The Roping Pen - June 2016 by Ryan Davis

$4.00

June 2016

Vol. 25 No. 6

25 Be sure to check outâ&#x20AC;¦ More Money at the Black Jack! p14 Florida Truck Roping p55

2 • THE ROPING PEN • JUNE 2016

THE MAGAZINE FOR AMERICA’S ROPER • 3

WELCOME TO THE NEW LOOK! The Roping Pen has been serving team ropers and rodeo contestants for over 25 years, and throughout that time it has seen some subtle changes. From what was once printed on news print, to the oversized full color magazine we produced last month, and now to this issue. We have been pondering on making a change to the magazine over the past couple months and finally pulled the trigger. We thought with the summer month coming on, the rodeo and roping season just heating up, it was a great time to change the magazine format. We hope you enjoy it. There are a few other things you can take notice of this month, as well. The biggest being we added a new section to the magazine to incorporate The Patriot information. Not only will The Roping Pen offer team ropers information and updates on The Patriot team roping, you will also begin to see advertisements for Patriot qualifier events. The Patriot Team Roping is held annually in Fort Worth in conjunction with The American Rodeo, and over the past two years, it has become an event for many different contestants to enjoy. It incorporates team roping, barrel racing, mounted shooting, and Jr. calf roping. The mounting excitement about The Patriot continues to drive it forward. Producers Kevin and Andrea Hall are moving ahead working with the USTRC, as well as other producers, promoting qualifier events to give ropers everywhere more chances to enjoy The Patriot next February. On another note, I am excited to say that I see the sports of team roping and rodeo moving in the right direction. From where I sit and from those I have talked to, the Southeast is booming with events and these events are growing. I have seen over the years where great events become stale. This can happen to all sorts of events and it takes a lot of “thinking outside of the box” to keep an event fresh and exciting. With team roping hitting all-time highs, more rodeos and more contestants entering up, I’d say there are few that are doing what it takes to make their events grow. I am so glad I get to work alongside these events, producers, and associations. It is humbling to know how hard they work to host events that folks want to attend and to know that, in some small way, this publication helps them do that. Thanks to everyone that has supported The Roping Pen, and I will continue to do all I can to help the sports of rodeo and team roping continue to grow and flourish. Until next month...

Dirt: keep it under your feet...

~Ryan Davis

4 • THE ROPING PEN • JUNE 2016

Celebrating 25 Years!

Table of Contents Articles & Features 4 Dirt: Welcome to the new look!. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ryan Davis 11 S. Alabama Championships, Recap. . . . . . . . . . Ben Clements

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

SRA

14 More Money at the Black Jack!. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Event Recap 16 Protecting Your Investment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Jason Strickland

Southern Rodeo Association

18 NE Kansas Championships, Recap. . . . . . . . . . . Ben Clements

AHSRA

20 Ropers of the Round Table, Whose Point of View?. . . Stuart Mitchell

Alabama High School Rodeo Association FYRA

Foothills Youth Rodeo Association GHSRA & GJHRA

GA High School Rodeo Association & GA Junior High Division NTRL

24 Pushing The Barrier: Heeling Frustrations. . Speed Williams 30 The Patriot Elite: Guy & Cervantes. . . . . . . . . . Patriot Honors 31 The Patriot: Gearing up for 2017. . . . . . . . . . . . . . Patriot Report 32 Upcoming Patriot Qualfying Events. . . . . . . . . . . . . . Schedule 39 Missouri Classic, Recap. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ben Clements

National Team Roping League

46 In the Loop: Patrick Smith. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Lone Star Ropes

NEAFRA

48 Texas Championships, Recap . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ben Clements

Northeast Arkansas Family Rodeo Association

50 Top Tips! With Bret Beach. . . . . . . . . . . . . . Total Team Roping

NCHSRA • NCJHRA

52 Sweat & Balin’ Twine: Pay Attention. . . . . . . . . . . . John Rhudy

North Carolina High School Rodeo Association North Carolina Junior High Rodeo Association SCHSRA • SCJHD • SCYRA

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••••••••••••••• 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

53 Dare to Step Out!. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Crystal Lyons 55 Florida Truck Roping. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Event Recap 56 The Other Half: Inside Pressure. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Gracie Mae 57 Classifieds . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Buy/Sell/Want Ads 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 HS & Jr HS Rodeo Assoc ~ GHSRA & GJHSRA 40+National Team Roping League ~ NTRL 54 South Carolina HS Rodeo Assoc ~ SCHSRA

ON THE COVER:

Mike White @ Old West Fest in Locust Grove, Oklahoma Photo courtesy of Val Ford ~ © C BAR C Photography

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/Publisher: Ryan Davis

505-407-2151 • rdavis1005@comcast.net

THE MAGAZINE FOR AMERICA’S ROPER • 5

HAYLEY

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Y JOH KNOX C

losing in on a decade - It is hard to believe that young Hayley Joh Knox has been part of the SRA for close to ten years. However, she attended her first SRA finals in 2007 and has since earned multiple titles, numerous championships and many cash payouts. Keeping with the family tradition of top rodeo athletes, Hayley still has goals she wants to reach within her rodeo career. She has many, many years to continue to chase her rodeo dreams and continue to enjoy the great times and good friends of the rodeo world. Hayley who still lives in her hometown of Olin, North Carolina is well-known in the rodeo world. She has been a top competitor in the breakaway roping over the years. She has also earned recognition as a barrel racer and has team roped over the years as well. All of this has earned Hayley two SRA All-Around titles, one she is very proud to represent. However, she is eyeing an event championship to give her something she can call hers! “My parents and grandparents are past SRA champions,” said Hayley. “I’d like to get an event championship too. Maybe this will be my year.” Hayley has had plenty of opportunity to hone her skills over the years. With parents that rodeo, it is natural for their kids to compete as well. Hayley is a prime example and has been in the rodeo spotlight since she was four or five years old. She continued to rodeo through her youth and stepped into the professional realm of the SRA in 2007. Over the past year or so, she has been focused on her breakaway roping. She bought a horse from who turned out to become her boyfriend, Jacob Dagenhart who along with his father has helped Hayley turn

into the roper she is today – the young lady that is no stranger to the pay window. Riding Jake who is her 15 year old breakaway horse, she is off each and every chance she gets to compete and continue to hone her skills in the breakaway event. Although she has not been competing in the barrel racing event over the past several years, Hayley has been given a new horse, ‘Joe’ from her aunt to compete on. Together, Hayley and Joe have been coming along and slowly moving into contention at rodeos throughout the year. Outside of the arena fence, Hayley has recently taken a new role in her life. Since finishing her college courses she took a job at Victory Air. This is a company that owns two – 50 passenger planes and specialize in flying Nascar teams to and from races. They stay busy, but allow Hayley the time needed to pursue her own dreams in the rodeo arena. “It is a great job,” said Hayley. “If we do have a plane that leaves late on Friday, they let me bring my horses to work with me that day so I can be loaded and ready to go as soon as I can for the weekend.” As the summer months heat up, Hayley is anxious to continue her quest of fulfilling her dreams in the rodeo arena. Competing at SRA events, she has edged to the top of the breakaway standings. There is a little breathing room between her and second place, but with more ropers at events and stiffer competition it is a challenge. The race to the end of the season will be a long. There are a lot of rodeos to still play out this year, and you can bet Hayley will be at em hard, keeping pace and like generations before her, doing all she can to win!

THE MAGAZINE FOR AMERICA’S ROPER • 7

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

8 • THE ROPING PEN • JUNE 2016

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.

ALL CURRENT & PROSPECTIVE RODEO JUDGES

Please note the following excerpt from the SRA rulebook pertaining to rodeo judges: All judges must be approved by the SRA Board of Directors, hold a current SRA card and be a member in good standing to judge a rodeo. Judges will be required to attend a judging clinic at least once every three years. Judges will be classified by the Board of Directors as “Certified” or “Qualified”. There must be at least one Certified Judge at each rodeo. Any person seeking to be approved as a judge must submit a request to the SRA Board of Directors after attending an SRA judging clinic. A JUDGING CLINIC IS SCHEDULED IN CONJUNCTION WITH THE RODEO ON

JULY 24-25 • SPARTANBURG SC CONTACT CHRIS CARPENTER AT 678-733-7002 FOR INFO & TO REGISTER. •••••••••••••••••••••••••••••

SEEKING NOMINATIONS FOR OFFICERS & BOARD OF DIRECTORS (DUE BY AUG 31)

The current board of directors is seeking suggestions for three (3) potential new board members who will serve 2-year terms. Nominees must be members in good standing and must not have been fined or suspended during a 3-year period immediately preceding nomination. The term for Board of Directors - Chet Kidd, Traci Morris and Jason Tucker will expire this year leaving Brian Barefoot, Bradley Bullard, Thomas Linton, and Matt McGee to complete another year as board of directors. Officers and board members are asked to participate in regularly scheduled conference calls and/or emails dealing with pertinent issues, attend board meetings held during SFR and any other time of the year as deemed necessary. They are also expected to serve on committees as needed, to participate in the planning and operation of the finals rodeo (SFR) and to perform any other duties necessary to ensure the success of the association. Officers and board members will serve without salary. A complimentary membership for the following rodeo season will be issued at the completion of each year of service. If you know an eligible SRA member who can honor the above commitments, please submit their name, contact information and a short paragraph stating why this person would be a good candidate. (And, yes, you may suggest yourself!) While we will not be able to nominate all individuals submitted, your input will help the current board prepare a ballot of excellent candidates to present for vote by the full membership in November. Email to: sraoffice@aol.com • Postal mail to: SRA, PO Box 669, Four Oaks NC 27524

• NOMINATIONS DUE BY AUGUST 31, 2016 •

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

RANK & NAME

POINTS

• ALL FINES AND TURN-OUT FEES MUST BE PAID BEFORE ENTERING A RODEO. • SRA memberships must be purchased prior to rodeo for points to count. Membership applications can be printed from the SRA website & are available for purchase through the SRA office & at SRA first-sanctioned rodeos. You may not be able to purchase a membership at rodeos that are not SRA first-sanctioned rodeos. • JrSRA, NHSRA & NIRA cards are accepted for rodeo entry. Unless otherwise noted, Permits are accepted as needed at a cost of $10 per rodeo. ADD’L RODEO FEES: (unless otherwise noted in listing)

• SRA FIRST-SANCTIONED RODEOS:

• Office Fee: $2 per contestant • Finals Fee: $5 per entry: • Stock Contractor Fee: Amount as listed on rodeo info is per entry (per team in team roping) • IPRA/SRA RODEOS: Finals Fee: $2 per contestant • CES: $8 per contestant

ABBREVIATIONS USED: ADM ADDED MONEY BB BAREBACK RIDING BR BULL RIDING CBA COWGIRLS BKWAY ROPING CBR COWGIRLS BARREL RACING CES CENTRAL ENTRY SYSTEM CR CALF ROPING

CST CENTRAL STD TIME EF ENTRY FEE EST EASTERN STD TIME SB SADDLE BRONC RIDING SC STOCK CHARGE SCF STOCK CONTRACTOR FEE SW STEER WRESTLING TR T EAM ROPING THE MAGAZINE FOR AMERICA’S ROPER • 9

10 • THE ROPING PEN • JUNE 2016

SOUTH ALABAMA

Championships

THE COVINGTON CENTER ARENA • ANDALUSIA, ALABAMA APRIL 9-10, 2016 •PRODUCED BY ED ALLEN • STORY BY BEN CLEMENTS

nered to win first place in the average of the #15 Division. They were 29.23 sec on 4 steers and earned $1870, trophy Gist knives and $6000 in USTRC Flex Earnings. Second place was John Perrett from Rutledge, AL and Cody Murphy from Greenville, AL with a time of 34.76 sec on 4 steers. The third place finishers were Perrett and Zak Dobbins. The #13 Division found Perrett back at the pay-window. He teamed up with Ryan Domer

#15

he South Alabama Championships held at the Covington Center Arena in Andalusia, Alabama is a popular event for team ropers throughout the southern region. The roping took place on April 9-10, 2016 and welcomed team ropers to compete for some great prizes and wonderful payout. The event began with the Open Division. Marcus Theriot from Poplarville, MS teamed up with Zack Mabry from Piedmont, AL to win first place in the average. They also won the overall fast time. Justin Johnson and Wesley Barlow both from MS won the incentive average. Justin Johnson and Kyle Lawrence part-

Open Photos ©C Bar C Photography

#12

pair roped 4 steers in 35.28 sec to win $2750 and $6000 in USTRC Flex Earnings. Second place in the average was Dennis Moore from Opp, AL and Glenn Davis. The third place team was Joe Capps and Glenn Davis. Smith and Seiler also won the incentive average, and added $1180 plus $6000 in USTRC Flex Earnings to their winnings.

from Topeka, Kansas for the win. They finished with a time of 31.76 sec on 4 steers and earned $2990, trophy Gist knives and $6000 in USTRC Flex Earnings. Second place was Branch Pitts and Cody Murphy and third place was Joey Carpenter and Brent Kittle. Perrett and Jerritt Varner finished in 4th place. The team of Lance Burdette from Notasulga, AL and Glenn Davis from Salem, AL partnered

#13 up to win first place in the average of the #12 Division. They were 32.38 sec on 4 steers and won $3900, trophy Gist knives and $6000 in USTRC Flex Earnings. Second place went to TJ Allen from Dadeville, AL and Brent Kittle from Woodland, AL. Third place was Jamey DuBose and Jerritt Varner. The incentive winners were Burdette and Davis. Nathan Smith of Poplarville, MS teamed up with Scott Seiler from Ocala, FL to win first place in the average of the #12 Gold Plus. The

#12GP

The win of the #11 Division went to the team of Mike Woolven from Nettleton, MS and Ed Allen with a time of 33.30 sec on 4 steers. They won $2660, trophy Gist buckles and $6000 in USTRC Flex Earnings. Second place went to the team of Dennis Moore and Scott Seiler and third place went to the team of Jesus Gonzalez from Altha, FL and Glen Terrell. The incentive champions were Rodney Worrell and Scott Seiler. (cont'd on p 12...)

#11

THE MAGAZINE FOR AMERICA’S ROPER • 11

The last day of the South Alabama Championships started off with the #10 Division. Wyatt Allen and Glenn Davis took home the win. They were 33.94 sec on 4 steers and earned $4120, trophy Gist buckles and $6000 in USTRC Flex Earnings. Second place was Mike Woolven and Paul Moore. The third place team was Riley Kittle and Glen Terrell. Walter Taylor and Clay Phillips

#10

steers and won $4000, trophy Gist buckles and $6000 in USTRC Flex Earnings. Second place went to TJ Allen and Chris Jay and third place was Josh Byrd from Chunchula, AL and Cody Simmons also from Chunchula. The incentive average win also went to the team of Curtis Crumbley from Watkinsville, GA and Donnie Hix from Bronson, FL. The final roping of the weekend was the

#10GP 43.92 sec on 4 steers. The third place finishers were Joe Capps and Russell Gibbs. The incentive winners were Greg Lord and Scott Seiler. The team of Jacky Barnett from Phil Campbell, AL and Colton Allen from Dadeville, AL finished first place in the average of the #9 Division. They were 32.88 sec on 4

#8 Avg

won the incentive average. The team of Kip Smith from Haddock, GA and Russell Gibbs from Demopolis, AL won first place in the average of the #10 Gold Plus Division. They were 40.60 sec on 4 steers and earned $3580 and $6000 in USTRC Flex Earnings. Second place was Warren Casey from Hope Hull, AL and Brent Worrell from Brewton, AL with a time of

12 • THE ROPING PEN • JUNE 2016

#8 Pick/Draw and it provided the perfect conclusion to a great weekend of USTRC team roping. Angela Hooper from Montgomery, AL and Curtis Crumbley finished first place in the average. They won $2680, trophy Gist buckles and $6000 in USTRC Flex Earnings. Second place was Kip Smith and Crumbley and third place was Coleman McNaughton and Colton Allen.

Photos ©C Bar C Photography

#9 Avg

THE MAGAZINE FOR AMERICA’S ROPER • 13

MISSISSIPPI

Black Jack Classic

TUNICA ARENA & EXPO CENTER • PRODUCED BY JX2 • APRIL 22-24, 2016

More Money at the Black Jack!

SAM MASSENGILL HEEL-O-MATIC WINNER OF THE #8 PRIZE ROPING

DILLON MOSLEY • CALL MOSLEY MIKE SIMPSON • CARRIE COLE SADDLE WINNERS OF THE #8 PRIZE ROPING

opers gathered at the end of April in Tunica, Mississippi as JX2 presented the Mississippi Black Jack Classic. With a name like that it was a success before it began and as ropers flooded in for the World Series event and the special #8 Prize Roping, the three-day event jumped straight to the action and never slowed down! “This was the biggest World Series roping we have had east of the Mississippi River,” said producer John Johnson. “It was a really good roping, we had a good set of steers and I I think everyone had a good time.” A good time indeed - running at 80% payback, at a great venue with plenty to do before and after the ropings at the local casinos in Tunica, this event is set up for a great time. Adding to the World Series events, the production also hosted two prize ropings. The #8 and #6 Prize ropings were fun and exciting for ropers and winners won saddles, buckles and other prizes that included a Heel-O-Matic. The Mississippi Black Jack was a hit among ropers and the uniqueness of the event helped make it fun. Big money, plenty to enjoy and a great production, the event in Tunica wrapped up with lots of winners and many looking forward to the next event down the road.

#6 PRIZE ROPING SCOTT BROWN AND ANTHONY COSSEY

#10 WSTR CHAMPS GLYN STEWART CHARLES KUHN

#11 WSTR CHAMPS ROCY MAYES CHUCK JENKINS

#12 WSTR CHAMPS CODY WARNER LEE STRINGER

#9 WSTR CHAMPS JIMMY JAY DONALDSON CHARLES KUHN

#8 WSTR CHAMPS SCOTT BROWN COLE SMITH

#15 WSTR CHAMPS WESLEY BARLOW ZACK MABRY

#13 WSTR CHAMPS ROYCE CATES DUSTY SHERWOOD

14 • THE ROPING PEN • JUNE 2016

Photos ©C Bar C Photography

his month I have a couple of things I want to share about us as a company. So this will be a little different kind of article, but nevertheless shows who we are and why we do this. Over last few months I have insured some really nice horses. Talked to some really good people and I enjoy meeting everyone. That is one of the main reasons I do this. We look out for our clients and I think more so than most insurance companies. The owners, Terry and Shelley Albracht have been in the insurance business for 30 years or more. They care about their clients and that has shown with the repeat business each year. It’s a never ending negotiation with underwriters to keep rates competitive, work on open claims, and all the while talking to clients. Lately we have been working on some new business, meaning having new underwriters. This usually means we get competitive rates and better service on claims. At times we deal with some crazy things from them that they do not understand and we as horse owners/agents have to explain. This is why I sell for the people I work for. We are allowed to explain and work for our clients. When Terry asked me to sell for him I refused it, simply because I hadn’t had very good experiences with insurance companies. He changed that for me. My point for writing all of this is when you are selecting an agency it’s not all based on who is cheapest. No, that doesn’t mean we are higher, it means use who is going to work for you or you feel is going to work better for you. Most times agencies are only a few bucks difference in price. This is where being comfortable about whom you want to use and not who is cheapest comes into play. I also see everyone using some company because “everyone else is” or a top name is using them. Chances are, there is a discount or promotional promise to have them to begin with. Just some things you keep in mind when selecting companies. There are several out there that are good companies. I however think I work for one of the best. Catch you next month! ~ Jason

16 • THE ROPING PEN • JUNE 2016

THE MAGAZINE FOR AMERICA’S ROPER • 17

Championships

NORTHEAST KANSAS

KANSAS EXPO CENTRE • TOPEKA, KS • APRIL 1-3, 2016

PRODUCED BY JEFF SMITH • STORY BY BEN CLEMENTS

eff Smith and the crew moved into the Kansas Expo Centre in Topeka, Kansas for the Northeast Kansas Championships. The USTRC event took place April 1-3, 2016. The weather was good and the team roping action was better. The Open Division kicked off the weekend. Andrew Ward of Edmond, Ok and Austin Rogers from Crescent, Ok won first. They finished the roping with a time of 30.95 seconds on five steers. Butchie Levell and Rogers won second place and the incentive avg. The #15 Division was next on the agenda. Danny Miller along with partner Dawson McMaster won first place in the avg. They were 30.95 seconds on 4 steers and earned $2690, trophy Gist knives and $6000 in USTRC Flex Earnings. Second place went to Tad Sheets and McMaster, while third place in the avg was Miller and Trey Michaelis. The Minnesota team of Eric Nelson and Jeremy Wagner teamed up to win first place in the #13 Division. They finished the roping with a four steer avg of 29.41 seconds. The team won $4410, trophy Gist knives and $6000 in USTRC Flex Earnings. Second place in the avg was Derrick Peterson and Tyler Macoubrie with a time of 29.59 seconds on four steers. Third place in the avg was Adam Wilson and Mitch Murray. The second day of the Northeast Kansas Classic began with the #12 Division. The Missouri team of Colby Fletcher from Hannibel and Chris Pomeroy from Bolivar won first place. The team was 30.79 seconds on four steers and received $4600, trophy Gist knives and $6000 in USTRC Flex Earnings for their efforts. Second place in the avg was Jerry Short from Salina, Kansas and Jason Trent from Burrton, Kansas. Third place in the avg was Tyler Johnson and Taylor Schotte. Casey Sperry and David Cannon won the incentive avg. Zac Parrington from Hoyt, Kansas teamed up with Ross Keesling from Clearwater, Kansas to claim first place in the avg of the #12 Gold Plus Division. They roped four steers in 30.84 seconds which gave them $5360 and $6000 in USTRC Flex Earnings. Second place went to Mark Hudson and Joe Kane. Third place was Jeff Miller and Keesling. Adam Wilson and Eric Hoelting won the incentive avg. The #11 Division saw the Kansas team of Brody Peak and Tom

18 • THE ROPING PEN • JUNE 2016

McMillan finish first place with a time of 30.76 on four steers. They won $5860, trophy Gist knives and $6000 in USTRC Flex Earnings. Second place in the avg was Collin Domer from Topeka, Oklahoma and Taylor Schotte from Marysville, Kansas. They were 33.03 seconds on four steers. Third place went to Chad Duncan and Ross Keesling. Gus Franzen and Nathan Sorrell won the incentive avg. In the #10 Division the team of Jack Foster from Stockton, Missouri and Cooper Freeman from Carthage, Missouri won first place in the avg. They were 33.25 seconds on four steers and won $6840, trophy Cowboy Gold saddles, and $6000 in USTRC Flex Earnings. Second place in the avg was Kolt Osentowski and Clay Mackey and third place was Gage Freeman and Chad Freeman. The incentive champions were Steve Cannon and Brody Peak. The final day of the Northeast Kansas Championships kicked off with the #10 Gold Plus. David Parker of Wichita, Kansas and partner Casey Burdick from Rose Hill, Kansas won first place in the avg with a time of 33.97 seconds on four steers. They won $7210 and $6000 in USTRC Flex Earnings. Second place went to the team of Wes Young and Craig Lawson, while third place went to Paul Hamilton and Rick McKinzie. Gary Adamson and Jim Lafever won the incentive average. Jesse Boos from White Cloud, Kansas and Kevin Lair from Unionville, Missouri teamed up to win first place in the avg of the #9 Division. They were 35.89 seconds on four steers and won $9250, trophy Cowboy Gold saddles and $6000 in USTRC Flex Earnings. Second place in the avg was Keith Mahanay and Ray White. Third place went to the Kansas team of Donnie Compton and Aaron Mattox. Boos and Lair took home the incentive avg win also. The final roping of the Northeast Kansas Championships was the #8 Pick/Draw. Clinton Windmeyer from Highland, Kansas and Steve Rogers from Lathrop, Missouri won the average with a time of 25.44 seconds on three. They won $6280, trophy Cowboy Gold saddles and $6000 in USTRC Flex Earnings. Second place was Nick Vaughn and Glenn Smith. Third place went to the team of Joleen Lawson and CC Stephenson. The Northeast Kansas Championships was a great event. Ropers from all around are already looking forward to next year.

Books B k open p att 8 am Rope at 9:30 am #13 Slide • $50/man (enter 7x’s - 4 hd) #10 • $50/man (enter 7x’s - 3 hd) Draw Option Available #12 • $50/man (enter 7x’s - 4 hd) Draw Option Available #8 Drawpot • Must draw 5 for $200 4E cap (picks are $40 - 20 runs max)

Books B k open p att 8 am Rope at 9:30 am #10 Pick N Draw (6E cap) Pick 1 Draw 3 or Draw 4 for $200 (Picks are $50/man - 10 runs max) All Girls or Over 40 #9 (5E cap) Pick 1 Draw 4 or Draw 5 for $200 (Picks are $40/man - 10 runs max)

THE MAGAZINE FOR AMERICA’S ROPER • 19

even speed, unless the heeler covers him up. Then he has to speed up to get the steer out from under him, then slow down to let the heeler catch up again. After the heeler ropes, the head horse has to face up fast enough to keep the heeler from losing the feet because he doesn’t pull any slack, but not so fast that he pulls the dally away from him. Last of all he has to listen as the heeler rides down the pen explaining why he eam ropers argue over a lot of different things. As a matter of fact, legged the steer that swished, hopped to the inside, and then scissored they’ll argue over anything. Some points are well taken, but most twice before falling down, bouncing up and pulling one foot out as he are wasted air. Some argue so much they use up their air, and some of dallied. Views on which horse has the toughest job will vary, and fair enough mine and yours. Steers are too fast, too slow, duck their heads, too small, there are 2 sides to every story. So let’s look at the heel horse. He has too big, or were such a pup that they didn’t expect it. They argue over to sprint to the box when it’s time to rope because his rider was playing truck motors and horse trailers, wives that rope and ones that don’t, “left leg” when the on deck team ran their steer. As the gate bangs the rodeos vs jackpots, World Series vs USTRC. As you see, any topic is fair heel horse starts rolling to the steer. (Rolling is a slow and gradual movegame when 2 ropers get together. ment that is not very stressful to the horse) As the steer runs down the One of the biggest arguments is over which is more difficult, headarena the head horse is busting a gut to overcome the head start that he ing or heeling. Several different factors are involved in answering this gave the steer, while the heel horse left with question; the ability of each roper, the mental the steer and is running right alongside. Afstability of each person, and some other facter the header does his thing, the heel horse ...one of the biggest tors, one of which is the horse. Your view on really has to work hard. He turns in with the this subject usually depends on which end you arguments is over steer and rates off a little, depending on the rope. Headers generally think of themselves pressure applied by the heeler. As the heeler which is more difficult, as the brains of the outfit, the quarterback, ropes, the heel horse comes to a stop as fast the fast thinker. After all, they determine how heading or heeling. as he can for fear of having his teeth floated. fast the run needs to be, the smoothness of the Sometimes he anticipates too much and has handles, and most of the time have to remind to hustle back up to the steer because if he the heeler what position they’ve drawn in the doesn’t some ribs might not make it. Finally Several different roping. (Heelers are always running around the steer is caught and the run is over, maybe. hunting someone to rope “left leg”.) In the pracfactors are involved If 2 feet were caught then the horse was pertice pen, headers generally have to warm their fect. So what if he was 2 yards to the inside in answering this horses up longer than heelers (any good heel after he cut the corner and bumped the steer. horse is loose after 2 or 3 laps). Headers have to question; the ability of If the run was plus five then look out! The insist to the heeler on scoring cattle. The heelheeler decides that the horse didn’t run to the each roper, the mental er always wants just one more. As long as his steer fast enough so he kicks his guts out all horse is most of the way in the box he’s ready. stability of each the way to the end of the pen. Just short of Heelers argue if the head horse was any count then he wouldn’t be jumping around. After all, person, and some other the derigging chute he figures his horse didn’t stop too good either. So with one swift precithey run the same number of steers. Ropers factors, one of sion move of the hand he fine tunes his stop. can argue all day about heading or heeling, but He pulls hard enough to set the horse on his the only one who really knows is the horse. which is the horse. butt, burns his hocks, floats his teeth back to The head horse seems to have a thankless the 3-year-old level, and manages to get his job. All people ever comment on is the heel nose so high he’d drown if it rained. This was horse. “Boy, did he get in the dirt!” “Did you Your view on this just one run; imagine what 5 or 6 could do. see him turn the corner?” or “The heeler really After all this explaining, arguing, fact findmade up the time.” Bless his heart; the head subject usually ing and general bull there are 2 basic opinhorse really does have an important job. Here ions. According to heelers, all the head horse is a general list of his duties. First he has to depends on which end has to do is get close enough to the steer to have certain characteristics to fill the job: size, you rope... have the rope pitched on him, (the rope is 30 speed, athletic ability and stamina. If he has feet long), then duck hard, pull fast, and face all of these and makes it through the training just before the steer snaps in 2. According to headers, the heel horse process, he might stand the pressure of giving a steer a head start and has to run down the pen, (remember he left with the steer), cut the corner then running him down. Heel horses can cheat the steer by moving fast enough to give the heeler the feeling of being “sudden” and stop just when they move. (With these ideas I’ve already started 5 new arguments.) in time to save the dental bill, but not too fast, so as to have some air left Anyway, there are things a head horse must do to be pretty good. He has for the ride home. to enter the box quietly from either the front or the side. Heel horses It just depends on which end you rope as to your opinion on which always get to enter from the front. Head horses have to wait patiently end is harder or which horse has the hardest job. Remember it really for the last minute changes by the roper. Seems his seat is never right doesn’t matter as long as both do the best they can because one can’t without several good twists and the loop he entered the box with seems win without the other. Team roping has 2 horses, 2 ropers, and 2 opinto shrink. The steer is moving back and forth in the dust, twisting and ions. If you can’t trust your partner and his horse, there are are always kicking and making all sorts of noise. When the header nods, the horse alternatives: golf, tennis, bird watching, one man hacky sack, needlehas to score the steer out, break hard, run the steer down, rate off, stay point, watching grass grow, listening to crickets chirp… in position while the dally is taken, set the steer, pull the steer off at an BY STUART MITCHELL

Whose Point of View?

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VIRGIL ASKS: What’s the best tie-on ropes that won’t twist?

RICKEY'S TIP: From my perspective as a teacher, a 4-strand is better than a 3-strand because it doesn’t have so much stretch which makes it not twist as much.

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HEELING FRUSTRATIONS

ince moving to Center, Texas, Hali has been heeling a lot and going to some low numbered ropings close by. Recently she had a night where she heeled outstanding behind Jared and me in the practice pen. Then we went to a roping and she didn’t heel well at all. There are so many factors involved in a successful heel run. During practice you usually know your steer and whether he’s slow, fast, goes left or right, etc. You can anticipate what may happen and prepare yourself. This applies to the people you practice with as well. You know how they handle cattle, how their horse works, etc. Then when you go to a roping, especially a low numbered draw pot, you don’t know the cattle or often times your partner or how their horse works. You don’t know whether to ride wide, hang back, or haze the steer. If you try and haze the steer and your header ducks, then you’re left in no man’s land. One of the things Hali faced was some of the steers were faster and caught at the back end of the arena. So you’re running down the arena then the steer checks off in the corner. Now you’re close but then the steer leaves you. If there was a magic answer we could fix all these problems, but there’s not. In this situation you need to do your homework to have a chance at success. You should gather as much information at the roping as

you can. Watch the steers go, find your partners and watch them rope. That way you’ll have an idea of what to expect and where you should ride. There is so much of heeling that is pure reaction. I always tell Hali she cannot be scared to miss. Being scared of missing and just trying to catch creates a lot of problems. I’ve seen it at the Open level for many years. If you just need to be a smooth 8 or 9 to win, it’s a totally different mindset. Regardless of circumstances you need to stay aggressive and keep speed on your rope. You have to keep your horse moving and not let him stop and dictate when you rope. Often in low numbered ropings, as a heeler, you can do everything right and the header’s horse can stop pulling, or go down the arena making it very difficult to catch. I know many guys who would rather heel and frustrate themselves than to go head and turn all the steers and not get any caught behind them. I also have clients that head very well but love to heel at the ropings. Typically in the #7 and #8 ropings, if you catch all your steers, you have a decent chance of getting a good check. What’s new with me: The new indoor arena is up and we are roping in it. There is still a lot to be done, but it is functional. It is awesome to walk out of the house and go rope without being affected by sun, wind, or rain. Gabe and Hali are both roping non-stop all day and neither care about playing ball right now. It’s always been a dream of mine to have my kids want to rope. I just didn’t think it would happen this early in their lives. You really can’t complain about a dream being answered. We have built a new roping simulator I’m pretty excited about. You can see it in action at speedroping.com.

Check Out What’s New

Speedroping Simulator Heeling Struggles Part 7 Hali, Gabe & MeMaw Crossfire, Monroe, LA Roping Hali on Ricky Speed On Qunnah Kool & Many More Free Memberships * Drawings * Questions & Comments * Speed’s Store * Speed’s Calendar To Book Your Private School Contact Speed Directly at speedroping@gmail.com 24 • THE ROPING PEN • JUNE 2016

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

fun times at the Bay Minette Rodeo!

April 30-May 1, 2016

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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! June 11: J/S 10 am & P/W 7pm •• June 12: P/W 10am & J/S 3pm Latigo Farms • 3472 Hwy 414 • Landrum, SC 29356 July 30: J/S 10am & P/W 7pm •• July 31: P/W 10am & J/S 3pm 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 • www.doublejbarrelhorses.com • Double J Arena • 501 Lockaby Rd • Pendleton, SC 29670

Over $2,000 in donated pajamas and goodies by the good people of FYRA for The Greenville Children’s Hospital! Thanks to those who “gave back” to these deserving kiddos & to those whom came out to share with us in the delivery!

FYRA’s “Miracle Cowgirls” and former Children’s Hospital patients! Little Ally Farr was a 27 week premature baby and Brittany Baker is currently recovering from serious Scoliosis surgery. Brittany is also one of our Student Officers this year! Two reasons very close to home to always “Give Back”! Also pictured Lane Farr.

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PHOTOS COURTESY OF FYRA / DONNA FARMER

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The Patriot Elite honors

2016 PATRIOT #13 CHAMPIONS

LARI DEE GUY & RENE CERVANTES CASH PAYOUT $70,000

he 2016 Patriot started off with the #13 Patriot. Ropers filled the Will Rogers Memorial Center in Fort Worth, Texas for their shot at the first payout of over 2.2 million dollars that would be paid out in the team roping event over the fourday span. Claiming the victory after roping four head in 31.53 seconds was an elite team of ropers that are no strangers to the winners circle. Lari Dee Guy and Rene Cervantes took home the championship earning of $70,000 in cash and additional prizes. Overall nine teams earned money in the Average, 5 in the 3-head consolation and several more in the rounds. Lari Dee and Rene have been a force to be reckoned with throughout the years and the big win at The Patriot topped the list of what they have done as a team.

LARI DEE GUY • ABILENE, TEXAS

“The Patriot was a blessing. That’s all you can say because you don’t get the chance to win $70,000 every day. To win it with Rene was great also. He is a great partner and he always pulls through for you at the big ones for sure. He works hard at his job. He is probably the best partner I have ever had. The event was great. They had good cattle, a good production and to have a chance to run against that many teams for that kind of money was great. Win or lose, I would have enjoyed it.”

RENE CERVANTES • JAL, NEW MEXICO

“The Patriot was a great event. Limited teams, $1,000 per man, that is the only type of roping I really want to go to. And to do it with Lari Dee was great. We have won some big money in the past, but the $70,000 we won there was great. They had good steers and we got four good ones. It was a good time. Having the other events, the barrel racing, the calf roping and shooting made it fun, and it’s hard to beat Fort Worth. I took my wife and kids and there is plenty to do. Overall it was a great event and you can bet I will be back if I can.”

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THE PATRIOT REPORT:

GEARING UP • • FOR 2017 • • T

he Patriot Team Roping is gearing up for the 2017 event. Ropers who enjoy having a big money event in Texas will be excited to see that they can now earn qualifications and guarantee them a spot at the Patriot next year. This exciting news comes on the heels of an agreement between The Patriot and the USTRC and just in time as the summer team roping season gets u n d e r way. Now, ropers from all across the country can begin their quest to be in attendance at the 2017 Patriot Event in Fort Worth, Texas. All USTRC Sanctioned Gold Plus ropings are now Patriot qualifiers allowing ropers to take full advantage of their skills throughout the year to not only earn their position at the USTRC National Finals of Team Roping in October, but also be in contention for the big payouts at the 2017 Patriot Event in February. All #12 Gold Plus winners earn a qualification to the #12 Patriot Roping. The Incentive winners of the #12 Gold Plus ropings will earn a #11 Patriot qualification. The same goes for the #10 Gold Plus winners. They will earn a qualification to the #10 Patriot roping and Incentive winners will earn a #9 Patriot position. This is retrospective, meaning ropers who have already won a Gold Plus roping this years are qualified. The Patriot paid out over 2.2 million dollars last year and by all record was a success for ropers who enjoy the chance to win big money. The Patriot incorporates a limited team cap and the 2016 event filled one roping and was close to maxi-

mizing several others. Looking ahead towards the 2017 event, the Patriot producers are expecting to fill more ropings. This makes claiming a qualification to the event this year even more valuable. The Patriot is excited to add the Gold Plus ropings to their list of qualifiers. Utilizing these existing ropings and the fact that they are already prominent events makes the agreement better for ropers and the industry as a whole. Ropers can claim a spot at the event in 2017 while still going to the events they go to in the first place. There will also be Patriot qualifier roping hosted throughout the year that ropers can take advantage of. “This makes sense,” said Kevin Hall, Patriot producer and USTRC sanction event producer. “The Gold Plus program is set up for the elite ropers. The Gold Plus ropings pay out 80%, they are prestigious events and work well with the Patriot format. The USTRC has never done this before, but it is something we as USTRC producers have talked about since 2000.” The summer roping season has just begun and ropers can take full advantage of this opportunity to win and win again. Gold Plus members now have a chance to rope for big money at USTRC Sanctioned events filling their Flex Earnings towards the USTRC National Finals of Team Roping, and also receive a position at the largest team roping event in the state of Texas. So gear up, get ready and claim your qualification to win in2017 at The Patriot Team Roping in Fort Worth!

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UPCOMING PATRIOT QUALIFYING EVENTS...

DATES.............. */**... CITY, STATE............ PRODUCER........................................................................ EVENT JUN 3-5, 2016............. *........ SAN ANGELO, TX.............USTRC.........................................WEST TEXAS CHAMPIONSHIPS /PATRIOT QUALIFIER TOUR JUN 3-5, 2016............. *........ GALLUP, NM.....................RED ROCK ROPING PROD.............................RED ROCK CLASSIC/PATRIOT QUALIFIER TOUR JUN 3-5, 2016............. *........ MARIANNA, FL.................JX2 PROD............................... FL PANHANDLE CHAMPIONSHIPS/PATRIOT QUALIFIER TOUR JUN 4-5, 2016............ **....... MCCOOK, NE ..................Y HANGING J PROD....................................................................PATRIOT QUALIFIER TOUR JUN 4-5, 2016............. *........ HENRYVILLE, IN................DAN STEWART................................................INDIANA CLASSIC/PATRIOT QUALIFIER TOUR JUN 11-12, 2016......... *........ SIDNEY, IA........................JEFF SMITH PROD .................................IOWA CHAMPIONSHIPS /PATRIOT QUALIFIER TOUR JUN 17-19, 2016......... *........ BERRYVILLE, AR.................RTO PROD....................................... NORTH ARKANSAS CLASSIC/PATRIOT QUALIFIER TOUR JUN 18-19, 2016......... *........ RAINSVILLE, AL.................ED ALLEN............................ NORTH ALABAMA CHAMPIONSHIPS/PATRIOT QUALIFIER TOUR JUN 18-19, 2016 ........ *........ GRAND JUNCTION, CO....JEFF SMITH PROD .........WESTERN COLORADO CHAMPIONSHIPS/PATRIOT QUALIFIER TOUR JUN 25-26, 2016........ **....... GLEN ROSE, TX ................TULEY PROD.................................................................................PATRIOT QUALIFIER TOUR JUN 24-26, 2016......... *........ LAS VEGAS, NM...............ZAMORA ROPING PROD............................... LASSO DEL NORTE /PATRIOT QUALIFIER TOUR 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 ** = PATRIOT QUALIFYING EVENT 32 • THE ROPING PEN • JUNE 2016

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Missouri Classic

HICKORY HILL ARENA • BETHANY, MO • APRIL 22-24, 2016

PRODUCED BY JEFF SMITH & IKE COX • STORY BY BEN CLEMENTS

ke Cox, Jeff Smith and their crew welcomed team ropers to the Missouri Classic in Bethany, Missouri. The event took place April 22-24, 2016 and was held at the Hickory Hill Arena. The #15 Division kicked off the weekend. The team of Steve Rogers and Chad Mathes won the average with a time of 26.58 on four steers. They won $1330, trophy Gist knives and $6000 in USTRC Flex Earnings. Second place was Casey Hays and Mathes and third place was Jeff Gray and Cooper Bruce. When the short go finished Jack Fletcher and Todd Reece won the average of the #13 Division. They were 30.70 seconds on four steers and won $2630, trophy Gist knives and $6000 in USTRC Flex Earnings. Second place was Jeff Gray of Milan, Missouri and Patrick Houchins from Frankford, Missouri. Casey Hays and Houchins finished in third place. The #12 Division was exciting right down to the final steer. Coy Rahlmann partnered up with Bubba Reynolds to finish first place in the main average. For the win of the average, Rahlmann and Reynolds won $2300, trophy Gist knives, and $6000 in USTRC Flex Earnings. Steve Rogers and Todd Reece won second place while third place went to Curtis Buckler and Brad Abernathy. Gene Green and Travis Hull were also the incentive average champions. The #12 Gold Plus was won by Curtis Buckler and Brad Abernathy. They roped four steers in 34.21 seconds and won $3130 and $6000 in USTRC Flex Earnings. Second place went to Jeremy Michaelis and JR Macoubrie, and third place went to Cooper Bruce and Jeff Smith. Charley Martin and Bubba Reynolds won the incentive average. The #11 Division win went to the team of Amy Younger and Trey Michaelis. They finished the roping with a time of 31.28 seconds on four steers. The team won $4390, trophy Gist knives, and $6000 in USTRC Flex Earnings. Second place in the #11 Division roping went to the team of Randy Maxwell and Tony Schindler with a time of 31.67 seconds on four steers. The third place team was Garrett Phillips and Bubba Reynolds. The team of Brady Geidel and Jack Day won the incentive average. Seth McCabe of Bronson, Iowa teamed up with Kyle Zellmer from Hinton, Iowa to win first place in the average of the #10 Division. They were 31.73 seconds on four steers and won $6220, trophy USTRC saddles and $6000 in USTRC Flex Earnings. Second place was Tannor Schuldt and Jeremy Michaelis. The third place team was Casey Sperry and Dusty Goes. Kirk Feddersen and Lee Thelemann won the incentive average. Sunday morning at the Missouri Classic began with the #10 Gold Plus Division. The Missouri team of Jeremy Michaelis and Colby Fletcher won first place in the main average. They won $5690 and $6000 in USTRC Flex Earnings. Second place in the roping was Casey Sperry and Jeff Gray. Third place went to Matt Hannah and Kevin Lair. Sperry and Gray won the incentive average while Mick Summers and Jack Allen won the Century Bonus. In the #9 Division the Kansas team of Camden Hoelting and Staci Mitchell took home the win of the average by catching four steers in 41.55 seconds. They took home $8580, trophy USTRC saddles and $6000 in USTRC Flex Earnings. Second place was Eddy Jo Hrovatin of Franksville, Wisconsin and Brady Geidel from Orient, Iowa. The third place finishers were Dylan Schulenberg and Glenn Smith. Tony Fisher

and Ray White won the incentive average. The team of Clay Clayman and Wyatt Kanan won first place in the final roping of the Missouri Classic, the #8 Pick/Draw. The pairing won $5130, trophy USTRC saddles and $6000 in USTRC Flex Earnings. Second place was Jack Clayman and Kanan. They were 28.82 seconds on three and won $3420, trophy Gist buckles and $6000 in USTRC Flex Earnings. Third place was Theresa Johnson and Bruce Johnson. Ropers enjoyed the great hospitality of the Hickory Hill Arena and are already looking forward to next years production.

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atrick Smith has won just about every major title in team roping. Heeling his way to almost $2 million in earnings, and two world championships, Patrick knows the ropes, so to speak. He knows that to win that kind of money, you must have the right rope, and that rope for Patrick is the Shark Extreme from Lone Star Ropes. “I use the Shark and the Shark Extreme in a hard medium,” said Patrick. “The Shark Extreme is a little heavier and bigger around and it’s the best rope I’ve ever used. If you’ve never tried this rope, you need to at least buy one and try it so you understand what I’m talking about.” We caught up with Patrick while he was in Albuquerque for the fourth Elite Rodeo Athletes Tour Rodeo, and gave him the opportunity to explain a little about the ERA and maybe debunk some myths. “I’d love to talk about the ERA,” he said. “I’ve seen a lot of negative things written on social media and it just shows me that there is a lot of confusion and misunderstanding concerning the ERA and our mission.” “We’re all greatful for the PRCA and we’re proud of our world championships and everything we’ve accomplished. We love rodeo,” he continued. “I’ve been very blessed to have accomplished what I have but in any other professional sport, I’d be in a different position. We’re not talking about living like an NBA star, we just want to see a reward for being the best in the world. If we think we can make it better for the future, why wouldn’t we try? We just want everyone to work together to make rodeo better” According to Patrick, the idea behind the ERA was to host a tour to coincide what they were already doing. Another avenue for competition like the Bob Feist Invitational or George Strait Team Roping Classic. “I’ve got a little boy at home who literally sleeps with his stuffed cows and all he thinks about is roping,” he said. “We want to better the

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sport for the future. We want to build this to provide more opportunities for those kids who dream about rodeo.” The ERA tour showcases 11 competitors (11 teams in team roping) in each event who compete at tour stops across the country and end the year in Dallas, Texas for the ERA Tour Finale. At the end of the year, the bottom four in each event drop off the tour and are replaced by four new athletes. ERA Qualifiers at Mesquite Championship Rodeo in Mesquite, Texas will consist of three series over a 12 week period, followed by a semi-finals. The Days of 47 Rodeo in Salt Lake City, Utah has also come on board with the ERA, hosting a tour event as well as a qualifier. Top qualifiers from the Days of 47 Rodeo will also advance to the semi-finals in Mesquite. Following the Mesquite series, the top two in each event will advance to the ERA Tour Finale in Dallas in November. In 2017, qualifiers will be able to move onto the tour throughout the year. After three tour stops, Patrick and partner Trevor Brazile are just about in the middle of the pack in the ERA standings. “We’ve done fairly well, maybe not as good as what our expectations were, but that could all change tonight,” stated Patrick. With less time on the road, Patrick has been enjoying his time with family. “When I was 23 and bought my card, I didn’t want to be home,” he said. “Now I have three growing kids at home and some other projects I’m involved in. I’ve done some clinics, I’m part owner in an oilfield service company and I’m an online roping coach at Roping.com (along with Jake Barnes and Matt Sherwood).” Patrick then added, tongue in cheek, “I told my wife I needed to go to a rodeo so I could take a break.” If you’ve got a question or comment for “In The Loop”, submit it to lonestarintheloop@gmail.com.

THE MAGAZINE FOR AMERICA’S ROPER • 47

Texas Championships ROSE PALACE • SAN ANTONIO, TEXAS •APRIL 22-24, 2016

PRODUCED BY USTRC • STORY BY BEN CLEMENTS

he Texas Championships held at the San Antonio Rose Palace in San Antonio, Texas took place on April 22-24, 2016. It welcomed team ropers from all over to compete for some great prizes and a wonderful payout. The event began with the Open Division. Tyler Magnus from Mason, Tx teamed up with Colton Lee from Early, Tx to win first place in the average. The duo turned in a time of 43.60 seconds on five steers and won $2000 and trophy Ritchie Coldsaver Coolers. Second place in the average and first in the incentive average went to Andrew Livingston from Dripping Springs, Tx and Kirby Blankenship from Lampasas, Tx. Dillon Shults from Kingsbury, Tx and Dean Salyer from Seguin, Tx partnered up to win first place in the average of the #15 Division. They were 30.11 seconds on 4 steers and earned $3270, trophy Ritchie Coldsaver Coolers and $6000 in USTRC Flex Earnings. Second place was Stratton Lopez from San Antonio, Tx and Quisto Lopez from Beeville, Tx with a time of 31.58 seconds on 4 steers. The 3rd place finishers were Logan Currie and Kirby Blankenship. The #13 Division was next on the schedule. Randy Gaydos from Pleasanton, Tx teamed up with Justin Watts from Boerne, Tx. They finished with a time of 33.23 seconds on 4 steers and earned the first place prizes and awards. Gaydos and Watts received $5506, trophy Ritchie Coldsaver Coolers and $6000 in USTRC Flex Earnings. Second place was Shane Hendrix from Grayson, Louisiana and Scotty Raines from Beeville, Tx and 3rd place was Billy Reagan and Alex Garcia. The final roping of the day at the Texas Championships was the #12 Division. The team of Buddy Gonzalez from Kingsville, Tx and Andy Avelar also from Kingsville partnered up to win first place in the average. They were 35.44 seconds on 4 steers and won $5636, trophy Martin saddles and $6000 in USTRC Flex Earnings. Second place went to Brooks Heitz from Big Wells, Tx and DJ Whitlow from Refugio, Tx. 3rd place was Matt Muniz and Justin DeLaGarza while fourth place was Benny Tamez and Chad Townson. The incentive winners were Jordan Hernandez and Ryan Perez. Navor Levario from Odessa, Tx was on target to start off the second day of the Texas Championships. He partnered up with heeler DJ Whitlow to win first place in the average of the #12 Gold Plus. The pair roped 4 steers in 34.47 seconds to win $5488 and $6000 in USTRC Flex Earnings. Second place in the average was Navor Levario and Rey David Quinonez also from Odessa, Tx. The 3rd place team was Shane Hendrix and DJ Whitlow. Levario and Quinonez also won the incentive average while Levario and Russell Hild won second in the incentive average. Mitch Copps and Curtis Evans won the Century Bonus. The next roping of the day was the #11 Division. The win went to the team of Clay Weeks from Premont, Tx and Cody Owens from Mission, Tx with a time of 33.37 seconds on 4 steers. They won $8206, trophy Martin saddles and $6000 in USTRC Flex Earnings. Second place went to the team of Navor Levario and Rey David Quinonez and 3rd place went to the team of Gene Hirsch and Russell Hild. The incentive champions were Cole Bolton and Tucker Menz. Antonio Siller from Elmendorf, Tx and Alonso Salinas from Zapata, Tx ended up on top in the #10 Division. They were 31.67 seconds on 4 steers and earned $9106, trophy Martin saddles and $6000 in USTRC Flex Earnings. Second place went to the Tarpley and Bandera, Tx team of Mitch Waltisperger and Glynn Rainey. The 3rd place team was Jason Jimenez and Brandon Shussler. Cody Aguirre and Chase Henning won the incentive average.

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The final day of competition at the Texas Championships began with the #10 Gold Plus Division. The team of Cole Bolton from Austin, Tx and Adrian Trevino from Gillett, Tx took first place in the average. They took home $7612 and $6000 in USTRC Flex Earnings. Second place was Baltazar Gonzalez and Glynn Rainey and 3rd place went to Leonel Lopez from Rio Grande City, Tx and Martin Wilson from Junction, Tx. The incentive average went to Bolton and Trevino and Tom Gridley and George Smith took home the Century Bonus as well. The team of Tray Lamarca from George West, Tx and Wade Rhodes also from George West finished first place in the average of the #9 Division. They were 38.20 seconds on 4 steers and won $10,826, trophy Martin saddles and $6000 in USTRC Flex Earnings. Second place went to Chris Ruiz and Doug Sowell while Brooks Hietz and Jose Urenda took home 3rd. Fourth place went to Clay Weeks and Luis Munoz. The winners of the incentive average were the team of Rene Garica Ned Rymond Haby. The final roping of the weekend was the #8 Pick/Draw and it provided the perfect conclusion to a great weekend of USTRC team roping. Jessie Cruz from Odem, Tx and Rodimiro Boy Urbina from Kingsville, Tx finished first place in the average with a time of 29.41 on three steers. They won $7170, trophy Gist buckles and $6000 in USTRC Flex Earnings. Second place was Justin Garza from Schertz, Tx and Wyatt Koch from Hondo, Tx and 3rd place was Javier Munoz and Imelda Ambriz.

otalTeamRoping.com has continued to grow thanks to the tremendous support of ropers who log in each day for their quick tip or feedback from one of the TTR pros. The instructions they receive allow them to develop as a team roper and help them reach their roping goals. Everyone wants to rope better and the factors that play into team roping has continued to evolve. Many understand that it is no longer a hobby, and to win you have to reach the pinnacle at every stage of the game. This includes hard work in the practice pen, your horses physical condition, the equipment you use and more. With that in mind we thought we would break down one certain component that many may overlook at times - the saddle. We went to Bret Beach at TotalTeamRoping and asked him his thought on saddles and what ropers can do to make sure they are riding a saddle that will help them and their horse compete better. Bret passed us on to Josh at Double J Saddlery. Bret not only rides a Double J saddle, but likes the way the company works with ropers to best fit their horses with a custom saddle. Double J Saddlery has been in business for 26 years and after building the company on trophy saddles, they turned their attention to a more custom saddle manufacturing business. Many ropers over the years have turned to Double J for their custom saddles needs.

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WITH BRET BEACH “We start with the foundation, the tree that we manufacture,” said Josh. “We have been building our own trees for over nine years now, which allows us to begin the process with something we know and trust. From there we use the best materials, Herman Oak Leather and stainless hardware. However, we have taken the custom market to the next level and have helped many ropers fit their saddle to their horse. We either start with the horses conformation if they can bring the horse to us or if they do not have that luxury, we have the owner take specific pictures of their horse and send them to us. From there we begin the process. We have a great customer service that we implemented several years ago. Once we get the conformation of the horse we send the customer a demo saddle to use. This allows them to see if the saddle is the correct fit for their horse. Once we get to that point and get feedback from the customer, we build them a custom saddle. Double J Saddlery has been an exceptional company that many ropers have turned to over the years to help them receive a saddle they can trust will fit their horse. “We have a great hands-on process,” Josh concluded. “From the building of the saddle tree to the final coat of oil and lacquer, we take pride in every saddle we manufacture and it has shown as more and more ropers are calling and having us help them with their saddle needs.”

THE MAGAZINE FOR AMERICA’S ROPER • 51

get the support and help in learning how to focus, they can turn inward, shut down, or act out, since they don’t know how to deal with all the thoughts racing in their head. It might not be attention issues causing the problem, though. Often the problem kids have things going on in their lives of which the rest of the world has no clue. While this is a subject that hits home with me, I was motivated to write on it by a young man of whom I became aware recently. This kid is involved in our local little league baseball. He’s a good player, ability - wise; behaviorally, he’s a coaching nightmare. He has a history of confrontation and violence with other boys on his team. We had to have a board meeting to discuss his actions due to an incident resulting in another child being injured. Many parhave tinnitus; too many concussions have led to ringing in my ents see this young man as a threat to their children and want him ears. Some days it is worse than others. It’s loudest when there’s kicked out of little league. That would be the easiest solution, corno other sound. rect? Just get rid of the kid, problem solved. I think the ringing is a good representation of what goes on �ith I have to say I am part of a group that truly cares for the kids in our my mind. The random thoughts, over thinking, and hair-brained program. Everyone on the board took the time to discuss this boy schemes run amok when there’s no other and what may be causing the outbursts. A stimuli to keep me focused. Wifey dreads child of a single, working mother, the boy when I come home from mowing hay, beseems to lack a positive male figure in his ...even before the cause the tractor time gives plenty of oplife. On top of that, how many twelve year concussions, back to portunity for me to say; “Honey, I’ve been olds do any of us know that have, not can, childhood, my mind thinking ...” but have, to come home, alone, and fix their Even before the concussions, back to childown supper, do homework, and spend the has wandered. hood, my mind has wandered. My father was evening completely alone? It seems baseconstantly fussing at me to pay attention as ball is the only structured activity in this he tried to show me something at the shop; I child’s life and the only place where he My father was conwas working cattle and thinking of the horshas interaction with adult males. If this is stantly fussing at me es I would someday have of my own. Often in taken away from him, what will happen to class, I would be called on to answer a questo pay attention as him? While he has to realize there are contion when I was miles away, setting muskrat sequences for his actions, he also needs to he tried to show me traps or looking for arrowheads in a freshly see there are people who are there for him something at the shop; and truly care. I am proud of the folks on plowed field. I worked briefly for Head Start. My boss, our board, for after having the young man I was working cattle with a shake of her head, so many times told and his mother in to discuss the issues, evand thinking of the me if I were a child of that time, I would be eryone let them know that, no matter the on Ritalin, smile and walk away. I am guilty resulting disciplinary action, he was a part horses I would someof being in the middle of a conversation and of our little league and we all cared about day have of my own. completely forgetting about what I’m talking him. Several chose to become involved in because of a completely random and unrethis child’s life, working with his mother lated thought hijacking my train of thought. to get him counseling, offering to step up Often in class, I I guess this is why I relate to children, esand lead by example. After discussing with would be called on to pecially those struggling with the same or Wifey, I sent word through another board similar issues, so well. It seems us adults member to his mother that we would be answer a question too often forget what it’s like being a child. willing to bring him to our place and let when I was miles The world is so wide open and new for them, him spend time on the outfit with me, givso much stimuli, so little concentration to away, setting musking him something to do and a male with process it all. We expect them to, “Sit still, whom to talk. rat traps or looking pay attention, why aren’t you listening?”. It’s easy to do these things for kids we for arrowheads in a I am guilty, myself. As adults, we need to know and already have some type of conslow down the pace of life, and give children nection. Other than seeing him at the field, freshly plowed field... time to be, to learn how to concentrate and I knew nothing of this young man until the focus. Standardized tests and the pressure meeting to discuss his actions. It is so conon teachers to prepare students for them do not help children, pe- venient to turn our backs and say it’s not our problem to fix someone riod, especially those with attention deficit issues. If we really take else’s child, to blame bad parenting or just label a kid as a bad apple. the time to get to the root of bad behavior or academic struggles for I am proud to be associated with a group of people who see beyond many kids, we can make better human beings. the obvious and truly care about the children in our community. Now, I know many people say a good dose of discipline fixes the In the time it took me to write this, I have stopped to watch baseso-called ADD, that it’s just bad behavior and, “in our day, we got ball highlights, thought about food fifty plus times, wondered if my a belt instead of medication”. As one that still struggles focusing, I colt would be fresh the next time I saddle him, watched the rain, and know no amount of punishment will change this. If the child doesn’t listened to the ringing in my ears. Yes, I, too, need to pay attention.

PAY ATTENTI O N I

52 • THE ROPING PEN • JUNE 2016

Dare to Step Out!

never seemed to want what was the “natural thing” for a girl to want. I always seemed to want something “other than”. It has led me on many adventures.....some good.....some I’d just as soon forget. But even now, I don’t want what is before me in the natural. Old age.....weakened body.....loss of the expectancy of something super cool on the horizon. Fact is.....we simply were NOT meant to decay! We were created to never die, never grow old, never weaken, never be sick, etc. But our departure from the Creator waaaaaay back there in the Garden led us away from more than a paradise lifestyle, it led us away from LIFE itself.....or should I say life HIMSELF. I hear some people say, that they’re embracing old age and dang it....I seriously wish I could do that....but honestly, I’m having a problem giving up what the loss of youth seems to rob from us! I have had much experience following that “hunger of heart” that has led me to defy status quo. And in the doing of it, I have experienced the supernatural presence of God joining me. Not only that....I experienced His PLEASURE in doing so! God LOVES it when we invite Him into arenas OUTSIDE normality! What’s the use of being in a relationship with a supernatural God if we never allow Him to be Who He IS......SUPERNATURAL!??!!! I believe that this generation is one like none other before us. We are a generation that was born into an age where the miraculous will be unleashed full force! The truth of God’s Word is that He wants ALL that He planned in the beginning to be COMPLETED

BY CRYSTAL LYONS

here on earth! ALL!! God NEVER changed His mind. The Devil didn’t pull something so huge that God had to settle for plan B! The Bible tells us that God knew before He created the earth and all in it, what man would do and He made provision to bring it all full circle to total fulfillment of His original plan. Why else would Jesus tell us to pray....”Thy Kingdom come, Thy will be done, ON EARTH AS IT IS IN HEAVEN”! God WANTS us to believe Him for the ALL!! Why not be like Peter, who stepped out of the boat?!! Leaving the crowd sitting securely in the natural, to step out and experience what God invited him to do...walk on water!! Some say he failed because he began to fear and started sinking. I say.....WOW!! He walked on water and when he was sinking, Jesus came to his aide and they walked on water TOGETHER back to the boat. I call that AWESOME!! I don’t know what God may be stirring in your heart, but whatever it may be.....make sure it has the “fingerprint of God” on it and not just some crazy, selfishly cooked up desire of your own.....and if so, step out of the boat! I’ve stepped out before on a word from The Lord and always found that word more solid to stand on than what was in the “seen realm”. Bottom line? God is desiring to EXPOSE HIMSELF to this rebellious, blind world! We live in a world like Joshua and Caleb, where the majority simply can’t see beyond the negativity of the natural. Literal millions may choose to die in that dry place....but if God can even find 2 who will trust Him to do the supernatural....God will defeat giants through them!!!

THE MAGAZINE FOR AMERICA’S ROPER • 53

Junior & Youth Divisions

May Madness!

SC JUNIOR CINCH TEAM BOYS: Ethan Lombardo - BBSR Dylan Cook - Chute Dogging Colton Schlock - Boy’s Goat Tying J.D. Carter - Ribbon Roping Davis Sewell - Boy’s Breakaway

SC SENIOR CINCH TEAM BOYS: Andrew Kapala-Bareback Tyler Willis - Boy’s Cutting Kenneth Glick - Saddle Bronc Tristin McClain - Bull Riding (Captain) Colby Winstead - Steer Wrestling Adam Griffin - Tie Down Hunter Styles - Team Roping

(C) Jakeb Shoffner - Tm Roping, Shooting GIRLS: Grace Bryant - G. Breakaway Amber Massey - Pole Bending Elizabeth Jolley - Barrel Racing Macey Cook - Girl’s Goat Tying (Captain) Karley Williams - Ribbon Roping

Dillon Harrison - Team Roping Cole Williams - Trap GIRLS: Makaylah McCurry - Queen Kelsey Martin - Girl’s Goat Tying Caroline Burgen - Girl’s Breakaway Maggie Wirchball - Pole Bending (C) Monica Harmon - Barrel Racing Caroline Burgen - Light Rifle

SCHSRA SENIORS

Laurin Ables Cody Bishop Jessi Catoe Bennett Dove Adam Griffin Tyler Adams Ryann Blewer John Davis Blake Farley Monica Harmon Noah Berry Caroline Burgen Katelyn Donnelly Logan Gaskins Tyler Locklear

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During college basketball season, the month of March is referred to as “March Madness”. So the SCHSRA has decided to refer to May as “May Madness” because there are so many close point races and so much to accomplish before our state finals on May 26-28th. The month of April wasn’t a poky month. We had a rodeo in Lowry, South Carolina sponsored by the Chester County Sheriff’s department and the Aiken High School FFA in Aiken, South Carolina hosted another rodeo. With these rodeos, the competition for points in all events grew tighter. The points’ race for All-Around Cowboy is a difference in 4 points between the top two cowhands. At Lowry’s, Andrew Kapala dominated the Bareback event for both nights while Kenneth Glick and Coby Winstead each won a night in Saddle Bronc. Tyler Willis and Hunter Styles battled for points in Tie Down Roping and Steer Wrestling. Both of them won at one night each for each of their events. Mykaylah McCurry and Mikayla Joh Almond each took a night’s win in girls’ Breakaway, while Mikayla Joh Almond won Barrels both nights. Jini Justice and Mary Beth Rollings each earned the top points for Pole Bending on Friday and Saturday nights respectively, and Mikayla Joh and Kelsey Martin did the same for Goat Tying. Dillon Harrison and Hunter Styles took the top spot for Team Roping on Friday night and Tyler Willis and his partner; Eddie Rounds won the top points on Saturday. Blake Farley was the only Bull rider to last the 8 seconds for the weekend. Overall it was a great time for the competitors and the spectators. Between the two rodeo weekends, the Reined Cow Horse events were held in Lumberton, North Carolina. Results from that have Kelsey Martin and Maggie Nobles tied for first with 55 points. McKay Alexander leads in the Boys’ Cutting, and MacKenzie Johnson is leading in Girls’ Cutting. Our top shooters are Will Jennings in Light Rifle and Caroline Burgen in Trap. To round out the month of April, we convened in Aiken, SC for the Aiken High School FFA sponsored rodeo. Bareback points were only earned on one night by Andre Kapala, and the same occurred in Saddle Bronc with Kenneth Glick earning one set of points. Hunter Styles dominated the Tie Down events for the weekend, while Mikayla Joh Almond dominated both nights in Barrels and Pole Bending. Girls’ Breakaway went to Mikayla Joh Almond and Kyra Lombardo, and Amber Tatham took home all the top points for Goat Tying. Will Rector and Joby Garrison won Friday’s Team Roping while Tyler Willis and partner Eddie Rounds won the event on Saturday. Bull Riding points were split between Colby Winstead and Blake Farley. The start of “May Madness” found us in Iva, South Carolina at Crescent High School’s FFA sponsored rodeo. The rodeo weekend was outstanding as the crowds each night were so welcoming and fun. There were a large number of hometown cowboys and cowgirls to recognize and we finished the weekend with our annual Cowboy Prom after the rodeo on Saturday night. Thanks to everyone who helped to decorate, provided food, and/or chaperoned the event. It was fun to see how well our cowboys and cowgirls could clean up and dress up for the dance. May Madness will continue with our final rodeo in Marrietta, South Carolina and with our Cutting/RCH finals in Lumberton, Norht Carolina. In Lumberton we will also hold our SCHSRA Queen’s competition. Then, on May 26th -28th we will hold our state finals in Clemson, South Carolina at the T. Ed Garrison Arena. Boy, what a wild ride we are going to have! Photos courtesty of Katherine Kuntz

Florida Truck Roping

AMERCIAN HAT

JACKSONVILLE EQUESTRIAN CENTER JACKSONVILLE, FL • APRIL 29-MAY 1, 2016 NTRL, JX2, WSTR & USTRC AFFILIATE EVENT

he American Hat – Florida Truck Roping held at the Jacksonville Equestrian Center at the turn of the month attracted ropers from all across the Southeast. They came in search of winning big at the World Series events, the specialty ropings and of course many came with hopes of driving a new 3500 Ram, 4-Door Diesel home with them. The April 29, May 1 roping was a NTRL, JX2, WSTR and USTRC Affiliate event. Ropers enjoyed the great production and good cattle. Throughout the weekend they were given the chance to load up on the big money handed out in the World Series ropings. In addition, the #11 Slide, #13 Super 7 and the #6 roping were great events allowing ropers even more ways to win. However, it was the #10 Truck Roping that had many ropers entering up and ready to let it fly with hopes of being the high point roper. Many different ropers had their chance to win the truck as the short round came into view. Several had multiple runs in the round and one by one they backed into the box and took their shot. In the end, it was Denver Ivester from Georgia who claimed the high point championship. Ivester roped well throughout the event and cleaned things up on the heel side in the short round. Plenty of others picked up their share of prizes a swell. Cactus Trophy saddles were awarded to the high point #6, #5, #4, #3, as well as the 50 and over and female ropers. Trophy buckles were awarded to 1st through 5th in the average, as well as many other JX2 Sponsored prizes. The Florida Truck roping is an annual event that many ropers look forward to every year. Not only do many get a chance to win a new truck, but the payout, good cattle and great times are always on the mark for ropers at the event.

Ropers Win big in Florida! AVERAGE WINNERS:

#8 WSTR: VERONICA HARRIS / KEITH CONNER #9 WSTR: DEB RAULERSON / NICK HART #10 WSTR: JOHN JENKINS / NICK HART #11 WSTR: J.W. BAUCON / ROBERT TAYLOR #12 WSTR: SHELDON SANDS / BRADLEY MASSEY #13 WSTR: BRADLEY AMMONS / JASON HILL #11 SLIDE: JESSE MAYHEW / HEATH LEROY #13 SUPER 7 - 7 CHAMPS: WHIT HARPER / JASON HILL #6 ROPING: JIMMY PEELE / HUNTER HARVEY

WINNER OF THE NEW RAM 3500 TRUCK

THE MAGAZINE FOR AMERICA’S ROPER • 55

The Other Half I

Thoughts of a Team Roping Spouse • by Gracie Mae

t was the first big roping for Boss and June Bug. They were the fourth high team back in the short go round and it was exciting up to the very end. However, after the roping ended I couldn’t find June Bug anywhere. Boss was off by himself cooling his horse and coiling up ropes. June Bug’s horse was tied to the trailer with her rope on the saddle horn and her glove tucked in the little gullet hole behind the saddle horn. I checked in the trailer, in the stalls and in the bathroom. I cornered Buzzy but he had not seen her since the roping ended. I found Boss and he had not seen her since the roping either. His only comment was, “I don’t know what to say to her!” When I came back by the trailer her horse was gone so headed back toward the arena and warm up area. Still no June Bug and was trying desperately not to worry. There were venders scattered all over the arena grounds and I walked them all. I finally headed back to the trailer and I sent a text to Boss expressing my concern. Anxiously, waiting for a reply I told Buzzy specifically to be on the look out. I told him if he found her to stay with her and get her back to the trailer. Although it had been mere minutes it seemed like hours since I’d seen her. Finally, Boss responded to my text. It read in all caps, “DON’T WORRY! I FOUND HER. GIVE US A MINUTE.” In what seemed like endless hours I saw Boss and June Bug headed toward the trailer. Boss motioned “mum” was the word and not to say anything. “You all okay?” I asked. Boss nodded and said, “Yep! All good!” The hardest thing in the world is roping with your kids or family at a roping. Because it is family everyone tries too hard and each mess up is magnified about a million times. Boss and June Bug had roped well all day. They came back in the short go round the fourth high team back which was quite an accomplishment in and of itself. For an eight year old the biggest issue is about catching. It wasn’t about money, or glory or fame and anything—just about catching. It didn’t matter to June Bug if they won or not. All that mattered to her was that she catch every steer for her daddy. BUT, she didn’t! Her world crumbled when she missed for her dad at the biggest roping she had ever been too. “I wish it had been me that missed!” Boss told me later. “I would have hated it but it would have been better me than her.” He totally felt her pain and disappointment. It works both ways. For a dad to miss for their kid is terrible. Boss could console June Bug, assure her it was okay and tell her there would be a next time and that was all was well and good. However, for the dad that misses for his son or daughter it is just frustrating, unforgivable and one of those “beat yourself up” situations. I’m not sure why it is such a big deal. Goodness knows, we all rope together all the time, seven days a week, twenty-four hours a day. You wouldn’t think roping with a specific family member would be any different but it is and makes a massive difference. You can rope with your buddies all day long and it matters but with family it is just different. On the other hand, winning with kids or family is indescribable. There is no other feeling better than winning big with family. I remember several years ago Boss and his dad won a roping

56 • THE ROPING PEN • JUNE 2016

Inside Pressure

together. It paid really well with an awesome prize line and it is one of Boss’s most memorable experiences and especially since he no longer has his dad. The pictures taken that day still decorate our living room wall. When Boss finally found June Bug she was sitting on her horse throwing head loops at a roping dummy. She was frustrated, mad, disgusted and vowing she would never ever miss for her dad again. Boss related later that he rode up to her and tears flooded her face as she muttered, “I’m sorry dad!” The deep sobs and endless tears broke his heart. Boss pulled her off her horse and hugged her tight. He assured her as best he could that it was okay, that it didn’t matter and there would be a next time for them to rope together at another roping. Boss explained to her there would be lots of times one of them might and would miss. The important thing was they keep roping, keep trying and always strive to do the best they could. One of these days they would win a big roping together. They just had to keep roping and keep trying. June Bug muttered something about, “But Buzzy never missed” and Boss related a few times when Buzzy had missed, indeed! “Really?” June Bug questioned. It seemed to console her some that even her big brother was not perfect. It also seemed to help that Dad wasn’t mad, would keep roping with her and that someday they would have a chance to win. Part of learning to rope, learning to win and learning to compete is learning to be a gracious and humble loser. All that was hard to explain to June Bug but one thing she got from the experience was that family was behind her one hundred percent and failure is the first big step toward being a champion. Roping with family always applies inside pressure that may not be there when you are roping with your buddies. Kids are resilient and they learn fast. They are generally very competitive, with no fear and will hustle right to the very end. However, when it is that one time you want it all to come together just because it is you and your kids the pill is sometimes hard to swallow when things don’t pan out. One tends to ask, “Why can I always catch for old so and so but I always miss when it comes to the kids?” We just try harder and want it more when one of the kids is involved. Once the tears were spent and she knew we all understood and supported her she was fine. She is still roping and probably ten times more competitive than either Boss or Buzzy. Maybe that is the girl in her. She probably feels she has to prove something. She doesn’t have to prove anything but she is very aggressive and she never quits. Boss, well, he still remembers that day. He still wishes it had been him that missed but he probably wouldn’t have handled it any better. The only difference would have been that his tears would have been hidden or quickly brushed off. Regardless, roping with family applies an inside pressure that only those who have been there and done that can relate too. It is one of those learning curves you never quite get over or adjust too. Brothers and sisters, cousins, or buddies they all rope well together but mom’s and dad’s still find it a hard pill to swallow when that inside pressure gets the best of them and they miss for their kids.

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Advertisers & Events Index EVENTS: WSTR Qualfier in Orange, Tx - NJ Prod...29 Fire It Up, July 2-3, Athens, Tx...............49 Florida Team Roping, Hudson Prod.........19 JX2 Cheyenne “The Daddy”...................51 N Alabama (USTRC)...............................17 NTRL News........................... 40-41, 44-45 Patriot @ Berryville, Arkansas...............35 Patriot @ Dodge City, Kansas................33 Patriot @ Glen Rose, Texas....................34 SE Showdown........................................23 USTRC Eastern Regional Finals................42 USTRC Lone Star Regional Finals.............37 ADVERTISERS: Adam Toole Horses................................21 Albracht Insurance.................................16 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.............................57 FastBack.................................................3 Flatland Ropes.......................................18 FSR Cattle Company...............................39 Haslerig................................................21 Heel-O-Matic.........................................10 Hot Heels..............................................48

Jackets for all........................................13 JD Photography.......................................4 Jim Davis Photo.......................................4 Lone Star Ropes.....................................46 Lubrisyn................................................60 Maynard Buckles...................................53 Mortenson Saddle Buckle.......................39 NRS......................................................15 Power Team Roping...............................21 Priefert.................................................58 Rope Smart.............................................2 Rope Smart Saddlery.............................27 Sparky..................................................25 SpeedRoping.com..................................24 STS Ranchwear......................................21 Team Equine Saddle Pad........................18 Total Equine Feed..................................59 TotalTeamRoping.com............................50 Tres Rios Silver......................................25 Twisted Spur..........................................13 Twisted X Boots......................................19 Usher Brand Silver & Saddlery...............12 Willard Rope Co.....................................13 CALL US TODAY TO FEATURE YOUR EVENT OR PRODUCT! • 505-407-2151 • • rdavis@theropingpen.com •

THE MAGAZINE FOR AMERICA’S ROPER • 57

58 • THE ROPING PEN • JUNE 2016

THE MAGAZINE FOR AMERICA’S ROPER • 59