The Roping Pen July 2016 by Ryan Davis

$4.00

July 2016

Vol. 25 No. 7

2 • THE ROPING PEN • JULY 2016

THE MAGAZINE FOR AMERICA’S ROPER • 3

JULY IS ONE OF MY FAVORITE MONTHS... and it has been since I was a kid. I remember the excitement of the 4th of July. The chance to escape into the unknown all day... riding horses, playing in the creek, or just exploring. July was magical. Even today I find myself excited about July, but I also often wonder what happened to those times when I had no cares in the world. Like many, I am sure time slipped by slowly. I often look back on my childhood and compare it to my own boys. Of course, they have cool gadgets I wish I would've had when I was a kid, but are they missing the chance to find themselves as I did when I was their age? I hope not. And I encourage them daily to step out of the house and explore – to escape into the backyard and cross the fence. Go find something to do that takes common sense. Heck, go find some trouble! I'm not sure why I stepped into that subject this month, especially with so much going on in rodeo and team roping. However, I believe it is important to slow down and quit running so hard all the time. Really... stop and smell the roses and see if they smell the same as they did when you were young. I bet they do. And they may even take you back to a place where laughter wasn't too far away and the days were long and filled with adventure.

I also wanted to say thank you to the many who commented on how much they liked the new format of the magazine. I believe, like the many upgrades this magazine has seen in the past, that it will continue to evolve and help promote the sport of team roping and rodeo throughout the country. I want to say a special “thank you” to Angie who does all of the layout and graphic design. Last month took a lot of work and she did an amazing job. The magazine would not be what it is today without her. Now, onto some of the “Dirt” of the sport of rodeo. The ERA has shaken up the sport in more ways than many notice. Over the past several months, the association has made huge strides in the industry and doing exactly what they said they would do. In addition, those contestants who are part of the ERA are now finding they have a lot of extra time on their hands, since they are not racing on the PRCA schedule. With that in mind, you will soon begin to see many new implementations to the industry. The cowboys and cowgirls of the ERA are the top of the sport and many have ideas and product designs that are beneficial to all, but have never had the time to implement them. Well, now they do! So keep an eye out for new things in the industry in the coming months. Dirt: keep it under your feet...

~Ryan Davis

4 • THE ROPING PEN • JULY 2016

Celebrating 25 Years!

TABLE OF CONTENTS Articles & Features 4 Dirt: July is one of my favorite months... . . . . . . . . Ryan Davis 11 Smokey Mountain Showdown. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Event Recap

T H E O F F I C I A L P U B L I C AT I O N O F. . .

14 Tomorrow’s Champions! . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Photo Features

THE PATRIOT

16 Down the Line. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Stran Smith

SRA

17 Iowa Championships . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Event Results

Southern Rodeo Association

18 Marcus Theriot: Breaking Records . . . . . . . . . . Press Release

AHSRA

20 Ropers of the Round Table. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Stuart Mitchell

Alabama High School Rodeo Association FYRA

Foothills Youth Rodeo Association GHSRA & GJHRA

GA High School Rodeo Association & GA Junior High Division

24 Pushing the Barrier: Teaching Kids. . . . . . . . . . . . Stran Smith 30 The Patriot Elite: O’Quinn & Robinson . . . . . . . #12 Champs 31 The Patriot Report: New to 2017! . . . . . . . . . News & Updates 32 The Patriot: Upcoming Events . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Calendar 39 Mississippi Championships, Event Recap . . . . . Ben Clements

NTRL

46 In The Loop. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Lone Star Ropes

NCHSRA • NCJHRA

49 Top Tips! Reinventing Team Roping on the Web. . . . . TTR.com

National Team Roping League North Carolina High School Rodeo Association North Carolina Junior High Rodeo Association SCHSRA • SCJHD • SCYRA

South Carolina High School Rodeo Association S. Carolina Jr High Div & Youth Rodeo Assoc ••••••••••••••• Let us help your Association GROW!

Want to have your association in The Roping Pen? We will print your schedule, current standings, results, officer information, member of the month, and what everyone wants to see... PICTURES! Just ask any of our featured Associations and they will tell you their members love being in the Roping Pen. It’s easy - just call and find out all the details. You’ll see your Association take off with the best magazine in the NATION!

••••••••••••••• The Roping Pen is published monthly. Subscription rates are $20 per year for standard mail. First class and out of country subscriptions are $36 per year. New advertising should be received by the 10th of the preceding month to appear in next issue. Please call for advertising rates. Material may not be reproduced without permission from publisher. The opinions and views expressed in all editorial materials are those of the writer or person interviewed and are not necessarily those of The Roping Pen. Send all correspondence, change of address, etc. to: The Roping Pen • P O Box 328 • Tijeras, NM 87059

48 Razorback Riches. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Event Recap 51 Sweat & Balin’ Twine: Horseman . . . . . . . . . . . . . John Rhudy 52 Payoff is Coming! . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Crystal Lyons 55 Ohio Classic, Event Recap. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ben Clements 56 The Other Half: It’s Not My Job. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Gracie Mae 57 Classifieds. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Buy/Sell/Trade 57 Index. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Advertisers & Events

Associations 6+ Southern Rodeo Association. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . SRA 22 N Carolina High School Rodeo Assoc. . . . . . . . . . . NCHSRA 26 Alabama High School Rodeo Assoc. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . AHSRA 28 Foothills Youth Rodeo Association. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . FYRA 36 GA HSchool & Jr HS Rodeo Assoc. . . . GHSRA & GJHSRA 40+National Team Roping League . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . NTRL 54 South Carolina HS Rodeo Assoc . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . SCHSRA

ON THE COVER:

Photo courtesy of Donna Farmer

The Roping Pen • Periodical Permit ISSN 1559-0224 USPS-023083 is published monthly. Published by RJ Five LLC

The Publication office is located at 28 Rincon Loop in Tijeras, NM. Periodical Postage Paid at Tijeras, NM and additional Mailing offices.

Editor: Ryan Davis

505-407-2151 • rdavis@theropingpen.com

THE MAGAZINE FOR AMERICA’S ROPER • 5

SUMMERT J

uly brings the busy time of year for rodeo cowboys and cowgirls. Events are at an all-time high during the warmer months and many find themselves burning up the highways and byways heading to events all across the country. Of course there is the 4th of July, (Cowboy Christmas) weekend. Rodeos and our country's IndependenceDay celebrations go hand-in-hand and most often is the kick-off for summer rodeo events. For SRA members, the 4th of July weekend is followed by an event that many contestants think may be one of the best rodeos of the year. The Newport Pro Rodeo in Newport, North Carolina has slowly grown and has turned into a great event that many look forward to all year. The SRA Sanctioned Newport SRA Rodeo is a Double Creek Pro Rodeo Company event and has been for the

6 â&#x20AC;˘ THE ROPING PEN â&#x20AC;˘ JULY 2016

TIME HIGH past 3 years. Although it has been an annual event for 10 years, it has gained the respect of contestants and the local spectators over the past couple of years. This rodeo has several reasons it has continued to flourish. For one, the rodeo’s added money each year has turned the heads of the SRA’s contestants. In addition, it is only about eight miles from the beach and many have made this event a good excuse to enjoy a "mini-vacation." Cowboys and cowgirls tend to roll in mid-week to soak up some sun, relax, and enjoy the many nearby beaches that NC has to offer. The great facility also entices rodeo cowboys and cowgirls. Its outdoor venue is second to none. Owned by brothers Morgan and Keith Garner, they have continued to promote the facility. Not only does the Newport Flea Mall Event Ground play host to

the SRA Pro Rodeo each year, they also have many other events throughout the year including an annual Tractor Pull, a Monster Truck Jam and different types of family events. The facility is second to none and they continue to add and update it each year. The arena received new lights last year and there has been general updates done that both contestants and spectators can find at this year’s rodeo. The Rodeo in Newport is also unique and has enlisted a large and enthusiastic crowd of spectators over the past several years. The hosts of people who come to enjoy the rodeo are some of the best. They enjoy the professional talent of the SRA cowboys and cowgirls and get behind every ride, every drop of a coil and every turn of each barrel throughout the two-day event. The small town settled near the eastern

seaboard does not seem like your typical rodeo hotspot, but don’t tell the fans, because they are some of the best around.

As July plays out and the rodeo road curves into the second half of the season, you can bet a magnitude of SRA contestants will be sneaking away to the eastern side of North Carolina for a little R&R at the beach before competing at one of the year’s best events. The Newport Pro Rodeo will once again play its hand in the SRA schedule as contestants look forward to an Incentive rodeo on Friday Night, July 15 and a regular rodeo on Saturday. Facility owners Morgan and Keith Garner, as well as Double Creek Pro Rodeo Company and the many Newport Spectators will be looking forward to the event and welcoming all of their rodeo friends and family that weekend!

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VISIT US ONLINE AT WWW.SRARODEO.COM FOR COMPLETE LISTING OF POINT STANDINGS, IN *Cotton Eyed Joe Buckle **see www.srarodeo.com/m

SRA 2016 RODEO SCHEDULE

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NDIVIDUAL RODEO RESULTS & MORE NEWS. Series = must compete in 5 rodeos in series to be eligible. membership for details on rodeos not selling SRA MEMBERSHIPS.

2016 POINT STANDINGS

SRA POINT STANDINGS as of May 10th excluding Walterboro SC & Gates NC • Visit srarodeo.com for Point Standings, Individual Results & more news RANK & NAME................................ POINTS RANK & NAME................................POINTS

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10 • THE ROPING PEN • JULY 2016

Showdown

SMOKEY MOUNTAIN

MORRISTOWN, TENNESSEE • JUNE 11-12, 2016

orristown, Tennessee came to life in June as the Smokey Mountain Showdown came to town. The event portrayed all ropers continue to want in an event, great payouts, good cattle, and a good time. The Smokey Mountain Showdown offered ropers plenty of options to enter and win. With a #8 through #13 World Series ropings, in addition to several other ropings the two-day event went well. The big roping of the weekend though was the Trailer and prize roping. Ropers entered up fpr the chance to win part of the great prize line. Winning the high point, Trailer for the weekend was, Kacy Cronan from Clermont, Georgia. There were four saddle

Photos © C Bar C Photography

TRAILER WINNER: KACY CRONAN

AVERAGE CHAMPIONS: BOBBY TAYLOR & DAVE BENNETT

SADDLE WINNERS TY BURTAN DAVE BENNETT JANNNA CARLTON JESSICA SOUTHERN

winners. These included the #4 and over winner, Ty Burton from Dublin, Virginia, #3 Saddle winner, Janna Carlton from Mocksville, North Carolina, the 50 & Over saddle winner, Dave Bennett from Phoenix, Arizona and the Female Saddle high point champion, Jessica Southern from Sneedville, Tennessee. The Smokey Mountain Showdown set pace to a great season of team roping action east of the Mississippi River. Ropers are no doubt getting the chance to fill their need of competition and adrenaline. The summer has just begun and there are many more events on the schedule that cowboys and cowgirls can enter. Good luck! (Results on next page…)

THE MAGAZINE FOR AMERICA’S ROPER • 11

RESULTS FROM THE SMOKEY MOUNTAIN

Showdown

MORRISTOWN, TN JUNE 11-12, 2016 #13 WSTR QUALIFIER, AVERAGE: 1. David Gaddis, / Billy Lam, 37.26, $3,310; 2. Chris Coulter, / Wade Pickerill, 43.82, $2,210

#8 WSTR CHAMPIONS MORGAN HOLMES DAVE BENNETT

#12 WSTR QUALIFIER, AVERAGE: 1. Ryan Lee, / Colby Herman, 34.91, $5,280; 2. Morgan Holmes / Dillon Black, 35.52, $3,170; 3. Justin McMillion / Adam Schlechty 7 WS, 36.81, $2,110

#11 WSTR QUALIFIER, AVERAGE: 1. Dorie Lund / Cory Honeycutt, 54.36, $6,600; 2. Coleman Simmons / Chad Simmons, 32.94, $3,960; 3. Joseph Southern / Jordan Southern, 39.14, $2,640 #10 WSTR QUALIFIER, AVERAGE: 1. Clayton Wright, / Charles Shook, 39.84, $6,960; 2. Mary Ann Brown / Kelly Beahm, 47.35, $4,180; 3. Brent Carlton / Denver Ivester, 48.26, $2,780

#9 WSTR CHAMPIONS DAVID LEWIS GREG MITCHELL

#9 WSTR QUALIFIER, AVERAGE: 1. David Lewis / Greg Mitchell, 58.81, $5,280; 2. Chad Childers / Greg Mitchell, 32.52, $3,170; 3. Kacy Cronan / Ryan Lee, 36.41, $2,110

#11 SLIDE, AVERAGE: 1. Steve AllDay / Dillon Black, 26.16, $1,550; 2. Bradley Ammons / Dillon Black, 28.09, $1,160; 3. Mike Woolven / Dillon Black, 35.24, $780; 4. Mason Johnson / Dillon Black, 35.95, $390

#10 COOL DOWN, AVERAGE: 1. Mason Johnson / Jordan Southern, 32.61, $1,360; 2. Charles Shook / Denver Ivester, 34.53, $820; 3. Chris Coulter, / Wade Pickerill, 35.24, $540

#8 TRAILER, AVERAGE: 1. Robert Taylor / Dave Bennett, 29.87, $2,000, Trophy Buckles; 2. Ty Burton / Kacy Cronan, 33.57, $1,400, Trophy Buckles; 3. Cody L Johnson / Greg Mitchell, 35.3, $1,000, Trophy Buckles; 4. Bobby Pearman / Eliott Hooper, 39.27, $600, Trophy Buckles; 5. Jeremy Light / Terry Moore, 39.94, $400, Trophy Buckles; 6. Ty Burton / Tony Wells, 40.51, $250, $60 Tack Shack Vuchers; 7. Janna D Carlton / Dave Bennett, 42.52, $200, $60 Tack Shack Vuchers; 8. David Greene 4 / Kacy Cronan, 44.49, $200, $60 Tack Shack Vuchers; 9. Bobby Pearman / Tim Bell, 48.89, $200, $60 Tack Shack Vuchers; 10. Janna D Carlton / Justin McMillion, 51.08, $200, $60 Tack Shack Vuchers; 11. Jessica Southern / Kacy Cronan, 51.4, $0, $40 Tack Shack Vuchers; 12. Robert Taylor / Evan Walker, 18.36, $0, $40 Tack Shack Vuchers; 13. Tommy Musser / Forrest Parker, 19.49, $0, $40 Tack Shack Vuchers; 14. Ty Burton / Forrest Parker, 20.93, $0, $40 Tack Shack Vuchers; 15. Clay Jones / Greg Mitchell, 22, $0, $40 Tack Shack Vuchers; 16. Logan Taylor / Adam Burke, 22.14, $0, Equiband; 17. Kacy Cronan / Marty Strickland, 22.31, $0, Equiband; 18. Colt Hammond / Eliott Hooper, 22.68, $0, Equiband; 19. Logan Taylor / Forrest Parker, 23.03, $0, Equiband; 20. Clay Jones / Gary Salyer 3, 23.81, $0, Equiband

12 • THE ROPING PEN • JULY 2016

#10 WSTR CHAMPIONS CHARLES SHOOK CLAYTON WRIGHT

#11 WSTR CHAMPIONS DORIE LUND CORY HONEYCUTT

#12 WSTR CHAMPIONS RYAN LEE COLBY HERMAN

#13 WSTR CHAMPIONS BILLY LAM DAVID GADDIS

Photos ©C Bar C Photography

#8 WSTR QUALIFIER, AVERAGE: 1. Morgan Holmes / Dave Bennett, 54.21, $2,390; 2. Colt Hammond / Tim Bell, 37.68, $1,600

THE MAGAZINE FOR AMERICA’S ROPER • 13

HIGH SCHOOL ASSOCIATION STATE FINALS:

Tomorrow's Champions!

GHSRA & AHSRA pics ©JD Photography • SCHSRA pics ©Donna Farmer

With the 2015/16 school season coming to a close, so did the 2015/16 High School Rodeos. Every State had their share of excitement as winners emerged to represent their state at this year’s National High School Finals Rodeo. Congratulations to all of the winners and the best of luck to all who will head to the event with hopes of claiming a part of history!

14 • THE ROPING PEN • JULY 2016

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www.STSRanch.com

ather’s Day has come and gone, but the holiday has made me reflect on the word “Father,” and what it means in my life. There are actually 3 different meanings for me now. My first experience with “Father” came from my earthly dad. There are so many things I have learned from my dad. He is, what I call, a true cowboy. My definition of a true cowboy includes a long list of requirements, and he fits the bill… • The most important thing is he is a man of God. • He respects and loves my mother.

• He lives his life by example. He didn’t tell me how to be a man, he showed me.

• He is a man of integrity. I watched him, time and again, do much more than his part and take way less than he had coming. • He is humble beyond measure. I don’t think I have ever heard him pop off about something he has done.

• His true personality & character can be seen in 2 of his favorite quotes: “People don’t care how much you know, until they know how much you care” and “If you can’t say anything good about somebody, don’t say anything at all.”

My 2nd, and most recent, meaning of Father is my own role as Dad. I know that I am now the man that has to fit the bill for my kids. My role is to consistently love them, teach them, and lovingly discipline them. I have a unique role to play in my children’s life, because I am their first impression of how they will view God the Father. After a long trip, nothing feels better than walking into my house and my kiddos running up to me and jumping into my arms, giving me a big long hug, and hearing them say, “ I love you, Daddy.” My Dad did such a good job teaching me about the 3rd meaning of Father - God the Father. I believe that if you have a loving Dad, you view God the Father as very loving. If your Dad wasn’t around much or you had a very harsh Father, that might be how you view God. God just wants to have a relationship with you. He just wants to be your Dad. This is not to take away from God being the omnipotent, omnipresent One, because He is all of that. But for each one of us, He wants to be as personal as being your Daddy. One of the most profound things God has shown me is that He is relational. He wants US to run into His arms and tell Him we love Him and let Him be Dad.

Until next time… I’ll see you down the Line ~ Stran T

16 • THE ROPING PEN • JULY 2016

#13 SLIDE, AVERAGE: 1. Ryan VonAhn (Sac City, IA) / Chad Day (Wallingford, IA), 34.06, $2,120; 2. Gene Holm (Wallace, NE) / Chad Day (Wallingford, IA), 34.63, $1,270; 3. Ryan VonAhn (Sac City, IA) / Kraig VonAhn (Sac City, IA), 38.01, $850

#12 AVERAGE: 1. Ryan Gieck (York, NE) / Jon Hackel (Ord, NE), 37.61, $2,330; 2. Brent Woods (Tripp, SD) / Jon Hackel (Ord, NE), 39.21, $1,750; 3. Jon Bradley (Albia, IA) / Mark Brown (Centerville, IA), 49.81, $1,160; 4. Chad Day (Wallingford, IA) / Jack Day (Fontanelle, IA), 60.02, $580 #12 GOLD PLUS, AVERAGE: 1. Brian Koedam (Larchwood, IA) / Darren Lammers (Chancellor, SD), 28.41, $3,890; 2. Eric Nelson (Sanborn, MN) / Jeremy Wagner (Hillman, MN), 34.09, $2,920; 3. Alan Spencer (North Liberty, IA) / Bubba Reynolds (Buffalo, KS), 36.58, $1,950; 4. Joe Teague (Webster City, IA) / Justin Geidel (Greenfield, IA), 37.48, $970

#11, AVERAGE: 1. Jon Pudwill (Scotia, NE) / Logan Allen (Glenwood, IA), 37.69, $4,190; 2. Ryan Gieck (York, NE) / Delbert Smith (Ainsworth, NE), 41.73, $2,790; 3. Jonas Gingerich (Lamoni, IA) / Blake Kadel (Joy, IL), 43.67, $2,210; 4. Casey Flynn (Broken Bow, NE) / Craig Person (Columbus, NE), 43.77, $1,630; 5. Dustin Sparks (State Center, IA) / Delbert Smith (Ainsworth, NE), 44.3, $810

8. J P Conrad (Burwell, NE) / Russ Kucera (Central City, NE), 54.49, $600; 9. Allen Dean Abel (Holton, KS) / Ed Molt (Fairview, KS), 56.87, $400; 10. Rexford Harouff (Orleans, NE) / Justin Patch (Fullerton, NE), 57.06, $400; 11. Alan Spencer (North Liberty, IA) / Phillip Standley (Hale, MO), 60.04, $400; 12. Dusty Dugan (Saint Paul, NE) / Tim Patch (North Platte, NE), 61.15, $400; 13. Marty Lau (Quimby, IA) / Jordan J Rohlk (Ida Grove, IA), 61.8, $400; 14. Mike Turner (Cameron, MO) / Justin Patch (Fullerton, NE), 62.68, $400; 15. Andy Bullock (Clinton, MO) / Matt Rutherford (Cole Camp, MO), 64.56, $400

#8 PICKDRAW, AVERAGE: 1. Bradley Florea (Parnell, MO) / Howard Acklin (Graham, MO), 32.01, $4,950; 2. Troy Brown (Promise City, IA) / Ron Brinegar (Centerville, IA), 37.73, $3,300; 3. Andy Bullock (Clinton, MO) / Matt Rutherford (Cole Camp, MO), 38.75, $2,610; 4. Andy Bullock (Clinton, MO) / Chris Swanson (Silver City, IA), 39.17, $1,920; 5. Bily Lepe (Creston, IA) / David Beason (Hopkins, MO), 42.45, $960; 6. Trey Frank (Sioux City, IA) / David Beason (Hopkins, MO), 43.01, $450; 7. Katie Nelson (Alta, IA) / Tommy Mothershead (New Market, IA), 44.44, $450; 8. Kevin Stewart (Maloy, IA) / Tommy Mothershead (New Market, IA), 16.25, $300; 9. Cole Rutledge (Maple Hill, KS) / Chris Swanson (Silver City, IA), 27.64, $300; 10. Randy Garey (Manson, IA) / Jessica Shirley (Zumbrota, MN), 29.91, $300

#10, AVERAGE: 1. Rowdy Ludemann (Carlton, MN) / Jonas Gingerich (Lamoni, IA), 52.3, $4,890; 2. Rexford Harouff (Orleans, NE) / Jack Day (Fontanelle, IA), 54.05, $3,260; 3. Josey Miller (New Market, IA) / Jake A Rice (Clearfield, IA), 55.29, $2,580; 4. Ronald Steinhoff (Smithland, IA) / Jack Day (Fontanelle, IA), 56.62, $1,900; 5. Jason Charles (Hanover, MN) / Jordan J Rohlk (Ida Grove, IA), 25.96, $950; 6. Ken Silver (Warner, OK) / Adam Acklin (Graham, MO), 32.36, $600; 7. Marty Leach (Rockville, NE) / Delbert Smith (Ainsworth, NE), 33.33, $600; 8. Travis Scott (Foley, MN) / Amanda Kooiker (Adrian, MN), 33.65, $400; 9. Dusty Dugan (Saint Paul, NE) / Roger A. Merritt (Wellfleet, NE), 33.95, $400; 10. Dustin Sparks (State Center, IA) / Joe Teague (Webster City, IA), 35.93, $400 #10 GOLD PLUS, AVERAGE: 1. Dan Tobin (Pickering, MO) / Howard Acklin (Graham, MO), 45.97, $5,430; 2. Alan Spencer (North Liberty, IA) / Josh Jay (Mingo, IA), 47.71, $3,620; 3. Travis Scott (Foley, MN) / Gabriel Lebaron (Rosemount, MN), 34.04, $2,870; 4. Cody Kingston (Sioux City, IA) / Amanda Kooiker (Adrian, MN), 35.19, $2,110; 5. Dewayne Stuva (Prescott, IA) / Chris Stuva (Fontanelle, IA), 38.57, $1,060

#9, AVERAGE: 1. Darin Koedam (Larchwood, IA) / Brent Versteeg (Hospers, IA), 38.64, $6,600; 2. Marty Leach (Rockville, NE) / Roger A. Merritt (Wellfleet, NE), 40.26, $4,400; 3. Tannor Schuldt (Leon, IA) / Josh Jay (Mingo, IA), 43.47, $3,400; 4. Mike Fitzgerald (Fort Dodge, IA) / Kevin Fitzgerald (Woodward, IA), 44.99, $2,400; 5. Ryan Ross (Grundy Center, IA) / Kim Maxwell (Van Meter, IA), 45.93, $1,800; 6. Jessica Shirley (Zumbrota, MN) / Bryan Crane (Corcoran, MN), 49.9, $1,400; 7. Kay Stevens (Maquoketa, IA) / Bret Maxwell (Adel, IA), 52.23, $600;

THE MAGAZINE FOR AMERICA’S ROPER • 17

MARCUS THERIOT:

Breaking Records AT THE 2016 COLLEGE NAT'L FINALS RODEO PRESS RELEASE • BY FAST BACK ROPES

Casper, WY – On June 18th, college freshman, Marcus Theriot, added two new titles, CNFR AllAround Champion and Tie-Down Champion to an already impressive resume. The week long 2016 National College Finals, held in Casper, Wyoming, ran from June 12th through the 18th.

Theriot racked up a total of 510 points in the All Around race by earning points in three events: TieDown, Team Roping, and Steer Wrestling. Marcus captured the Tie Down title winning the average with an aggregate time of 38.1-seconds on four head. In Team Roping Marcus and partner, Lane Mitchell, placed in the third round with a 5.7-second run earning the team a spot in Saturday’s finals. A rapid 3.9-second run in the Steer Wrestling was fast enough for Theriot to win the second round.

Theriot is no stranger to winning titles, including a 2014 NHSFR All Around title and 2015 Mississippi High School Rodeo Association All Around championship. In May of this year Marcus won the Tie Down, Team Roping, & Boys All-Around Championship, & Reserve Champion Steer Wrestler in the NIRA Ozark Region. Theriot broke two records at the 2016 CNFR by being the only cowboy ever to win two titles in the same year and the first freshman to win the coveted All Around championship.

18 • THE ROPING PEN • JULY 2016

photo by Dan Hubbell courtesy of Fast Back

THE MAGAZINE FOR AMERICA’S ROPER • 19

BY STUART MITCHELL

SHINING LIGHT

“T

his little light of mine, I’m gonna let it shine.” This song has stood the test of time. It’s been sung by children at VBS, moms to children, and grandmas to grandchildren. Have you ever thought about the words? What is the light it speaks of? It’s not a light that gives off a glow, but the one you have inside, the influence you have on the people around you. Most of the time you never know if you have an impact on people unless it’s negative, people are quick to point that out. Over the years I have figured out that my light either shines bright or dull, but it still shines. If we’re lucky we might have someone say, “Hey, you really made an impact on me when ….” Or a former student might give a teacher credit in a speech or interview. This usually comes later in the student’s life after he grows up and realizes that the teacher wasn’t really crazy. We might get our children to admit that we were some help growing up, usually after mom and dad are older and the child is looking back on his/her life. Preachers, teachers, bosses, relatives, and good friends have had an impact on your life. Their light shined on you, bright or dull, it still shined. In life you will have a few people who will make the greatest impact on you. My parents are definitely the brightest lights in my life. I’ve had others whose lights shined on me, coaches, teachers, friends and sometimes perfect strangers. Most of us will never know how much

20 • THE ROPING PEN • JULY 2016

our lights shined. At the funeral there will be lots of people (hopefully), but you will never know it. If you get sick or have hard times your true friends will know, others will find out later. As I attended an event held to help out a friend of mine a while back, I thought about how his light had shined for people. Sickness had him down and his friends wanted to help. An event was organized and produced, but what really got my attention was the outpouring of help and encouragement for my friend. People from all walks of life came out for the event. The money that was raised was beyond any amount that had been thought of. It was plain to see that through the years, his light had been on. People drove long distances, sent money, worked, prayed and showered the family with love. It made me think of “this little light of mine”, how far is it gonna shine? Get up today and turn your light on! Someone may need to see you in a different light.

SAT, AUG 13 • 9am #15 Pick 1/Draw 1 or Draw 2 • 4 Hd $100/roper Must be 5 or above header/6 or above heeler #13 Pick • 4 Hd $40 roper #11 Pick 1/Draw 1 or Draw 2 • 4 Hd $100/roper #10 slide Draw 5 • 4 Hd $150/roper #9 Pick • 3 Hd $40/roper

• USTRC Regional Shoot-Outs Awarded to Average Winners • NTRL Shoot-Outs Awarded to Average Winners • Trophy Saddles Awarded to High Point Roper of Each Day* • Hot Heels Awarded to the High Point Roper of the Weekend • Priefert Chute to 2nd High Point Roper of the Weekend • Trophy Buckles to High Point Header & Heeler of #7 & #8 Combined • Jackets & Other Prizes Awarded Throughout Weekend!

*NOTE: CAN WIN ONLY ONE SADDLE

SUN, AUG 14 • 9AM CHURCH SERVICE AT 8 AM

#12 Pick 1/Draw 1 or Draw 2 • 4 Hd $100/roper #9 (capped at 5E) Pick • 3 Hd $40/roper #10 slide Draw 5 • 4 Hd $150/roper #8 Pick • 3 Hd $30/roper #7 Pick • 2 Hd $25/roper

SPECIAL THANKS TO OUR SPONSORS

THE MAGAZINE FOR AMERICA’S ROPER • 21

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TEACHING KIDS M

y plan for teaching my kids was to let them choose what they wanted to do and I would help them with whatever that was. A few years ago Gabe was playing baseball and Hali was in gymnastics. I went to one meet with her and on the way home she asked what I thought about it. I told her, “The only thing about it is Daddy doesn’t know anything about gymnastics so I’m limited in how I can help you.” Not long after, she started helping me coach Gabe’s baseball team and eventually decided to play softball. Both kids were in select ball and we built a baseball field at the end of our arena as well as indoor and outdoor batting cages. I arranged for them both to have private lessons and we were traveling to their games. One day someone made a comment about how much I spent for private lessons and what if they decided to quit playing ball. That comment upset my daughter and I told her, “I spend that money to develop your body and mind. It’s not about the softball game. There is much more to life and this is just one path we’ll travel.” I also told her, “I can’t push you that hard and stay your friend. I can hire people to push you hard and I stay your friend. My relationship with you is much more important than any kind of competition.” Getting private lessons for my kids was a no brainer for me. I make a living teaching, so it was important to me for my kids to learn correct fundamentals. I’ve given many, many roping lessons to kids and successful adults. You have to be very patient and make sure they understand what you’re saying. By using video you can show them step by step. It makes

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a huge difference with a child when they understand what you’re asking of them. I’m not a dad who yells, I’m very quiet. I treat my kids like adults because I want them to think and act like adults. I went to a lot of baseball and softball games. Afterwards we would work on their weaknesses. I would always ask what they learned that week and we would talk about it. When she was ten, one day Hali and I were practicing. A team that was headed to state had picked her up and we were working on her weakness – when balls hit close to her feet. I’ll never forget her dropping her head while I was talking to her. That was a sign of defeat and I told her then I was going to hire someone to teach her because we would not have that kind of relationship. As a parent you have to decide if you want to be their friend or their coach. In roping I see people all the time who get on to their kids for every mistake they make. I try to use examples in life and in the arena to prepare my kids for when they are not around me. At a roping when Hali asks me what the start is, I’ll smile and ask her what the start is. I want her to be able to study and be prepared, whether I’m there or not. I don’t know if the puzzle pieces just fell into place or if I’m just very fortunate, but both of my kids have now decided they want to rope and have lost interest in playing ball. The nice thing about teaching private lessons and having access to an indoor arena is my kids can help me by heading and heeling. They are both roping with me every day. We homeschool our kids and this is the first summer where they are finished for the school year and will have the whole summer off. What’s new with me: The indoor arena is almost complete. We are roping in the new arena every day and are booking schools. It’s such a blessing to not fight the rain or deal with a wet arena. If you are interested in booking a clinic, please check speedroping.com for available dates. We’re using a new simulator in our schools that helps us break down the fundamentals. It’s very much like golf, where if you do one thing wrong it affects six other things. Visit speedroping.com to see the new simulator, check out the new facility or book a school.

DALLY UP

FOR THESE

SPECIAL SUMMER PRICES!

Lil' Kathy Kit $1,295 • Special $1,165 •

Sparky Jr. $3,695 • Special $3,325 •

Sparky III $8,395 • Special $7,555 •

Sparky's Spin to Win $1,095 • Special $995 •

Calf Tie Down w/Sled $1,275 • Special $1,147 • Breakaway w/Sled $995 • Special $895 • Plus S&H Calf Body $550

Lil' Marv Basic $199 • Special $179 • Lil' Marv Deluxe $349 • Special $314 •

Sparky Lead Steer $3,495 • Special $3,145 •

• 1.800.211.8575 • www.smartsteer.com •

THE MAGAZINE FOR AMERICA’S ROPER • 25

state finals • congratulations to all our champions!

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Photos courtesy of JD Photography©

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All Entries must be call-Ins on the Mon prior to the rodeo 7-10, pm • Jr/Sr @ 864-906-0698 • PeeWee/Wrangler @ 864-680-8170 • Late Call-ins – See RULEBOOK! July 30: J/S 10am & P/W 7pm •• July 31: P/W 10am & J/S 3p Cottonwood Arena • 8024 Park Place Rd. • York, SC 29745 Aug 20: J/S 10am & P/W 7pm •• Aug 21: P/W 10am & J/S 3pm Stockman Farms • 4507 Callison Hwy • Troy, SC 29848

Sept 3: J/S 10am & P/W 7pm • Sept 4: P/W 10am & J/S 3pm Sugar Ridge Arena • 481 Sugar Ridge Rd. • Inman, SC 29349 FINALS: OCT 28-30 • TIMES TBA • doublejbarrelhorses.com Double J Arena • 501 Lockaby Rd • Pendleton, SC 29670

CHLOE COX HOMETOWN: GUNNEDAH NEW SOUTH WALES AUSTRALIA

AGE 16 • SENIOR DIVISION HORSES' NAMES: BOB, STEVE, CHILLI PARENTS: JULIE & MICHAEL COX EVENTS: BARRELS, POLES, GOATS, BREAKAWAY, & HEADING

What is your favorite event & why? Breakaway, you can go buy the nicest horse out there and still not be good at the event, you personally have to be talented and practice to become good What is your most memorable moment in FYRA? At Cole Creek Arena when no one had phone service & we all hung out and I got to know everyone better. What is your most successful moment in FYRA? Setting my personal best time in goat tying with an 8 second run & personal best in breakaway with a 2.3. What are your future plans after FYRA? To compete in breakaway at the IFR in 2017 season and to attend a rodeo college where I will major in the medical field.

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PHOTOS COURTESY OF FYRA & DONNA FARMER

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The Patriot Elite honors

2016 PATRIOT #12 CHAMPIONS

WILL O’QUINN & SLICK ROBINSON CASH PAYOUT $81,500 #12 TOTAL CASH PAYOUT - $278,400

he 2016 Patriot Team Roping #12 was the biggest roping of the week in Fort Worth. Reaching the entry cap of 175 teams the roping topped the payout of the weekend at $80,000. The team that took home the big payout in the Average, as well as second in the short round was Will O’Quinn and Slick Robinson. The duo grabbed the cash and all that came with it, including adding their name to the history books of what has quickly become one of the largest, most prestigious events in the Lone Star state. A total of 11 other teams placed in the Average of the #12 Patriot event, as well as six teams who took home money in the consolation roping and a few in the rotations and short go. O’Quinn and Robinson checked out of Fort Worth in February as one of the richest teams of the week and will no doubt be gunning their way back to The Patriot next year for another chance at huge payouts!

WILL O’QUINN • CRYSTAL CITY, TX

“The Patriot was a great roping. It pays like a slot machine, & you can bet unless something major happens, I'll be back. Any time you have a chance to rope at an event with high fees and less teams is great. I'll always jump at a chance like that. It was the first time Slick and I roped together. I've known him for a couple years and our numbers matched up so we entered up. It worked out well.”

SLICK ROBINSON • WEATHERFORD, TX

Photos courtesy of The Patriot

“The Patriot was a good roping to go to. My partner was good, the cattle were good, and they were good to work with. What I liked best was the 175 team limit. You are in and out. You can plan your weekend around it and you don’t have $2,000 up against 400 teams, 20 hours from home. My partner did a great job. Overall, it was a blessing and the good Lord took care of me.”

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THE PATRIOT REPORT: • • • • • • • • • • • • NEW TO 2017! • • • • • • • • • • • •

hat an exciting time to be involved with the Largest Event in Texas! Over the past month, several additions have been discussed for the 2017 Patriot team roping event. Although there are several options that are still being decided, producer of the event, Kevin Hall has said that they will be adding a #8 roping to the Finale in February. The #8 will be pick one, draw one for $1000 per roper. We will only accept the first 100 entered teams. This will open the door for ropers who are just starting out to have a chance to rope for some of the big money at The Patriot. With the possibility of The American Rodeo leading, rather than following The Patriot for 2017, it has opened up Saturday and Sunday for more events to be held. There are many other exciting things to unveil for the 2017 event, but it is still too early to report at this time.

ENTER THE PATRIOT Many ropers have responded to the news of utilizing the qualifier ropings for the 2017 Patriot Team Roping Finale. The USTRC Gold Plus ropings and The Patriot Independent Qualifiers only Guarantee you a spot. The winners have 30 days to send in their entries and fees. The Qualifier Entries have been coming in steadily and the ropings are sure to fill! Books open to Patriot Founders on October 1, 2016 and they will have the opportunity to enter up until December 31st. If the division(s) do not fill with

Qualifiers and Founders, the books will open to the public January 1-February 1, 2017. The Team Roping Events are capped at 200 teams per division. DATES TO SAVE The 2017 Patriot Team Roping is scheduled for February 20-26, 2017. The event will feature more than just the team roping. It will also include

Barrel Racing, Tie-Down Roping, and Mounted Shooting. This year’s Patriot will be ran in conjunction with RFDTV American Rodeo and Semi-Finals event. Fort Worth in February is the place to be for cowboys and cowgirls. The Patriot and Fort Worth have something for the whole family. Don’t miss this spectacular event!

“Fort Worth in February”

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UPCOMING PATRIOT QUALIFYING EVENTS...

DATES.............. */**... CITY, STATE............ PRODUCER........................................................................ EVENT JUL 1-3, 2016.............. *........ GUTHRIE, OK....................JEFF SMITH PROD ........................OKLAHOMA CHAMPIONSHIPS/PATRIOT QUALIFIER TOUR JUL 8-10, 2016............ *........ BROKEN BOW, NE............JEFF SMITH PROD .........................NEBRASKA CHAMPIONSHIPS /PATRIOT QUALIFIER TOUR JUL 8-10, 2016............ *........ MURFREESBORO, TN.........USTRC.............................................EASTERN REGIONAL FINALS /PATRIOT QUALIFIER TOUR JUL 15-17, 2016.......... *........ KINDER, LA.......................STEVE JUDD................................. COUSHATTA CHAMPIONSHIPS/PATRIOT QUALIFIER TOUR JUL 22-24, 2016.......... *........ MONTGOMERY, AL...........ED ALLEN....................................... ALABAMA CHAMPIONSHIPS /PATRIOT QUALIFIER TOUR JUL 22-24, 2016.......... *........ COLORADO SPRINGS, CO.JEFF SMITH PROD .........................COLORADO CHAMPIONSHIPS/PATRIOT QUALIFIER TOUR JUL 29-31, 2016.......... *........ LAS CRUCES, NM..............USTRC....................................... SOUTHWEST REGIONAL FINALS /PATRIOT QUALIFIER TOUR AUG 4-7, 2016............ *........ WACO, TX........................USTRC.......................................... LONE STAR REGIONAL FINALS/PATRIOT QUALIFIER TOUR AUG 5-7, 2016........... **....... DODGE CITY, KS ..............RTO PROD...................................................... DODGE CITY DAYS/PATRIOT QUALIFIER TOUR AUG 6-7, 2016............ *........ TAYLORSVILLE, NC.............JX2 PROD.............................................. MID ATLANTIC CLASSIC /PATRIOT QUALIFIER TOUR AUG 6-7, 2016............ *........ VERNAL, UT......................BILL CORNIA..........................................DALLY FOR DINOSAURS/PATRIOT QUALIFIER TOUR AUG 12-14, 2016........ *........ LAKE ST. LOUIS, MO..........HERB SNOW ROPING PROD....... CENTRAL STATES SHOWDOWN /PATRIOT QUALIFIER TOUR AUG 13-14, 2016........ *........ FLAGSTAFF, AZ..................USTRC............................................ PINE COUNTRY SHOOT OUT /PATRIOT QUALIFIER TOUR AUG 19-21, 2016........ *........ ENID, OK..........................JEFF SMITH PROD .............................. CHISHOLM TRAIL CLASSIC /PATRIOT QUALIFIER TOUR AUG 20-21, 2016....... **....... MCCOOK, NE ..................Y HANGING J PROD....................................................................PATRIOT QUALIFIER TOUR AUG 27-28, 2016........ *........ FT. SMITH, AR...................DENNY FLYNN.............................................WEST ARK CLASSIC /PATRIOT QUALIFIER TOUR AUG 26-27, 2016........ *........ SALINA, UT.......................BILL CORNIA............................................... SALINA SHOOT OUT/PATRIOT QUALIFIER TOUR SEP 3-5, 2016.............. *........ TUNICA, MS......................USTRC......................................... SOUTHEAST REGIONAL FINALS/PATRIOT QUALIFIER TOUR SEP 3-5, 2016.............. *........ LOVELAND, CO.................USTRC...................................... HIGH PLAINS REGIONAL FINALS /PATRIOT QUALIFIER TOUR SEPT 3-4, 2016........... **....... SAN ANTONIO, TX...........TULEY PROD ................................................................................PATRIOT QUALIFIER TOUR SEP 9-11, 2016............ *........ MULVANE, KS...................JEFF SMITH PROD ..................... KANSAS FALL CHAMPIONSHIPS /PATRIOT QUALIFIER TOUR SEP 16-18, 2016.......... *........ PUEBLO, CO.....................JEFF SMITH PROD ....................SOUTHERN COLORADO CLASSIC /PATRIOT QUALIFIER TOUR SEP 16-18, 2016.......... *........ CARTHAGE, MO................RTO PROD........................................... 4-STATE CHAMPIONSHIPS/PATRIOT QUALIFIER TOUR OCT 1-2, 2016............ **....... HAMILTON, TX .................TULEY PROD.................................................................................PATRIOT QUALIFIER TOUR OCT 8-9, 2016............. *........ CANAL WINCHESTER, OH.STEVE RICKLY.......................................BUCKEYE FALL ROUNDUP/PATRIOT QUALIFIER TOUR OCT 8-9, 2016............ **....... FORT SMITH, AR ...............RTO PROD ...................................................................................PATRIOT QUALIFIER TOUR OCT 21-29, 2016......... *........ GUTHRIE, OK....................JEFF SMITH PROD..........GUTHRIE SHOOT OUT CHAMPIONSHIPS /PATRIOT QUALIFIER TOUR NOV 5-6, 2016 ......... **....... ADA, OK .........................TULEY PROD.................................................................................PATRIOT QUALIFIER TOUR NOV 11-13, 2016........ *........ FT WORTH, TX..................USTRC..................................................COWTOWN SHOOT OUT/PATRIOT QUALIFIER TOUR DEC 2-4, 2016............. *........ TULSA, OK........................RTO PROD.............................................. OIL CAPITAL STAMPEDE /PATRIOT QUALIFIER TOUR DEC 9-11, 2016........... *........ TUNICA, MS......................RTO PROD...............................................................MS CLASSIC /PATRIOT QUALIFIER TOUR DEC 16-18, 2016........ **....... WEST MONROE, LA..........TULEY PROD.................................................................................PATRIOT QUALIFIER TOUR DEC 30 - JAN 1, 2017.. *........ PERRY, GA........................JX2 PROD................................................... SOUTH GA CLASSIC /PATRIOT QUALIFIER TOUR JAN 6-8, 2017............. *........ WACO, TX........................USTRC................................... HEART OF TEXAS CHAMPIONSHIPS/PATRIOT QUALIFIER TOUR JAN 13-15, 2017........ **....... OK CITY, OK ....................RTO PROD..............................................................................IFR/PATRIOT QUALIFIER TOUR JAN 20-22, 2017......... *........ KINDER, LA.......................STEVE JUDD.........................................BAYOU CHAMPIONSHIPS/PATRIOT QUALIFIER TOUR JAN 27-29, 2017......... *........ TULSA, OK........................RTO PROD.................................. WILL ROGERS CHAMPIONSHIPS/PATRIOT QUALIFIER TOUR FEB 3-5, 2017.............. *........ DENVER, CO.....................JEFF SMITH PROD ........... COLORADO WINTER CHAMPIONSHIPS/PATRIOT QUALIFIER TOUR FEB 21-26, 2017.IN FORT WORTH, TX .... THE PATRIOT................................................... THE PATRIOT FINALE * = USTRC GOLD PLUS / PATRIOT QUALIFIER 32 • THE ROPING PEN • JULY 2016

** = PATRIOT QUALIFYING EVENT

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GHSRA STATE FINALS WINNERS! Congratulations to all our champions...

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Photos courtesy of JD Photography©

THE MAGAZINE FOR AMERICA’S ROPER • 37

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Championships MISSISSIPPI

HARRISON COUNTY FAIRGROUNDS GULFPORT, MISSISSIPPI • APRIL 30 - MAY 1, 2016

PRODUCED BY STEVE & SHERRY JUDD • STORY BY BEN CLEMENTS

he Mississippi Championships took place at the Harrison County Fairgrounds in Gulfport, Mississippi. Even with a little rain, the weather was perfect and the team roping action was hot. The event is produced by Steve and Sherry Judd and team ropers enjoyed the event. The first roping of the day was the #13 Slide. Jeff Peterman from Gulfport, Mississippi teamed up with Ryan OHearn from Magnolia, Texas. They roped four steers in 33.59 seconds to win first place in the roping. The duo won $2090, trophy Gist knives and $6000 in USTRC Flex Earnings. Second place was Justin Johnson from Magee, Mississippi and Cole Curry from Liberty, Mississippi with a time of 35.07 seconds on four steers. Third place was Nick Gonzales III and Clay Green. In the #12 Division the team of Kenny Malone from Wilmer, Alabama and Desmond Ladner from Perkinston, Mississippi won first place in the average. They were 36.12 seconds on four steers and won $2936, trophy Gist knives and $6000 in USTRC Flex Earnings. Second place was Blaine McDougald from Millbrook, Alabama and Jed Sibley from Denham Springs, Louisiana. Third place was the team of David Curry and Ryan Tittle with a time of 39.82 seconds on four steers. Ryan Domer and Lance Arviso were the winners of the incentive. Nathan Smith from Poplarville, Mississippi and Scott Seiler from Ocala, Florida were the champions of the #12 Gold Plus. They roped four steers in 44.59 seconds. The team won $2474 plus $6000 in USTRC Flex Earnings. Second place in the average was Brent Worrell and Glenn Davis both from Alabama. Third place in the average was Shanon Travis and Desmond Ladner. Smith and Seiler were also the incentive champions and added another $1272 plus $6000 to their winnings. The #11 Champions were Jeff Peterman and Jordan Hanna. They were 38.01 seconds on four steers and took home $4098, trophy Gist buckles, and $6000 in USTRC Flex Earnings. Second place went to Rob Waltman and Justin Johnson with a time of 38.01 seconds on four steers. Third place was Sal Cannizzaro and Jordan Hanna. The team of Nick Gonzales III and Rory Holder won the incentive average. In the #10 Division the team of Shawn McCallum from Stringer, Mississippi and Rickie Leblanc from Walker, Louisiana won first place in the average. They were a time of 33.63 seconds on four steers. They won $3990, trophy Gist buckles and $6000 in USTRC Flex Earnings. Second place in the average was the team of Kenny Malone and Colton Redmond with a time of 40.05 seconds on four steers. Third place was Jeff and Tommy Peterman. Ashley Bentley and Jeff Peterman finished in fourth place. Josh Byrd and Cody Simmons won the incentive average. The second day of the Mississippi Championships began with the #10 Gold Plus. The team of Red Burney from Emelle, Alabama and Rodney Worrell from Evergreen, Alabama won the average

with a time of 43.94 seconds on four steers. They won $3830 and $6000 in USTRC Flex Earnings. Second place was Randal and Kent Shaw. Third place was Greg Williams and Kyle Towles. Burney and Worrell also won the incentive average. That paid them $2052 plus another $6000 in USTRC Flex Earnings. Josh Byrd from Chunchula, Alabama and Cody Simmons also from Chunchula were the winners of the #9 Division. They finished the roping with a time of 41.89 seconds on four steers. The team earned $5464, trophy Gist buckles and $6000 in USTRC Flex Earnings. Second place was Scott Lee and Jarid Ladner with a time of 43.73 seconds on four steers. The pairing won $3644 plus $6000 in USTRC Flex Earnings. Third place was Jeremy Douglas and Tristian Gillespie. Walter Taylor and Reynolds Duet won the incentive average. The final roping of the weekend was the #8 Pick/Draw. Cody and Wyatt Simmons won the average with a time of 29.10 seconds on three steers. They won $3404, trophy Gist buckles and $6000 in USTRC Flex Earnings. Second place went to Walter Taylor and Kent Shaw with a time of 33.32 seconds on three steers. Third place was the team of Cody Amacker and Trent Amedee.

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t has been a while since we rounded up Kaleb Driggers for the In the Loop by Lone Star Ropes. We caught up with Kaleb as he was driving to Reno for one of the biggest summer rodeos of the year. Kaleb has been out of the PRCA standings this year as he and his partner Junior Nogueira have been competing at the ERA events throughout the spring. However, they decided to hit the PRCA trail and for the past several weeks have been a dominant factor at rodeos all across the country. In fact they have moved from practically nowhere in the PRCA standings to among the top 30 in about a three week period. They have their eyes cast on the NFR this December and if they continue to win like they have been, it will be no problem for these two young and talented ropers. “Yea, the first week we didn’t do very well,” said Kaleb. “The second week though we moved from back in the 70’s to somewhere in the 30’s in the standings. The third week got even better and we moved up into the top 20’s.” Of course everyone knows Kaleb and Junior are two of the best in the business, but to make such a dynamic move in the PRCA standings in such a short time is pretty cool. We asked Kaleb what they have going for them and if they were just suited better for the larger venues of the summer rodeos? “About the only thing that changes between winter and summer is the temperature,” Kaleb said. “I mean, the winter rodeo set-ups are shorter and as spring and summer come along they

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get a little longer, but really it has got so fast out here it really doesn’t matter anymore. You have to come out over the chute ready to rope at every rodeo. Also, having been out here for a while I have been acclimated to the different set-up at all of the rodeos. That makes a big difference, knowing what to expect before you get to the rodeo” This is the first year Kaleb and Junior have roped together full time and even though they both rope great we were wondering if there were anything they had to work on in order to make them the dominant team they have become in such a very short time. “Junior and I started roping and everything sort of came together really well,” Kaleb said. “About the only thing we had to work on was getting the steer in the best position coming out the box. He wanted to haze them to the left and I wanted them straight. We worked on that for just a little while and really everything else has been going good.” Since Lone Star has come out with some new ropes we asked Kaleb if he was using one of these new ropes what he was using. He said, “I’m still using the Glacier, 3-strand in a Medium Soft. I swing hard and throw hard and it stays open for me.” It sounds like Kaleb is on a roll with partner Junior and they have made quite a stir in the PRCA standings. We wish them the best of luck in the season ahead and we look forward to them and all of the Lone Star professionals reaching the top of their game this year!

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Razorback Riches RAZORBACK CLASSIC

TWO BAR TWO ARENA • BEE RANCH, AR JUNE 4 – 5, 2016 • TOTAL CASH PAYOUT - $35,218

5-Headers Champions

#8 Champions

Cody Warner / Mike White

Tate O'Brien / Caleb Slone

#9 Champions

#10 Champions

Troy Hudson / Perry Patterson

Mike Cullum / Morgan Spinks

#11 Champions

#12 Champions

Mike White / Hannah White

Bo Smith / Corey Colclasure

#13 Champions

#15 Champions

Cody Reed / Mike White

Cody Warner / Mike White

48 • THE ROPING PEN • JULY 2016

he JX2 production company crossed the big, muddy, Mississippi River in June to host a first annual event, the Razorback Classic. JX2 is recognized by many as one of the most professional and fun team roping production companies in the business and their name preceded them into the new venue as ropers filled the Two Bar Two Arena for a chance to win. Ropers were running at over $35,000 in cash payout, not to mention the slew of prizes JX2 brought along to hand out to winners. John Johnson of JX2 welcomed the new event and the new venue. He and the arena owner, Mike Simpson, co-produced the event, were happy with the outcome and are looking forward to events to come.

#15 Handicap, Average: 1. Cody Warner (Louisville, MS) / Mike White (De Kalb, TX), 31.91, $1,120; 2. Cody Reed (Jonesboro, AR) / Cody Andrews (Greenbrier, AR), 38.39, $740

#13 Average: 1. Cody Reed (Jonesboro, AR) / Mike White (De Kalb, TX), 33.04, $1,980; 2. Royce Cates (Huntington, AR) / Dusty Sherwood (Quitman, AR), 41.07, $1,190; 3. Seth Driggers (Pearcy, AR) / Skylar Reynolds (Greenbrier, AR), 28.44, $790 #11 Average: 1. Hannah White (De Kalb, TX) / Mike White (De Kalb, TX), 36.01, $2,080; 2. Cole Smith (Paris, AR) / Dusty Sherwood (Quitman, AR), 47.74, $1,380 #13 with #12 Incentive, Average: 1. Cody Warner (Louisville, MS) / Mike White (De Kalb, TX), 42.12, $2,400; 2. Cody Reed (Jonesboro, AR) / Mike White (De Kalb, TX), 42.97, $1,600

#10 Average: 1. Mike Cullum (Clinton, AR) / Morgan Spinks (Quitman, AR), 32.2, $2,280; 2. Jeff Roberson (Bee Branch, AR) / Luke Hinson (Jonesboro, AR), 48.81, $1,370; 3. Mike Simpson (Bee Branch, AR) / Stetson Fox (New Burnside, IL), 25.32, $900 #9 Average: 1. Troy Hudson (Springfield, AR) / Perry Patterson (Greenbrier, AR), 38.73, $3,430; 2. Jeff Roberson (Bee Branch, AR) / Perry Patterson (Greenbrier, AR), 45.64, $2,060; 3. Michael Mcnabb (Hattieville, AR) / Jerrit Pearce (Mount Vernon, AR), 32.14, $1,370 #8 Average: 1. Tate O'Brien (Pineville, MO) / Caleb Slone (Dixon, MO), 31.06, $1,630; 2. Kenny Wilcox (Greenbrier, AR) / Morgan Spinks (Quitman, AR), 37.65, $1,080; 3. Cole Smith (Paris, AR) / Gary Nichols (Wynne, AR), 41.24, $860; 4. Tate OBrien (Pineville, MO) / Roper OBrien (Pineville, MO), 15.72, $630; 5. Tyler Russell (Springfield, AR) / Blaine Turner (Greenbrier, AR), 19.02, $320 #12 Average: 1. Bo Smith (Rose Bud, AR) / Corey Colclasure (Greenbrier, AR), 32.53, $2,260; 2. John Spotts (Vilonia, AR) / Mike White (De Kalb, TX), 33.48, $1,350; 3. Mike Cullum (Clinton, AR) / Brandon Thone (Damascus, AR), 34.85, $900

#11 Avg Winners Mike and Hanna White at the Razorback Classic at Bee Ranch in Arkansas THE MAGAZINE FOR AMERICA’S ROPER • 49

otalTeamRoping.com has always been proud of the fact that they not only one of the original team roping instructional website, but one of the best and one that has lead to new and original techniques for ropers to learn and progress in the sport. Of course there are other sites and the industry is definitely turning toward more online resources. However, TotalTeamRoping.com continues to drive ahead of the others. In fact, they have recently introduced a new website that is innovative and beyond anything else when it comes to online team roping instructional websites. “We are really excited about this new concept for TotalTeamRoping.com,” said Bret Beach. “Clay, (Clay O’Brien Cooper), Charles (Charles Pogue) and I have found a way to really help people like we have never been able to do before. We have really redefined how team roping is being taught.” Online team roping instructional websites originated from team roping schools. Both in person schools and the growing number of instructional websites have been great ways for people to increase their knowledge about team roping, however, both have their disadvantages. Schools are often too short and many try to cover too many topics, especially when ropers in attendance are of different caliber. Often times, ropers revert back and forget too quickly what they have learned at a school once they get home. The online instruction sites, although a great way to continue to learn also has its disadvantages. There is no direct link between ropers

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REINVENTING TEAM ROPING ON THE WEB... and the instructors. Those who are trying to learn something are watching videos of how to do it correctly and not having the direct input of the professional instructor. “Clay, Charles and I have always asked the question of how we can really help people and we know we have hit upon it,” said Bret. “We have designed a way to stay in contact with our ropers. We collect their videos, analyze them and send them back with what they need to work on. It has been great. We can help our ropers figure out a practice schedule and track their progress. Really it is like a continuous roping school where we have a direct link with every roper. Having this opportunity to watch and track them is heads above what we have ever been able to do before.” With the launch of the new website, there have been many new members who are taking advantage of original technique of teaching composed by TotalTeamRoping.com. In addition, the website also has new, updated content and ropers can always tune in and see new videos that are uploaded daily. If you are a roper who wants to win more and progress faster, then TotalTeamRoping. com is your ticket. The website is and always will be the number one online team roping instructional website. Bret, Clay and Charles work to continuously to come up with new ideas and techniques to help ropers, so check them out today and join the many who have already found their personal team roping instructor.

THE MAGAZINE FOR AMERICA’S ROPER • 51

HORSEMAN I

t is every little girl’s dream. No matter the culture, region, or upbringing, it’s almost always the same. To tell the truth, it’s been this way back before recorded history. Be she a princess in a drafty European castle, a Mongolian nomad in a ger, or a suburban child of the technological generation, each has had the same dream. He might be the handsome prince on a white charger, one of the great Khan’s mounted horde, or maybe a cavalry man, all spit and polish. He could even be a leather and spur-clad, dust covered, sun browned cowboy. No matter the backdrop or the times, every little girl dreams of the handsome man horseback.

He’s always larger than life, fighting dragons, ruffians, and outlaws. He comes in to rescue her from sure death and carries her away on his noble steed. Look back at the art and literature from the great civilizations. Almost all hold the horseman in high esteem. The girls get starry-eyed just thinking about him.

CLINT ASKS: Can you go through your focus plan for a heading run? RICKEY'S ANSWER: Turn my horse around, check the steers horns, glance at my partner, set my horse, focus on my steers front end, seeing my start, keep my eyes on his head, seeing his body in the corner, watch my heeler rope him, then time to face.

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This goes on for a few years. Eventually, she moves on to friends, real boys, real life. Most simply outgrow it, but, thankfully for us cowboy types, some never do. That’s how you get little cowboys. These lucky few women live out their childhood dreams, only they learn there’s a lot less romance having a cowboy than there was dreaming of having a cowboy. No matter the reality, they still love their handsome man horseback. The other girls? Why they leave those dreams behind. They go off to college and careers. They live their new dreams. They marry accountants, attorneys, doctors, and insurance salesmen. Life now is about what they have, their social circle, the kids in the right schools, and the right gated community. Nice homes, nice cars, and being soccer moms replace the childish fantasies. Yes, life is good for the women who left those silly girlhood thoughts behind. How lucky they are with their successful, socially acceptable spouses, trophy wives with their trophy husbands. This is all for which they could ask. Or is it?

See, husbands and significant others of these ladies, there’s something you don’t know. While you are providing for all of their physical and societal needs, there is something missing. These ladies may have grown up and put aside their thoughts of childhood, but remember this. When you wake up at night and roll over watching her sleep, a smile on her lips and a softness to the sighs she murmurs, it’s not of accounting, courts, or social galas she’s dreaming. No, my friend, the smile is there because the handsome man horseback still rides through her dreams.

Payoff is Coming!

CRYSTAL

everal years back, I had been doing pre-rodeo concerts for a rodeo in the north east. After doing them for 8 years in a row, I saw them pay other contract acts up to $500 a performance (some were good, some were pretty bad.) I never got offered a penny for all that I put out all those years. I was lucky to get a “thank you” from the committee, though the crowd loved it and begged me to return year after year. The 8th year... I'd HAD it!! My attitude was awful. I complained to God about it and told Him I was DONE! The very next weekend, we were at another rodeo where I heard about a really good looking horse a man had for sale, so I drove out and looked at him. Standing in a pen, up to his knees in mud, was this BEAUTIFUL paint stallion and I fell in love! Once I talked to the owner, I heard all this horse had won... several halter classes, and even the MN state paint halter horse of the year. As he talked, my hope of buying this horse circled the toilet. He finally told me he was asking $10,000. He was truly nice by saying we could “work something out,” Well, no... we couldn’t. He might as well had been asking $1 million dollars. That very evening, I was at a person’s barn to do a Bible study and the owner showed up and gave me a picture of the stallion winning the MN halter championship. I thanked him for being so thoughtful to give me a picture of the horse, though I was a little confused why. He then said, “No, you don’t understand. I’m giving you the horse!” I cried right there!! The horse, Max, was mine!

LYONS That horse carried me into arenas for several years. We eventually got so connected that I could ride him bridle-less. And sometimes, at the end of a song that had a long instrumental ending, Max would bow to the crowd… all on his own accord. He was a born showman! The Lord spoke to me about my attitude after Max was given to me. He reminded me that EVEN IF I had been paid for every performance over the 8 years, I STILL could never have saved enough to buy a horse like that! He then reminded me, “I pay my workers well! But you mustn’t grow weary in well doing.” I had TOTALLY grown weary! I had been so ANGRY. I felt so used and unappreciated. So much that I ALMOST didn’t even go to the rodeo where I found Max. Often, God’s payoffs and breakthroughs come right at the point of our “last straw.” I was doing what I loved, and for several years, it didn’t bother me to do it without pay. But I eventually let the ungratefulness of others effect my attitude. And what used to be a joy, became a grudge. One act of great generosity corrected my sour attitude and I KNEW that even if men didn’t see how much I had been giving… God saw it. He knew!! And it didn’t go unpaid. This world is FULL of selfishness. Be unselfish anyway. People can be cruel and rude. Be loving and kind anyway. Lies often seem to win. Be a person of truth anyway. Because when it’s all said and done, it’s what GOD SEES THAT MATTERS IN THE END… and PAYOFF IS COMING, if we don’t grow faint!

THE MAGAZINE FOR AMERICA’S ROPER • 53

Congratulations to all the State Finals Champions!

Photos courtesy of Donna Farmer

All-Around Cowboy: Hunter Styles TR: Dillon Harrison & Hunter Styles Calf Roping: Tyler Willis A-A Cowgirl: Mikayla Joh Almond RCH: Maggie Nobles Goat Tying: Kelsey Martin Saddle Bronc: Colby Winstead Pole Bending: Mikayla Joh Almond Light Rifle: Will Jennings Steer Wrestling: Eddie Rounds Barrels: Mikayla Joh Almond Trap: Caroline Burgen Cutting: Tyler Willis Breakaway: Mikayla Joh Almond Rookie/Yr: Mikayla Joh Almond Rookie/Yr: Eddie Rounds Cutting: Kelsey Martin Bulls: Colby Winstead

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Ohio Classic CIRCLE G ARENA • LEWISBURG, OHIO • MAY 14-15, 2016 PRODUCED BY STEVE RICKLY • STORY BY BEN CLEMENTS

he Ohio Classic has become a popular event for many ropers in the Buckeye State. This year the roping was again held at the Allen County Fairgrounds in Lima, Ohio and was produced by Steve and Shane Rickly. The roping action took place May 14-15, 2016. The first roping of the weekend was the Open Division. Eric Fabian from Schenectady, New York and Jake Edwards from Fort Ann, New York were the winners of the roping. They also won the incentive average. Second place was Dan Brown from Vermont and Jake Edwards.

Next was the #15 Division. The team of Dan Brown from Bomoseen, Vermont and Jake Edwards won first place in the average. They won trophy Gist Knives and $6000 in USTRC Flex Earnings. Second place went to Eric Fabian and Jake Edwards.

In the #13 Division the win went to Shane Rickly and Nick Deleon. They were 33.06 seconds on three steers and won $1140, trophy Gist knives and $6000 in USTRC Flex Earnings. Second place was Donald Wilson and Justin Yost, while third place went to Jarred Linton and Jake Edwards. Zach Waggoner from Belpre, Ohio teamed up with Nick Deleon of Toledo, Ohio to win first place in the #12 Division. The pairing caught four steers in 38.23 seconds and earned $2054, trophy Gist Knives and $6000 in USTRC Flex Earnings. Second place in the average was David Scheffel and Tom Bowling. Third place went to Matt Beachy and Zach Kilgus. Shane Rickly and David Wright won the incentive average.

Shawn Tennant and Trent Gilliam won third in the average.

Next on the agenda was the #10 Gold Plus. The team of Gary Patrick and David Mitchell finished first place in the average. They won $2354 and $6000 in USTRC Flex Earnings. Second place was Theresa Johnson and David Musselman. Third place went to the team of David Scheffel and David Mitchell. Patrick and Mitchell also won the incentive average.

The winners of the #9 Division were Connor Johnson and Zach Waggoner. The team was 45.29 seconds on four steers and they won $4400, trophy Gist Buckles and $6000 in USTRC Flex Earnings. Second place was Johnson and William Evans. Third place was the team of Matt Beachy and Bob Coppick. Justin McMillion and Jeff Turco won the incentive average.

The final roping of the weekend was the #8 Pick/Draw. Doug Corey and Michael Soule were the winners of the average. They were 36.30 seconds on three steers and earned $3576, trophy Gist buckles and $6000 in USTRC Flex Earnings. Second place in the average was David Rom and Tanner Northrup and third place in the average went to Steven Medley and Brad Killinger.

David Scheffel and Corey Barnett teamed up in the #12 Gold Plus as they won first place in the average. Donald Wilson and Shane Rickly finished in second place. Third place was James Cotterill and Corey Barnett. Scheffel and Barnett also won the incentive average.

In the #11 Division the winners of the average were Cole Scheffel and Corey Barnett. The team was 43.86 seconds on four steers and they won $2406, trophy Gist buckles and $6000 in USTRC Flex Earnings. Second place went to Dakota Sunday and Zach Waggoner. Third place in the average was Doug Clippinger and Shane Rickly. Colton Bugis and William Evans won the incentive average.

The first roping of the second day of the Ohio Classic was the #10 Division. Shawn Tennant from Fairview, West Virginia and Zach Waggoner from Belpre, Ohio were the champions. They posted a time of 42.84 seconds on four steers and earned $3370, trophy Gist buckles, and $6000 in USTRC Flex Earnings. Kacey Stollar and David Winings were victorious in the incentive average. Second place in the main average was Cole Scheffel and Jarred Linton with a time of 43.30 seconds on four steers.

THE MAGAZINE FOR AMERICA’S ROPER • 55

The Other Half A

Thoughts of a Team Roping Spouse • by Gracie Mae

ny way you look at it team roping is a family thing. It doesn’t matter if it is kids and parents, grandpas and grandkids, brothers and sisters or just neighbors it seems we are all linked into this sport together. I hate to admit it but it is probably the best training tool for kids I have ever seen. We all work at it or we don’t. The main lesson is that if you are going to amount to anything you have to work at it. Buzzy went through a spree not long ago where it didn’t matter what we needed him to do he voiced adamantly, “It’s not my job!” Needless, to say that didn’t go over real well. Kids all have times when they are a bit defiant and making a stab at spreading their wings to fly. That is okay but the main lesson kids need to get over these days is that they are owed something. We don’t owe them anything and if they want it bad enough they have to get off their high horse and work for it. We had been in the practice pen all afternoon and Buzzy was a bit frustrated because he had not been roping well. When it came time to bring the steers back up the alley Boss hollered at him to bring the cattle. Buzzy sat on his horse mulling over his last run and after throwing his rope in the dirt he shouted back, “That isn’t my job! Make June do it!” Whoops! Wrong attitude. Boss looked over at me and I shrugged. This was one of those times that it was Dad’s job. Not that I’m not the disciplinarian but I don’t rope. I do, however, work my buns to the bone so my crew can rope. June Bug immediately offered to pen the steers but Boss told her he appreciated it but it was, indeed, Buzzy’s job to do it especially if he wanted to keep roping. Boss loped his horse to the end of the arena and got off. He picked up Buzzy’s rope and I could tell he took a deep breath to maintain his patience. He, no doubt, felt more like jerking Buzzy off his horse and giving him a good quick kick in the you know what! I was proud of him for making this a lesson learning time and holding his temper. Boss told Buzzy to get off his horse and they walked back up the arena together. Buzzy knew he was in trouble, but his frustration and temper were still getting the best of him and his emotions were playing into his good sense. Boss asked him emphatically if he liked to rope. Of course, he did. Boss asked him if he wanted to keep roping. Of course, he did. Boss asked him if he understand it took all of us working together to make roping a positive and fun experience. He balked on that one a bit because he couldn’t see beyond himself so in his mind there was no one else involved and it all revolved around him. Boss asked him who turned out steers and saddled horses? Mom did! Boss asked him who provided horses and steers and roped with him each day to make sure he had all the fundamentals down and all the right teaching tools and accessories needed to succeed? Well, Buzzy gave that some thought and decided that Mom and Dad did that as well. Boss asked him what part June Bug played in the entire scenario. Buzzy couldn’t see that she had much contribution. “Besides,” he said, “she could pen the steers. That is a good job for her!” Wasn’t much of an answer but June Bug was on his side, regardless! Boss carefully took the reins off his horse and out of his hands. “Maybe, you need to look around and see there are other people in this practice pen besides you! Maybe you need to go bring the cattle up the return alley a foot to understand the importance of having a horse. Maybe you need to understand it’s everyone’s job to make sure this works for each of us!” Buzzy hung his head. He was trying to see beyond himself, but when you are a kid that is sometimes hard to do. There are just those ages when it is all about “me!”

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It's Not My Job

It was driving June Bug crazy for Buzzy to get into trouble. She was always willing to take the rap for him and I could see her on her horse over behind thinking to herself, “He didn’t mean it!” Boss told him that maybe he just needed to not rope anymore. He explained there is more to roping than meets the eye. It is about attitude and sharing and helping each other and working hard and practicing hard and believing hard and wanting something so bad you can taste it but more to the point that in roping or life nobody owes you anything. You are responsible. You have to work hard. You have to be committed. You have to labor and try and try and try and never ever give up. And to say, “It’s not my job??? Well, whose job is it?” Buzzy looked up at his daddy with tears in his eyes. “I’m sorry, dad!” he muttered, “But I just get tired of trying to figure this out and not roping good and I don’t understand why it never works?” Boss knelt down in front of him. I brushed tears from my lashes and motioned to June to stay back and just listen. “Buzzy, there isn’t anything worthwhile in this life that comes easy. Some people think it is easy and a piece of cake but they are living a lie. If you want something bad enough you make it your job to make it work. That means it is “your job,” every single bit of it. I can’t do it for you, your mom can’t do it for you, your sister can’t do it for you and none of your buddies will do it for you. It is your job! All of it is your job! Riding your horses, practicing on the dummy, penning the cattle, feeding the steers, maintaining your tack and when you get older it will be your job to work so you can afford to rope and maintain your livestock. If you will notice, Buzzy, there are very select few ropers who actually make a living roping. We would like too but it just isn’t going to happen. So we all work hard to make roping the one thing we do to have fun and because we love it. The wins along the way make it worthwhile and appealing and a heart felt satisfaction that what we are working toward is paying off. But we have to make it our job to do it all because there is no one else going to do it for us. We set the goal, we work toward the standard, we do what needs to be done to make it all work out and if anyone tells you someone owes it to you they are barking up the wrong tree and full of it! Are you understanding any of this stuff I’m telling you?” Boss finished up! Buzzy nodded suddenly feeling really ashamed for mouthing off. Boss patted him on the back. “Trot off down there to the catch pen afoot and bring the cattle up the alley. It will give you a minute to think and reflect on what I’m telling you!” “I’ll help him,” June Bug chimed in and kicked her horse into motion. “No, June,” Boss told her. “That is Buzzy’s job and he needs to do it! You can help him another time.” We all three watched as Buzzy drudged down the arena headed to the catch pen. He seemed to be such a little boy for such a big lesson but Boss was right. We don’t owe our kids anything except all the love and raising we can give them. We have to teach them to work hard for what they want. There isn’t a lot of what I call “raising” going on with kids these days. There is a lot of instant gratification; selfishness and bad attitudes out there and I hate it. There is rude behavior and disrespect and nasty language. I hope and pray my kids are going to be better than that. When Buzzy got back to the chute with the cattle Boss called to him again. “Now, put a smile on your face, bring up a good attitude and let’s rope and have some fun. What do you say? Think you can handle that?” Buzzy nodded and grinned. Lesson learned or at least something to think about! Roping arena? It isn’t a half bad place to raise your kids!

SUMMER CAMP FOR KIDS! LITTLE HAT RANCH - Summer Cowboy Camp for Kids! Includes horseback riding, roping, barrel racing, swimming, crafts and much more! Contact Little Hat Ranch at 336-643-0101 Or email us at taylorequine@hotmail.com. Like us on Facebook and Instagram!

HORSES 10 YR OLD BAY GELDING, 15 hands, head/heel prospect, started on sled, no bad habits and very cowy and willing, quiet. (Two Eyed Jack) Asking $3,500,00. Call Doc Taylor 336-918-1083 13 YR OLD SORREL GELDING, 15-2 hands, head horse, hauled and proven (Doc Bar) Asking $6,500.00. Call Doc Taylor 336-918-1083 13 YR OLD SORREL GELDING, 15 hands, head(awesome)/heel. (Freckles/Doc Bar) serious inquiries only Asking $18,000.00. Call Doc Taylor 336-918-1083. 10 YR OLD PAINT GELDING (heel pony) great for kids, no papers. Asking $5,000.00. Call Doc Taylor 336-918-1083.

CATTLE 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

ROPING DUMMIES HEEL-O-MATIC FOR SALE! BRAND NEW - Straight from the factory. HeelO-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 LIL BLUE HEELER – Get the best, most fun training & roping dummy on the market today. Rope it one time and you will be hooked! Rope it inside, outside, take it on the road, the Lil Blue Heeler is a great roping aid at a great price! The Lil BLue Heeler is completely portable with realistic hopping motion. Great for beginners to pros! Get yours today – call Grizzly Saddlery (406) 761-5948

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Advertisers & Events Index EVENTS: Allen Prod: Team Roping Finals..............21 Hillbilly Redneck Truck & Trailer.............43 Kim Jones Pink Hat Classic.....................51 NTRL NEWS...............................40, 41, 44 NTRL Beast of the East...........................45 Patriot @ 4 States Championships..........35 Patriot @ Dodge City, Kansas................33 Patriot @ San Antonio, Texas.................34 Pitzer Ranch Fall Sale & Invitational.......37 SE Showdown........................................23 Tunica: The Heat is On............................29 West-Ark Classic - USTRC........................42 ADVERTISERS: Adam Toole Horses................................52 Alabama Roping....................................20 Albracht Insurance.................................17 Allen’s Rodeo Photos................................4 Bar H Photography..................................4 BTuff Jeans.............................................6 C Bar C Photography................................4 Classic Rope...........................................38 Dare to be a Cowboy.............................21 FastBack.................................................3 Flatland Ropes.......................................18 FSR Cattle Company...............................49 Gist.......................................................49 Haslerig................................................20

Heel-O-Matic.........................................10 Hot Heels..............................................55 Jackets 4 All..........................................13 JD Photography.......................................4 Jim Davis Photo.......................................4 Lone Star Ropes.....................................46 Lubrisyn................................................60 Maynard Buckles...................................52 Mortenson Saddle Buckle.......................39 Power Team Roping...............................52 Priefert.................................................58 Rope Smart.............................................2 Rope Smart: The SWITCH........................27 Sparky..................................................25 SpeedRoping.com..................................24 STS Ranchwear......................................16 Team Equine Saddle Pad........................18 Tom Bourne...........................................20 Total Equine Feed..................................59 TotalTeamRoping.com............................50 Tres Rios Silver......................................25 Twisted Spur..........................................13 Twisted X Boots......................................19 Usher Brand Silver & Saddlery...............19 Willard Rope Co.....................................13 Call us today to feature your event or product! • 505-407-2151 • • rdavis@theropingpen.com •

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