#11 pt. $30/man, 4 hd #9 pt. $25/man, 4 hd #8 pt./7 Inc. $20/man, 3 hd 7pt. will be paid on 2 hd, but can also place in main avg.

• • WORLD SERIES BARRIER WILL BE USED • •

AWARDS!

• • • • • • • • • • • • • Breast Collars Awarded to High Point #3, #4 #5, & #6 or Above • • • • • • • • • • • • • Cinch/Cruel Girl Jean & Shirt Certificates Awarded To Avg Winners!

FOR MORE INFORMATION, CONTACT ED ALLEN

(256) 749-0541 • WWW.ALABAMAROPING.COM SPECIAL THANKS TO OUR SPONSORS...

The Magazine for America’s Roper • 15

#10 GP

#10 Shoot-Out

#12 GP

#12 Invit

#13 Shoot-Out

#15 Shoot-Out

#9 Shoot-Out

Cruel Girl

16 • The Roping Pen • December 2015

Photos courtesy of Allen’s Rodeo Photos, Brenda Allen

#11 Shoot-Out

#12 Shoot-Out

#8 Shoot-Out

US Open

The Magazine for America’s Roper • 17

T

eam Ropers in the Southeast had to wait a full year for the return of one of the best events of the year, but the wait was worth it to those who pre-entered and competed at the second annual, Beast of the East team roping in Franklin, Tennessee. Unlike other ropings, the unique format of The Beast is attractive. Limited entries, high payout and of course huge prizes, The Beast consisted of it all and for those lucky ropers who attended, they all had a chance to win big!

The 3-day event kicked off on Friday, October 9 with ropers lining up for a chance to win one of the pair of matching trucks and trailers that would be awarded to the Average Champions on Sunday afternoon. Although the event fell short of the 200 team cap, it’s over 130 entries was well above that of last year’s event and just about where producer John Johnson thought it would be.

“I thought we would get right at 130 to 140 teams this year,” Johnson said. “We had about 160 ropers call in and enter but one thing or another they did not show up or called and said they could not make it. I figured several teams would drop out and we landed right back where I thought it would be this year.”

The featured truck roping was not the only main event of the weekend and ropers had a chance to fill their sack with cash in the several 80% payback roping. These ropings were scattered

The Beast Of the East 2 - Final 1. Mike Simpson / Derrick Crawford, 25.56, $6,000 , Trucks and Trailers; 2. David Gaddis / Clint Humphries, 25.62, $8,000 , Saddle; 3. Brother Campbell / Walter Graham, 26.25, $5,000; 4.

West Benson / Ed Allen, 26.92, $4,000; 5. Lance Arviso / Kenny Brown, 27.34, $2,000 1. Price Blaylock / Austin Pitts, 28.53, $2,500 , Cactus Saddles/Maynard Buckles; 2. Randy Chandler / Keith Cooner, 29.14, $1,800 , Maynard Buckles; 3. Jason Heard / Greg Mitchell, 32.34, $1,200 , Maynard Buckles; 4. Sarah King / Dustin Keena, 34.33, $750 , Maynard Buckles; 5.

Josh Sifford / Dustin Keena, 35.54, $500 , Maynard Buckles; 6. Gordon Branham / Randall Scheck, 35.76, $300; 7. Blane Willingham / Randall Scheck, 35.78, $250; 8. Randy King / Greg Mitchell, 35.97, $250; 9. Kip Smith / Billy McAlexander, 36.71, $250; 10. Mark Dean / Dan Palasek, 37.45, $250 #15 (80% Payback): 1. Kayelen Helton / Jay Shaffer, 30.3, $2,520; 2.

Clay Bearden / Clark Adcock, 31.97, $1,510; 3. Matt Scogin / Clark Adcock, 32.48, $1,000; #13 (80% Payback): 1. Blair Kelley / Jason Stroup, 33.4, $5,810; 2.

Brandon Lauber / Clay Futrell, 33.46, $4,350; 3. Brent Peterson / Clark Adcock, 36.1, $2,900; 4. Brandon Lauber / Billy Lam, 38.56, $1,450 #12 (80% Payback): 1. Jaxson Tucker / Daniel Raynor, 28.8, $6,190; 2.

Clint Humphries / William McCraw, 30.67, $4,120; 3. Sammy Smithson / John Alley, 31.99, $3,270; 4. Hippie Sanchez / Ryan Nolen, 32.39, $2,400; 5. Mary Ann Brown / Daniel Raynor, 32.51, $610; 6. Mike Cullum / Dusty Sherwood, 32.51, $610 #11 (80% Payback): 1. Mary Ann Brown / Brock Middleton, 34.6, $6,830; 2. Randall Scheck / Ryan Pratt, 34.74, $4,550; 3. Lance Thrift / Ross Turner, 35.63, $3,600; 4. Lance Thrift / Derrick Davis, 35.88, $2,650; 5. Brandon Lauber / Chad Roseberry, 35.99, $1,330 #10 (80% Payback): 1. Cole Futrell / Jay Shaffer, 39.27, $6,610; 2.

Mason Johnson / William McCraw, 40.88, $4,410; 3. G W White / William McCraw, 43.96, $3,490; 4. Dorie Lund / Clint Humphries, 44.67, $2,570; 5. Tish Luke / Brock Middleton, 45.45, $1,290 #9 (80% Payback): 1. Mike Cullum / Brent Menz, 42.09, $5,700; 2. Dorie Lund / Tommy Hand, 50.15, $4,280; 3. Jimmy Peele / Keith Cooner, 53.47, $2,850; 4. Cole Futrell / Clint Humphries, 55.78, $1,430

18 • The Roping Pen • December 2015

throughout the weekend and consisted of a #15, #13, #12. #11, #10 and #9. In addition, the NTRL also added a #8 Prize roping to the mix where ropers would compete for a high point Bull Dog 4X2 UTV, cactus trophy saddles, Maynard buckles and much more.

The weekend played out and the Beast Ropers roped two head, the top 50 teams were brought back for the final round of roping for the big prizes of the weekend. Sunday afternoon finally came and the ropers who made the cut into the final round backed into the box one final time to give it their best shot at winning big. It was a fight to the finish with two teams running neck and neck. David Gaddis and Clint Humphries finished the roping with a 3-head total of 25.62 seconds. However, it was Mike Simpson and Derrick Crawford who pounded through in the first place average spot with a combined total of 25.56 seconds to claim the win, trucks, trailers, buckles and cash.

The Beast of the East-2 was no doubt a true testament of what the sport of team roping is all about. The opportunity ropers have to win big at this event each year is makes it one to stand out. The NTRL who actually added more money to the event in order to make it even bigger and better this year is already looking towards next year’s event and a ways to improve this truly one-of-a-kind event east of the Mississippi River. (See photos on page 20...)

19

#13 Champions Blair Kelley - Jason Stroup

Reserve Champions

#15 Champions Kayelen Helton - Jay Shaffer

#10 Champions Cole Futrell - Jay Shaffer

#9 Champions Mike Cullum - Brent Mentz

#12 Champions Jaxson Tucker - Daniel Raynor

20 • The Roping Pen • December 2015

THE BEAST OF THE EAST

Top 50 Ropers Returning for the Final Round

Champions Mike Simpson & Derrick Crawford won a pair of matching trucks and trailers!

photos © Valerie Ford - C Bar C Photography

The Magazine for America’s Roper • 21

W

e are happy to say we have put another successful roping in the books. West Monroe always makes for a great roping, and this one didn’t disappoint. The #6 started off the day. The prize line of cash, buckles, breast collars, and spurs all the way down to 10th place. Where else can you go and find a prize line like that?

The highest honors in the #6 went to Chris Bundy and Dennis Bailey. That just kicked us off for the #8 saddle roping. Cash payout of over $15,000 and saddles down to 5th place. That’s right, saddles all the way to 5th place, but that wasn’t all! Breast collars and spurs finished out the prize line once again all the way to 10th place. The highest honors of first place going to Jeremy Rawls and Jayde Slade. Come on, cowboys and cowgirls, you can’t argue that being a pretty good roping. Then was our #7 roping with cash and saddles going to JJ Mccaskill and Jimmy La’Dale White. We finished off the weekend with a 50 and over

T

roping with first place honors going to Lonnie Briley and Jamie Spillers. The #9 going to Danny Hall and JJ Mccaskill, #10 going to Dillon Mosley and Manuel Gonzales, #11 going to Cody Dison and Kaden Profili, and the #12 going to Rig Saxon and Kaden Profili. All proving to be great ropings with some great payouts and prizes. Then of course, the roping got serious. A dummy roping held both Saturday and Sunday which was hosted by Trinity Ropes.

As always, we want to say thanks for the support. We couldn’t continue to put these ropings on without you. It is best said in Phillippians 4:6, “Be careful for nothing; but in everything by prayer and supplication with Thanksphoto courtesy of Fire It Up giving let your requests be made known unto God”. We are thankful for the faithful ropers that come out and support us and our organization. If you haven’t yet made it to one, come get in on the fun. You won’t be disappointed.

As you can see, there’s something for every roper in the family!

www.STSRanch.com

his is always a hectic time of the year for me. I used to think it was because I was trying to get ready to rope at the NFR. In fact that was probably the simplest time of getting ready, because all I did was focusing on roping at the finals. And now I’ve got two boys that are playing basketball. I’m calving my commercial heifers out. We are AI’ing my registered cows. I’m shipping my commercial calves. I’m helping Marcos get ready to rope at his first NFR. I’m trying to line guests up for the NFR Countdown Show Jennifer and I do every night at the MGM before the rodeo. I’m serving on the Elevation Sunday team. And trying to inventory six different STS Ranchwear retail booths during the NFR. I didn’t know how good I had it when all I had to worry about was roping one calf a night.

If there is one thing I’ve learned from rodeo is how to keep my eye on the long term goals. I heard a quote the other day that is rodeo in a nutshell for me. “Every road has two ditches” . Which means if you don’t keep your eye on the goal it’s a whole lot easier to fall off in the ditch. It seems like lots of people that I talk to these days it’s a familiar thing about how busy we are, and it’s so easy to get distracted by the world around you. “Ain’t nobody got time for that!”. Which brings me back to this time of year. You need to stay focused on all the good things you have going on and not let the little negative things distract you. I always try to use the thanksgiv22 • The Roping Pen • December 2015

ing season for just that. Stepping back and taking a breath and realize all the things that I do have to be thankful for. Like being able to watch my boys play basketball and being able to share the excitement of Marcos’s first WNFR. I want to congratulate Marcos on winning the AQHA calf-roping horse of the year in the PRCA and winning the AQHA senior open calf roping at the World Show on Sweet As Time aka “Sweet Pea”.

And congratulations to all the other contestants who made the 2015 WNFR.

Come watch me and Jennifer every night at 6:00 at the MGM for the WNFR Countdown which also airs live on wranglernetwork.com

Stop by our retail booths which will be located at: Cowboy Christmas at Las Vegas Convention Center Christmas Corral by BootBarn at The MGM NRS at South Pointe Hotel and Casino Sands Convention Center Mandalay Bay Giftshow

God bless and see you down the line!

The Magazine for America’s Roper • 23

24 • The Roping Pen • December 2015

The Magazine for America’s Roper • 25

GHSRA

SOUTHEASTE

A Showdow

GEORGIA NAT’L FAIRGROUNDS & AGR

W

hat another great rodeo in the books!! As 9 states came together to compete at the Southeastern Showdown in Perry, GA. There was a lot of tough competition and incredible athletes! We are all so blessed to be apart of such an amazing association. Not to mention Georgia won the skit! Also a huge thank you to all the volunteers, we wouldn’t be able to do it without y’all!

God Bless, Claire Waldrop GHSRA STUDENT SECRETARY

R

odeo contestants from Nine states converged on the Georgia National Fairgrounds and Agricenter in Perry Georgia on November 6th - 8th, 2015 for the Southeastern Showdown rodeo! The event was nothing short of spectacular as the future talents of the rodeo world met and laid it all on the arena floor for their chance to become a champion!

The event has grown in stature. It has become a melting pot of success, where contestants come to compete and make new friends in the rodeo world. No doubt this event showcased the top Jr. athletes in the rodeo world and will continue to offer these young guns a place to compete, sharpen their skills and progress in the sport!

Congratulations to all of the contestants this year!

SE SHOWDOW

ALL-AROUND COWBOY & COWGIRL: COLBY DANIELL, GA MCKAYLA MACK, FL

SADDLE BRONC RIDING: AVG CHAMP 1. ROBERT HALEY, AL 2. COLBY DANIELL, GA

TIE DOWN ROPING: AVG CHAMPION 1. TYLER WILLIS, SC 2. TYLER BOATWRIGHT, GA

BAREBACK RIDING: AVG CHAMPION 1. JOSH GREEN, AL 2. TYLER MOBBS, GA

GOAT TYING:AVG CHAMPION 1. HEATHER LAUGHLIN, FL 2. ANNIE GRACE MCELHANNON, GA

BREAKAWAY ROPING: AVG CHAMPION 1. MAKAYLA MACK, FL 2. KATELYN CANHOLTEN, VA

26 • The Roping Pen • Dec 2015

Photos this page courtesy of ©JD Photography

ERN SHOWDOWN:

wn of Talent!

RICENTER • PERRY, GA • NOVEMBER 6 - 8, 2015

WN RESULTS STEER WRESTLING: AVG CHAMPION 1. HUNTER STYLES, SC 2. WILLIAM EMBY, AL

TEAM ROPING (HDR): AVG CHAMPION 1. CONNOR BOURNE, GA 2. JACOB DANIELL, GA

POLES: AVG CHAMPION 1. CLAIRE WALDROP, GA 2. KELSEY MARTIN, SC

BARREL RACING: AVG CHAMPION 1. HOLLI COVEY, GA 2. CAROLINE KELLY, AL

TEAM ROPING (HLR): AVG CHAMPION 1. COLBY DANIELL, GA 2. HADLEY SANDERS, GA

BULL RIDING: AVG CHAMPION 1. LUCAS MANNING, FL 2. JOSH ETHRIDGE, GA

The Magazine for America’s Roper • 27

SE SHOWDOWN:

Jr Division

Takes Center Stage!

T

he Jr. High School Also got I on the action of the Southeastern Showdown this year. This was the second year the Jr. High got in on the action and they too competed against cowboys and cowgirls from other states to see who would become winners. Congratulations to all of the Jr. High contestants and 2015 Southeastern Showdown Champions.

Photos courtesy C BarC Photography

BOYS ALL-AROUND (TOP 10): 1. Trevor Boatwright, Ga; 2. Mason Hodge, Fl; 3. Riley Kittle, Ga; 4.

Ethan Lombardo, SC; 5. Jerry Easler, Fl; 6. Christopher Martin, Al; 7. Clay Livengood, NC; 8. Jackson Green, Ga; 9. Joey Denney, Ga; 10. Luke Lemaster, NC • GIRLS ALL-AROUND (TOP 10): 1. Amanda Coleman, Fl; 2. Lynnset Toole, Ga; 3. Savannah Nelson, Fl; 4. Sage Dunlap, NC; 5. Hannah Riner, Ga; 6. Reagan Humphries, NC; 7. Maggie Hodges, Al; 8. Courtney Stalvey, Fl; 9. Emma Sanders, NC; 10. Luci Kirkland, Al • STEER BAREBACK RIDING (TOP 5): 1. Ethan Lambardo, SC; 2. Riley Kittle, Ga; 3. Ty Johnson, Fl; 4. Mason Hodge, Fl; 5. Nance Boswell, Al • GIRLS GOAT TYING (TOP 5): 1. Caitlin Tisdale, Al; 2. Amanda Coleman, Fl; 3. Savannah Nelson, Fl; 4. Hannah Riner, Ga; 5. Joanna Hammett, Al • BOYS GOAT TYING (TOP 5): 1. Clay Livengood, NC; 2. Trevor Boatwright, Ga; 3. Cooper Malone, Ga; 4. Wyatt Allen, Al; 5. Canton Whitty, Fl • CHUTE DOGGING (TOP 5): 1. Jerry Easler, Fl; 2. Mason Hodge, Fl; 3. Trevor Boatwright, Ga; 4. Christopher Martin, Al; 5. Riley Kittle, Ga • SADDLE BRONC RIDING (TOP 5): 1. Mason Hodge, Fl; 2/4. Nance Boswell, Al; 2/4. Ty Johnson, Fl; 2/4. Ethan Lombardo, SC • TIE DOWN ROPING (TOP 5): 1. Christopher Martin, Al; 2. Trevor Boatwright, Ga; 3.

Jerry Easler, Fl; 4. Cash Goble, Ga; 5. Grant Henning, Fl • GIRLS BREAKAWAY ROPING (TOP 5): 1.

Amanda Coleman, Fl; 2. Hannah Riner, Ga; 3. Josie Hussey, Al; 4., Brighton Bauman, Fl; 5. Lynnsey Toole, Ga • BOYS BREAKAWAY ROPING (TOP 5): 1. Joey Denny, Ga; 2. Cody Vina, Fl; 3. Cooper Malone, Ga; 4. Colton Allen, Al; 5. Cole Clemons, Fl • BARREL RACING (TOP 5): 1. Emma Sanders, NC; 2. Reagan Humphries, NC; 3. Amanda Coleman, Fl; 4. Savannah Nelson, Fl; 5. Addison Roberts, Fl • TEAM ROPING (TOP 5): 1. Jackson Green / Trevor Boatwright, Ga; 2. Sage Dunlap / DRAW, North Caorlina; 3. Joey Denney / Riley Kittle, Ga; 4. DRAW / Colby Dodson, Al; 5. Clay Livengood / Luke Lemaster, NC • RIBBON ROPING (TOP 5): 1. Amanda Coleman/ Mason Hodge, Fl; 2. Clay Livengood / Kayla Earnhardt, NC; 3. Jerry Easler / Savannah Nelson, Fl; 4. Riley Kittle / Hannah Riner, Ga; 5.

Lane Grubbs / Kenna Hunter, Fl • POLE BENDING (TOP 5): 1. Lynnsey Toole. Ga; 2. Luci Kirkland, Al; 3. Courtney Stalvey, Fl; 4. Caitlyn Heath, Ga; 5. Della Bird, Fl • BULL RIDING (TOP 5): 1. Ethan Lombardo, SC; 2. Riley Kittle, Ga; 3. Hagen Meeks, Fl; 4. Garrett Allison, Ga; 5. Mason Hodge, Fl

Jack Robbins winner of mutton busting, Mason Stark winner of mini bills with Colter Hunt winner of Goats in background.

Steer BB Riding Champ Ethan Lambardo

Ribbon Roping Champ Amanda Coleman

Tie Down Roping Champ Christopher Martin

Steer Saddle Bronc Riding Champ Mason Hodge

Barrel Racing Champ Emma Sanders

Team Roping Champs Jackson Green Trevor Boatwright

Bull Riding Champ Ethan Lombardo

Chute Dogging Champ Jerry Easler

5081 Pole Bending Champion, Lynnsey Toole

Boys Bkwy Roping Champ Joey Denny

Girls Bkwy Roping Champ Amanda Coleman

Girls All Around Champ Amanda Coleman

Girls Goat Tying Champ Caitlin Tisdale

Boys Goat Tying Champ Clay Livengood

Boys All Around Champ Trevor Boatwright

The North East Arkansas Family Rodeo Association will be hosting their Year-End Finals in January.

Devin Tate, winner of open heeler with daughter Rileigh, Mom Valerie, & Bruce Carr

North East Arkansas Family Rodeo Association Finals Rodeo Average Champions!

Trace Tilton winner of steer riding with Dustin Scott

28 • The Roping Pen • December 2015

Congratulations to all our buckle winners!

They have Buckles, Saddles and many other awards gathered up for this year’s champions.

Be sure to check Facebook for the event dates!

••••••• Average Buckles Given away at the Finals

The Magazine for America’s Roper • 29

30 • The Roping Pen • December 2015

31

3232 • The Roping Pen • December 2015

33 The Magazine for America’s Roper • 33

Photo ©JD Photography

2015 Southeastern Showdown

GHSRA Queen

Ashley Hawkins

34 • The Roping Pen • December 2015

The Magazine for America’s Roper • 35

36 • The Roping Pen • December 2015

37

T

hirty-one year old Travis Graves grew up in Jay, Oklahoma, roping his whole life and idolizing his heros, Walt Woodard and Clay O’Brien Cooper. Now he has become the idol of young ropers across the country. Since joining the PRCA in 2003, Graves has amassed an astounding 1.2 million dollars in earnings. He has been married to his wife Tamika since 2005 and they have a son, Tee and daughter, True Vista.

Aside from roping, Graves enjoys basketball, Mexican food and alternative music.

After an amazing October in Oklahoma City, winning over $48,000, it’s now time for Graves to focus on his seventh Wrangler National Finals qualification and try to bring home his first world championship. We caught up with Travis in early November to try and get some insight on his thoughts and goals as the season winds down.

You just completed a hat trick of sorts at the USTRC Finals, winning both the Open Preliminary and Pro View US Open, as well as finishing the year as the reserve champion heeler. Was there any special preparation for the USTRC Finals and how does it feel to earn all three of those titles in the same year?

TRAVIS: I try to practice on steers that run hard and are similar to those in Oklahoma City. I try to make sure my horse is free and listening to me around the corner, I think that is the key to being consistent there. It means a lot to me to win the USTRC Finals. Growing up in Oklahoma, we always went so I have a lot of memories there.

Heading into your seventh Wrangler NFR in the fourth position, what’s your game plan? Do you start out aggressive or focus on the average?

TRAVIS: I’m going to try and be aggressive but smart. If the steer is good to heel fast, then I’ll take my shot, if he’s not, then I’ll take another swing.

The 2016 PRCA season has begun and you’re already in the top five. Also, the newly formed Elite Rodeo Athletes has announced their tour roster, which includes you. Who will you be roping with next season and will it be the same at both rodeos?

TRAVIS: I’ll be roping with Chad Masters at both. I can’t wait for the ERA season to start.

We remember you as a youngster, winning all the time.

Is there anything you could share with young team ropers that might help them progress to where you are today?

TRAVIS: You can do anything if you want it bad enough.

Try to be around the right people and don’t be afraid to ask questions. Practice, practice, practice!

What rope & lay from Lone Star Ropes do you use & why?

TRAVIS: I use the Shark in a medium hard. I love the way it feels and the way it doesn’t move when I place my loop.

I’m also impressed with how the Shark closes up on the feet and holds on the horn. I love the Shark! If you haven’t tried one, you should!

If you’ve got a question or comment for “In The Loop”, submit it to lonestarintheloop@gmail.com.

38 • The Roping Pen • December 2015

The Magazine for America’s Roper • 39

& Junior and Youth Divisions

SCHSRA Rodeo Schedule

February 5 & 6 - Yadkinville, NC February 28 - Cassatt, SC March 11 & 12 - Conway, SC March 25 & 26 - Saluda, SC April 8 & 9 - Lowrys, SC Aprill 22 & 23 - Aiken, SC May 5 & 6 - Iva, SC May 13 & 14 - Marietta, SC May 26-28 - Finals, Clemson, SC

SCJHSRA Rodeo Schedule Febuary 5 - Yadkinville, NC March 12 - Conway, SC March 19 - Midway, SC March 26 - Saluda, SC April 23 - Aiken, SC May 14 - Marietta, SC

Cumulative PointsStandings

HS CUMULATIVE PTS: AFTER INMAN 2015 BAREBACK ANDREW KAPALA...............50 KENNETH GLICK.................28 SADDLE BRONC COLBY WINSTEAD..............36 HUNTER STYLES.................33 ANDREW KAPALA............25.5 KENNETH GLICK..............34.5 CHASE DYAL......................10

TIE DOWN ROPING ADAM GRIFFIN...................56 HUNTER STYLES.................54 TYLER WILLIS....................41 DILLON HARRISON.............40 COREY WADDELL................38 BENNETT DOVE..................35 JOBY GARRISON................25 CHASE DYAL......................16 MARK PRICE......................15 LANE BRADLEY..................10 OWEN GULLEDGE.................7 CAYDEN MCCRAW................7 TYLER ADAMS......................6 EDDIE ROUNDS....................5

HS ALL AROUND: (CUMULATIVE, AFTER INMAN) BOYS.............. TOTAL HUNTER STYLES...............183 ADAM GRIFFIN.................132 TYLER WILLIS..................124 COLBY WINSTEAD............ 112 DILLON HARRISON.............90 BENNETT DOVE..................76 ANDREW KAPALA............74.5 EDDIE ROUNDS..................68 KENNETH GLICK..............62.5 COREY WADDELL................62 CHASE DYAL......................52 JOBY GARRISON................52 JUSTIN SHOFFNER.............37 TYLER ADAMS....................28 WILL RECTOR.....................27

O

ur fall rodeo season has been very exciting and filled with great rodeos. From Hartsville to the make-up date for Marshville, our contestants have come to compete for the top points and make their mark in all of their events. Rain has been one challenge our cowboys and cowgirls have had to battle. For the first time in the history of our association, a rodeo had to be postponed and rescheduled. Normally come rain or shine, we rodeo no matter how much water and mud fills the arena. But the first weekend in October a record rainfall was predicted and in the best interest of the contestants and the livestock, the Marshville rodeo was rescheduled. As this article goes to press, our contestants will be convening at the Bar L arena to rodeo once more. It is a very fun rodeo and the contestants are always looking forward to it.

Halloween found us competing in Inman, SC. The high school students had a trunk-a treat time for the younger cowboys and there was a great costume contest on Saturday. We were just to thankful there was no rain.

Marshville just ended the fall season for us and the spring season will open in February!

GIRLS BREAKAWAY MIKAYLA JOH ALMOND......50 CHLOE COX........................49 CAROLINE BURGEN............37 HANNAH GRACE HARMON..33 RILEY SUTHERLAND...........32 BAILEY KUNTZ...................31 KYRA LOMBARDO..............24 ABI CLINKSCALES...............17 MONICA HARMON..............17 AMANDA STEPHENSON.......13 OLIVIA DOVE......................13 JINI JUSTICE......................12 KATY SHERRILL....................7 KELSEY MARTIN...................7 KENZIE COOK......................3

AMANDA STEPHENSON.......47 MIKAYLA JOH ALMOND......43 KENZIE COOK....................36 KATY SHERRILL..................32 KELSEY MARTIN.................31 MARYBETH ROLLINGS........28 AUBREY DELK....................28 ASHTON WILLIS.................14 EMERY THOMAS.................11 JORDAN MULLINAX............11 BAILEY KUNTZ...................10 CASEY STEPHENS...............10 OLIVIA DOVE........................8 GEORGIA CAROLINE KAY......6 HANNAH GRACE HARMON....6 RILEY SUTHERLAND.............5 CHLOE COX..........................5 ALLISON LEWIS....................5 STEER WRESTLING HUNTER STYLES.................52 GRACIE ADAMS....................1 ADAM GRIFFIN...................51 JOSIE SANDERS...................1 TYLER WILLIS....................44 BENNETT DOVE..................41 POLE BENDING COLBY WINSTEAD..............26 MIKAYLA JOH ALMOND......58 EDDIE ROUNDS..................24 KELSEY MARTIN.................49 DILLON HARRISON...............6 JINI JUSTICE......................40 CHASE DYAL........................6 AMANDA STEPHENSON.......39 MONICA HARMON..............35 RILEY SUTHERLAND...........28 BARREL RACING MONICA HARMON..............52 MARYBETH ROLLINGS........26 CAROLINE BURGEN............50 BAILEY KUNTZ...................25 MARK PRICE......................24 NOAH BERRY.....................24 LANE BRADLEY..................23 KYLE CURRIE.....................19 GARRETT MCCLAIN.............17 RYAN RODGERS.................13 BLAKE WATT......................13 OWEN GULLEDGE...............11 CAYDEN MCCRAW..............11 COLE WILLIAMS...................9 JUSTIN WILLIAMS................9 CODY BISHOP......................8 GIRLS............. TOTAL MIKAYLA JOH ALMOND....276 KELSEY MARTIN............... 174 CAROLINE BURGEN..........145 AMANDA STEPHENSON.....123

MONICA HARMON............121 BAILEY KUNTZ................. 116 CHLOE COX........................81 HANNAH GRACE HARMON..80 MAKAYLAH MCCURRY........74 RILEY SUTHERLAND...........65 OLIVIA DOVE......................63 JINI JUSTICE......................63 KYRA LOMBARDO..............55 ASHTON WILLIS.................55 MARYBETH ROLLINGS........54 AUBREY DELK....................47 KATY SHERRILL..................39 KENZIE COOK....................39 ABI CLINKSCALES...............37 GEORGIA CAROLINE KAY....19 CASEY STEPHENS...............17 EMERY THOMAS.................11

40 • The Roping Pen • December 2015

ASHTON WILLIS.................25 HANNAH GRACE HARMON..22 ABI CLINKSCALES...............20 AUBREY DELK....................19 GEORGIA CAROLINE KAY....13 CHLOE COX........................11 OLIVIA DOVE........................7 EMILY AUSTIN......................7 JILLIAN MITCHELL................6 SYDNEY WILBANKS..............6 SAVANNAH HUGHES.............2 ALLISON HUGHES................1 KELLY-RAE ALEXANDER.........1

CHASE DYAL......................20 COLBY WINSTEAD..............20 RYAN RODGERS.................13 LANE BRADLEY..................13 BLAKE WATT......................13 CAROLINE BURGEN............13 COLE WILLIAMS...................9 MARK PRICE........................9 CODY BISHOP......................8 CAYDEN MCCRAW................4 OWEN GULLEDGE.................4

KELLY RAE ALEXANDER.........3 MAKAYLA MCCURRY.............3 SYDNEY WILBANKS..............1 BULL RIDING COLBY WINSTEAD..............30 KYLE CURRIE.....................19 GARRETT MCCLAIN.............17 TRISTEN MCCLAIN..............10 JUSTIN WILLIAMS................9 •••••••

TEAM ROPING MIKAYLA JOH ALMOND......51 MAKAYLAH MCCURRY........51 HUNTER STYLES.................44 DILLON HARRISON.............44 TYLER WILLIS....................39 EDDIE ROUNDS..................39 JUSTIN SHOFFNER.............37 WILL RECTOR.....................27 JOBY GARRISON................27 NOAH BERRY.....................24 COREY WADDELL................24 ADAM GRIFFIN...................24 KELSEY MARTIN.................24 BAILEY KUNTZ...................23 TYLER ADAMS....................22

GOAT TYING MIKAYLA JOH ALMOND......74 KELSEY MARTIN.................63 CAROLINE BURGEN............45 OLIVIA DOVE......................35 KYRA LOMBARDO..............31 BAILEY KUNTZ...................27 AMANDA STEPHENSON.......24 MAKAYLAH MCCURRY........20 HANNAH GRACE HARMON..19 MONICA HARMON..............17 ASHTON WILLIS.................16 CHLOE COX........................16 JINI JUSTICE......................11 LAURIN ABLES...................10 JOSIE SANDERS...................9 MOLLY MCCONNELL.............9 CASEY STEPHENS.................7

CUTTING: BOYS TYLER WILLIS....................20 MCKAY ALEXANDER............18 CAYDEN MCCRAW................8 GIRLS MACKENZIE JOHNSON........20 KELSEY MARTIN.............. 17.5 KELLY-RAE ALEXANDER....16.5 MAGGIE NOBLES..................0

JORDAN MULLINAX............11 JOSIE SANDERS.................10 LAURIN ABLES...................10 MOLLY MCCONNELL.............9 EMILY AUSTIN......................7 SYDNEY WILBANKS..............7 JILLIAN MITCHELL................6 ALLISON LEWIS....................6 KELLY-RAE ALEXANDER.........4 GRACIE ADAMS................. 1 J

DAVIS SEWELL...................33 DYLAN COOK.....................33 TAYLOR KUNTZ..................26 WALKER VAUGHAN.............10 JD CARTER..........................9 CALEB CANTRELL.................0 CAMERON COX.....................0 ELI MCCLAIN........................0 JAKEB SHOFFNER.................0 SAM LEE..............................0

MADISON PER...................32 AMBER MASSEY.................30 ISABELLA HOLT..................29 SALLY POTEAT....................27 ELLA KATE PHILLIPS...........23 EMMA HUNTER..................23 JESSIE MCGAHA.................21 TAYLOR PIERCE..................20 JOSIE SARIBOK..................16 ABBY FORCE......................15 CARISSA BRANYON............14 KAYLEE LEE........................11 MACAYLA CARR...................5 KARLEY WILLIAMS................5 PAYDEN BURTON.................3 DALLAS COOK......................2 COURTNEY EUBANKS............1 JADE CARLTON....................0

••••••• GIRLS............. TOTAL JR ALL AROUND: RENNIE CHAVIS..................60 (CUMULATIVE, AFTER CASSAT) GRACIE GRIFFIN.................59 MACEY COOK.....................54 BOYS.............. TOTAL ELIZABETH JOLLEY.............43 ETHAN LOMBARDO..........139 GRACE BRYANT..................42 COLTON SCHLOCK..............47 ALLY CHARPING.................37

••••••• REINED COW HORSE: MAGGIE NOBLES................19 KELSEY MARTIN.................19 MACKENZIE JOHNSON........15 CAYDEN MCCRAW..............15

The Magazine for America’s Roper • 41

W

Heeling Dilemmas

e had some friends come by after the USTRC Finals, Carmine Nastri, and his 15-year-old son Cooper. Cooper handles a rope well and is a trick roping contract act. Regardless, he and his dad wanted me to help him with his heeling.

The result is a three-part video of Cooper and the fundamentals we worked on. Something we touched on last month is a very common problem that occurs when practicing on slow steers. The heeler will stop his horse to create the separation he needs to rope as the steer as he is leaving. This creates a habit of engaging your horse too early. Once this habit is established, the faster you go, the more difficult it is to get your rope on the ground. It’s never a good idea to rope the same speed steers in the practice pen all the time. To improve and be prepared for competition you must have a variety of practice. Heeling is a never-ending equation that changes with every run.

Another problem Cooper had was his delivery. He would swing his rope fine, but on the last swing he would start his delivery with his hand way behind his head and deliver his rope without the benefit of the momentum of his swing. It was a real struggle to break this habit, but once he did, it was amazing how well he heeled the steers. We were able to utilize the newest version of the Hot Heels that hops even more realistically. The feet actually go to the ground before coming back up like a real steer. Your loop needs to be fairly

42 • The Roping Pen • December 2015

correct to catch. Using this machine we did a lot of drills to get Cooper to bring his rope, out of his swing, straight to the ground.

Heeling is a very complicated thing. Quite honestly, without using a video camera, it can be very, very difficult to figure out why you’re missing. There are so many variables that change with every run. You need to understand the problem before you try to fix it. So often I see people working on the wrong things, things that have nothing to do with the reason they’re missing.

I’ve broken down in detail Cooper’s training in three videos.

These will cover the way he entered the corner and his horse shouldering in which caused him to lose sight of the cow. We worked on the speed and angle of his swing. We also addressed his delivery where he would stop, push his rope and then drop it down, much like roping a sawhorse. You can watch these videos on speedroping.com.

What’s new with me: In 2008 one of my head horses, Cruise, fell with me causing a couple of ribs to pop out and tweaking a nerve in my back. Ever since, now and then the ribs will pop out causing me to visit a chiropractor.

During the finals, at the Lazy E, I got my ribs put back in but then my neck locked up. I roped in three more ropings but by the time I walked in the chiropractor’s office on Monday I thought I would be sick from the pain.

Three trips later, with little relief, I finally called my old friend, Shawn Scott in Kingsland, Texas, who has worked on me for over 18 years.

After a forty-five minute exam we determined I have a pinched nerve in my neck. I have roped with a lot of illnesses and injuries but have neer experienced this kind of pain before. Needless to say I haven’t roped in two weeks and won’t for at least another week.

Gabe got his first start to catch for his select team this weekend. They played a tournament and won a championship at the Big League Dreams field in Mansfield. He caught all five games with the exception of 2 ½ innings.

Having inherited my father’s high tolerance for high came in handy for him.

They were tied at the bottom of the sixth inning with a runner on third. They tried to steal home and knocked him down, and knocked his helmet off. But when the dust settled he raised his arm and had the ball in his hand. I was pretty proud of him. His highlights are also on speedroping.com.

W

PRIORITIES

hen I was a young man, like many in my area, I was a hunting fanatic. I ate, slept, breathed, and talked hunting, mostly deer. Summers were spent bowfishing or shooting targets in preparation for archery season. Every spare moment from August through January was dedicated to scouting or hunting. Family functions and other obligations were either arranged around or ignored for hunting season. My dad and I butted heads often because the dairy chores cut into my hunting time.

Many years passed with the same behavior. Anyone in a relationship with me learned quickly what my priorities were in the fall. When I started my present job, the fire was fueled even more because the place on which we are headquartered has some of the best hunting country around. Along about then, while teaching at the local community college part time, and simultaneously managing the stocker operation, I met a student that got me interested in team roping. He day worked for me on the outfit, and became a good friend. I remember him telling me, when I was just getting into roping, the day would come when I would leave my gun or bow hanging on the wall to go team roping. I didn’t believe it; I was a hunting fool and nothing would change that. By the next deer season, I missed opening day of archery and firearms seasons to rope. I missed Thanksgiving and Easter with family to go rope. I still enjoyed my hunting time, but, man, there was nothing like the rush I got from team roping.

We’ve spent some time for two summers at the lake with Wifey’s family. All three kids love the water, and it appears we’re going to be spending more time on the water next year.

I’m still a fanatic; the object of that fanaticism has changed. Now, my main priority is family. Where in the past, I worked family time in around hunting, roping, or work, now, I make those activities fit my family obligations. I still feel I don’t do a good enough job as a father, especially having two children here only part of the time.

I am occasionally criticized for not being so dedicated to my own outfit. If the work didn’t get done at home because I’m at the lake or on a ball field with my kids, then the only one suffering is me.

I often feel like I’m stretched thin, and don’t devote enough time to any one activity. Yet, I can honestly say my children are getting exposed to a wide range of experiences. This variety, in my opinion, will help shape my kids into well rounded adults. In return, my kids understand during winter feeding and calving times, the livestock take precedence over any and all of our activities.

This holiday season, take the time to review your priorities.

Where are you putting your time and energy? Does your hobbies/ pastimes fit your family, or do you expect the family to fit your hobby? The best present you can give your family and yourself is time together. Merry Christmas and Happy New Year.

I met my two oldest children’s mother during this time. She would go to ropings with me, do her lesson plans, and visit. Roping was a big part of our life. Then came marriage and babies. I’ve heard men complain being a parent was a burden to their lifestyle.

Being a father became my lifestyle. Diapers, feedings, and bedtime stories were the norm, and I loved it. While their mother and I parted ways, the kids were, and are, my main priority. They are growing up, with their baby sister, Bird, in the woods and the roping pen, although the roping has fallen by the wayside recently.

Two things have caused the decrease in roping time. Wifey and I bought a place to start our own operation. It has always been my goal to be self employed in the cattle business. I’m getting a later start than I had hoped, but at least it’s a start. Running two outfits takes up a lot of time. Saturdays once spent traveling to a roping became time to patch fence and tend to our stock. Then, the older kids got interested in sports. As with many things, there are never enough folks active to make youth sports function well. I never got the opportunity to play any sports growing up, and I want my kids to have the chance, and I made the sacrifice to get involved in coaching. Now, my springs have been a whirlwind of getting cattle out on grass, both at work and for myself, and making it to practices and games. We’ve spent money we don’t have to build good fences so I’m not chasing cows when I need to be on the ball field. Little league baseball and softball are a big priority.

The kids have played soccer the last two falls. Bow season came and went with me on the sidelines watching practices and games.

We did get to the woods once, Ian, Abigail, and I, for a wonderful morning still hunting. We’ve made it to a couple of ropings this year.

The Magazine for America’s Roper • 43

44 • The Roping Pen • December 2015

The Magazine for America’s Roper • 45

46 • The Roping Pen • December 2015

The Magazine for America’s Roper • 47

48 • The Roping Pen • December 2015

The Magazine for America’s Roper • 49

your horse was covered. Then, if something happened, you could invest in another horse of the same caliber (or close to it anyway).

T

his month I want to talk about the values of your horse. Over the last month or so, I have been to a few horse sales and a couple of bigger barrel races, and a few rodeos in between. I happened to notice the difference between disciplines from the insurance stand point and I will try and explain what I have found.

First let’s all assume we have our horse insured as we did from the point of purchase. Let’s say that was 3 years ago, and we have been happy with knowing we have it covered with a mortality policy. If anything should happen, we will be reimbursed for the amount invested. We all know this - we have covered it several times in past articles. In the past 3 years we have won prizes, points (for yearend prizes), a saddle, and at least $20,000 in cash prizes alone.

The last 3 years have been good to us. Then, lo and behold, our friend has to be put down due to an unforeseen circumstance. We are reimbursed, after filing the correct paperwork, for our initial investment. However, there’s a problem. Since we bought that horse, the value of a new horse of that caliber is now higher than it was 3 or 4 years ago. So now our reimbursement is only a 1/3 of the purchase price on a replacement animal of the same caliber.

Want to know how this could have been avoided? By calling your agent and having your value increased on your policy. Over a 3 year period, you probably could have called any number of times, but had never even thought about it. You also had a renewal at least 3 times come around, and at that time you could have done it without any extra paperwork. That’s all it would have taken to make sure

Over the last several months, I’ve noticed the roping and barrel horse industry having increased values - significantly more than years before. Roping horses of today are valued higher than previous years... don’t you guys agree? Using that same scenario, let’s say you invest in a $10,000 horse. It’s now worth $30,000, at least just on cash money won. Now, try to go buy a $10,000 horse this year. You will spend nearly that much traveling around looking for another one, I’d bet. Want to know how many of my clients in these disciplines call to increase value on their horses? Probably less than 10%. I’ve been guilty of not doing it, or not doing it quickly enough. The agent is bound by the policy, and cannot go on “I should have had it increased” or “I meant to call you”. The clients that I have that are the most proactive in keeping up with their horse’s value are the ones in the race horse industry. They call each time a horse wins a significant amount of prize money, or if a full sibling wins a big race, or the dam of their horse wins, etc. All of these things increase the value of your horse. Training also increases the value of your horse. Yes, this is an insurance policy, so there would be some things asked if you increase it. You would have to provide a justification of value. Sounds awful? It’s not!

A simple form is needed to list documented winnings, prizes, points, etc., and where the insurance company can find them if needed. As I have said before, try and keep up with some of these things along the way - keep them in your “horse book.” (That is what we call it here at home. We keep all of our important information in one folder so it’s easy to find.)

So, in closing this month’s article, I challenge each of you to go over your policy and evaluate where you are with your horse. This is no different than life insurance on yourself... but for your horse!

Thanks again, and as always... see you at the next roping!

b/w open

ALEXANDER ASKS:

My handle sucks, it seems like my cattle are always on a swing away from the heeler. What do you suggest?

RICKEY’S ANSWER:

You probably need to keep your horse moving forward as you dally and then don’t come back so much towards the chutes.

50 • The Roping Pen • December 2015

BY STUART MITCHELL

I knew that fat boy wasn’t gettin’ down no chimney!

Make me a Champion A

W I N N E R’ S

P R AY E R

Make me a champion today, O Lord, show me the way I should go

Make me a champion today, O Lord, win, place or show.

Make me a champion today, O Lord, that I may stand for You.

Make me a champion today, O Lord, that others may see You in what I do.

Make me a champion today, O Lord, so I can perform my task today.

Make me a champion today, O Lord, with the ability You’ve sent my way.

Make me a champion today, O Lord, so I’m thankful for all my gain.

Make me a champion today, O Lord, to ever remember Your suffering and pain.

Make me a champion today, O Lord, so that my reward someday I’ll receive.

Make me a champion today, O Lord, so my life, to my partners, will not deceive.

Make me a champion today, O Lord, may earthly gain be a secondary thought.

Make me a champion today, O Lord, so I may do what Jesus has taught.

Make me a champion today, O Lord, someday to reach Heaven’s shore.

Make me a champion today, O Lord, and tomorrow and forevermore.

Amen

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Bull in the Chicken House W

by Crystal Lyons

here’s the camera when you need one? I heard the chickens going crazy and ran out to see what was the matter. The longhorn bull was inside the chicken house, calmly eating hay out of the nests and licking up the laying pellets out of the hanging feeder, while the chickens were bouncing off the walls. It was a Kodak moment. While crazed chickens were flying over his back, he quietly turned his head sideways so he could fit his horns through the door and come back out. (I was sure egg production would be down for a day or so.)

How did it happen? Well, a small gate was left open. That’s all it took to give me a laugh and the chickens something to cackle about for a few hours. But did you know that not every open door should be walked through? I’ve heard people say, “I knew it must be God because it just opened up for me!” Heck, I’ve said those words myself! Some of those “open doors” that I walked through, thinking they were “God,” left a memory that isn’t near as funny to me as the bull in the chicken house. Although, come to think of it, it does give folks something to cackle about for awhile when I tell the story.

God wants us to be led by His Spirit – that still, small, quiet voice inside us that we might brush off as “nothing” if we don’t watch it, telling us it is NOT an “open door.” And, some open doors are God! But the point is we are not to be led by them. I have walked through some of those open doors before, and was just as out of my element and in the wrong place as that bull was in the chicken house. Problem was, it took me a lot longer to get back out!

Although I gotta say, I have learned some valuable lessons because of it, one of which being “Even though a bull eats all the laying pellets, he still won’t lay eggs”.

The Magazine for America’s Roper • 51

52 • The Roping Pen • December 2015

The Magazine for America’s Roper • 53

THE

Other Half Sponsors...

M

y eyes scanned the banners covering the walls of the coliseum. There were all sorts of sponsors and the banners were huge. Heel-o-matic, Tony Lama, Ram, Pro View Equine, Cinch, Cruel Girl, Purina, NRS and Martin Saddlery. That was only on one side.

B and W Trailer Hitches, Resistol, Western Horseman, Case IH and Gist Buckles covered another wall. And that was only a few that I could see. The banners and sponsors were everywhere.

“What are you doing?” Boss asked as he squatted down to get a drink from our cooler. Even the cooler had a sponsorship sticker.

“Looking for my banner!” I said a little nonchalantly because I knew he wouldn’t understand.

“What?” he asked. “What banner?”

“Well, look at all those banners and sponsors hanging on the walls around this building. Not one of them is mine.” He looked at me with a squint, “Sure you feel ok? We didn’t buy a banner to put up there! What are you talking about?”

I pointed out to him quite emphatically that we shouldn’t have to buy the banner. It should just be a given that our banner would be up there. It should be flown proudly at every roping we go to.

Naturally, he was lost and still couldn’t figure it out.

Boss stood up and looked around. “There are lots of banners and sponsors in team roping. What makes you think you should have a banner and not to have to pay for it to boot? Besides, what would it say? You’ve lost your mind!”

“That is not a problem,” I thought. “You are always lost and confused.” I wanted to scream at him, “All you understand is rope!” I didn’t say that out loud mostly because I needed a ride home and he needed a driver and it would be a long haul if he was mad or didn’t do well at the roping today.

“I smiled and said, “I think “we” are the biggest sponsors of all,” I explained. “We need the biggest banner on the wall.”

He laughed and asked if I had a mouse in my pocket since I referenced “we.”

His smirk and chuckle made me mad.

© The Other Half , Melinda Clements melinda@clements.net

“Seriously,” I looked him straight in the eye. “All the wives, girlfriends, mothers, sisters and daughters who help you rope should have a banner at every team roping.” He died laughing right there on the step. He rolled his eyes back in his head and guffawed.

“Your are kidding, right?” he shrieked. “You want a banner for all the roping wives? You must be kidding.”

Now, I wanted to fight. He could just find someone else to drive us home. For him to jest about such a serious subject was just mean. I meant it from the bottom of my heart. Did he really not understand? Was he really that dense or maybe he just didn’t care.

A banner, a sponsorship banner, at least, for the team roper’s support system would be nice. Ladies, we are, after all his biggest supporter and his sponsor in every possible way.

We pick up, clean up, put up, let out, let in, lead, load up, feed, water, doctor, unload, reload, film, critique, motivate, console, legislate,

54 • The Roping Pen • December 2015

Thoughts of a Team Roping Spouse...

by Gracie Mae

delegate, and on and on goes the list of all that we do. Personally, I think that deserves a banner and a recognized sponsorship.

How much more of a sponsor could we be? Why don’t we deserve a banner on the wall or fence of every team roping? I would say maybe a fifty-foot by five foot across all one side of each building wall or arena fence where a team roping is held. I’m thinking we deserve something for all we do. Goodness knows, we put in enough time.

Boss was still staring at me with a goofy grin.

“It’s not exactly like our hobby taking care of you guys,” I said with a sneer.

“You have a hobby,” he countered. “You are a Wal-Mart shopper.

You are a hobby shopper!” He laughed out loud. “Come to think of it your hobby is making every booth at the trade show while I rope.”

I stood up and shoved the cooler into his boot. “I’m designing a sponsorship banner for all the wives and girlfriends that make you guys look good. If we are not sponsors, well, I’d like to see some of those big name sponsors do what we do.”

Boss countered with ropers couldn’t do without all the sponsors that support team roping. And, of course, he is right. All I was saying was that we, girls, deserve some recognition also. We have, after all, put our blood and guts into it. We forgo those dinners out on the town in return for turning out steers and saddling horses and legging up horses and tending to kids and loading trailers.

Fifty foot by five saying, “To all those team roping wives and girlfriends who get their hands dirty, are covered in manure and saddle sore we appreciate your hard work and commitment to the sport of team roping.”

Boss laughed again and sauntered off to get his horse. I was so mad I could feel tears welling up in my eyes. I should just buy the banner and start a trend. It would look great on a coliseum wall and would certainly show someone what priorities are about.

I’m still looking for my banner. I’m still looking for some sponsor recognition. I’m still looking for someone to give credit where credit is due.

I looked down at the arena floor. Boss and his partner were riding into the box. I scrambled to get my IPad to film. I gave him a thumbs up and hoped he would do well. I didn’t see any one of those other sponsors giving him a thumbs up.

It is true for sure, the sponsors that support team roping are the best. We couldn’t operate without them. They help pay our bills, feed and care for our horses, build our trailers and provide pens and practice machines.

However, I do some of that too. All of us do some semblance of that. Where’s my banner? I’ve got a design in mind. I guarantee it will look good on a coliseum wall. Once we get the banner hung we can start on the advertising and commercial part of the sponsorship. I know it is going to take off like a hurricane and we will have a huge following.

Watch for it. Our banner is in the making.

Keep Ropin’ ... Love Gracie

HORSES/STALLS/TRAINING 12/14 14 year old, roan, gelding head horse. Good beginner horse.

Good in the box. Has been hauled to KRA roping’s. Asking $3000.

Call Tom @ 270-402-7191 10/15 Specialize in starting young horses & finishing rope horses.

Contact facility owner, Dr. Taylor 336-918-1083 or Trainer, Dustin Sheppard 336-202-5873 for more information.

10/15 For Sale - Priefert stalls expo, hunter green powder coated, we have a huge covered stall barn and want to sell all stalls. Circle M Ranch - Pelzer, South Carolina – Selling stall panels and stall fronts, glad to send pics. Great deal on these. For more info, call Frankie McCleer 864-630-9340 or email kellimccleer@aol.com

PROPERTY 12/14 For Sale – Alabama Premier Horse Property – 78 Ac, fenced & cross fenced w 2 ac pond, creeks & magnificent 4,200 Ft2 Home. 3 Barns, RV hookups & more. It is a must see! – Asking $1,100,000.

Call The Joel Gill Team, Joel or Susan Gill – 334-277-8204!

CATTLE 8/15 Breeding Roping or Bucking Cattle? Our lab offers pregnancy testing, BVD, and Johne’s testing. Call 307-742-9072 or visit our website to find out more at www.eagletalonent.com 6/15 - 20 FRESH LONGHORN/CORRIENTE steers & heifers, weaned, bunkbroke, vaccinated, dewormed, 325-425 lbs. $875 & up. Contact Kelly Cattle Company: 706-319-5930 7/15 - 14 fresh corriente/longhorn steers and heifers. Ready to rope. Vaccinated, dewormed, bunk broke - 400 lb. avg - $900 each if all taken. Call Colt Kelly at 706-319-5930

ROPING DUMMIES 6/15 Used Hot Heels roping dummy w/ Springer Sled. Please email for additional info: kbrown@tsys.com 2/15 Heel-O-Matic For Sale! Brand New - Straight from the factory.

Heel-O-Matic with all the upgrades. The Ultimate Ground-Driven Trainer includes the Spring-Loaded Tongue and Deluxe Leg Package.

Top of the line roping practice machine. See one at heelomtic.com.

Selling for $3100 ($500 off retail). Call 505-259-7975 7/15 - Used Hot Heels for sale or trade for newer version. For info, call 417-214-2063 and ask for Billy.

WANTED 12/15 Looking for used roping dummy - Hot-Heels or comparable.

Call Frank at 719-661-3077

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Submit ad requests by the 10th of the month to rdavis@theropingpen.com

Advertisers & Events Index EVENTS: S. Georgia Championships, USTRC....... 49 The Patriot......................................... 36 Ed Allen Team Roping Events............... 15 Patriot IFR Qualifier Event.................... 5 NTRL National Finals........................... 44 NTRL Events.................................. 46-47 JX2 Trailer Roping.............................. 48 ADVERTISERS: Adam Toole Horses............................. 23 AlabamaRoping.com........................... 31 Albracht Insurance.............................. 50 Allen’s Rodeo Photos........................... 11 Bar H Photography............................. 11 Best Ever Pads.................................... 53 BTuff Jeans.......................................... 9 Tuff Fest............................................. 35 C Bar C Photography........................... 11 Classic Rope........................................ 63 Corriente Saddle Co............................ 25 Dare to be Cowboy............................. 57 FastBack.............................................. 3 Flatland Ropes...................................... 4 FRM Feeds.......................................... 19 FSR Cattle Company............................ 61 GTS by Tuf Kaf.................................... 29 Haslerig Saddlery............................... 43 Heel-O-Matic...................................... 12 Hot Heels........................................... 52 JD Photography.................................. 11

Jim Davis Photo.................................. 11 Lil Blue Heeler.................................... 23 Lone Star Ropes.................................. 38 Lubrisyn............................................. 64 Maynard Buckles................................ 15 Mortenson.......................................... 59 NRS................................................... 41 Parks Chevrolet.................................. 24 Power Team Roping............................ 50 Priefert.............................................. 60 Quicksilver......................................... 53 Red Bluff............................................ 53 Red River Arenas................................ 23 Rope Rite........................................... 59 Rope Smart.......................................... 2 Running P Ropes................................ 58 Running P Saddles................................ 4 Silver Lining Herbs.............................. 21 Something Steer................................. 61 Sparky Roping Machines..................... 57 SpeedRoping.com............................... 42 Straight Tied Ropes............................. 25 STS Ranchwear................................... 23 Team Equine Saddle Pad..................... 61 Tin Haul............................................. 59 Tom Bourne........................................ 18 Total Equine Feed............................... 62 TotalTeamRoping.com......................... 13 Tres Rios Silver................................... 61 Twisted Spur....................................... 29 USTRC Membership............................. 30 Willard Rope Co.................................. 29

The Magazine for America’s Roper • 55

JR Goat Tying 1 Olivia Dove.............1100.45 2 McKenzie Brown........426.55 3 Emma Hunter............420.10

4 Grace Bryant.............394.40 5 Cheyenne Douglas.....344.60 6 Elly Whitesell............316.20 7 Hannah Grace Harmon..170.00 8 Josie Trotter................96.90 9 Bailey Schmidt............68.00 10 Georgia Caroline Kay....51.00 11 Abby Force.................40.80 12/13 Emily Servies........34.00 12/13 Madison Per.........34.00 14 Amber Massey............30.60 *Macy Cook..................139.40 JR Barrel Racing 1 Elly Whitesell............767.02 2 Spencer Timms..........759.63

3 Cheyenne Douglas.....737.63 4 Amber Massey..........614.21 5 Hannah Grace Harmon..567.97 6 McKenzie Brown........505.93 7 Rebecca McClinton.....365.59 8 Olivia Dove...............327.97 9 Grace Bryant.............283.18 10 Eryn Crider................264.35 11 Georgia Caroline Kay...234.77 12 Isabella Hart.............122.91 13 Madison Per................91.80 14 Sally Poteat................90.78 15 Josie Saribok..............76.50 16 Rachael Louks.............38.76 17 Emma Hunter..............17.00

JR Pole Bending 1 Cheyenne Douglas.....657.16 2 Hannah Grace Harmon..590.14 3 Amber Massey..........547.87 4 Rebecca McClinton.....525.04 5 Georgia Carolina Kay...345.10 6 Madison Per..............310.72 7 Grace Bryant.............238.00 8 Olivia Dove...............225.08 9 Isabella Hart.............218.28 10 Elly Whitesell............145.35 11 Jacie Blackard.............91.80 12 Sally Poteat................32.64 13 Abby Force.................30.60 14 Jordan Anderson..........21.76 15 McKenzie Brown..........18.70

PW Goat Tying 1 Aiden Tackett............537.30 2 Taylor Culton.............462.00 3 Lexi Clark.................367.20 4 Trinity Cooke.............221.00 5 Bristol Norris.............128.70

7 Lexi Clark...................35.70 8 Gabbie Metta..............20.40

Stock Bustin’ Abby Rae Stockman.................7 Aiden Tackett..........................8 Ally Farr.................................6 Augustus Green.......................7 Brennon Louk..........................9 Brayden Moiser.....................14 Bristol Norris.........................14 Colton Hughes.........................9 Colton Hill...............................7 Cooper Gowan.........................2 Eli O Shields............................8 Elijah Humphries......................1 Ethan Humphries.....................1 Ethan McGahee.....................11 Jackson Davis..........................3 Josie Hill................................7 Layne Farr..............................9 Levi Pennington.....................12 Lilly Per................................14 Luke Guy................................9 Morgan Ward..........................9 Quaid Busby.........................12

PW Boys All Around 1 Aiden Tackett..........1484.70

PW Barrel Racing 1 Bristol Norris.............572.90 2 Taylor Culton.............376.90 3 Trinity Cooke.............363.40 4 Lexi Clark.................297.50 5 Savannah Caston.......173.50 6 Aiden Tackett..............95.20 7 Gabbie Metta..............47.60

PW Goat Doggin’ 1 Taylor Culton.............737.10 2 Aiden Tackett............583.60 3 Lexi Clark.................421.50 4 Lilly Per....................358.70 5 Bristol Norris.............296.90 6 Quaid Busby.............231.20

PW Pole Bending 1 Taylor Culton.............533.30 2 Savannah Caston.......454.00 3 Aiden Tackett............268.60 4 Trinity Cooke.............259.70 5 Bristol Norris.............253.30 6 Josie Hill....................51.00

Bareback 1 Jordan Hill................238.00 2 Kendall Chappell........214.20 3 Dakota Collyer..........181.80 4 Kenneth Glick..............40.80 5 Caleb Traenkner...........27.20

6 Eddie Rounds............300.90 7 Davis Sewell.............188.70 8 Hunter Roof..............175.10 9 Cayden McCraw........119.00 10 Bennett Dove..............56.10 11 David Boyter...............30.00

Saddlebronc 1 Kenneth Glick............448.80 2 Hunter Roof..............380.70 3 Hunter Styles............251.20 4 Colby Winstead.........127.50 5 Spencer Tucker............68.00 6 Chase Dyal.................66.60 7 Kendall Chappell..........27.20

Team Roping-Heel 1 Chase Dyal...............471.40 2 Jacob McGinn............457.30 3 Eddie Rounds............433.40 4 Bennett Dove............369.90 5 Hunter Styles............205.70 6 Colby Winstead.........187.00 7 Spencer Tucker..........163.20 8 Tyler Willis................162.60 9 Hunter Roof..............137.70 10 Davis Sewell...............40.80 11 Dylan Cook.................34.00

SR Bk Away 1 Brittany Malone.........421.60 2 Monica Harmon.........409.00 3 Leah Hunter..............361.00 4 Kayla Lombardo........251.60 5 Kiowa Waters............246.90 6 Kyra Lombardo..........142.80 7 Chloe Cox.................142.80 8 Leah Blanton............134.30 * Julianne Sloan.............17.00

Calf Roping 1 Hunter Styles............455.20 2 Eddie Rounds............433.60 3 Jacob McGinn............371.80 4 Chase Dyal...............224.40 5 Tyler Willis................207.40 6 Caleb Traenkner.........204.00 7 Hunter Roof................96.90 8 Cayden McCraw..........35.70 9 Bennett Dove..............17.00 Team Roping-Head 1 Hunter Styles............486.20 2 Jacob McGinn............483.30 3 Tyler Willis................334.20 4 Chase Dyal...............314.50 5 Olivia Dove...............314.40

Ryder Thomas.........................2 Teally Rein Gray.....................12 Trinity Cooke.........................10 Walker Timms.........................7 PW Girls All Around 1 Taylor Culton...........2109.30 2 Bristol Norris...........1251.80 3 Lexi Clark...............1121.90 4 Trinity Cook...............844.10 5 Savannah Caston.......627.50 6 Gabbie Metta..............68.00

Steer Wrestling 1 Bennett Dove............315.00 2 Eddie Rounds..............17.00 * Chase Dyal.................85.00 Boys Goat Tying 1 Jacob McGInn...........376.20 2 Eddie Rounds............307.70 3 Ethan Lombardo........289.00 4 Caleb Tranekner.........222.70 5 Chase Dyal...............205.60 6 Bennett Dove............142.80

SR Goat Tying 1 Brittany Malone.........912.20 2 Chanler Burgess.........477.60 3 Leah Hunter..............248.20 4 Kyra Lombardo..........207.40 5 Chloe Cox.................178.50 6 Grace Miller..............131.40 7 Leah Blanton............107.10 8 Maggie Wirchball.........81.60 9 Monica Harmon...........70.80 10 Cheridan Gowan..........66.30 11 Jordan Mullinax...........45.90 12 Nikki Price..................34.00 * Kayla Lombardo........170.00 * Amber Tatham.............68.00 SR Barrel Racing 1 Monica Harmon.......1297.97 2 Jessica Burgess.........907.42 3 Cheridan Gowan........651.44

56 • The Roping Pen • December 2015

WR Girls All Around 1 Annie Grace Roach.....732.30 2 Madysen Baker.........617.10 3 Bailey Langley...........600.46 4 Addie Hunter.............409.70 5 Grace Servies............183.60 WR Boys All Around 1 Cynch Whitesell.......2140.90 2 Wess Hawkins.........1964.40 3 Colby Yarborough....1257.89 4 Gabe Tackett...........1107.70 5 Bryce Stockman........975.85 WR BK Away Roping 1 Wess Hawkins...........639.50 2 Cynch Whitesell.........464.10 3 Colby Yarborough......329.80 4 Annie Grace Roach.....132.60 5 Gabe Tackettt............119.00 4 Madison Bagwell.......525.64 5 Chanler Burgess.........437.10 6 Jordan Mullinax.........352.29 7 Kiowa Waters............264.86 8 Maggie Wirchball.......261.80 9 Leah Hunter..............216.92 10 Amber Tatham...........159.12 11 Brooks Eddins...........147.24 12 Kayla Lombardo........125.46 13 Abbi McCraw...............52.36 14 Hannah Loudermilk........50.32 15 Bailey Curtice..............48.62 16 Skylar Langley............38.76 17 Leah Blanton..............36.72 18 Thomas Hagood..........25.84 19 Elli Hope....................24.48 20 Morgan Gambrell.........12.92 *Ashton Willis..................36.72 SR Poles 1 Monica Harmon.......1153.53 2 Cheridan Gowan........568.88 3 Maggie Wirchball.......375.36 4 Chanler Burgess.........366.52 5 Brooks Eddins...........310.80 6 Kyra Lombardo..........200.43 7 Skylar Langley..........144.84 8 Amber Tatham...........113.90 9 Hannah Loudermilk........87.06 10 Jessica Burgess...........86.02 11 Chloe Cox...................74.80

*Riley Sutherland.............89.76 Jr Chute Doggin’ 1 Jacob McGinn............510.60 2 PT Styles..................476.40 3 Chris Cartwright...........95.20 4 Davis Sewell...............40.80 Jr Bull Riding 1 Jacob Ashley.............162.00 2 James Cole...............119.00 JR Girls All Around 1 Olivia Dove.............2590.00 2 Cheyenne Douglas...1904.29 3 Hannah Grace Harmon....1535.51 4 Elly Whitesell..........1228.57 WR Goat Tying 1 Cynch Whitesell.........827.30 2 Kierstyn Cochran........649.10 3 Colby Yarborough......566.50 4 Wess Hawkins...........408.00 5 Annie Grace Roach.....223.40 6 Addie Grace Hunter....170.00 7 Madysen Baker...........51.00 8 Gabe Tackettt..............18.70 9 Skylar Scott................17.00 WR Barrel Racing 1 Cynch Whitesell.........798.50 2 Bryce Stockman........787.15 3 Gabe Tackett.............345.10 4 Wess Hawkins...........334.90 5 Annie Grace Roach.....296.40 6 Colby Yarborough......279.99 7 Addi Grace Hunter......239.70 8 Bailey Langley...........147.86 9 Madysen Baker...........74.80 10 Grace Servies..............61.20 11 Natalie Montgomery....44.20 12 Leah Blanton..............52.70 13/14 Kelsey Shillinglaw.........44.20 13/14 Katie Queen..........44.20 15 Morgan Gambrell.........34.00 16 Mariah Easley.............17.00 *Ashton Willis..................21.76 SR Chute Doggin’ 1 Eddie Rounds............391.00 2 Caleb Treankner.........302.90 3 Hunter Styles............294.00 4 Spencer Tucker..........258.00 5 Bennett Dove............215.90 6 Chase Dyal...............166.60 7 Dillon Miller................54.40 *Zach Tucker....................20.40 *Kendall Chappell...........119.00 SR Bull Riding 1 Colby Winstead.........469.80 2 Jesse Barnhardt.........306.60 3 Dakota Collyer..........153.00 4 Jacob Lazurick...........138.00 5 Dustin Blackwell..........20.40 SR Girls All Around 1 Monica Harmon.......2931.30 2 Brittany Malone.......1333.80 3 Cheridan Gowan......1286.62 4 Chanler Burgess.......1281.22 5 Jessica Burgess.........993.44

5 Amber Massey........1192.68 6 McKenzie Brown......1162.48 7 Grace Bryant...........1159.73 8 Rebecca McClinton.....890.63 9 Georgia Caroline Kay...630.87 10 Emma Hunter............437.10 11 Madison Per..............436.52 12 Isabella Hart.............375.19 13 Sally Poteat..............123.42 14 Abby Force.................71.40 JR Boys All Around 1 Jacob McGinn..........2199.20 2 Spencer Timms..........854.83 3 Ethan Lombardo........634.10 4 Davis Sewell.............521.90 12 Gracie Metta...............30.60 WR Pole Bending 1 Wess Hawkins...........582.00 2 Gabe Tackett.............573.90 3 Madysen Baker.........491.30 4 Bailey Langley...........452.60 5 Bryce Stockman........188.70 6 Grace Servies............122.40 7 Annie Grace Roach.......79.90 8 Colby Yarborough........61.20 9 Sophie Eddins.............17.00 WR Bull Riding 1 Aidan Per.................224.15 2 Austin Ashley............171.70 3 Timothy Louk............145.75 4 Zach McCuen............102.00 5/6 Cynch Whitesell.........51.00 5/6 Gabe Tackett.............51.00 7 Colby Yarborough........20.40 6 Leah Hunter..............826.12 7 Maggie Wirchball.......718.76 8 Kyra Lombardo..........550.63 9 Kayla Lombardo........547.06 10 Kiowa Waters............511.76 11 Brooks Eddins...........458.04 12 Jordan Mullinax.........398.19 13 Chloe Cox.................396.10 14 Amber Tatham...........341.02 15 Leah Blanton............330.82 16 Skylar Langley..........183.60 17 Hannah Loudermilk....137.38 18 Ashton Willis...............58.48 19 Morgan Gambrell.........46.92 SR Boys All Around 1 Eddie Rounds..........1883.60 2 Hunter Styles..........1692.30 3 Chase Dyal.............1534.10 4 Bennett Dove..........1116.70 5 Hunter Roof..............790.40 6 Colby Winstead.........784.30 7 Caleb Treankner.........756.80 8 Tyler Willis................704.20 9 Kenneth Glick............489.60 10 Spencer Tucker..........489.20 11 Kendall Chappell........360.40 12 Dakota Collyer..........334.80 13 Cayden McCraw........154.70

POINT ARE AS OF 10.31.15 • PHOTOS COURTESY OF FYRA

*Anyone riding in less than 4 rodeos in an event will be dropped from the year end points standings (noted with *), however, all points won apply to the All Around Standings.

• FYRA POINT STANDINGS FYRA POINT STANDINGS

JR BK Away 1 Olivia Dove...............622.10 2 Ethan Lombardo.......345.10 3 Jackson Rhymer........317.20 4 Davis Sewell.............251.60 5 Grace Bryant.............244.20 6 McKenzie Brown........211.30 7 Hannah Grace Harmon..207.40 8 Cheyenne Douglas.....164.90 9 Spencer Timms............95.20 10 Isabella Hart...............34.00

FAST BACK ROPES INTRODUCES A NEW 4-STRAND:

CENTERFIRE

F

ast Back Ropes, Inc. is excited to announce the release of their newest four-strand, the Centerfire. The Centerfire is a vibrant

orange nylon-poly blend with no bounce.

“We’ve had many requests to build a ‘dead’ rope,” says Al Benson,

General Manager. “Fast Back is known for building ropes with a lot

of body. This rope is a different feel that will have no bounce, but still hold up.”

The Centerfire head rope will be slightly smaller than the heel rope.

This rope has great tip feel and will stay put when delivered.

The Centerfire will be available at Fast Back dealers this December.

For more information, visit www.fastbackropes.com!

The Magazine for America’s Roper • 57

58 • The Roping Pen • December 2015

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60 • The Roping Pen • December 2015

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