The Roping Pen - October 2016

$4.00

Oct 2016

Vol. 25 No. 10

25 Patriot 2017

Event Schedule!

JX2 Hillbilly Redneck

Tops Charts!

On the Horizon...

SRA FINALS

2 • THE ROPING PEN • OCTOBER 2016

THE MAGAZINE FOR AMERICA’S ROPER • 3

O

CTOBER IS HERE and that means the first of the many

season-ending team roping events are just about underway. The first of these, the Cinch USTRC National Finals of Team Roping will be hosted at the end of the month and ropers from all across the country will be using their skills to try to capture some of the big money in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. Although with the World Series and several other associations and events taking shape over the last ten years which have absorbed some of the spectra of the US Finals it is no doubt still one of the best.

Ropers who have that urge to win a National event are always in attendance. Many believe the USTRC Finals is still the most professionally produced event and one that offers a title that is life changing. The money awarded at the event is staggering and being one of the winners who walk away with a USTRC championship will forever have a title they can look back on for years to come. It will be exciting to see who wins the championship titles this year!

As this year closes it is once again an important year where we as a free country get a chance to elect a new president. I have made it a point not to watch any of the debates, nor the news surrounding the candidates. My mind is made up on who will receive my vote. However, it is hard not to hear people talk and carry on a conversation about the election. One comment I often hear is “how in the heck did we get to this point where these are the only candidates we have to choose from. We have to elect the best of two evils.”

I kind of have to agree with that statement and reflect back to a person I admired who said once, “Anyone who wants to be president should not be able to be the president.” That makes a lot of sense. It has been a long time since we had a commander in chief that seemed to really care about the people and not promoting their own agenda.

We reach a lot of young people with this magazine and I myself have young boys who will soon be adults. I often find myself thinking about the future of this country and what it will be like in 10, 20 or even 30 years from now. That gives me a reasonable idea who I want to govern this country and who will be best to continue to keep the freedoms that seem to be slipping away.

I’ll jump off my soapbox before it gets too deep. But, before I leave you this month though I want to invite you all to look forward to the November issue where we will offer our annual Christmas Gift Guide. We have a lot of great products from the best companies in the western industry ready to offer you a great shopping tool. I wish you all the best of luck at the season finals in the coming months.

Until next month... Dirt.

Keep it under your feet!.

~Ryan Davis

4 • THE ROPING PEN • OCTOBER 2016

Celebrating 25 Years!

TABLE OF CONTENTS ARTICLES & FEATURES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . PAGE

Dirt, by Ryan Davis . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • Patriot Elite..................................30 • Patriot Report, News...................31 • Patriot Event Calendar...............32 • • • PATRIOT EVENT ADS...

• Show-Me Patriot Qualifier, Mt Vernon, Mo.....................33 • • The Patriot in February.................................................34 • • • EVENT RECAP ARTICLES...

• Hillbilly Redneck Truck • & Trailer Explosion........................18 • • EVENTS COMING UP...

• • Beast of the East..................................42 PAGE 40 • CALENDAR News & More Events.................... 44-45 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

Fire It Up Labor Day Truck Roping, Event Recap. . . . . . . . 10 USTRC Nat’l Finals of Team Roping, by Ben Clements. . . . 12 Ropers of the Round Table, by Stuart Mtichell. . . . . . . . . . . 13 USTRC SE Regional Finals, by Ben Clements. . . . . . . . . . . . 14 USTRC Central States Showdown, by Ben Clements. . . . . . 17 Hillbillies Win Trucks & Trailers, Prizes & Cash!. . . . . . . .18 USTRC West Ark Classic, by Ben Clements. . . . . . . . . . . . . 24 Patriot Elite, News, & Calendar . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30-32 In the Loop, Catching up with Patrick Smith. . . . . . . . . . . . . 38 His to Win... Mine to Wear!, by Crystal Lyons . . . . . . . . . . . 41 Top Tips!, New Feature: Personalized Coaching. . . . . . . . . . 47 Sweat & Balin’ Twine, by John Rhudy. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48 USTRC Chisholm Trail Classic, by Ben Clements. . . . . . . . 49 The Other Half, by Gracie Mae . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52 Index, Advertisers & Events. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53

Let us help your Association GROW!

Classifieds, Buy/Sell. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53

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

ASSOCIATIONS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . PAGE

NCHSRA/NCJHRA, N Carolina HS & JH Rodeo Assoc’s . . 22

• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

AHSRA, Alabama HS Rodeo Association. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26

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

FYRA, Foothills Youth Rodeo Association . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28

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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.

PROUD TO BE THE OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THESE ASSOCIATIONS!

SRA, Southern Rodeo Assocation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-9

GHSRA/GJHRA, Georgia HS & JrH Rodeo Associations . . 46 SCHSRA/SCJHD/SCYRA, S Carolina Rodeo Associations. 50 ON THE COVER: COURTESY OF LONE WOLF PHOTOGRAPHY 2016 Spicer Gripp Open Team Roping Champion Heeler Junior Nogueira (roping w/ Header Kaleb Driggers, not shown) Editor: Ryan Davis

505-407-2151 • rdavis@theropingpen.com

THE MAGAZINE FOR AMERICA’S ROPER • 5

BARREL RACING: 1. Kristen Yde, $14,300.86; 2. Lauren Smith, $11,721.31; 3. Heather Sherrill, $8,128.31; 4. Danielle McCraw, $6,403.61; 5. Carrie Putnam, $6,304.85; 6. Peyton Morrow, $5,777.63; 7. Mary McGee, $4,753.86; 8. Rebecca Owens, $4,037.57; 9. Michelle Lummus, $3,788.46; 10. Karla Dagenhart, $3,716.59; 11. Bronwyn Ashley, $3,646.14; 12. Brittany Bell, $3,433.00 BREAKAWAY ROPING: 1. Hayley Knox, $6,151.84; 2. Kristin Mulkey, $6,139.38 BAREBACK RIDING: 1. Harold Miller, $5,055.12; 2. Chris Smith, $4,304.90; 3. Josh Cragar, $1,843.80; 4. Robert Messer, $1,806.75; 5. Wade Dotson, $1,541.00; 6. Matthew Smith, $1,047.00; 7. Blake Leamon, $837.20; 8. Tim Murphy, $798.10; 9. Shelton Murphy, $754.65; 10. Nelson Miller, $717.60; 11. Jesse Troyer, $597.54 ALL-AROUND COWGIRL: 1. Heather Sherrill, $10,940.04; 2. Hayley Knox, $8,012.64; 3. Karla Dagenhart, $5,521.04 ALL-AROUND COWBOY: 1. Daryl Matthews, $13,072.87; 2. Clay Futrell, $10,138.82; 3. Jacob Dagenhart, $9,592.75; 4. Justin Thigpen, $8,043.75; 5. Brian Barefoot, $7,686.32; 6. Joshua Hefner, $6,388.95; 7. Tim Pharr, $4,838.19; 8. Brad Stewart, $3,984.79; 9. Garrett Keeter, $3,976.83; 10. Austin Stewart, $3,522.70; 11. Glen Freels, $3,081.87; 12. Trey Lloyd, $2,968.43; 13. Cory Kidd, $2,826.79; 14. Cord Spradley, $2,364.72; 15. Josh Austin, $2,350.56; 16. Cole Hartsell, $1,685.15; 17. Jake Thomasson, $1,663.01; 18. Johnny Asher, $730.10

SADDLE BRONC RIDING: 1. Eddie Parlier, $3,366.90; 2. Austin Stewart, $3,198.70; 3. Hayden Phipps, $1,978.92; 4. Brandon Rippy, $1,396.56; 5. Cole Hartsell, $901.60; 6. Dennis Rossignol, $836.28; 7. Travis Deal, $798.56; 8.

Andrew Turner, $651.60; 9. Chase Dyal, $616.40; 10. Allen Foster, $147.20 BULL RIDING: 1. Eli Miller, $7,809.40; 2. Wesley Buckner, $7,078.68; 3. Rowdy Rice, $5,438.07; 4. Brandon Chambers, $3,595.49; 5. Colt Galvan, $3,463.54; 6. Tristen Marshall, $2,945.30; 7. Bradney Tart, $2,664.14; 8. Rick Bynum, $2,552.72; 9. Wes Moore, $2,310.30; 10. Josh Ethridge, $2,250.04; 11. Andy Blanton, $2,234.13; 12. Luke Powell, $2,032.28 CALF ROPING: 1. Cory Kirk, $9,951.31; 2. Cliff Hammond, $8,165.59; 3. Daryl Matthews, $5,680.90; 4. Justin Thigpen, $3,728.75; 5. Thomas Linton, $3,667.65; 6. Dillon Wooten, $3,651.68; 7. Bradley Bullard, $3,563.43; 8. Allen Livengood, $3,450.47; 9. Tim Pharr, $3,144.58; 10. Garrett Keeter, $2,610.19; 11. Glen Freels, $2,580.50; 12. Jacob Dagenhart, $2,465.36 STEER WRESTLING: 1. Joshua Hefner, $6,016.35; 2. Brian Barefoot, $5,161.60; 3. Jason Bagwell, $3,763.24; 4. Brad Stewart, $2,863.31; 5. Will Griffin, $2,600.50; 6. Cord Spradley, $1,833.60; 7. Josh Austin, $1,702.56; 8. Trey Lloyd, $1,675.00; 9. Jake Thomasson, $1,537.01; 10. Justin Thigpen, $1,194.74; 11. Troy Orr, $734.70; 12. Johnny Asher, $562.20 TEAM ROPING (HEADER): 1. Casey Hilley, $9,208.33; 2. Jacob Dagenhart, $8,742.33; 3. Daryl Matthews, $7,927.86; 4. JD Young, $7,483.07; 5. Jason Tucker, $4,487.00; 6. Justin Thigpen, $3,700.62; 7. Cory Kidd, $3,270.78; 8. Lance Thrift, $3,006.29; 9. Brian Barefoot, $2,378.62; 10. Tyler Boatwright, $2,374.80; 11. Will Batchelor, $2,342.58; 12. Jason Trisdale, $2,295.58 TEAM ROPING (HEELER): 1. Clay Futrell, $11,190.56; 2. Adam Plyler, $9,451.54; 3. Stephen Britnell, $8,559.42; 4. Caleb Anderson, $6,177.34; 5. Rick Scruggs, $5,372.79; 6. Alex Brooks, $5,120.57; 7. Deny Ashley, $4,005.91; 8. Ross Blakeney, $3,164.33; 9. Ross Lowry, $3,142.49; 10. Ty Parkinson, $2,813.53; 11.

Daniel Raynor, $2,688.16; 12. Tyler Kile, $2,618.23 BARREL RACING: 1. Kristen Yde, $14,300.86; 2. Lauren Smith, $11,721.31; 3. Heather Sherrill, $8,128.31; 4. Danielle McCraw, $6,403.61; 5. Carrie Putnam, $6,304.85; 6. Peyton Morrow, $5,777.63; 7. Mary McGee, $4,753.86; 8. Rebecca Owens, $4,037.57; 9. Michelle Lummus, $3,788.46; 10. Karla Dagenhart, $3,716.59; 11. Bronwyn Ashley, $3,646.14; 12. Brittany Bell, $3,433.00 BREAKAWAY ROPING: 1. Hayley Knox, $6,151.84; 2. Kristin Mulkey, $6,139.38; 3. Kolby Whitesell, $4,738.10; 4. Jamie Ellsworth, $3,827.33; 5. Lucinda Fletcher, $3,820.96; 6. Carson Denning, $3,632.01; 7. Kyla Matthews, $3,408.35; 8. Leah Hunter, $3,206.06; 9. Kiley Arrington, $2,898.95; 10. Natalie Fletcher, $2,868.53; 11. Chloe Cox, $2,851.42; 12. Amanda Stewart, $2,832.30

6 • THE ROPING PEN • OCTOBER 2016

FINALS TIME! T he 2016 SRA (Southern Rodeo Association) season has been spectacular. New rodeos, more contestants and some of the biggest and best rodeo fans in the country have made for a great year. It is no doubt the season has been one of the best as the association continues to grow which in turn means the SRA Finals will be dynamic! Those who qualified for this year’s Finals event will have a chance to compete for one of the prestigious rodeo titles in the country.

The SRA Finals will be held once again in Ashville, North Carolina and the cowboys and cowgirls that will represent each event are gearing up to make it a great event. They are the best in the business and all have a shot at some of the big money at the SRA Finals, as well as a chance to become a legend in the association and the sport with a championships event title. The top 12 in each event are invited to compete all gunning for their shot at glory and fame. You can bet the Western North Carolina Ag Center in Asheville (Fletcher) will come alive on the weekend of November ?? ?? as rodeo fans will pack the coliseum and cheer on every ride and run inside the arena.

With the regular rodeo season over, the top twelve in each event are ready to rumble in the Ashville arena. In the bareback riding, Harold Miller holds the top spot heading into the finals. He has a tough group of cowboys on his heels who are hungry for the action at the finals where the best bucking horses in the association are gathered to display their skills as well. Saddle Bronc Rider, Eddie Parlier is the #1 man in the bronc riding event, with Austin Stewart just behind him in the standings. Like those in the bareback riding, the bronc riders are also ready to climb aboard and nod their head for their chance to shine on some great bucking horses. In the rough and highly anticipated bull riding, it is Eli Miller who holds the number one position heading into the finals. It’s really any ones game in the bull riding where seconds often determine the fate of a qualified ride. The luck of the draw, the mindset, the skill; the bull riding action will definitely be hot at the SRA Finals.

The best ropers of the SRA will also be on display at the SRA Finals. In the team roping, it is Casey Hilley who leads the headers side of the things and Clay Futrell on the heel side. Although these two cowboys lead the standings heading into the finals, the skill of all of the team ropers, both rookies and veterans of the sport will make it a fast and highly action-packed event. In the calf roping it is Cory Kirk who has dominated the rodeos throughout the season to earn the number one spot before the finals begin. Kirk can’t back off though as the pen of hungry ropers behind him

are looking forward to making short work of their calves throughout the Finals rodeo weekend for their chance at the crown jewel of the SRA.

In the big mans sport of rodeo, steer wrestling, it is Joshua Hefner who leads the pack. He has been a force to reckon with throughout the season and has had his share of great runs. However, so has the entire group of cowboys in the event and they all know and trust their skills sliding into position to make a quick run in the event. It is really any ones game in the steer wrestling event at the SRA Finals.

On to the women of the sport, the action never slows down, especially in the barrel racing and breakaway roping events. In the barrel racing, Kristen Yde has a demanding lead heading into the finals. She has put a good size cushion between herself and rest of the pack and it will great watching to see if she can hold off the other ladies as they turn and burn the clover leaf pattern at the SRA Finals trying to post the fastest time. In the breakaway roping, there is a battle brewing between the number one and number two ladies heading into the Finals. Less than $20 separate Hayley Knox who is in the lead and Kristin Mulkey. They have been roping fast throughout the season and will continue to see who can stop the clock the fastest throughout the Finals to see who will be named champion. However, the rest of the ladies are also their to steal the show and all have the opportunity to do so as they take their turns shooting for number one at the SRA Finals.

In addition to the event races, there are the All-Around titles to look at as well. On the cowboys side of things it is Daryl Matthews who has climbed to the top of the standings. Matthews has a solid seat in both the calf roping and team roping events and will be one to watch to see if he can hold onto his lead in the All-Around race. For the women it is Heather Sherrill who holds the lead in the All-Around race. Heather has qualified in the barrel racing event where she will be running hard throughout the event to try to keep her lead.

The SRA Finals will once again be a great event as the best of the best will be going hard to place their name in the rich history of the SRA Rodeo Association. This is the oldest and most respected rodeo association in the Southeast and many great rodeo cowboys and cowgirls have made their mark on the association. This year is another great one already as rodeos throughout the season have been bigger and better than ever. The future of the SRA is looking great and the Finals this year will be a testament to the hard work and determination of the many hard working cowboys and cowgirls East of the Mississippi River.

THE MAGAZINE FOR AMERICA’S ROPER • 7

VISIT US AT WWW.SRARODEO.COM FOR COMPLETE LISTING OF POINT STANDIN

SRA RODEO SCHEDULE

8 • THE ROPING PEN • OCTOBER 2016

*Cotton Eyed Joe Buckle Series = must compete in 5 rodeos in series to be eligible.

2016 POINT STANDINGS

AS OF 09/15/16 RANK & NAME ............................... POINTS RANK & NAME ...............................POINTS

NGS, RODEO RESULTS & MORE NEWS. **See www.srarodeo.com/membership for details on rodeos not selling SRA MEMBERSHIPS.

THE MAGAZINE FOR AMERICA’S ROPER • 9

Labor Day

FIRE IT UP PRODUCTIONS

TRUCK ROPING ATHENS, TX • HENDERSON COUNTY FAIR PARK • SEPT 3-4, 2016 • PHOTOS BY BURNIN' SKY PHOTOGRAPHY

Work willingly at whatever you do,

as though you were working for the Lord rather than for people. ~ Colossians 3:23

M

ost of us do spend the majority of our days working, so there was no better way to spend a Labor Day Holiday than going to a good roping (which we also work hard at to improve our skills).

The ropers sure felt that way in Athens, TX. We ran a little over 2300 teams for the weekend. Whew! That’s one for the books. Good weather, good turn-out, good cattle, and some really good prizes made for a great weekend. We started out with our #6 where we gave away 10 saddles, trophy spurs, and lots of cash. Hunter Low and Hayden Aymond came out on top of the #6. Moving on into our #7 where once again 10 saddles, trophy spurs, and some more cash was handed out

to the guys and gals who got the job done. Gerald Haning and Chris McCarthy took the highest honors in the #7. Then, on to our #8 truck roping. We sure had some ropers show up for a chance to win a brand new Dodge one ton all dressed up for the bragging rights. We had such a good turnout that $5000 was added back to the payout, and just for fun we threw in a $2000 bounty steer. When it was all said and done, Chantz Banks drove away a happy man. Way to go, Chantz! Drive it like you won it! We didn’t stop there. We had to give away a few saddles in this one, too. The senior saddle went to Wesley Wilcox, 14 & under saddle to Jayse Tettenhorst, and female saddle to Laiken Allen. Buckles, breast collars, spurs, and cash went along with placing down the line.

That finished out our Labor Day Blowout. If you haven’t yet attended one of our ropings, come on out and give us a try. You can check out our fliers on upcoming ropings at fireitupproductions.com. Hope to see you at the next one. Until then, happy roping! ~ The Fire It Up Family

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10 • THE ROPING PEN • OCTOBER 2016

THE MAGAZINE FOR AMERICA’S ROPER • 11

National Finals OF TEAM ROPING

BY BEN CLEMENTS

OKLAHOMA STATE FAIRGROUNDS • OKLAHOMA CITY, OK

OCTOBER 22-30, 2016 SAT, OCT 22, 8AM T OPEN PRELIMINARY #15 PRELIMINARY #15 SHOOT OUT

SUN, OCT 23, 8AM

#13 PRELIMINARY US OPEN CHAMPIONSHIPS

MON, OCT 24, 8AM #13 SHOOT OUT #12 PRELIMINARY

TUES, OCT 25, 8AM #12 SHOOT OUT #12 GOLD PLUS SHOOT OUT

eam roping is alive and well in the World. There are more team ropers today than ever before. Each day new members call the USTRC for their chance to be a part of this great sport. The United States Team Roping Championships is proud to bring the Cinch USTRC National Finals of Team Roping to its members again this year. The event will take place in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma at the Oklahoma State Fairgrounds. It truly will be “Your Passport to Possibility” as team ropers will be able to rope for 80% payback and a guaranteed minimum of $100,000 to first in the #15 though the #9 Shoot Outs. Because of that each Shoot Out will feature an awesome payout. This year team ropers will have their shot at over $6 Million in cash and prizes, so give it your best shot!

The USTRC has worked very hard to put together the best Cinch NFTR experience ever. In fact, the USTRC strives very hard to improve the team roping experience

each year. No doubt, this years Cinch NFTR will be rewarding and exciting.

To sum it up, the 27th Anniversary CINCH NFTR will be an outstanding event and the USTRC welcomes everyone to attend. Ropers will rope for an estimated payout of $6 million in cash and prizes throughout the week, which features 80% payback in all the Shoot Out Divisions and a minimum cash guarantee to the average winners of the #15 through the #8 Shoot Outs. This is certainly one team roping that needs to be on everyone’s calendar. It is set to be a great team roping event and one that you certainly will not want to miss. One last reminder before we see you at the Finals -- Enjoy this years Finals at the Oklahoma State Fairgrounds. This is what you have been working toward all year long. The USTRC producers across the country and the staff at the USTRC headquarters in Stephenville, Texas work all year long to bring ropers a top of the line, quality production. So enjoy the ropings and best of luck.

GUTHRIE SHOOT OUT CHAMPIONSHIPS: There is also team roping action set for the Lazy E Arena in Guthrie, Oklahoma. The arena is just north of Oklahoma City and is the largest indoor rodeo arena in the world.

The Guthrie Shoot Out Championships are produced by Rope the Rockies, which is Jeff Smith and Ike Cox. The event will run October 21-29. The event WED, OCT 26, 8AM CRUEL GIRL CHAMPIONSHIPS provides a great opportunity to warm up for the Cinch NFTR. Rope the Rockies is awarding outstanding prizes and payout.

JR LOOPER PRELIM – 9 AM USTRC CHALLENGE ARENA: The USTRC Challenge Roping will also be running at this year’s Cinch NFTR. This gives ropers a chance at some extra cash and another way to warm up for competition inside the main arenas. The Challenge US INVITATIONAL #12 action will take place in Barn #6 at the State Fairgrounds and will begin on October 23rd and run through October 29th. Custom Gist buckles valued #10 GOLD PLUS SHOOT OUT at more than $1,000 will be awarded to the high money header and heeler each day at the Challenge Arena. Remember if you and your partner are both Gold Plus members and you beat the Challenge, you each receive $3,000 in USTRC Flex Earnings that may be used at this years Cinch NFTR or THURS, OCT 27, 8AM may be carried over to next year to use at the USTRC Regional Events or the Cinch NFTR next year. Enter up to win your chance to get into the next USTRC Shoot Out division.

CENTURY CHAMPIONSHIPS US OPEN CHAMPIONSHIPS: The US Open Championships will feature the cream of the crop US INVITATIONAL #10 when it comes to team roping. This year the top teams in the nation will compete for extremely big money. The roping is 100% payback!!! The top #11 PRELIMINARY Open teams will compete in four full go rounds and then face off in the short round to see who the champions will be. This roping will be Sunday, October 23rd and will take place in the afternoon in the Main Coliseum. It is guaranteed to be a crowd favorite and a roping that all ropers aspire to compete in.

FRI, OCT 28, 8AM #11 SHOOT OUT #10 PRELIMINARY

SAT, OCT 29, 8AM #10 SHOOT OUT JR LOOPER PRELIM - 9 AM JR. LOOPER SHOOT OUT (after the #10 Shoot Out in the Main Coliseum) #9 PRELIMINARY

SUN, OCT 30, 8AM #9 SHOOT OUT #8 SHOOT OUT

JR. LOOPER EVENTS: Jr. Ropers will also have a chance to compete and strut their roping abilities. USTRC proudly presents the NFTR Jr. Looper Championships. The young ropers will have an opportunity to qualify to the Jr. Looper Shoot Out by roping in the preliminary events. The preliminary Jr. Looper Events will be Wednesday October 26th at 9 am and Saturday October 29th at 9 am in Barn #3.

Contestants can enter on site beginning at 8 am in Barn #3. Remember that a birth certificate will be required AND THAT ANY JR LOOPER ROPER THAT HAS EVER WON A USTRC TROPHY SADDLE OR A NFTR JR LOOPER TROPHY SADDLE WILL NOT BE ELIGIBLE TO COMPETE. The Jr. Looper Shoot Out will then take place in the Coliseum on Saturday October 29th right after the #10 Shoot Out. It is guaranteed to be an exciting event.

USTRC TRADE SHOW: The USTRC also invites all ropers and their families and friends to the Cinch USTRC NFTR Trade Show. More than 80 vendors will be on hand inside and outside the Main Coliseum with everything that a team roper, team roping enthusiast or someone that knows a team roper might need. There will be plenty of roping supplies, trailers, tack, jewelry, boots, hats, clothing, home décor, knick-knacks and various other goodies. This is a great place to get your Christmas shopping done, as it is the only stop you will need to make to buy for your favorite team ropers. The USTRC Store is a popular place to visit, but get your shopping done early as the merchandise goes fast, and it is the only vendor selling USTRC logoed wear.

USTRC SEMINARS & PURINA CHECKERBOARD ARENA: Team ropers will also enjoy the CINCH NFTR Seminars. The Purina Checkerboard Arena located on the east end of Barn #3 has become a popular spot for ropers and their families to get extra tips and pointers on everything from roping to horsemanship. The Purina Checkerboard Arena will kick into gear Tuesday October 25th and run through Friday October 28th. The seminars are free to everyone and are brought to you

by Classic Ropes, Classic Equine, Martin Saddlery and Purina Mills. The USTRC hopes everyone gets a chance to listen to the great line-up of speakers.

12 • THE ROPING PEN • OCTOBER 2016

Down at the Barn I

f you live on a farm, ranch, or anywhere in rural America you’ve probably heard someone say, “He’s down at the barn”. What goes on down at the barn? The usual, feeding of livestock, cleaning of stalls, storage of hay, birth of animals, and sometimes death. Tractors and equipment are down at the barn. Sometimes family heirlooms/ junk gets stored there “temporarily forever”.

These are things I think of when I hear someone say “down at the barn” but there are some other things I’m reminded of when I hear those words.

A lot of life’s lessons were learned down at the barn. You learn responsibility by caring for livestock, how to work together and how to work alone. Having to figure things

BY STUART MITCHELL

out for yourself and hoping Dad approves of the decision you made.

Down at the barn is also a place of thinking and reflection. Sometimes the thoughts are of good times, some are “why am I here at midnight in this hog house?’” Some of the sounds coming from the barn are good; a horse nickering at feeding time, a newborn calve calling when his momma comes near.

Some are scary; a goat crying in the dark (if you’ve never heard it, you won’t understand), a boar barking at you or an angry sow with piglets warning you to stay away.

Some are sad; the last breath of an animal you couldn’t save. One of the scariest sounds is the sound of a clanking feeder at midnight that you were supposed to fill that evening. That sound will send you out the door faster than your dad can get to your room.

Sounds from down at the barn are also comforting. I remember my grandad praying down at the barn or maybe I heard enough stories until they became my memories. Mom said you could hear him

all through the community. He prayed for his family, his crops, for rain, for guidance and for his neighbors. Sometimes it sounded like a conversation when he didn’t understand the way things were going.

Sometimes he had questions that needed answering. Sometimes he experienced doubts over situations, most of the time it was just a man talking to God. The hall of the barn sent the echoes out through the community. Down at the barn he found comfort, solitude, peace, and, more often than not, he found an answer to the meaning of his life.

As I’ve grown older, I find myself down at the barn a lot. I also find it a place of solitude and quiet, a place to think and talk to God. It’s a place to go when you need to be alone, a place to seek answers or to just reflect on life.

So if you’ve never been down at the barn you don’t know what you’ve missed. It doesn’t have to be an actual barn. It can just be a place where you find peace and quiet.

Try to find your place “down at the barn.”

THE MAGAZINE FOR AMERICA’S ROPER • 13

​​T

he Southeast Regional Finals in Tunica, Mississippi was held September 3-5, 2016. The team roping action took place at the Tunica Expo Center and welcomed ropers from all over the Southeast and surrounding area.

The first roping of the weekend was the Open Division, which also served as a qualifier for The American. Will Clark from Erin, Tennessee and Lane Mitchell from Boliver, Tennessee teamed up to win the qualifier with a four head average time of 34.88 seconds. They won $2000, along with a qualification to The American Semi Finals. Second place was Kelsy Parchman from Lipan, Texas and Douglas Rich from Herrick, Illinois and Brett Stuart from Bridgeport, Texas and Sam Smith from Athens, Alabama took third place finish. Clark and Mitchell were also the Open champions. Their five steer total was 42.14 seconds.

The duo won the average and took home $3750 and trophy Ritchie ColdSaver Coolers. Second place went to Kelsey Parchman and Lane Mitchell and third place was Brett Stuart and

SOUT

Region

SEPTEMBER 3-5, 2016 •

TUNICA ARENA & EXPO CENTER • TUNICA,

Sam Smith. Brett Stuart and Sam Smith won the incentive average.

In the #15 Quailifier the team of Coy Rahlmann from Ellsinore, Missouri and Patrick Houchins from Frankford, Missouri won first place in the average.

They were 15.69 seconds on two steers and won $526. Second place in the Qualifier was Brett Stuart and Sam Smith and third place was Seth Driggers and Cody Andrews.

In the #15 Shoot Out Ross Mitchell and Lane Mitchell from Bolivar, Tennessee teamed up to win first place in the average. The team won $2436, Trophy Ritchie ColdSaver Coolers and $6000 in USTRC Flex Earnings. Second place was Douglas Rich and Kelsey Parchman and third place in the average was Seth Driggers and Cody Andrews.

Coy Rohlmann and Douglas Henry from Greenbrier, Arkansas teamed up to win first place in the #13 Qualifier. They were 17.10 seconds on two steers and won $720. Second place in the roping was Andrew Napp from Hico, Texas and Jake McAlister from Bryan, Texas. Third place went to Ty Alford and Skylar Reynolds.

14 • THE ROPING PEN • OCTOBER 2016

photos courtesy of USTRC

THEAST

nal Finals

• PRODUCED BY USTRC

, MISSISSIPPI • STORY BY BEN CLEMENTS

Ross Mitchell and Dillon Vaught teamed up to win first place in the #13 Shoot Out. They were 30.78 seconds on four steers and won $4702, trophy Ritchie ColdSaver Coolers and $6000 in USTRC Flex Earnings.

Second place was Brother Campbell and Kelsey Parchman, receiving $2820 and $6000 in USTRC Flex Earnings. Third place went to Trey Gargis and Patrick Houchins.

In the #12 Qualifier, Jack Hewett from Ratcliff, Arkansas and Douglas Henry finished in the number one position with a time of 13.93 seconds on two steers. They won $946. Second place in the roping was Gus Hinson and Jerred Tubbs and third went to Caleb Fallin and Kevin Bentley.

In the #12 Shoot Out the team of Ronnie Hyde and Mike Jones won first place in the average. They were 31.21 seconds on four steers and won $6584, trophy Martin saddles and $6000 in USTRC Flex Earnings. Second place was Brad Thrash and Devon Thrash. They took home $4938 and $6000

in USTRC Flex Earnings.

Third place went to Blair Kelley and Ed Allen. They received $3292 and $6000 in USTRC Flex Earnings for their efforts.

The win of the #12 Gold Plus Division went to the team of Bruce Barnett from West Plains, Missouri and Jonathan Irby from Oldfield, Missouri. They finished the roping with a time of 31.34 seconds on four steers. The win gave them $8830, Resistol Hats, Tony Lama boots, Cinch jeans and $6000 in USTRC Flex Earnings. Second place in the average was the team of Mike Meek and Billy Vaught with a time of 31.49 seconds on four steers. They took home $5886 and $6000 in USTRC Flex Earnings. Third place in the average was Scott Reid and Kevin Bentley. Scott Reid and Kevin Bentley won the incentive average with a time of 23.71 seconds on three steers and banked $4204, Classic Equine horse sheets, Classic rope bags, Classic Equine hay bags and $6000 in USTRC Flex Earnings.

Bucky Pugh from Heavener, Oklahoma and Billy Vaught teamed up to win first place in the #11 Preliminary. They roped four steers in 37.98 seconds and earned $4254, trophy Ritchie Coolers and $8000 in USTRC Flex Earnings. Second place went to (continued on next page...)

THE MAGAZINE FOR AMERICA’S ROPER • 15

Keith Holbrook from Atkins, Arkansas and Clayton Beavers from Dardanelle, Arkansas. Third place was Nathan Smith and Zack Summerall. Keith Elkins and Ty Stroup won the incentive average.

Nathan Smith from Poplarville, Mississippi and Ryder Ladner of Kiln, Mississippi were the winners of the #11 Shoot Out. They teamed up to rope four steers in 33.98 seconds and won $6668, trophy Martin saddles and $6000 in USTRC Flex Earnings. Second place in the average was Rodney Shaw and Zack Summerall with a time of 36.85 seconds on four steers. They won $5000 and $6000 in USTRC Flex Earnings. Third place in the average was Trey Gargis and Jeff Gargis.

The team of Brian Royal and Ronnie McDougald were the winners of the #10 Preliminary. They finished the roping with a time of 40.67 seconds on four steers. The team won $4612, trophy Ritchie ColdSaver Coolers and $8000 in USTRC Flex Earnings. Second place in the roping was Wayne Pope and Glen Terrell. Mark Wedel and Donnie Ward won third place in the average. Rance Necaise and Wyatt Simmons took home the incentive average win.

The #10 Shoot Out was won by Mike Woolven and partner Andrew Napp. They finished the roping with a time of 38.71 seconds on four steers.

They won $6676, trophy Martin saddles, and $6000 in USTRC Flex Earnings. Second place was Bruce Barnett and heeler Tom Bridges. They received $5006 and $6000 in USTRC Flex Earnnings. Third place in the average was Dylan Elkins and Ed Allen.

The #10 Gold Plus Division winners were the team of Mike Woolven from Nettleton, Mississippi and Fred Dobbs from Deatsville, Alabama.

They finished the roping with a time of 41.23 seconds on four steers. The win gave them $9030, Resistol Hats, Tony Lama boots, Cinch jeans and $6000 in USTRC Flex Earnings. Second place in the average was the team of Chad Applegate and Ty Stroup with a time of 43.03 seconds on four steers. They took home $6020and $6000 in USTRC Flex Earnings. Third place in the average was Clint Bain and Justin Pardue. Claude Lowery and Kevin Barfield won the incentive average with a time of 27.15 seconds on three steers and banked $4054, Classic Equine horse sheets, Classic rope bags, Classic Equine hay bags and $6000 in USTRC Flex Earnings.

Mike Batterton from Viola, Arkansas and Tom Bridges from Viola, Arkansas were the winners of the #9 Preliminary. They won the roping with a time of 40.85 seconds on four steers. They won $4216, trophy Ritchie ColdSaver Coolers and $8000 in USTRC Flex Earnings. Second place in the average was Marc Koehn and Ryder Ladner and third place in the roping went to Matt Tolbert and Shane Holder. Shanon Travis and Jimmy LaDale White won the incentive average with a time of 35.93 on three head. They won $2008, Gist Trophy Buckles and 6000 National Flex Earnings.

In the #9 Shoot Out Matt Tolbert of Woodville, Mississippi and Ryder Ladner from Kiln, Mississippi finished the roping in first place in the average with a time of 41.30 seconds on four steers. They won $6324, trophy Martin saddles and $6000 in USTRC Flex Earnings. Second place in the roping was Todd Martin and Bruce Barnett with a time of 42.74 seconds on four steers. The team won $4742 and $6000 in USTRC Flex Earnings. The third place team was Matt Tolbert and Shane Holder.

As the curtain fell on the Southeast Regional Finals, Rhonda Lee from Farmington, Arkansas was crowned the Cruel Girl Champion of the event and Billy Vaught from Mena, Arkansas was the high point Gold Plus roper of the weekend.

SE REGIONAL FINALS - RESULTS:

OPEN AVG, 1. Will Clark (Erin, TN) / Lane Mitchell (Bolivar, TN), 42.14, $3,750 #15 Shoot-Out Average 1. Ross Mitchell (Bolivar, TN) / Lane Mitchell (Bolivar, TN), 26.29, $2,436; 2. Douglas Rich (Herrick, IL) / Kelsey Parchman (Lipan, TX), 27.16, $1,624 #13 SHOOT-OUT AVG, 1. Ross Mitchell (Bolivar, TN) / Dillon Vaught (Mena, AR), 30.78, $4,702; 2. Brother Campbell (Franklin, TN) / Kelsey Parchman (Lipan, TX), 32.58, $2,820; 3. Trey Gargis (Leighton, AL) / Patrick Houchins (Frankford, MO), 34.17, $1,880 #12 SHOOT-OUT AVG, 1. Ronnie Hyde (Bloomington, IN) / Mike Jones (Town Creek, AL), 31.21, $6,584; 2. Brad Thrash (Cheyenne, OK) / Devon Thrash (Holly Springs, MS), 32.04, $4,938; 3. Blair Kelley (Florence, AL) / Ed Allen (Dadeville, AL), 33.22, $3,292; 4. Andrew Napp (Hico, TX) / Desmond Ladner (Perkinston, MS), 33.41, $1,646 #11 SHOOT-OUT AVG, 1. Nathan Smith (Poplarville, MS) / Ryder Ladner (Kiln, MS), 33.98, $6,668; 2. Rodney Shaw (Liberty, MS) / Zack Summerall (Liberty, MS), 36.85, $5,000; 3. Trey Gargis (Leighton, AL) / Jeff Gargis (Leighton, AL), 38.68, $3,334; 4. Wayne Pope (Faunsdale, AL) / Russell Gibbs (Demopolis, AL), 39.34, $1,666 #10 SHOOT-OUT AVG, 1. Mike Woolven (Nettleton, MS) / Andrew Napp (Hico, TX), 38.71, $6,676; 2. Bruce Barnett (West Plains, MO) / Tom Bridges (Viola, AR), 39, $5,006; 3.

Dylan Elkins (Clinton, LA) / Ed Allen (Dadeville, AL), 40.5, $3,338; 4. Mike Bratton (Phenix City, AL) / Ryder Ladner (Kiln, MS), 40.62, $1,668 #10 CENTURY BONUS AVG, 1. Mark Wedel (Centerville, AR) / Perry Patterson (Greenbrier, AR), 44.07, $660; 2.

Wayne Pope (Faunsdale, AL) / Russell Gibbs (Demopolis, AL), 21.46, $440 #9 SHOOT-OUT AVG, 1. Matt Tolbert (Woodville, MS) / Ryder Ladner (Kiln, MS), 41.3, $6,324; 2. Todd Martin (Steelville, MO) / Bruce Barnett (West Plains, MO), 42.74, $4,742; 3. Matt Tolbert (Woodville, MS) / Shane Holder (Strawberry, AR), 44.03, $3,162; 4. Shane Thomas (Phil Campbell, AL) / Bryan Hood (Moulton, AL), 50.49, $1,580 #12 GOLD PLUS AVG, 1. Bruce Barnett (West Plains, MO) / Jonathan Irby (Oldfield, MO), 31.34, $8,830; 2. Mike Meek (Clarksville, AR) / Billy Vaught (Mena, AR), 31.49, $5,886; 3. Scott Reid (Springville, TN) / Kevin Bentley (Rose Hill, MS), 31.79, $4,660; 4. Bobby Boyd (Midland, TX) / Jason Cundiff (Gardendale, TX), 34.49, $3,434; 5. Jeff Souza (Havana, AR) / Spencer Wilcox (Greenbrier, AR), 35.17, $1,716 INCENTIVE, 1. Scott Reid (Springville, TN) / Kevin Bentley (Rose Hill, MS), 23.71, $4,204; 2. Bobby Boyd (Midland, TX) / Jason Cundiff (Gardendale, TX), 25.96, $3,154; 3. Dustin Reid (Piedmont, AL) / Glenn Davis (Salem, AL), 25.97, $2,102; 4. Chad Applegate (Baldwyn, MS) / Ty Stroup (Houston, MS), 26.53, $1,052 #10 GOLD PLUS AVG, 1. Mike Woolven (Nettleton, MS) / Fred Dobbs (Deatsville, AL), 41.23, $9,030; 2. Chad Applegate (Baldwyn, MS) / Ty Stroup (Houston, MS), 43.03, $6,020; 3. Clint Bain (Culleoka, TN) / Justin Pardue (Spring Hill, TN), 43.46, $4,766; 4. Jamie Pass (Olive Branch, MS) / Kevin Barfield (Wesson, MS), 45, $3,512; 5. Steve Hinson (Jonesboro, AR) / Kent Shaw (Perkinston, MS), 45.64, $1,756; 6.

Quick Brigance (Olive Branch, MS) / Dan Twisdale (Moscow, TN), 46.34, $600; 7. Tyler Lance (Poplar Bluff, MO) / Brandon Stepp (Cleveland, TN), 50.38, $600

16 • THE ROPING PEN • OCTOBER 2016

AMERICAN AVG, 1. Will Clark (Erin, TN) / Lane Mitchell (Bolivar, TN), 34.88, $2,000 #15 Qualifying Average 1. Coy Rahlmann (Ellsinore, MO) / Patrick Houchins (Frankford, MO), 15.69, $526 #13 QUALIFYING AVG, 1. Coy Rahlmann (Ellsinore, MO) / Douglas Henry (Greenbrier, AR), 17.1, $720; 2. Andrew Napp (Hico, TX) / Jake McCallister (Bryan, TX), 19.88, $480 #12 QUALIFYING AVG, 1. Jack Hewett (Ratcliff, AR) / Douglas Henry (Greenbrier, AR), 13.93, $946; 2. Gus Hinson (Jonesboro, AR) / Jerred Tubbs (Jonesboro, AR), 15.01, $630 #11 PRELIM AVG, 1. Bucky Pugh (Heavener, OK) / Billy Vaught (Mena, AR), 37.98, $4,254; 2. Keith Holbrook (Atkins, AR) / Clayton Beavers (Dardanelle, AR), 38.53, $2,836; 3.

Nathan Smith (Poplarville, MS) / Zack Summerall (Liberty, MS), 41.35, $2,244; 4. Lucas Swiney (Bunker, MO) / Tyler J Triplett (Moody, MO), 42.53, $1,654; 5. Dylan Elkins (Clinton, LA) / Dennis Moore (Opp, AL), 46.01, $828 #10 PRELIM AVG, 1. Brian Royal (Millbrook, AL) / Ronnie McDougald (Millbrook, AL), 40.67, $4,612; 2. Wayne Pope (Faunsdale, AL) / Glen Terrell (Notasulga, AL), 41.55, $3,074; 3. Mark Wedel (Centerville, AR) / Donnie Ward (Leflore, OK), 42.52, $2,434; 4. Mike Bratton (Phenix City, AL) / Ed Allen (Dadeville, AL), 47.58, $1,794; 5. Rhonda Lee (Farmington, AR) / Billy Vaught (Mena, AR), 49.36, $896 #9 PRELIM AVG, 1. Mike Batterton (Viola, AR) / Tom Bridges (Viola, AR), 40.85, $4,216; 2. Marc Koehn (Macon, MS) / Ryder Ladner (Kiln, MS), 43.52, $2,810; 3. Matt Tolbert (Woodville, MS) / Shane Holder (Strawberry, AR), 44.44, $2,224; 4. Mike Bratton (Phenix City, AL) / Ryder Ladner (Kiln, MS), 48.2, $1,640; 5. Shanon Travis (Kentwood, LA) / Jimmy LaDale White (Hazlehurst, MS), 48.28, $820

Showdown

CENTRAL STATES

NATIONAL EQUESTRIAN CENTER

LAKE ST. LOUIS, MISSOURI • AUGUST 12-14, 2016 PRODUCED BY HERB SNOW • STORY BY BEN CLEMENTS

T

he Central States Showdown held at the National Equestrian Center in Lake St. Louis, Missouri is a popular event for team ropers in the Missouri area. The roping took place on August 12-14, 2016 and was produced by Herb Snow.

$6210 and $6000 in USTRC Flex Earnings. The second place finishers and the incentive average champions were Stephen Stiteler and William Evans. Jessica Shirley and Kevin Fitzgerald won third place in the main average.

​The #13 Division was next on the schedule. Coy Rahlmann teamed up with Terry Durbin for the win. They finished with a time of 29.76 seconds on four steers and earned $2410, trophy Ritchie ColdSaver coolers and $6000 in USTRC Flex Earnings. Second place was Quentin Sawyer of Whitewater, Missouri and Patrick Houchins and third place was Kaul Molden and Joe Day.

​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. The Fredericktown, Missouri team of Kolby Krieger and Wayne Smith finished first place in the average with a time of 29.01 on three steers. They won $6150, trophy USTRC saddles and $6000 in USTRC Flex Earnings. Second place was Mitch Bazzell and Delaney Wetzell and third place was the team of Luke Fenton and Laramie Rhea Foster.

​The event began with the #15 Division. Brandon Duff from Hawk Point, Missouri teamed up with Patrick Houchins of Frankford, Missouri to win first place in the average. The duo turned in a time of 29.86 seconds on four steers. The received $1560, trophy Ritchie ColdSaver coolers and $6000 in USTRC Flex Earnings. The second place finishers were Duff and Douglas Rich. Third Place went to Taylor Binkley and Scott Manier.

​The final roping of the first day of competition at the Central States Showdown was the #12 Division. The Illinois team of Chase Adamson and Wade Pickerill partnered up to win first place in the average. They were 32.63 seconds on four steers and won $2370, trophy Ritchie ColdSaver coolers and $6000 in USTRC Flex Earnings. Second place went to Tyler Manion and Terry Durbin. Third place and the incentive average win went to Harve Reynolds and Wade Harris.

Clayton Rivet from Wright City, Missouri and Jerry Bliss from Ellisville, Missouri finished first place in the average of the #9 Division.

They were 40.95 seconds on four steers and won $7210, trophy USTRC saddles and $6000 in USTRC Flex Earnings. Second place went to Dan Tobin and Jake Rice and third place was Mike Fitzgerald and Josh Jay. The winners of the incentive average were the team of Ronald Sparks and Travis Garrison.

​Saturday kicked off with the #12 Gold Plus Division. The Ellsinore, Missouri team of Harve Reynolds and Chris Rahlmann won first place in the average. The pair roped four steers in 36.08 seconds to win $3350 and $6000 in USTRC Flex Earnings. Second place in the average was Randy Maxwell and Terry Durbin. Third place was Jay Rueter and Joe Kane. Reynolds and Rahlmann also won the incentive average. ​The win of the #11 Division went to the team of Grant Sippel from Sheboygan Falls, Wisconsin and Hugh Gustin of Butler, Missouri with a time of 34.98 seconds on four steers. They won $4650, trophy Ritchie ColdSaver coolers and $6000 in USTRC Flex Earnings. Second place went to the team of Gary Page and Joe Kane and third place went to the team of Kyle David Vanderleest and Wade Pickerill. The incentive champions were Harve Reynolds and Trevor Henderson.

​Dustin Jacobson of Cambridge, Illinois and Jerry Bliss from Ellisville, Missouri took home the win of the #10 Division. They were 38.41 seconds on four steers and earned $6350, trophy USTRC saddles and $6000 in USTRC Flex Earnings. Second place was Tracey Fritchey and Chris Pomeroy. The third place team was Tyler Manion and Pomeroy.

Ken Silver and Kevin Lair won the incentive average.​

The last day of the Central States Showdown began with the #10 Gold Plus. Tracey Fritchey from Ashland, Missouri teamed up with Chris Pomeroy of Bolivar, Missouri to win first place in the average.

The team finished with a time of 33.43 seconds on four steers and won

THE MAGAZINE FOR AMERICA’S ROPER • 17

Hillbill

T

he Hillbilly Redneck Truck and Trailer Explosion has been 16 years in the making and ropers know this is one of those events you do not want to miss.

Three trucks, 4 trailers, 12 saddles, 32 buckles, Cactus rope bags and breast collars, Classic Equine products, American Hats and more, as well as over a quarter million in cash, it is no wonder ropers come from all across the country to participate in this once a year event.

JX2 Production– home of some of the biggest and best events in the country plays host to this event and with each passing year they continue to add more to it. For some this is the best event of the year as it incorporates everything ropers dream of winning: big money, prizes, great setup, good cattle and of course entertainment only JX2 can deliver. The Hillbilly Redneck Truck and Trailer Explosion has it all! This year’s event topped all expectations. Over 2,300 teams converged on Morristown, Tennessee throughout the middle of September for the event. The three day event welcomed ropers from over 21 different states and hosted a slew of different ropings. From a 10 on 10 Round Robin and the ever famous Poison Roping, to the Amateur / Novice roping and the two big prize ropings, there was room for everyone to find a place to compete and have fun.

Friday, September 9th welcomed the Round Robin, presented by Big Tex Trailers, as well as the Carrol Original Wear #13 Poison Roping and the Trailers of the East Coast Amateur and Novice event where ropers had a chance to win a 2-horse aluminum trailer with dressing room. It was header Justin McMillion and heeler Brock Middleton who claimed the Round Robin Championships. The Poison Roping championship went home this year with the team of Red Burney and Will McCraw who became $1,800 richer for their smooth work on the Poisoned 5-head. With the first big prize roping of the weekend, the trailer roping, the team of Kim Snow and Derrick Davis topped the Average, but the real story was Travis Brown

TRUCKS &

Plus Prizes and

TRAILERS OF THE EAST COAST AM/NOVICE, AVG: 1. Kim Snow (Hamptonville, NC) / Derrick Davis (Baldwin, FL), 27.45, $1,800; 2. Jacob Deweese ( ) / Travis Brown (Wirtz, VA), 29.61, $1,200; 3. Ed Reyes (Miami, FL) / Justin McMillion (Covington, OH), 30.49, $800; 4. Donnie Mullis (Screven, GA) / Travis Brown (Wirtz, VA), 30.61, $600; 5. Paul Plume (Big Pool, MD) / Adam Schlechty (Ansonia, OH), 30.87, $500; 6. Eli Colvard (Crumpler, NC) / Pablo Delgado (W Palm Beach, FL), 33.21, $500; 7. Jeffrey Hartfield (Charlestown, IN) / Nick McCord (Lincolnton, NC), 34.46, $400; 8. Eli Colvard (Crumpler, NC) / Travis Brown (Wirtz, VA), 34.75, $400; 9. Paul Plume (Big Pool, MD) / Mason Johnson (Piney Flats, TN), 34.9, $300; 10. Jessica Southern (Sneedville, TN) / Travis Brown (Wirtz, VA), 35.03, $300; 11. Casey Shaw (Pekin, IN) / Mason Johnson (Piney Flats, TN), 35.98, $150; 12. Eric Trent Parker (Elm City, NC) / Bronc Fanning (East Bend, NC), 36.04, $150; 13. Casey Shaw (Pekin, IN) / Travis Brown (Wirtz, VA), 36.4, $150; 14. Eli Colvard (Crumpler, NC) / Will McCraw (East Bend, NC), 37.03, $150; 15. Wade Neal (Lincoln, NC) / Bronc Fanning (East Bend, NC), 39.94, $150 • CLASSIC ROPES #8 TRUCK, AVG: 1. Addie Fairchild (Peep Gap, NC) / Pablo Delgado (West Palm Beach, FL), 25.28, $3,000; 2. John Brody Malone (Summerville, GA) / Garrett Jackson (Lumberton, MS), 26.67, $2,000; 3. Wyatt Allen (Dadeville, AL) / Lyndon Green (Benton, AR), 27.6, $1,500; 4. Jessica Southern (Sneedville, TN) / Mason Johnson (Piney Flats, TN), 30.1, $1,000; 5. Savannah Holt (Walkertown, NC) / Anthony Armstrong (Salisbury, NC), 30.61, $750; 6. Tommy Belton (Dobson, NC) / Luke LeMaster (Gaffney, SC), 32.5, $750; 7. Nick Mckinney (Kingsport, TN) / Kimberly Breyo (Galway, NY), 32.55, $600; 8. Jackson Green (Roanoke, AL) / Anthony Armstrong (Salisbury, NC), 33.3, $600; 9. Blane Willingham (Vinemont, AL) / Justin Sailors (Maryville, TN), 34.82, $400; 10. Andrew Trussell (Addison, AL) / Nathan Fernandez (Sterrett, AL), 34.97, $400 • PRIEFERT #10 TRUCK, AVG: 1. Justin McMillion (Covington, OH) / Garrett Jackson (Lumberton, MS), 20.75, $4,000; 2. Garrett Sprankle (Covington, OH) / Stormy Taylor (Calera, OK), 21.59, $2,500; 3. Kelly Beahm (Draper, VA) / Kelton Brown (Keedysville, MD), 22.2, $1,800; 4. Kason Wolfe (Wellington, CO) / Ty Lewis (Glade Spring, VA), 22.87, $1,400; 5. Garrett Sprankle (Covington, OH) / Travis Brown (Wirtz, VA), 23.34, $1,000; 6. Coltin Nobles (Barnwell, SC) / Joby Cole Garrison (Fountain Inn, SC), 23.57, $900; 7. David Lewis (Mount Ulla, NC) / Rex Shelton (Travelers Rest, SC), 23.63, $700; 8. T J Allen (Dadeville, AL) / Riley Kittle (Woodland, AL), 24.41, $700; 9. Tony Moore (Morristown, TN) / Jeremy Gault (Fountain Inn, SC), 25.26, $500; 10. David Lewis (Mount Ulla, NC) / Jason Reed (Morganton, NC), 25.66, $500 • CARROL ORIGINAL WEAR #13 POISON ROPING, AVG: 1. Red Burney (Emelle, AL) / Will McCraw (East Bend, NC), 48.29, $1,800; 2. Justin McMillion (Covington, OH) / Adam Schlechty (Ansonia, OH), 51.22, $1,200

18 • THE ROPING PEN • OCTOBER 2016

lies Win

who claimed the high point championship to win the trailer.

Saturday welcomed a long line of ropers who had their sights on winning one of two 1/2 ton trucks in the Classic Ropers, #8 roping. The trucks would be awarded at the end of the day, one to the high point #4 roper and the other to the #3 and below roper. Addie Fairchild from Peep Gap, North Carolina and her partner Pablo Delgado from West Palm Beach, Florida topped the Average of the roping. The duo also won the fast time of the short round to edge them above the rest of the group of ropers to win the matching pair of trucks. Addie took home the #3 and below High Point Championship and Pablo earned the #4 High Point award. Each were handed the keys to their new ride home.

Sunday was also a big day for ropers who wanted to rope their way to the front seat of a 2016, 4-door dually, one-ton diesel truck in the Preifert #10 truck roping. As ropers filled the arena with good runs, the roping slowly built to its climax as the short round came into view. The team that took home the Average of the roping was Justin McMillion from Covington, Ohio and Garrett Jackson from Lumberton, Mississippi. Although they claimed the fastest on 3-head neither of them placed again in the roping allowing Garrett Sprankle from Covington, Ohio to slip in for the High Point championship and the keys to the new truck. Sprankle won second in the Average with heeler Stormy Taylor and fifth in the Average with heeler Travis Brown.

Tons of prizes, lots of cash and more fun than you can shake a stick at, The Hillbilly Redneck Truck and Trailer Explosion was once again one of the biggest and best events East of the Mississippi River. JX2 did a fantastic job at hosting the event, keeping it fair, while offering a variety of events to keep it entertaining and fun. You can bet with 16 years under its belt, and its continued growth, even more ropers will be headed to Tennessee next year to join the crowd of ropers who make this an annual event.

TRAILERS

photos by C Bar C Photography

Loads of Cash!

THE MAGAZINE FOR AMERICA’S ROPER • 19

20 • THE ROPING PEN • OCTOBER 2016

THE MAGAZINE FOR AMERICA’S ROPER • 21

22 • THE ROPING PEN • OCTOBER 2016

THE MAGAZINE FOR AMERICA’S ROPER • 23

West Ark Classic

FORT SMITH, ARKANSAS • AUG 27-28, 2016 HARPER STADIUM •PRODUCED BY DENNY & LYNN FLYNN • STORY BY BEN CLEMENTS

F

ort Smith, Arkansas and Harper Stadium at Kay Rodgers Parks is the home of the West Ark Classic. The event is produced by Denny and Lynn Flynn and this year made the move into August. The event took place August 27-28, 2016.

The first roping of the weekend was the #13 Slide. Chasing Wagnon from Quinton, Oklahoma and Blayne Horne from Mcalester, Oklahoma were the champions of the roping. They were 33.05 seconds on four steers and won $2053 plus trophy Ritchie ColdSaver Coolers and $6000 in USTRC Flex Earnings.

Second place was Cody Bailey from Mulberry, Arkansas and Jordan Sullivan from Mount Vernon, Arkansas. Third went to Brock Demaree and Tanner Ward.

The winners of the #12 Division were Mike Meek from Clarksville, Arkansas and Clayton Beavers from Dardanelle, Arkansas.

They were 33.39 seconds on four steers for the win. The team won $2514, trophy Ritchie ColdSaver Coolers and $6000 in USTRC Flex Earnings. Second place was Bucky Pugh from Heavener, Oklahoma and Blayne Horne. Third place in the roping went to Harve Reynolds and Cody Bailey.

Herman Wheaton from Iola, Texas teamed up with Spencer Wilcox from Greenbrier, Arkansas to win first place in the #12 Gold Plus. The team was 33.01 seconds on four steers and took home $3074 plus $6000 in USTRC Flex Earnings. The second place team was Mike Meek and Clayton Beavers with a time of 34.12 seconds on four steers. Third place was David Dickson from Fayetteville, Arkansas and Jordan Johnson from Summers, Arkansas. Caleb Kirby and Donnie Ward took first place in the incentive average.

Oklahoma took the top honors in the #11 Division. Jackie Hewitt from Porter and Blake Larmon from Jay were 33.96 seconds on four steers for the win. They earned $3074, trophy Ritchie ColdSaver Coolers, and $6000 in USTRC Flex Earnings. Second place was Colton Whitlow from Ola, Arkansas and Anthony Echelle from Rattan, Oklahoma with a time of 34.93 seconds on four steers. Third was Steve Foster from Newalla, Oklahoma and Micah Lynch from Meeker, Oklahoma.

The final roping of the first day of the West Ark Classic was the #10 Division. Kevin Favre from Muldrow, Oklahoma and Darren Duvall from Quinton, Oklahoma struck pay dirt as they were the champions of the roping. The win gave them $4072, trophy Ritchie ColdSaver Coolers and $6000 in USTRC Flex Earnings. Second place was Wesley Wilcox and Darren Duvall.

The also won the incentive average. They received $4014, trophy Gist buckles and $4000 in USTRC Flex Earnings. Third place was Herman Wheaton and Bill Hash.

Bucky Pugh and Jimmy Peters finished first place in the average of the #10 Gold plus. The pairing was 44.94 seconds

24 • THE ROPING PEN • OCTOBER 2016

on four steers and thus won $4182, trophy Ritchie ColdSaver Coolers and $6000 in USTRC Flex Earnings. Second place was Wade Snow from Atoka, Oklahoma and Travis Sargent from Valliant, Oklahoma. Third was Steve P King and Roy Cox. Snow and Sargent won the incentive average.

The winners of the #9 Division were Chris Brumley from Summers, Arkansas and Kelby Huffaker from Lincoln, Arkansas.

They were 43.72 seconds on four steers. The win secured them $5409, trophy Ritchie ColdSaver Coolers and $6000 in USTRC Flex Earnings. Second place was Cody Snow from Atoka, Oklahoma and Travis Sargent, while third place went to Jerry Rogers and Roy Cox. Jamie and Tucker Earp from Jay, Oklahoma won the incentive average.

The West Ark Classic wound down with the #8 Division.

Trace Ambrister from Rose, Oklahoma and Bryan Mullins from Conway, Arkansas were the winners of the roping. They roped three steers in 32.90 seconds and won $4506, trophy Gist buckles and $6000 in USTRC Flex Earnings. Second place was Janet Trimble and Phillip McGuire with a time of 33.65 seconds on three steers. Third was the team of Shawn Mooney from Oppelo, Arkansas and Roy Cates from Huntington, Arkansas.

THE MAGAZINE FOR AMERICA’S ROPER • 25

T

he 2016-2017 rodeo season of the Alabama High School Rodeo Association has kicked off with a bang!! This year is sure to hold tough competition and an abundance of laughter. I am very proud of the amount of rookies we have this year joining our rodeo family and the many contestants coming back for another year of the experience of a lifetime!

I thank God He has given me the opportunity to serve such a great association as queen! The AHSRA and its contestants and directors hold true to all that I believe in, Old Glory, hard work, big dreams, and the King above all kings. Also, our student directors are working hard to plan many fun activities to bring our rodeo family even closer! At our first rodeo we held our association’s first ever back number decoration and basketball tournament.

Some contestants proved to have a more talent in more than rodeo, but on the other hand some of us should just stick with roping calves or running poles!

Well that is all for now, and thank you for reading... God bless, Miss Hannah Rogers

AHSRA 2016 / 2017 SCHEDULE OCTOBER 22-23, 2016 • TROY, AL • 2 DAY, 2 GO NOVEMBER 4-6, 2016 • PERRY, GA • 3 DAY, 2 GO Multi State sponsored by GHSRA

DECEMBER 3-4, 2016 • ROBERTSDALE, AL • 2 DAY, 2 GO FEBRUARY 3-5, 2017 • ANDALUSIA, AL • 3 DAY, 2 GO Bama Challenge – Multi State w/ GHSRA

FEBRUARY 25-26, 2017 • PENSACOLA, FL • 2 DAY, 2 GO W/ SHOOTING MARCH 11-12, 2017 • MONTGOMERY, AL (TENTATIVE) • 2 DAY, 2 GO APRIL 8-9, 2017 • PRICEVILLE, AL • 2 DAY, 2 GO APRIL 29-30, 2017 • BAY MINETTE, AL • 2 DAY, 2 GO W/SHOOTING ••• STATE FINALS • JUNE 7-10, 2017 • ANDALUSIA, AL ••• to include Cutting, RCH, and Shooting

BOARD MEMBERS:

PRESIDENT: Johnnie Varner • 1ST VICE PRESIDENT: Ron Johnson 2ND VICE PRES: Jamie Tate • STATE SECRETARY Angela Rogers • STATE TREAS: Karen Carter

2016-17 STUDENT OFFICERS:

QUEEN: Hannah Rogers • STUDENT PRESIDENT: Kaitlyn Chestnut STUDENT VICE-PRESIDENT: Cody Stubbs • STUDENT SECRETARY: Erica Johnson 26 • THE ROPING PEN • OCTOBER 2016

THE MAGAZINE FOR AMERICA’S ROPER • 27

BRONCS 1 KENNETH GLICK 469.20 2 DAKOTA COLLYER 176.80 3 COLE WILLIAMS 139.40 4 CHASE DYAL 91.80 5 JESSE BERNHARDT 40.80

CALF ROPING 1 JACOB MCGINN 408.00 2 CHASE DYAL 367.20 3=4 KENENTH GLICK 224.40 3=4 TYLER WILLIS 224.40 5 EDDIE ROUNDS 221.00 6 CALEB TRAENKNER 132.60 7 BENNETT DOVE 81.60 8 JACKSON RHYMER 23.80

TEAM ROPING-HEAD 1 BLAKE WATT 484.50 2 DAVIS SEWELL 363.80 3 CHASE DYAL 289.00 4 CAYDEN MCCRAW 153.00 5 JACOB MCGINN 137.70 6 EDDIE ROUNDS 108.80 7 MCKENZIE BROWN 105.40 8=9 BENNETT DOVE 40.80 8=9 KENNETH GLICK 40.80 10 PT STYLES 23.80 11 OLIVIA DOVE 20.40

TEAM ROPING-HEEL 1 BLAKE WATT 396.10 2 JACOB MCGINN 328.10 3 KENNETH GLICK 197.20 4 CHASE DYAL 178.50 5 DAVIS SEWELL 168.30 6 SPENCER TUCKER 119.00 7 EDDIE ROUNDS 108.80 8 SPENCER TIMMS 51.00 9 BENNETT DOVE 34.00

STEER WRESTLING 1 EDDIE ROUNDS 306.00 2 CHASE DYAL 34.00

BOYS GOAT TYING 1 ETHAN LOMBARDO 238.00 2 EDDIE ROUNDS 85.00

SR BK AWAY 1 LEAH BLANTON 430.10 2 KYRA LOMBARDO 198.90 3 MONICA HARMON 173.40 4 EMERY THOMAS 122.40 5 GRACE MOORE 122.40 6 HANNAH GRACE HARMON 95.20 7 KYLIE CLARK 91.80 8 DARBY MCJUNKIN 76.50 9 CHEYENNE DOUGLAS 66.30

SR GOAT TYING 1 AMBER TATHAM 331.50 2 GRACE MOORE 287.30 3 MAGGIE WIRCHBALL 280.50 4 KYRA LOMBARDO 277.10 5 MONICA HARMON 248.20 6 CHANLER BURGESS 214.20 7 LEAH BLANTON 125.80 8 NIKKI PRICE 88.40 9 CHEYENNE DOUGLAS 78.20 10 EMERY THOMAS 40.80 11 ISABELLA HART 34.00

SR BARREL RACING 1 MAGGIE WIRCHBALL 732.70 2 MONICA HARMON 490.45 3 HANNAH GRACE HARMON 475.66 4 CHANLER BURGESS 402.05 5 LEAH BLANTON 363.97 6 DARBY MCJUNKIN 363.46 7 JESSICA BURGESS 333.03 8 EMERY THOMAS 214.54 9 AMBER TATHAM 66.30 10 BAILEY CURTICE 51.00 11 ABBY MCCRAW 32.64 12 CHEYENNE DOUGLAS 20.40

SR POLES 1 MAGGIE WIRCHBALL 629.00 2 MONICA HARMON 317.90 3 CHANLER BURGESS 275.40 4 JESSICA BURGESS 212.50 5 LEAH BLANTON 205.70 6 HANNAH GRACE HARMON 180.20 7 AMBER TATHAM 163.20 8 EMERY THOMAS 130.90 9 CHEYENNE DOUGLAS 122.40 10 CEARAH JONES 69.70 11 GRACE MOORE 22.10 12 MCKENZIE TURNER 17.00

SR CHUTE DOGGIN' 1 CHASE DYAL 464.10 2 EDDIE ROUNDS 421.60 3 DAKOTA COLLYER 205.70 4 KENNETH GLICK 204.00 5 TYLER ADAMS 173.40 6 CALEB TRAENKNER 107.10 7 JACOB MCGINN 90.10 8 COLTON FERGUSON 27.20

SR BULL RIDING 1 BLAKE FARLEY 768.40 2 DAKOTA COLLYER 221.00 3 JACOB ASHLEY 153.00 4 DUSTIN BLACKWELL 115.60

SR BOYS ALL AROUND 1 CHASE DYAL 1426.60 2 EDDIE ROUNDS 1251.20 3 KENNETH GLICK 1135.60 4 JACOB MCGINN 963.90 5 BLAKE WATT 880.60 6 DAKOTA COLLYER 603.50 7 TYLER WILLIS 336.60 8 BENNETT DOVE 248.20 9 CALEB TRAENKNER 239.70

JR BK AWAY 1 ETHAN LONMBARDO 532.10 2 MCKENZIE BROWN 487.90 3 OLIVIA DOVE 255.00 4 ABBI CLINCSCALES 234.60 5 MACAYLA CARR 202.30 6 DAVIS SEWELL 193.80 7 SPENCER TIMMS 180.20 8 GEORGIA CAROLINE KAY 176.80 9 COURTNEY EUBANKS 66.30

JR BARREL RACING 1 SPENCER TIMMS 1242.53 2 GEORGIA CAROLINE KAY 622.88 3 ETHAN LOMBARDO 558.62 4 AMBER MASSEY 508.98 5 SALLY POTEAT 430.10 6 COURTNEY EUBANKS 409.36 7 MCKENZIE BROWN 266.73 8 OLIVIA DOVE 203.15 9 MADISON PER 192.95 10 MACAYLA CARR 175.42 11 ALEIAH BREWER 163.88 12 REBECCA MCCLINTON 136.17 13 HEIDI MORROW 55.25 14 RILEY SUTHERLAND 47.60 15 JOSIE TROTTER 38.25 16 ABBY FORCE 32.13

JR POLE BENDING 1 ETHAN LOMBARDO 975.63 2 RILEY SUTHERLAND 757.35 3 REBECCA MCCLINTON 267.58 4 SPENCER TIMMS 264.35 5 ABI CLINCSCALES 253.30 6 MADISON PER 252.79 7 AMBER MASSEY 229.50 8 MCKENZIE BROWN 226.78 9 OLIVIA DOVE 207.06 10 GEORGIA CAROLINE KAY 181.22 11 COURTNEY EUBANKS 165.58 12 ALEIAH BREWER 61.20 13 JAYSMINE ASHLEY 48.62 14 GRACE BRYANT 36.72 15 ABIGAIL GEDDINGS 25.84 16 JORDAN HIGH 24.48

JR GOAT TYING 1 OLIVIA DOVE 919.70 2 JOSIE TROTTER 748.85 3 MCKENZIE BROWN 409.87 4 ABBY FORCE 346.80 5 SALLY POTEAT 188.70 6 MADDIE PER 176.80 7 MACAYLA CARR 99.96 8 GEORGIA CAROLINE KAY 91.12 9 ALEIAH BREWER 40.80 10 MADISON KNIGHT 30.60

JR CHUTE DOGGIN’ 1 PT STYLES 506.60 2 CHRIS CARTWRIGHT 122.40

JR BULL RIDING 1 ETHAN LOMBARDO 414.80 2 JAMES COLE 146.20 3 CLARY SPIRES 34.00

PW GIRLS ALL AROUND 1 TRINITY COOKE 2354.50 2 BRISTOL NORRIS 2210.00 3 GABBIE METTA 649.40 4 ALLY FARR 329.80 5 EVA PEELER 71.40

PW BOYS ALL AROUND 1 ETHAN HUMPHRIES 423.30 2 BROCK BURTON 350.20 3 COLTON HILL 68.00

WR GIRLS ALL AROUND 1 MADYSEN BAKER 897.60 2 SYDNIE DEASON 316.20 3 SAVANNAH CASTON 290.70 4 LEXI CLARK 154.70

WR BOYS ALL AROUND 1 WESS HAWKINS 2463.30 2 COLBY YARBOROUGH 2352.80 3 BRYCE STOCKMAN 836.40 4 AYDEN ROUNDS 345.10

JR GIRLS ALL AROUND 1 OLIVIA DOVE 1605.31 2 MCKENZIE BROWN 1496.68 3 GEORGIA CAROLINE KAY 1072.02 4 RILEY SUTHERLAND 804.95 5 JOSIE TROTTER 787.10 6 AMBER MASSEY 738.48 7 COURTNEY EUBANKS 641.24 8 MADDIE PER 622.54 9 SALLY POTEAT 618.80 10 ABBI CLINCSCALES 487.90 11 MCCAYLA CARR 477.68 12 REBECCA MCCLINTON 403.75 13 ABBY FORCE 378.93 14 ALEAIAH BREWER 265.88 15 GRACE BRYANT 128.52

JR BOYS ALL AROUND 1 ETHAN LOMBARDO 2719.15 2 SPENCER TIMMS 1738.08 3 DAVIS SEWELL 725.90 4 PT STYLES 530.40

SR GIRLS ALL AROUND 1 MAGGIE WIRCHBALL 1642.20 2 MONICA HARMON 1229.95 3 LEAH BLANTON 1125.57 4 CHANLER BURGESS 891.65 5 HANNAH GRACE HARMON 751.06 6 AMBER TATHAM 561.00 7 JESSICA BURGESS 545.53 8 EMERY THOMAS 508.64 9 KYRA LOMBARDO 476.00 10 DARBY MCJUNKIN 439.96 11 GRACE MOORE 431.80 12 CHEYENNE DOUGLAS 287.30 13 JULIANNE SLOAN 142.80 14 ISABELLA HART 57.80

WR BK AWAY ROPING 1 COLBY YARBOROUGH 2 WESS HAWKINS 3 BRYCE STOCKMAN

WR BARREL RACING 1 WESS HAWKINS 2 COLBY YARBOROUGH 3 BRYCE STOCKMAN 4 AYDEN ROUNDS 5 MADYSEN BAKER 6 LEXIE CLARK 7 SYDNIE DEASON 8 SAVANNAH CASTON

WR POLE BENDING 1 WESS HAWKINS 2 MADYSEN BAKER 3 COLBY YARBOROUGH 4 SYDNIE DEASON 5 SAVANNAH CASTON 6=7 AYDEN ROUNDS 6=7 TAYLOR CULTON 8 BRYCE STOCKMAN 9 DANNI SPIRES

WR GOAT TYING 1 WESS HAWKINS 2 COLBY YARBOROUGH 3 DALTON BOYTER 4 BRYCE STOCKMAN 5 MAYLEIGH CHAPMAN 6 MADYSEN BAKER 7 RILEY OWENS 8 LEXI CLARK 9 GRACIE METTA 10 CRAYTON BAGWELL 11 JOSIE HILL

WR BULL RIDING 1 AUSTIN ASHLEY 2 WALKER CROWE 3 TYLER TROTTER 4 ZACH MCCUEN

PW GOAT DOGGIN’ 1 TRINITY COOKE 2 BRISTOL NORRIS 3 ETHAN HUMPHRIES 4 BROCK BURTON 5 LUKE GUY 6 BRYCE COBB 7 JACOB FIX 8 BRENNAN LOUK

PW GOAT TYING 1 TRINITY COOKE 2 BRISTOL NORRIS 3 ETHAN HUMPHRIES 4 ANNA TAYLOR 5 BROCK BURTON 6 GABBIE METTA 7 EVA PEELER 8 ALLY FARR 9 COLTON HILL

PW BARREL RACING 1 BRISTOL NORRIS 2 TRINITY COOKE 3 ABBY RAE STOCKMAN 4 GABBIE METTA 5 ALLY FARR 6 BROCK BURTON 7 COLTON HILL 8 ETHAN HUMPHRIES

PW POLE BENDING 1 TRINITY COOKE 2 BRISTOL NORRIS 3 GABBIE METTA 4 ALLY FARR 5=6 ETHAN HUMPHRIES 5=6 EVA PEELER 7 COLTON HILL

STOCK BUSTIN’ ABBY RAE STOCKMAN ABLE EPLEY ADA SCHRONCE ALEXANDRIA BURTON ALLY FARR ALYSSA HOPPER ANNA TAYLOR BRAYDEN MOSIER BRENNAN LOUK BRISTOL NORRIS BROCK BURTON BROOKLYN NORRIS BRYCE COBB COLTON HILL ELI OSHIELDS ETHEN MCGAHEE EVA PEELER HENRY SCHRONCE JACOB FIX JASPER PEELER KIMBER VICKERS MILES JONES RAYNA TAYLOR SARAH MIRANDA SCOUT BROWN SETH MCCUEN TEALLY REIN GRAY WILDER BROWN WYATT PARKER

401.20 244.80 85.00 860.20 822.80 457.30 280.50 170.00 108.80 83.30 73.10 605.20 566.10 501.50 232.90 217.60 64.60 64.60 56.10 20.40

FOLLOW US ON FACEBOOK! CHECK US OUT AT RODEOFYRA.COM

••FINALS THIS MONTH! •• OCT 28-30 • doublejbarrelhorses.com • Double J Arena • 501 Lockaby Rd • Pendleton, SC

753.10 627.30 355.30 238.00 163.20 161.50 81.60 45.90 35.70 20.40 17.00 278.80 182.20 51.00 34.00 620.50 360.40 222.70 132.60 125.80 85.00 66.30 59.50 868.70 498.10 159.80 122.40 91.80 68.00 47.60 40.80 23.80 846.60 341.70 231.20 153.00 147.90 125.80 23.80 17.00 523.60 504.90 428.40 141.10 23.80 23.80 20.40 8 4 2 1 7 12 8 12 7 14 9 12 10 8 1 8 4 2 7 9 7 2 14 10 4 10 2 4 8

28 • THE ROPING PEN • OCTOBER 2016

MADYSEN BAKER

CHESTER, SC • AGE 11 • WRANGLER DIVISION HORSE’S NAME: CB • PARENT: HOPE BAKER EVENTS: BREAKAWAY, GOATS, BARRELS & POLES

Special Accomplishments/Titles within FYRA: Winning Most Improved, Winning Average Buckle in Poles at Finals. Winning Reserve All-Around Buckle for Wranglers Favorite Event: Poles - CB gives me his all and he loves the poles as much as I do. I like the way he turns his end poles.

Most memorable/ or embarassing moment in FYRA: Falling flat on my face when dismounting in goat tying.

Most successful moment in FYRA: When I won the buckle for fastest average in poles at finals and being named Reserve AllAround for the year in Wranglers.

Plans after FYRA: Keep going to rodeos & one day train my own horse that'll do all my events, like Mom had growing up.

PHOTOS COURTESY OF FYRA & DONNA FARMER

RON ASKS...

I can’t seem to see the steer's feet, only his back.

RICKEY'S POWER TIP: That’s something every heeler has dealt with. Here’s your drill, look at the hind feet and count the jumps down the arena and around the corner until you catch. Something about counting will help your focus.

THE MAGAZINE FOR AMERICA’S ROPER • 29

The Patriot Elite honors 2016 PATRIOT #9 CHAMPIONS

MARC SMITH & DONNIE LEFLETT CASH PAYOUT $71,780 #9 TOTAL PAYOUT - $222,400

I

t was a last minute decision that paid off for a pair of ropers who teamed up at last year’s Patriot event. A phone call and a quick decision to head from Louisiana to Fort Worth made for a big payday for the add-on team of Marc Smith from Ball, Louisiana and Donnie Leflett from Benton, Louisiana. The team roped four head in 38.79 seconds to win the roping and earn the championship of the #9 roping at the 2016 Patriot event. It was one of the largest of the week and the duo walked away sharing $71,780 in cash, plus the championships Patriot Prize line.

You can bet Marc and Donnie were happy they made the trek from Louisiana to attend the event and will be back this February, probably with several other ropers from the Pelican State following them for a chance to win big.

“I was heading to The Patriot to watch my boy rope and thought I would give Marc a call,” said Donnie. “When I asked him if he was heading to the roping and he said no I asked if he wanted to rope. He said he was catching

his horses. That was Wednesday and we started roping Thursday.”

Marc who headed for Donnie at the roping added, “We roped in the #10 the day before and didn’t have any luck, but it all came together the next day. I am 63-years-old and I’ve learned you can’t be afraid to lose if you want to win.

Do your best, let the ladies upstairs add it up and see what shakes out. You can’t win if you’re sitting at home and I’m sure glad Donnie called.”

Marc and Donnie said they are going to try it again this year and hope to win some of the big money that will be paid out in February in Fort Worth. They also added they have several others who are joining them this year. The 2017 Patriot is already beginning to take shape as ropers from across the country are preparing for the events they will attend next year. The Patriot is definitely one of them and you can bet there will be a whole lot more great stories like Marc and Donnie’s when it all shakes out in February.

MARC SMITH BALL, LA

Photos courtesy of The Patriot

DONNIE LEFLETT BENTON, LA

30 • THE ROPING PEN • OCTOBER 2016

THE PATRIOT REPORT:

• • • • • • • • • • • • • • THE EVOLUTION CONTINUES • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

T

he 2017 Patriot event is complete and you can check out the new schedule of events that will fill the last week in February with lots and lots of team roping, barrel racing, mounted shooting and Jr. calf roping events. Several new ropings have been added to this event and a couple of changes allowing more ropers a chance at The Patriots big money. Each of these added benefits are opening doors for the event to continue to evolve into one of the largest multi-competitive events in the country.

As the Patriot evolves, the 2017 event will open the door for more ropers to compete in many of the ropings. The event will allow 200 teams to enter this year. More teams means more money, but still a manageable count that allows ropers a better chance at the big money than most others.

In addition, the Patriot will welcome two new ropings on both ends of the spectrum. There will be a #15 and a #8 added to the weeks schedule. The #15 will be much in line with the other Patriot events with its $1,000 per man entry, capped at 200 teams. There are no founders for this roping so entries are open for all teams this year. The #8 is a bit different. It will be a pick one draw one for $1,000 per entry.

This roping will be capped at 150 teams and will be 2 full rounds and a short round.

One final additions to the 2017 Patriot event will be the Muley World Championships. With muley ropings becoming more and more popular, the Patriot decided to add two of these ropings to its week-long schedule. There will be a #12 Muley World Championship roping on Wednesday and

a #10 Muley World Championship roping on Friday. Lastly, the Patriot is opening the door for the senior class to get a chance at the big money. They are inviting ropers 50 and over to the #11 50 Plus roping.

Entries for this event will be $500 per man and ropers will get a chance to rope in 3 rounds and a short go to see who takes home the championships. You can check out all of the new details of this year’s event on The Patriot Finale Ad inside this issue of The Roping Pen. With the 2017 event beginning to take shape the Patriot is already exceeded the number of entries it had at this time last year.

“We are 10-fold ahead right now from where we were in December of last year,” said Kevin Hall. “We have added more events to this year’s schedule, because we had a lot of ropers wanting them. We also added the Muley ropings to take up the extra day we have this year. We are excited about this year and where this event is going. We are the premier event in Texas with the team roping, barrel racing, mounted shooting and Jr. calf roping event all incorporated around The American and the PBR Iron Cowboy event.”

The Patriot is gearing up to be a spectacular event once again. In only its third year, it has grown showcasing more events and allowing more ropers to become involved. Its limited entries, large money format, as well as its partnership with The American have no doubt made it a premier event in the country in a very short time and it has more room for growth in the future.

THE MAGAZINE FOR AMERICA’S ROPER • 31

UPCOMING PATRIOT QUALIFYING EVENTS DATES............... */**..CITY, STATE.............. PRODUCER..............................................................................EVENT OCT 8-9, 2016..............*.....CANAL WINCHESTER, OH....STEVE RICKLY...............................................BUCKEYE FALL ROUNDUP/PATRIOT QUALIFIER TOUR OCT 8-9, 2016.............**....FORT SMITH, AR..................RTO PRODUCTIONS.............................................................................PATRIOT QUALIFIER TOUR OCT 8-9, 2016.............**....GRANDE ISLAND, NB..........Y HANGING J PRODUCTIONS..............................................................PATRIOT QUALIFIER TOUR OCT 21-29, 2016..........*.....GUTHRIE, OK......................JEFF SMITH PRODUCTIONS....GUTHRIE SHOOT OUT CHAMPIONSHIPS /PATRIOT QUALIFIER TOUR NOV 5-6, 2016...........**....ADA, OK.............................TULEY PRODUCTIONS...........................................................................PATRIOT QUALIFIER TOUR NOV 11-13, 2016.........*.....FT WORTH, TX.....................USTRC.........................................................COWTOWN SHOOT OUT/PATRIOT QUALIFIER TOUR NOV 19-20, 2016........**....MT. VERNON, MO...............RTO PRODUCTIONS..................................................................... SHOW ME PATRIOT QUALIFIER DEC 2-4, 2016..............*.....TULSA, OK..........................RTO PRODUCTIONS....................................... OIL CAPITAL STAMPEDE /PATRIOT QUALIFIER TOUR DEC 9-11, 2016............*.....TUNICA, MS........................RTO PRODUCTIONS........................................... MISSISSIPPI CLASSIC /PATRIOT QUALIFIER TOUR DEC 16-18, 2016........ **....WEST MONROE, LA.............TULEY PRODUCTIONS...........................................................................PATRIOT QUALIFIER TOUR DEC 30 - JAN 1, 2017...*.....PERRY, GA...........................JX2 PRODUCTIONS................................... SOUTH GEORGIA CLASSIC /PATRIOT QUALIFIER TOUR JAN 6-8, 2017..............*.....WACO, TX...........................USTRC................................................HEART OF TX CHAMPIONSHIPS/PATRIOT QUALIFIER TOUR JAN 13-15, 2017.........**....OK CITY, OK........................RTO PRODUCTIONS.......................................................................IFR/PATRIOT QUALIFIER TOUR JAN 20-22, 2017..........*.....KINDER, LA.........................STEVE JUDD.................................................BAYOU CHAMPIONSHIPS/PATRIOT QUALIFIER TOUR JAN 27-29, 2017..........*.....TULSA, OK..........................RTO PRODUCTIONS........................... 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.....FORT WORTH, TX...... THE PATRIOT.........................................................THE PATRIOT FINALE * = USTRC GOLD PLUS / PATRIOT QUALIFIER

+ 32 • THE ROPING PEN • OCTOBER 2016

** = PATRIOT QUALIFYING EVENT

=

THE MAGAZINE FOR AMERICA’S ROPER • 33

34 • THE ROPING PEN • OCTOBER 2016

THE MAGAZINE FOR AMERICA’S ROPER • 35

36 • THE ROPING PEN • OCTOBER 2016

Lil' Kathy $1,295 • Special $1,165 • 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 III $8,395 • Special $7,555 • Sparky Lead Steer $3,495 • Special $3,145 •

1.800.211.8575 • www.smartsteer.com •

THE MAGAZINE FOR AMERICA’S ROPER • 37

CATCHING UP WITH

I

PATRICK SMITH

t has been a while since we checked in with Patrick Smith, so we thought we would reach out and see what the multi World Champion Team Roper has been doing.

Patrick had just returned from a hunting trip when we got a hold of him. Smith has been a regular on the new Elite Rodeo Association (ERA) this year allowing him to spend more time with his family and doing some of the things he enjoys outside of the arena. We talked to Patrick about the past season, what has been different about this year from the past and what he sees in the future of the sport.

“It has been a lot different,” he said. “It has been nice to regroup, work on the business I started several years ago and enjoy being a husband and father.”

With several world titles to his name and being one of the best in the world for over a decade, Patrick has had a front row seat to where the sport of team roping and professional rodeo has been, the changes it has made and where it is heading.

“I believe change is good, Patrick added. “There is always room to be better. We all drive for something better, which was the whole point of the ERA. I think it will offer more opportunities for the future, not just for me, but for

38 • THE ROPING PEN • OCTOBER 2016

the future. My little boy loves to rope and I hope what we are doing now will allow him to rope for more money at bigger events in the future. Change and the opportunity to be better is what makes this country so great.”

As we begin to look toward next year, Patrick added, “Regardless of what happens, everything we are doing now is a good thing for the sport of rodeo. It has been a really neat experience and I am happy to be a part of something that will help make the sport better. We have said since the beginning of the ERA that we don’t want to tear anyone down, but bring the sport up.”

For fans who think you may miss Patrick at the NFR this year, you won’t. He plans to be in Las Vegas in December to sign autographs and support the sport, but he is really excited for the ERA finals.

“I am looking forward to the ERA Finals in Dallas,” he added. “It is a whole lot closer to home and being among those at this event this year will be great.”

Patrick Smith is no doubt a team roper that deeply enjoys the sport and wants to see it continue to grow and flourish in the future. With so many different opportunities for the best to world to excel in the sport today, he has done his part and has helped lay a new foundation for future cowboys to follow.

THE MAGAZINE FOR AMERICA’S ROPER • 39

40 • THE ROPING PEN • OCTOBER 2016

I

His to Win...Mine to Wear!

have won a few buckles, but none that I like to wear as much as the ones my son has won. They are newer, prettier and, well, simply COOLER! As I was putting on a belt with Colt Wrangler’s buckle attached to it, I got to thinking about this whole scenario.

Colt had to discipline himself to practice and put out the effort to drive the long distances to rodeos. He had to face the challenges of getting on both bulls and broncs. He had to deal with facing his fears and overcoming mental blocks. He had to carry the injuries that riding rough stock always incurs. And, that kid worked a job, starting at 14 years old, to pay as much of his own entry fees as he could possibly could. And I am wearing the trophies of his hard work and effort!

My favorite saddle is the one Colt Wrangler won his senior year in saddle broncs. That’s the saddle I ride in all the events I do. I didn’t get on one bronc, but I sure am enjoying the saddle that he won in that event! We gathered up horses that were renegades… anything that we could find for him to practice on. We bucked out in arenas that hadn’t had the ground worked in MONTHS and were hard as concrete. That kid hit the dirt over and over again, never giving up. I now sit in a saddle that didn’t cost me a bruise! He paid the price for what I enjoy.

I didn’t have to crawl down on one bull, not one, and yet I wear the buckles from that event that he won. He spent $1,200 of his own hard earned money to buy a terrific little practice bull that would go both

BY CRYSTAL LYONS

ways. “Mighty Moe” was an AWESOME practice bull, easy to handle, and very rideable as long as you didn’t make any mistakes. If you rode correctly, you could get by him easily enough, but get sloppy and you were out of there. Also, Moe worked really hard to not step on any kid even when they were right under him. Moe was perfect for the job!

Because of that, Colt’s investment was a blessing to several other boys who kept trying their luck on good ol' Moe. I never once had to get on that bull, though I did flank him a bunch. I never spent the time in the hospital that Colt had to, recuperating from broken bones dealt by a bull. But I wear the buckles!

This is exactly like what is offered to every person by Jesus. HE was tortured, spit on, and rejected by those He loved. He went to hell and defeated Satan on his own turf. HE walked in a world FULL of hate, injustices, and temptations and never faltered… NOT ONCE! HE won the prize that I am now invited to WEAR. I have access as a child of God to ALL that Jesus WON! It’s not mine to win… it’s mine to wear! Jesus WON it so I could WEAR it. It was HIS to win, and it’s mine to WEAR! I LOVE wearing the anointing and power that He paid the price for.

I lavish in the supreme HONOR of wearing His nature, possessing His heart, hearing His voice, and experiencing His PEACE. It was HIS to win, but it’s MINE TO WEAR! So dress yourself in what Jesus has won for you. You can’t EARN it… but you were meant to WEAR it!

THE MAGAZINE FOR AMERICA’S ROPER • 41

42 • THE ROPING PEN • OCTOBER 2016

THE MAGAZINE FOR AMERICA’S ROPER • 43

44 • THE ROPING PEN • OCTOBER 2016

THE MAGAZINE FOR AMERICA’S ROPER • 45

HS EVENT DIRECTORS:

• BLUE = JH & HS • BLACK = HS ONLY • Find out details, updates & more at www.ghsra.com

• The Rock • October 8-9 •

Arena Director Keith Boatwright Assistant Arena Director Hal Roberts

• Madison • October 21-22 •

Calf Roping Matt Thomas

• Perry • November 4-6 •

Team Roping Brent Kittle

• Cleveland, TN • November 19-20•

Bkaway & Steer Wrestling Matt Thomas

• Andalusia, AL • February 3-5 • • February 24-26 • TBD • • Franklin • March 11-12 • • Blairsville • April 7-8 • • Gay • April 21-22 • • Ringgold • May 5-6 • • Perry • June 1-2 JH, 2-4 HS • High School call-ins are the Monday night before the rodeo ~ Girls @ 6pm-7:30 pm Boys @ 7:30pm-9pm to Leisa Haslerig @ 706-764-2205 unless otherwise noted.

Jr High call-ins are the Monday night before the rodeo from 7-9pm to 770-328-7550. Or you may email the Monday before the rodeo until 7pm to gjhsracallin@gmail.com. Emails must have contestant's name, each event entered, team roping/ribbon roping partner, one or both rodeos, & a call back number. You'll receive an email back to confirm receipt. NOTE: If you do not receive a confirmation email, you are NOT entered.

President, Todd Watkins - trwatkins@comcast.net Vice Presidents, Keith Boatwright - (828) 837-0900 & Hal Roberts - (770) 328-4715 Rodeo Secretary , Leisa Haslerig​- (423) 305-3692 Points Secretary, Jeanette McElhannon - (770) 601-7413 State Sec, Tracey Boatwright​- (828) 361-9336 or (828) 837-0900 National Director ~~ Ronnie Haslerig - (423) 596-0963 46 • THE ROPING PEN • OCTOBER 2016

Goat Tying Joe Young Bareback, Saddlebronc, & Bull Riding Hobie Daniell Hospitality Coordinator Leah Prince Barrels & Pole Bending TBA JH EVENT DIRECTORS: Tie Down, Breakaway & Ribbon Roping James Denney Goat Tying Adam Toole Barrels & Poles​ Scott Heath Team Roping Matt Riner Chute Dogging & Rough Stock Madison Taylor Princess Coordinator Anne Marie Goble

T

he goal of TotalTeamRoping.com has always been to offer team ropers new and unique opportunities to learn. When they launched they were one of the only online team roping instructional sites and even at that time they offered the best and most trusted opportunities for ropers to gain knowledge and progress in the sport. The site has evolved and continued to add more and more ways for ropers to take advantage of the site. Thousands of ropers have used the site throughout the years enhancing their skills and making their way to the pay window at events.

“Our goal is to revolutionize the way for ropers to learn,” said Bret Beach. “We continue to offer new opportunities and new ways ropers can learn. We keep the website up to date and always work on making it better.”

Over the last three months TotalTeamRoping.com has opened up a new personalized coaching opportunity for team ropers. This new part of the site allows a roper to send in videos to be reviewed and coached by the pros at TotalTeamRoping.com, Clay O’Brein Cooper, Charles Pogue and Bret Beach. They send feedback to the roper so they can then take this information to work on the next time they hit the practice pen.

“This is the best thing for ropers who do not have an opportunity to go to a school,” added Bret. “Maybe better because we can continue to work with that roper as they progress on a one on one situation. Really it is the missing link and ropers are really beginning to utilize it.”

As more and more ropers take the opportunity to use this new function of the website the Clay, Charles and Bret are becoming more and more excited about the new ways they are reaching and helping ropers.

“Most of the time people try to analyze themselves or have a buddy help them,” added Bret. “This is usually not the best way for ropers to

NEW FEATURE: PERSONALIZED COACHING!

learn. Many times they don’t spot the problem and they change things that don’t need changing. Often this makes the problem worse. That is what makes our new personalized coaching so great. This is where we can help. We can watch a few videos the roper sends us, respond and get right to the problem and watch them get better. Often we can work things out in a very short time.”

Ropers know that the practice pen is where to work on issues for their next competition and Bret said they are getting more and more videos of ropers competing so they know what to work on when they get home.

“This is a really great opportunity for us and the ropers,” Bret said.

“During competition things change and ropers often don’t know what they need to work on afterwards. Using videos of them competing allows us to analyze their runs so they can work the issues out at home before they go rope again.”

The new website is continually changing to keep up with the demand from ropers who want to succeed. Like any sport, ropers who want to take the time to progress seek out professional help and using TotalTeamRoping.com’s new personalized coaching is that tool for team ropers. There is definitely a learning curve to team roping and the pros behind the website have a new weapon that they can help educate and assist ropers to do just that. Clay Charles and Bret are excited about this new link and how fast they can help ropers progress. They offer everything from getting personalized coaching tips for the practice pen to saddle fitting, tack adjustments and horses. They offer insight on practice both horseback and the dummy that really helps. The new TotalTeamRoping.com is as close as having a personal coach at your house year 'round.

THE MAGAZINE FOR AMERICA’S ROPER • 47

R

ecently, one of my new employees quit. He chose to do so via text message. His reasons? I treated his family different than my other employee's (Tino's) family. He was correct, yet obviously the young man failed to realize no one in Tino's family has a drug record (as his family did.)

He also said he didn’t like the hours he had to work, and he hadn’t spent a full weekend with his kids all summer. Understandable, right? Here’s where it gets interesting.

The first part of July, this same fellow was arrested for an altercation and spent 11 days in jail. He missed 3 more days for court appearances. In addition, he took off to Georgia one weekend and was “sick” a day and a half after that. Now, he was paid for each day.

My boss and I decided to keep him on payroll the whole time he was incarcerated. Other businesses would have fired him with just cause. When he was released, we had a long talk and I explained our employer and I thought he was worth keeping. There would be no vacation time this year, however, and he was to work off the time he missed. He was very grateful and agreed wholeheartedly this was a fair deal.

As for the weekends, let’s examine the outside forces at play. This has been an extremely wet hay season in our valley. Between that and major breakdowns, we were over 5 weeks behind on finishing the first cutting of hay.

At the time of his hiring, he was informed the job required him to work every other weekend during the winter months, and if there was hay down. To compensate, unless there’s something pressing, he'd usually get off part or all of the worst rainy days. At that time he said this was his dream job, and was agreeable to the arrangement.

Two weeks after his release from jail, Tino and I had to sit him down in the horse barn for a little staff meeting. Minor chores that would usually take, say 45 minutes, ended up taking an hour and a half. He looked like crap each morning, was always sick, and his level of performance had dropped. He did get back to being the guy I originally hired, but it was short-lived. Things started getting broken (equipment, gates, electric fence wires) and not repaired, he was mumbling and complaining about the very things he had always liked about the job, and started saying Tino was picking on him.

The final straw, I assume, was me denying him to take off Labor Day when there was about forty acres of hay to bale. That evening he messaged me his notice.

I tell this story, for it is representative of the attitude of many young people today, unfortunately. “I messed up? Oh, my bad. It’s ok. No big deal.”

48 • THE ROPING PEN • OCTOBER 2016

There is no taking responsibility for actions. This guy went to jail because of his poor decisions, no one else’s. He was unable to be on the job those days because of his actions. He didn’t correlate his actions with the makeup time he had to work. He didn’t accept the responsibility for why he was working weekends. It wasn’t his fault... we were treating him unfairly.

That brings up the next point. I have spent close to two decades at this job, many years alone. I could get day help to process calves coming in, if there were more than one load, and at hay and shipping time. I missed holidays, vacations, birthdays, and ball games.

My dedication to the job contributed to a divorce, further reducing time with my kids. After proving my worth to the outfit, my employer hired additional help, and worked with me so I had more time for my family. Remember, it took almost 20 years for me to be able to come and go as I please, as long as the work was getting done.

Enter the new employee. He sees me with a bit of freedom.

There’s no realization of what it took for me to earn such. All they see is the inequality and they want a trophy, as well. Tino gets off early to go to his son’s game? Why do I have to stay and work? It doesn’t matter that Tino has been here almost 7 years, works every day without complaint, asks for very few days off or to leave early, and doesn’t have to be supervised constantly. He’s going to work, no matter the task, weather, or who is/isn’t there.

“That’s not fair. I want to leave, too. You treat him differently.”

That’s what I hear from a lot of newbies after less than a month on the job. I want, I want, I want. Give, give, give.

We are cursed with a growing number of people in our country with a sense of entitlement. Gone are the days where everyone knows about working hard to earn respect and striving to be a valuable asset to the business for which one works. There are many that want what someone else has, but without earning it. The “I deserve it, too” attitude is creeping in and destroying many in this country’s workforce.

My advice? Change! You want it? Go get it. Bust your tail, put in the hours, show you are committed to the employer. I guess, in short, I’m saying ride for the brand. Have a sense of pride in your job, don’t whine about your employer behind his/her back. Life IS NOT (I repeat!) IS NOT fair. We live in a great nation where hard work, dedication, drive, and the desire to succeed can and will be rewarded. Unfortunately, many just want it handed to them and won’t take responsibility for their own actions.

So, are you a newbie? Show your employer you can be different than the others! Take responsibility seriously. Work for it. You'll be glad you did... and so you will your boss!

Chisholm Trail Classic

CHISHOLM TRAIL PAVILION -- ENID, OK • AUG 19-21, 2016

T

PRODUCED BY JEFF SMITH • STORY BY BEN CLEMENTS

he Chisholm Trail Classic in Enid, Oklahoma began with the Open Division. Miles Baker from Snyder, Oklahoma and Dustin Searcy of Mooreland, Oklahoma teamed up to win first place in the average with a time of 54.46 seconds on five steers. The second place team was Cale Markham and Tyrell Taton. Cody Joe Heflin and Dax Stuart won the incentive average.

Cody Tredway of Erie, Kansas teamed up with Cody Joe Heflin from Pryor, Oklahoma. The duo won the average of the #15 Division with a time of 28.74 seconds on four steers. They received $1480, trophy Gist knives, and $6000 in USTRC Flex Earnings. Second place in the average was Ryon Boatright and Tyrell Taton and third place went to Rusty Stuart and Cody Joe Heflin.

The Meeker, Oklahoma team of Laney Lynch and Micah Lynch took home the win of the #13 Division. They were 32.04 seconds on four steers and earned $1810, trophy Gist knives and $6000 in USTRC Flex Earnings. Second place in the roping was Devon Allen and Gary Allen. Third place in the roping was Laney Lynch and Cody Joe Heflin.

The team of Caleb Nelson and Dusty Kelso teamed up to win first place in the average of the #12 Division. They were 41.80 seconds on four steers and won $1360, trophy Gist knives and $6000 in

USTRC Flex Earnings. Second place in the average was Laney Lynch and Robert Kirchner from Ames, Oklahoma with a time of 43.68 seconds on four steers. Third place was Steve Foster and Micah Lynch. Laney Lynch and Micah Lynch also won the incentive average.

The second day of team roping action began with the #12 Gold Plus Division. Levi Burson and Justin Binder were the champions of the roping. They were 35.95 seconds on four steers and they took home $3190 and $6000 in USTRC Flex Earnings. Second place in the roping was Caleb Nelson and Robert Kirchner and third place was Max Vincent and Gary Allen. Levi Burson and Garrett England were the incentive champions.

In the #11 Division the team of Jackie Hewitt of Porter, Oklahoma and Pake Maynes from Laverne, Oklahoma finished the roping with a time of 35.48 on four steers. That time gave them first place in the average and they won $2960, trophy Gist knives and $6000 in USTRC Flex Earnings. Jay Osborn from Beaver, Oklahoma and Jimmie Kahoe from Mutual, Oklahoma finished in second place in the roping. Dane Drake and Ryan Binford won third place. Ray White and Jeff Smith won the incentive average.

The final roping of the second day of the Chisholm Trail Classic was the #10 Division. Jimmie Kahoe from Mutual, Oklahoma and TI Veach of Mutual, Oklahoma teamed up to win first place in the average. They won $4350, trophy USTRC saddles and $6000 in USTRC Flex Earnings. Second place in the roping was Shelby Weber and Randy Harmon and third place was Ralph Taton and Jessey Osborn. The incentive winners were Brice Sager and Jessey Osborn.

The final day of the Chisholm Trail Classic began with the #10 Gold Plus Division. Sonny Mahurin from Thayer, Kansas and Zane Mozingo of Independence, Kansas won first place with a time of 44.54 seconds on four steers. For their efforts they received $5390 and $6000 in USTRC Flex Earnings. Dennis Ezzell and Kendall Sandlin were second while Justin Turner and Nelson Taylor roped their way into third place. The incentive winners were Mahurin and Mozingo.

Cecil Maynes and Dusty Kelso were the winners of the #9 Division. They were 42.87 seconds on four steers and won $7330, trophy USTRC saddles and $6000 in USTRC Flex Earnings. Brandon Gillette from Arkansas City, Kansas and Landon Petersen from Wellington, Kansas finished in second place in the average. Dave Hooker and Steve Zumbrunn won third. The team of Kyle Kaltenbach and Mary Kaltenbach won the incentive average.

The final roping of the weekend was the #8 Pick/Draw. The Canadian, Texas team of Jordan Lovins and Nicholas Lovins finished first place in the average. They won $6320, trophy USTRC saddles, and $6000 in USTRC Flex Earnings. Second place was Michael Holden and Harold Barnes and third place was Alvaro Pina and Byron Fuller.

THE MAGAZINE FOR AMERICA’S ROPER • 49

50 • THE ROPING PEN • OCTOBER 2016

THE MAGAZINE FOR AMERICA’S ROPER • 51

The Other Half

Thoughts of a Team Roping Spouse • by Gracie Mae

H

orses are so smart. They probably look at us and wonder how we ever survived. They read us really well and it is without a doubt they probably just shake their heads at more than just flies.

Have you ever noticed how many wives, sisters, and kids are warming up horses at team ropings? Do you know that horses know the difference? I can warm up Boss’s horses. The kids can warm up Boss’s horses. However, the minute Boss steps up into the saddle, business picks up. His horses know when he picks up the reins things are different.

I can lope around in my shorts and tennis shoes, but the minute Boss’s boot hits the stirrup it is about roping and doing the job. Horses just know. It isn’t their first rodeo, so to speak.

The same applies to cooling them off, feeding them, loading them, hauling them to the vet, bathing them and finding their stall. When June Bug takes the lead rope or the reins something just comes over them. Caring for her, watching for her, going slow for her; they just know she’s smaller, less experienced and in need of more time, “go slower because this is a little person.” Horses know. There again Boss lifts her out of the saddle, steps into the drivers seat and the horses change gear. Their frame of mind makes an adjustment and it is business as usual.

Horses know. I wonder how the conversation goes among them when they are alone? I wonder if they get back to the pens or stalls and unload. I wonder how the trip home from the roping goes. I imagine the conversation in the trailer may run something like this: “I wish Boss hadn't been so frustrated and nervous on that last run.”

“Did you know he had my tie down way to tight? I just could not stretch out and run.”

“I wish he'd taken a little more time to water me and cool me out.”

“That Buzzy sure runs me around a lot when he’s warming me up. I like it better when June Bug or Gracie does it. They are just more patient.

They care more.”

“Do you like this hay? I think it has a funny taste.”

Horses just know. I’m a firm believer that kids, horses and dogs are only as smart as the people handling them. Kids reflect their parents and horses are either the very best or they’ve been messed with and it is usually something they never forget.

As a little girl I had a picture book about the story of Black Beauty and I, to this day, remember how Black Beauty went from a good home to a not so good home and his life was not all that good until, as an old horse, he ended up with some people from his first family. The same goes from an old story called Smokey by Will James.

Horses know and they don’t forget. Most horses have huge hearts and will do all they can do for those owners who do them right. I have team ropers tell me all the time that horsemanship is ninety-nine percent of their success. I hear repeatedly they couldn’t do it without the

52 • THE ROPING PEN • OCTOBER 2016

Horses: They Just Know...

horse they are riding. The horse gives them the best shot or the horse does his job so “I” can do mine.

I see good, honest, loving owners and I’ve seen those ropers who get frustrated with their own lack of ability or whatever you call it and their horses pay for it. Horses are only as good as the people that handle them.

Horses just know. They know who loves unconditionally and are receptive to training and love and will do all they can to work right.

They also know who views them as a using tool or an idiot. Many are discarded quickly if it is deemed to be their fault. Which in most cases it isn’t their fault. Again, I truly believe most horses are as smart and willing as the people in the saddle.

June Bug came to me the other day and in her sweet little voice she said, “Ya know, Mom, Cricket (her horse) loves me. That is why we are such good friends.” Horses love unconditionally if the rider is right.

They will give and give and I’ve heard it voiced by ropers a lot, “My horse makes me better. He has a heart you cannot believe.” It seems older ropers are more receptive and appreciative but any good horseman knows that to be true. One has to understand the horse frame of mind and train accordingly. The person who doesn’t understand the horse thought process and furthermore doesn’t care is rarely a “trainer.” Most of the time horses communicate really well. If they are not working well there is usually a legitimate reason. A good horseman looks for reason and tries to understand.

Our horses are more tolerant of June Bug than Boss or Buzzy. It isn’t that Boss or Buzzy don’t care but they tend to have less patience. No offense, guys, but us girls just have that “woman touch.” Horses just know if you are sad, happy, depressed, worried or preoccupied and they work accordingly. I’ve cried a few million tears into the mane and neck of a horse and felt better for doing so. Horses know what’s up and they respond with all the love their big hearts hold. The person that says, “He’s just a horse” has no clue and needs to get a grip and figure it out.

Horses just know. They know who has time, who cares, who shuts off the last light and who appreciates regardless of what happened. It is like me warming up Boss’s horses. I make no demands other than lope around and loosen up. That doesn’t mean they are not to be used.

Horses are what they are, but those that are athletes, roping horses, barrel horses, race horses, jumpers, cutters etc., deserve the care and conditioning any athlete needs and deserves to be the best at his game.

That doesn’t mean they are jumped up out of the pasture and expected to perform their best. You go try to run a marathon or perform with no training, no conditioning, no prep time and very little care for the body involved. You try to run a marathon after spending a month in a recliner or sitting on a park bench. Just see how well you do.

I’ve seen many a horse rode hard and put up wet and I hate it. I wouldn’t work for a minute or even care or maybe even buck you off if I was treated that way. Horses fail to perform because they are sore,

© 2016 The Other Half , Melinda Clements melinda@clements.net

Advertisers & Events Index EVENTS: Beast Of The East, NTRL Reg Event.........42 NTRL Calendar/Events............... 40, 44-45 Patriot in February................................34 Patriot: Calendar...................................32 Patriot: Show Me, Mt Vernon, Ne............33 Saddlemania.........................................20 Thanksgiving Roping, Hudson Rope........11 ADVERTISERS: Adam Toole Horses................................17 Alabama Roping....................................21 Albracht Insurance.................................53 Allen’s Rodeo Photos................................4 Bar H Photography..................................4 BTuff Jeans.............................................6 C Bar C Photography................................4 Classic Rope...........................................36 Dare To Be A Cowboy.............................29 Fastback..................................................3 Flatland Ropes.......................................21 FSR Cattle Company...............................21 Haslerig................................................41 Heel-O-Matic.........................................51 Hot Heels..............................................25

Jackets For All.......................................21 JD Photography.......................................4 Jim Davis Photo.......................................4 Lone Star Ropes.....................................38 Lubrisyn................................................56 Maverick Saddle Co...............................37 Maynard Buckles...................................13 Mortenson Saddle Buckle.......................23 Power Team Roping...............................29 Priefert.................................................54 Rope Smart, The Smart Arena................27 Rope Smart, The Switch............................2 Sparky..................................................37 STS Ranchwear......................................41 Team Equine Saddle Pad........................21 Tom Bourne...........................................23 Total Equine Feed..................................55 Totalteamroping.com.............................47 Tres Rios Silver......................................25 Twisted Spur..........................................21 Twisted X...............................................23 Willard Rope Co.....................................29 CONTACT US TODAY TO FEATURE YOUR EVENT OR PRODUCT! • 505-407-2151 • • rdavis@theropingpen.com •

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tired, unconditioned, hot, hungry, thirsty or whatever. They depend on us, need us and treat us like they are treated.

Horses know and, if you do right by them, love them, show them they will go far and beyond the call of duty. You usually have a bad or counterfeit horse because someone showed them the world wasn’t a good place to be. The bad attitudes they have are shown to them and they judge everything by that kind of treatment.

Cricket loves June Bug. He loves her because she and her family love him and appreciate what he does. He takes care of her. He does right by her. He also knows there is a big difference in her riding him and Boss riding him. Boss is good to him and takes care of him. He will work just as good for Boss as he works for June Bug but the demands are different. We don’t ride Cricket anymore. He is June Bug’s horse.

We want him receptive to her. We want him focused on her and her needs. He knows!

Horses are phenomenal and I know there are millions of them in heaven. Jesus comes riding on a white one if I remember scripture correctly. I don’t know what kind of horseman you are but if what team ropers tell me about horsemanship being important I’m thinking this may register as pretty close to your heart. If you want to give your horse a hug or pat let him know you care. He will come through for you and just remember he may well be the reason you place at the next roping. He can make it happen regardless of what you do or how well you roped or didn’t rope.

Keep Ropin'... Love, Gracie THE MAGAZINE FOR AMERICA’S ROPER • 53

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