Loops-January 2012

The Official Publication of the

January 2012 • Vol. 15 #1 • $3.00

TIE-DOWN ROPING

NFR STYLE

ALSO INSIDE:

USCRA Turkey Roping and Christmas Bonus Roping

NE W

WN O D E I T C ALF

Sparky has a new inexpensive way to train your horses and practice tie down roping. The new Sparky calf sled can be pulled behind a 4 wheeler or any type of pulling unit. You get the same practice as with live calves but not the livestock up-keep and cost. The Sparky calf tie down will give your horse a jerk when it is roped and releases from the sled. You can run your rope, pick up the calf and tie it. The legs are spring loaded for gathering them. The front left leg has a loose hock joint to press straight for tying.

The calf body is 75 Ibs. and it comes with a bladder for more body weight. Body and legs are VSA IN HOUSE PROOF made from a plastic rubber material that is flexible and very durable.

CRX’D

www.smartsteer.com or 866.767.3294

“I have been dealing with and feeding roping calves for 40 years and I have never seen a feed work as effectively and quickly as Precision Calf Feeds. No other feed compares. It keeps calves healthy. ”I train horses for a living, specializing in calf roping horses. . . so I keep lots of calves to work these horses on. I give roping lessons as well, so I need to keep my calves well in order to do my work. Precision Feed does it for me.

Ernie Theriot Double E Farms Owner/Horse Trainer

Mannsville Mannsville Ag Ag Center Center 580.371.9588 580.371.9588 mannsvilleagcenter.com mannsvilleagcenter.com 2 • JANUARY 2012

Kory Koontz Champion Team Roper

The ESP™ padding system is designed to specifically support and protect your horse. With a wide selection of ESP styles, Classic Equine offers the best equipment possible for your equine athlete.

• Durable and long lasting • Continuously molds to your horse’s back • Minimizes pressure and relieves body stress • Rebounds to its original shape after each use • Chosen & trusted by top professionals

UNITED STATES CALF ROPERS ASSOCIATION P.O. Box 690, Giddings, Texas 78942 979.542.1239 fax 979.542.0170 www.USCRA.com

6 Tie-Down Roping-NFR Style 15

USCRA Turkey Roping and Christmas Bonus Roping

DEPARTMENTS 5 In the Books 10 USCRA Insider

18 Down the Line with Stran Smith 20 Lonestar Cowboy Church 21 Out My Window

16 News and Notes

COVER PHOTO Tuf Cooper – 2011 Tie-Down Roping PRCA World Champion Courtesy of PRCA ProRodeo - Mike Copland

Sales Manager & Event Advertising: John English Advertising Representative: Monica Davis Customer Service Representative: Jules Price

Loops is the only magazine dedicated to calf roping.

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Zip ______________

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12 Issues Per Year for Only $24 Mail to: Western Sports Publishing 10601 Lomas Blvd. NE Suite 106 Albuquerque, NM 87112

Advertising or Editorial: 505/899-1870 fax: 505/792-5678 Produced and published by USCRA EDITORIAL & ADVERTISING Editor: Ryan Davis Assistant Editor: Tracy Mangold tracy@loopsmagazine.com

Calf Roping News Across the Nation

Each month, it features stories on current and past champion calf ropers, tips to help you with your roping, entertaining articles on the sport and news on calf roping events across the United States.

Call to subscribe or advertise

LOOPS MAGAZINE 10601 Lomas Blvd. NE, Suite 106 Albuquerque, NM 87112

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CIRCULATION & PRODUCTION Art Director: Marcia Rackstraw Production Coordinator: Doug Purdy Advertising Graphics: Violet Sue Anderson Administrative Assistant: Jules Price January 2012 / Vol.15, No.1 LOOPS Magazine (USPS No. 019674) is published monthly by Western Sports Publishing, Inc., 10601 Lomas Blvd. NE, Suite 106 Albuquerque, NM 87112 Subscription price: 1 yr. - $24.

PERIODICALS Postage Paid at Giddings, Texas and additional entries.

Material may not be used without permission from the publisher.

Deadline for editorial and advertising is the 10th of the month, one month preceding issue date.

Advertising rates on request.

POSTMASTER: Send address changes to: USCRA, P.O. Box 690, Giddings, Texas 78942 www.loopsmagazine.com Advertising claims are the sole responsibility of the advertiser, not Loops Magazine.

2012 PRCA Tie-Down World Standings

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USCRA National

Classic Equine The Official Tack of the USCRA 1301 Weatherford Hwy. Granbury, TX 76048 800.654.7864; www.classicequine.com

Each month, Loops will print a list of ropers who have won Showdown positions in the past month. This report reflects the ropers who have won a Showdown position so far in 2012. For a complete listing of all Showdown positions, please go to www.uscra.com.

EE David Davidson Calvin Steen Terry Davidson Colton Williams 00 Ken Garrison Stephen Perry Sy Felton Ronnie Cunningham 00 Select Saunric Mason Danny Stephens Dave Laster Cole Gifford #1 Trenton Smith Brad McReynolds Chad Boggs Tom Epperson 2 Tom Epperson Brian Gibson Jordan Weaver Shawn Felton

Elysian Fields, TX Hawley, TX Dublin, TX Waco, TX Sache, TX Freeport, TX Dublin, TX Okmulgee, OK Anderson, TX Bay City, TX Alvarado, TX Gustine, TX Bigfoot, TX Groesbeck, TX Cyril, OK Cherokee, TX Cherokee, TX Gonzalez, TX Cleburne, TX Dublin, TX

Sponsors Stephenville, Texas Chamber of Commerce The Home of the USCRA Finals P.O. Box 306, Stephenville, TX 76401 800.658.6490 www.stephenvilletexas.org

Rattler Ropes The Official Rope of the USCRA 1301 Weatherford Hwy., Granbury, TX 76048 800.654.7864; www.rattlerrope.com

M.A.C. Precision Calf Feeds Martin Saddlery The Official Saddle of the USCRA 1301 Weatherford Hwy. Granbury, TX 76048 800.654.7864; www.martinsaddlery.com

The Official Feed of the USCRA “For Maximum Performance” Made by: Mannsville Ag Center 580-371-9588 www.mannsvilleagcenter@cableone.net

LOOPS MAGAZINE • 5

Courtesy of PRCA ProRodeo - Mike Copland

Tie-Down Roping

T

he Wrangler National Finals Rodeo is one of those events that adds an exclamation point on a years worth of work. From those who sail out of the bucking chutes through the timed events, as well as the barrel racing, the NFR gives those who have earned a spot to compete a chance to roll out of Las Vegas with a roll of cash tucked in their suitcase. In addition, the world of rodeo fans tune in to this event. Whether it is in person under the bright lights of Las Vegas, or by nightly televised live feeds, those who follow the sport, and even those who just enjoy this rodeo, tune in to see the best of the best compete in ten full rounds.

The 2011 event showcased the talents of some of the best in the business and was, by all accounts, perhaps one of the best events in a while. Records were broken, passion and disappointment were experienced and each round seemed to have a highlight that captivated the audience.

The Tie-Down roping was one of those events that captivated the audience throughout each performance. The action started off quickly and ended with excitement. From Cody Ohl’s exciting run at his seventh world championship, to Tuf Cooper’s hold on his lead, as well as veterans who knocked at the world championship door and young guns who stole some of the spotlight, the event once again took the NFR experience to a new level.

Cooper rolled into this year’s event well in control of his destiny. Although he may not 6 • JANUARY 2012

Tuf Cooper – 2011 Tie-Down Roping PRCA World Champion

have shone throughout the event as he has in his previous four years at the NFR, his control and smoothness in each of the ten rounds eventually earned him his first Tie-Down roping world title.

However, as the world watched each night, the seemingly easy world championship almost looked like it was going to slip through his hands as Ohl came out gunning for his chance at fame. In addition, the sleeper of the pack, Matt Shiozawa who was making his fifth appearance under the bright lights of the Thomas and Mack Center in Las Vegas, made his move throughout the ten rounds, applying the pressure and giving himself a shot at a World title.

Ohl struck early, winning the first and second rounds, earning $17,884 in each round and adding

lots of pressure to the field of ropers. Coming into the Finals in the sixth place position, the early round wins made him one of the top ropers in the hunt for the championship. Ohl did not stop there though, he stayed solid throughout the next two rounds and struck in the money again in round number five. He shared second and third place in the round with Cory Soloman who came off a win in round three.

Ohl placed fourth in round six, split fifth and sixth place in round seven with Adam Gray and stayed in the Average with a solid run in round number eight. However, gunning at the round money, trying to pad his average lead in his search for the championship, Ohl missed his ninth calf and that all but pushed him out of the Average race. Round ten proved to

Matt Shiozawa, 2011 WNFR Average Champion and Reserve World Champion

wrapping things up in round ten with a sixth place paycheck. He also finished seventh in the Average race for an additional $7,788 paycheck to give him a grand total of $46,729 throughout the event. With the help of his lead of over $30,000 that he had accumulated prior to the beginning of the NFR, Cooper kept the number one position by more than $18,000.

Others who topped the round wins and gave themselves big paychecks at the 2011 NFR were a couple of young guns. First time NFR competitor, Cory Soloman tied for second and third place in the Average with second time NFR qualifier Adam Gray. Both of these Texas ropers proved that the event is in good hands as the years progress and Tie-Down enthusiasts can expect to see these names at the top of many leader boards for years to come.

Additionally, Tuf was not the only Cooper name to be heard at the

event. Clif Cooper made his appearance known by placing throughout the event and winning round ten. Brother Clint Cooper also placed well, giving the Cooper name plenty of recognition. Moving to those who have made the NFR what it is the past couple of years, they also proved they have what it takes to be there. Tyson Durfey win round seven, Scott Kormos took home the top honors in round eight and Shane Hanchey was the winner of round nine.

One name left out of the round wins that many expected to once again take control of the event was Trevor Brazile, past world TieDown roping champion, 2010 World Team Roping Header Champion, current Steer Roping World Champion and many time over All-Around World Champion.

Brazile did not quite have the showing he would of liked to have in the Tie-Down Roping event.

Although he placed in several

s s

be just as devastating for Ohl with another missed loop that took him out of the overall World Championship race.

Throughout the rounds, veteran of the sport and past Dodge National Circuit Finals Champion, Matt Shiozawa was no stranger to the pay window.

Shiozawa made his presence known in round four and five. He topped both rounds with first place finishes and moved into the hunt. In fact, Shiozawa placed in the first two rounds, as well as round four and the wins in five and six. Although he fell out of the winning in the final four rounds, his solid runs in all ten rounds earned him the Average Championship of the 2011 NFR. This earned him a huge payout of $45,865 for the Average alone. In all, Shiozawa earned just shy of $100,000 throughout the rodeo.

Tuf Cooper was all but silent throughout the ten rounds placing in the money only in round one where he split fifth and sixth place with Tyson Durfey, winning the second and third place checks in round three with his brother Cliff Cooper, taking home the fourth place money in round five, splitting second and third again in round eight with Ryan Jarrett and

LOOPS MAGAZINE â&#x20AC;˘ 7

Cody Ohl shook things up at the 2011 WNFR

rounds, three no times throughout the ten rounds dropped him out of the Average race, as well as his bout for another Word Championship.

However, Brazile did reach a milestone in round four adding his ninth World All-Around Gold Buckle to his collection. This gave him his sixteenth overall World Championship and tied him with Jim Shoulders for second all-time in ProRodeo history. Only steer roper Guy Allen (with 18) has more.

The 2011 WNFR would not have been the same without the TieDown Roping excitement. Once again the event topped the overall rodeo exhilaration and helped make the event one that rodeo fans young and old come to watch each and every year. Congratulations to Tuf Cooper for his first World Championship, as well as Matt Shiozawa for winning the Average title of the NFR and all of the others who helped make the event at the 2011 Wrangler National Finals Rodeo one to remember. K

8 â&#x20AC;˘ JANUARY 2012

Cory Solomon, 2011 WNFR Rookie won round three and shared reserve Average title

Trevor Brazile earned his 9th All-Around Gold Buckle and his 16th overall World Championship!

Placing Payoff per Go-Round per Event Total Payoff per Event $57,692 1st Place $17,884 2nd Place $14,134 3rd Place $10,673 4th Place $7,500 5th Place $4,615 6th Place $2,884

Placing Payoff: Average Round per Event Total Payoff Per Event $173,076

Tie-down roping Average 1. Matt Shiozawa, Chubbuck, Idaho, 88.3, $45,865 2. (tie) Cory Solomon, Prairie View, Texas, and Adam Gray, Seymour, Texas, 89, $33,317 each 4. Tyson Durfey, Colbert, Wash., 89.2, $21,635 5. Timber Moore, Aubrey, Texas, 97.4, $15,577 6. Ryan Jarrett, Comanche, Okla., 99.9, $11,250 7. Tuf Cooper, Decatur, Texas, 100.6, $7,788 8. Scott Kormos, Teague, Texas, 82.7/9, $4,327 9. Clint Cooper, Decatur, Texas, 83.3/9 10. Hunter Herrin, Apache, Okla., 99.4/9 11. Jerrad Hofstetter, Portales, N.M., 99.7/9 12. Cody Ohl, Hico, Texas, 64.9/8 13. Shane Hanchey, Sulphur, La., 82.8/8 14. Trevor Brazile, Decatur, Texas, 75.1/7 15. Clif Cooper, Decatur, Texas, 48.0/6

World Standings 1. Tuf Cooper, $192,042 2. Matt Shiozawa, $173,776 3. Cory Solomon, $158,963 4. Ryan Jarrett, $149,230 5. Tyson Durfey, $139,852 6. Cody Ohl, $139,763 7. Hunter Herrin, $136,965 8. Clint Cooper, $132,957 9. Adam Gray, 130,336 10. Trevor Brazile, $123,841

1st Place $45,865 2nd Place $37,211 3rd Place $29,423 4th Place $21,634 5th Place $15,576 6th Place $11,250 7th Place $7,788 8th Place $4,326

LOOPS MAGAZINE â&#x20AC;˘ 9

Did You Know?

One-Second Penalty In the EE and 00 roping it is only a one-second penalty for not getting your calf up.

Check Out Our New Website!

Please visit www.uscra.com. Sign up for the newsletter.

Also “like” us on Facebook!

2012 Membership Big Change for the “00” Division Starting at the first roping of the 2012 season in Ft. Worth, the “00” division will be split into two ropings. The top end of the “00” ropers will become “00 Select”. This is being done to create a more competitive atmosphere for the lower end of the 00 ropers.

Ropers will be evaluated through the Finals and after October 10 will be able to call and check on “00” or “00 Select” status.

00 Select Challenge and #1 Challenge • Top 25 money earners of the 00 Select and the #1 ropings for the 2012 season will be invited to the Challenge roping at the Finals in September.

• The Challenge roping will be two-head with short round for $200 with $2,500 added and a 100% Payback (NO MONEY COMES OUT OF THE POT) 1st Place in the average will pay $2,500 and a buckle.

PAYOFF AVERAGE 1st $2,500 2nd $,1800 3rd $1,350 4th $900 5th $450

Barnes Saddles to Average Winners of the Spring Classic.

Check Out the BigRedRopingCalendar.com.

USCRA has listed all ropings on this website which also includes other association calf ropings along with independent calf ropings.

GO ROUND WINNERS Winner 1st round $250 Winner 2nd round $250 • Ropers 21 or under (as of the day of the roping) are not eligible to enter the 00 Select Challenge.

• Must be 00 Select card holder to be eligible for the 00 Select Challenge.

• Must be a #1 card holder to compete in the #1 Challenge.

2012 Schedule January 14 & 15 West Texas Championships Sweetwater, TX February 25 & 26 Tejas Championships Bulverde, TX March 3 & 4 Spring Classic Giddings, TX April 14 & 15 TBA

10 • JANUARY 2012

May TBA June 9 & 10 North Texas Championships Denton, TX June 30 & July 1 Firecracker 5 Header Stephenville, TX July 21 & 22 Denton, TX

August 4 Hill Country Championships Hamilton, TX August 25 & 26 Calf Ropers Reunion Bryan, TX

2012 Membership Application Membership Dues: $100

Members from states other than Texas, Oklahoma, Louisiana, and New Mexico are $75 Tiedown (Classes EE, 00, #1, #2)

2012 Memberships are good from August 1, 2011 – September 19, 2012 USCRA Membership includes a one-year subscription to Loops magazine.

United States Calf Ropers Assn PO Box 690, Giddings, Texas 78942 979-542-1239

To join, fill out the application & mail to the USCRA office or you can join on-line at our website at www.uscra.com. Please print all information completely and legibly; please fill out a separate form for additional members.

FIRST NAME

Male

LAST NAME

Female

Tiedown MAILING ADDRESS

PAYMENT OPTIONS: The USCRA accepts checks, money orders, or VISA or Mastercard for membership dues. Please make checks or money orders payable to USCRA and mail to: PO Box 690, Giddings, TX 78942. Please fill out the information below for credit card payments:

CITY, STATE, ZIP EMAIL ADDRESS SOCIAL SECURITY # BIRTHDATE WORK #

Visa-M/C Account Number

_ _ _ _-_ _ _ _-

HOME #

_ _ _ _-_ _ _ _ Exp. Date _______________

CELL #

Cardholder Signature

Have you been a member of the USCRA? ______Yes ______No

X__________________________

DISCOUNT FAMILY MEMBERSHIP: $50 Tiedown You must fill out a separate membership application for each Family Membership. First family membership is full price; all additional family memberships are half price. Family memberships are defined as spouse and/or child 19 years & under or siblings that are both 19 years of age & under living at home. Family memberships receive one copy of Loops magazine per household.

Additional subscriptions to Loops can be purchased for $24.00. To receive discount all blanks below must be filled out: Current 2010 USCRA Member’s name_________________________ ID #________ Relation to you_________________

DISCLAIMER: The USCRA reserves the right to re-classify or change classification numbers at any given time. I will not hold USCRA and all those associated with the arena performed in liable for injuries. I understand I am roping at my own risk.

Photographs taken at USCRA events may be used for advertising and promotional purposes. All entry fees are to be paid in cash.

Pay-outs will be in cash.

Please Sign Here: X_________________________________________________

Signature of member or guardian if member is a minor

ROPING SECRETARY USE ONLY Record class. #, date, dues paid, and paid by when application is turned in by roper.

CLASSIFICATION #_______

DATE JOINED__________

DUES PAID $________

PAID BY:

Cash

Check #______ Credit Card

MAILED_________ NEW CLASS #______ DATE CHANGED _________ NEW CARD MAILED__________ LOCATION JOINED_________

LOOPS MAGAZINE • 11

1/2 horizontal

January 14 & 15, 2012 Nolan County Coliseum (Climate Controlled) Sweetwater, Texas Buckles to Average Winners •

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• &+3"+3* +/'0'+*/ 0+ +, '* 0&# 2#. %#

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Saturday 9:00 a.m. 00-S 12:00 p.m. #2 1:00 p.m. 00 Sunday 9:00 a.m. EE 11:00 a.m. #1 )) .+,'*%/ .#

# " $+.

0 ))/ *" &++( 1,/ 2 ') GPS Directions:

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February 25 & 26, 2012 $1,000 Added Money to #2 Roping - sponsored

by CL Concrete • Buckles to Average Winners.

• •

Live band Saturday night after the #2 Roping Steak house and bar on site

• •

No hook-ups or stalls, some outside pens

Match roping TBA during #2 Roping

12 • JANUARY 2012

Tejas Rodeo Arena Bulverde, TX (just outside of San Antonio) SCHEDULE Saturday 9:00 a.m. EE - 4-head for $250 11:00 a.m. #1 - 4-head for $250 5:00 p.m. #2 - 2-head with short round for $200 ($1,000 Added Money) Sunday 10:00 a.m. 00 - 4-head for $250 1:00 p.m. 00-S - 4-head for $250 GPS Directions: 401 OBST Rd. For map go to Tejasrodeo.com

CALF ROPINGS & ROPING SCHOOLS

1/2 horizontal

March 3 & 4, 2012 LCSP Covered Arena Giddings, Texas David Barnes Custom Saddles to Average Winners of EE, 00, 00-S and #1

SCHEDULE Saturday 9:00 a.m. 00 2:00 p.m. 00-S Sunday 9:00 a.m. EE 1:00 p.m. #1

($16,000 in saddles donated by USCRA)

• Note: #2 Roping Will Be Held May 20, 2012 With a Barnes Saddle to Average Winner.

• Attention Ropers: USCRA rules will apply but the USCRA will take UCR cards at this one roping or you can buy a $25 permit.

USCRA numbers will take precedent over UCR numbers. UCR members that are not USCRA members should call before you haul to verify number.

All ropings are 3 Head for $250 with the top 15 advancing to 2 short rounds

76% PAYBACK Stalls and hook-ups available - First come, first served CR VSA

IN HOUSE PROOF

CRX’D

GPS Directions: 2591 Hwy. 290 West, Giddings, TX 78942 Driving Directions: Located 3 miles west of Giddings on Hwy. 290 West

Lone Star Cowboy Church TM

February Events

TM

new covered arena!! wednesday night Team roping practice $20 from 8:00 - 10:00PM

Barrel Race Jackpot Calf Roping Jackpot February 3 & 10

February 17 & 24

exhibition @ 7pm | $5/run

7:00 PM | handicapped

jackpot @ 8pm | $35/run

Bring your own calf

4d barrel race

4 for $100 - tie-down

75% payback

2 for $50 - Breakaway

FMI:

Joe: (936) 827-7132 Caleb: (936) 689-9197

CALF ROPINGS & ROPING SCHOOLS

LOOPS MAGAZINE • 13

Lone Star Cowboy Church TM

January Events

TM

Buckles to high money winners:

Team Roping

January 3rd & 10th

Calf Roping

January 20th & 27th

Barrel Race

January 12th & 19th

8:00 PM Two week series #9 Slide

8:00 PM Two week series Bring your own calf Handicapped Tie-down 4 for $100 Breakaway 2 for $50

Two Week Series Exhibition @ 7:00 pm Run @ 8:00 pm Exhibition 1 run for $5 4d Barrel Race

FMI: 14 â&#x20AC;˘ JANUARY 2012

Joe: (936) 827-7132 Caleb: (936) 689-9197 CALF ROPINGS & ROPING SCHOOLS

T

he USCRA had a surprise for calf ropers this holiday season. Two great events, The Turkey Roping and the Christmas Bonus Roping both played out with lots of winning and great tie-down roping excitement.

The Turkey Roping was held in Giddings, Texas on November 26, 2011 and offered ropers an escape from the normal hubbub of Thanksgiving with a 77% payback roping. Lots of ropers took advantage of this event and showed up to win part of the payout. The one day event was definitely a start of something new to ropers in Texas and with buckles awarded to Average winners throughout the event and lots of

money up for grabs, you can bet the USCRA will be back again next year for even more Thanksgiving treats for calf ropers.

The Christmas Bonus Roping was held at the Lone Star Arena in Stephenville on December 10-11 and held lots of extra treats for ropers. Not only were trophy buckles and cash awarded to the Average winners, as well as money in each round, but plenty of cash bonuses were awarded just in time for several ropers to spend on Christmas treats. There was a $250 Bonus calf in each of the final rounds of the roping, as well as $100 bonus to the high money EE or 00 that entered and won money in the 00

Select roping. Lastly, another $100 was awarded to the winner of the #1 roper who entered and won money in the #2 roping.

Good times, lots of calf roping excitement and fun were had at these two events. Winners walked away with cash and prizes in their possession and the USCRA came out with a positive spin for the New Year. Ropers can count on the USCRA to continue to offer great ropings throughout the remainder of the 2012 season and to keep their events fun and enjoyable for every caliber of roper. Congratulations to all of the Turkey and Christmas Bonus Winners. K

Turkey Roping Results

#1 1st round 1. Colton Turbeville, 10.61, $225; 2. Brad McReynolds, 10.77, $150 2nd round 1. Trenton Smith, 10.46, $225; 2. Tom Epperson, 11.04, $150 Short round 1. Trenton Smith, 13.91, $75 Average 1. Trenton Smith, 37.14, $405; 2. Brad McReynolds, 22.61/2, $270

Average 1. Sy Felton, 50.19, $475; 2. Ronnie Cunningham, 53.95, $420; 3. Scott Cunningham, 56.75, $300 00-Select 1st round 1. Dave Laster, 12.00, $220; 2. Garrett Rose, 12.09, $145 2nd round 1. Garrett Rose, 10.03, $220; 2. Randy Stone, 10.29, $145 3rd round 1. Garrett Rose, 9.92, $220; 2. Landon Lambert, 11.02, $145 4th round 1. Bill Akins, 10.02, $220; 2. Ruben Wood, 11.12, $145 Average 1. Dave Laster, 51.26, $590; 2. Cole Gifford, 53.52, $395

EE 1st round 1. Calvin Steen, 11.69, $245; 2. Chris Wischert, 12.86, $215; 3. Barry Murphree, 13.28, $155 2nd round 1. David Davidson, 11.11, $245; 2. Cleo Hearn, 13.00, $215; 3. Colton Williams, 15.31, $155 Short round 1. David Davidson, 12.89, $120 Average 1. David Davidson, 38.46, $440; 2. Calvin Steen, 42.57, $385; 3. Colton Williams, 47.48, $275 00 1st round 1. Greg Modesette, 10.28, $285; 2. Doug Hough, 12.07, $250; 3. Clay Klawinsky, 12.15, $180 2nd round 1. Johnny Vercher, 10.79, $285; 2. Frank Meehan, 10.86, $250; 3. Ken Garriso,n 11.89, $180 Short round 1. Charles Herrera, 11.37, $85; 2. Steve Kolle, 12.36, $55 Average 1. Ken Garrison, 39.81, $515; 2. Stephen Perry, 40.98, $450; 3. Doung Hough, 42.58, $320 00-Select 1st round 1. Saunric Mason, 9.34, $230; 2. Danny Stephens, 11.40, $200; 3. Ruben Wood, 11.67, $145 2nd round 1. Ricky Harris Jr., 9.82, $230; 2. Sid Miller, 11.92, $200; 3.

Saunric Mason, 12.06, $145 Short round 1. Saunric Mason, 12.23, $115 Average 1. Saunric Mason, 33.63, $415; 2. Danny Stephens, 36.51, $365; 3. Ricky Harris Jr., 24.69/2, $260

Christmas Bonus Roping Results EE 1st round 1. Jerry Berrier, 12.06, $300; 2. Chris Wishert, 12.89, $200 2nd round 1. Calvin Steen, 11.42, $300; 2. Scott Williamson, 13.07, $200 3rd round 1. Gage Willimason, 11.38, $300; 2. Steve Milligan, 11.95, $200 4th round 1. Terry Davidson, 12.97, $535; 2. Calvin Steen, 13.24, $200 Average 1. Calvin Steen, 56.73, $535; 2. Terry Davidson, 61.57, $470; 3. Colton Williams, 70.44, $335 00 1st round 1. David Davidson, 10.85, $265; 2. Sy Felton, 12.68, $180 2nd round 1. Lee Reed, 11.69, $265; 2. Russell Moore, 12.54, $180 3rd round 1. Sy Felton, 11.19, $265; 2. Ronnie Cunningham, 12.05, $180 4th round 1. Johnny Vercher, 11.15, $265; 2. Sy Felton 12.15, $180

#1 1st round 1. Mark Law, 9.41, $395; 2. Brad McReynolds, 9.60, $265 2nd round 1. Marshall Green, 9.47, $395; 2. Kip Boggs, 9.60, $265 3rd round 1. Rick McLemore, 9.10, $395; 2. Westyn Hughes, 9.40, $265 4th round 1. Tyler Milligan, 8.74, $395; 2. Rick McLemore, 8.85, $265 Average 1 .Chad Boggs, 42.84, $705; 2. Tom Epperson, 43.01, $615; 3. Brad McReynolds, 43.85, $440 #2 1st round 1. Jordan Weaver, 10.20, $238 2nd round 1. C.J. De Forest,10.26, $238 3rd round 1. Ron Rhodes, 10.78, $238 4th round 1. Jordan Weaver, 10.44, $238 Average 1. Jordan Weaver, 47.13, $380; 2. Shawn Felton, 47.30, $250

LOOPS MAGAZINE â&#x20AC;˘ 15

Rodeo Kicks up ‘Historic’ Ratings Storm For Great American Country

GAC’s 10 nights of live coverage from the Wrangler National Finals Rodeo delivers record viewership Great American Country’s exclusive live coverage of the Wrangler National Finals Rodeo in Las Vegas (Dec. 1-10) delivered a network record 9.8 million viewers across all telecasts (4.1 million adults 2554)1 - a level GAC President Ed Hardy called “historic.”

The GAC coverage connected the interest country music enthusiasts have for rodeo with the artists they love, including fan favorites Trace Adkins, Garth Brooks, Reba McEntire and Chris Young in the network’s coverage of the event. Additionally, artist Craig Morgan acted as a roving reporter for seven “inside the WNFR” episodes produced by GAC to take viewers behind the scenes of the big event.

“The connection between country music fans and the rodeo lifestyle has never been stronger,” Hardy said. “Our bringing live coverage of the entire Wrangler NFR has brought hundreds of thousands of new fans to experience both WNFR and GAC.” This year marks GAC’s first as the home of the WNFR, sanctioned by the Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association. GAC also carries the PRCA’s Xtreme Bulls Tour, as well as its championship rodeos. The Wrangler National Finals Rodeo draws nearly 200,000 fans to the Thomas & Mack Arena each year. The event is sold out years in advance.

“This is, as they say, a ‘good ride,’” Hardy said. “There is no better fit than GAC viewers, country music fans, and fans of professional rodeo. We can’t wait ‘til next year.”

“The PRCA is overwhelmingly pleased with the move to GAC,” said PRCA Commissioner

Karl Stressman. “We strongly believe that GAC’s commitment to the PRCA, including consistent time slots, LIVE coverage of all 10 rounds of the Wrangler NFR and year-round promotion will not only help us better serve our current fan base, but will also provide our great sport with the depth and quality of coverage that will help us develop new fans. The success of this year’s WNFR only proves our shared synergies and we are looking forward to a continued partnership with GAC.” 1-Source: Nielsen via NPower, 12/112/11/11,30 Telecasts,Program Reach with1 minute qualifier, Viewers = P2+, Total US Cvg Area, Live+7. Subject to qualifications which will be supplied upon request.

Toys 4 Tots — Cowboy Style!

Top rodeo cowboy Trevor Brazile and the United States Marines teamed up with Western lifestyle manufacturer Pro Equine Group to benefit the Marine Toys For Tots Foundation’s charity during rodeo’s championship competition - the Wrangler® National Finals of Rodeo - held annually in Las Vegas, Nevada.

The Toys For Tots cause gives needy children a brighter holiday season. Brazile and three Marines launched their MGM Grand donation site with an autograph signing and donation drive.

16 • JANUARY 2012

The only $4 million Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association competitor, Trevor Brazile, and United States Marines Sgt. Plikenton, Cpl. Gonzales and LCpl. Melgar support the Marine Toys For Tots Foundation in Las Vegas, Nev., during rodeo’s championship competition - the Wrangler® National Finals Rodeo.

The event was coordinated by Western lifestyle manufacturer Pro Equine Group. In addition to Relentless™ merchandise - which is Brazile’s label - the company offers products through its Cactus Ropes, Cactus Saddlery, Fast Back Ropes, Heel-O-Matic and Pro Equine Products family of brands.

Trevor Brazile and the Marines sign autographs and accept gifts for the Marine Toys For Tots Foundation.

Donations will be taken at the MGM Grand.

Three Marine hats rest near a portrait of Trevor Brazile while their owners and the rodeo legend work together at a Toys For Tots event.

Two Marines showcase a donated Toys For Tots items.

Donations were accepted throughout the WranglerÂŽ National Finals.

LOOPS MAGAZINE â&#x20AC;˘ 17

A

nother Wrangler National Finals has come and gone and I want to congratulate my nephew, Tuf Cooper, for winning his first gold buckle. He’s roped well all year and I’m very proud of him. I’d sure like to give him a run for his money before I’m done.

Tuf came to my hotel room before the last performance to see if I had any advice. I told him he’d already done the hardest thing, which was sleeping the night before. Tuf is not an early riser

and I was a little surprised to get a text from him the next morning at 8:00 a.m. It said: “You were wrong. The hardest thing to do is sleep the night after you win your first gold buckle.” I had to agree, because it took me two or three days before I got a good night’s rest.

This year, we saw a whole new bunch of young ropers. I call them the Ninja Turtles.

And, some of the guys that are normally there were absent, like Fred and me. We’ll

probably see Fred competing again next year and I’m hopeful to be there myself.

Lots of folks have asked whether I’m injured and basically why I didn’t rodeo in 2011. I went to about twelve rodeos but what has had me sidelined is a fractured pelvis. I was trying a ranch horse who decided to buck me off at a dead run. He didn’t get that accomplished, but did have me convinced I’d pulled my groin. I gave myself a few weeks off

A special thanks to my sponsors for supporting not only me, but also the sport that lets me do what I love.

TM

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18 • JANUARY 2012

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before entering a rodeo. As I was crossing and tying the calf I was fairly certain I would pass out from the pain. I didn’t, but realized then there was something more serious going on than a pulled groin. Dr. Tandy confirmed it with x-rays and I just haven’t healed as quickly as I would like.

We recently did an MRI that showed two fractures with some ligament damage, and he is conferring with some specialists.

Right now I’m focused on

heeling and seizing this opportunity to enjoy my time at home. This is probably the most fun I can remember having. We had our little girl this year and it’s been so nice to be home and spoil her and enjoy the boys.

I would also like to take my hat off to Trevor Brazile. I don’t if people realize that we are watching an athlete that comes along once in a lifetime, maybe. I know how difficult it is to be one of the top competitors in one

event. Trevor consistently is a top competitor in three events.

He makes it look so easy that we take his talent for granted. It demonstrates his skill set and how hard he works at what he does. He makes history on a daily basis and I congratulate him for accomplishments.

P/Uhis W CH VSA IN HOUSE PROOF Congratulations to all the 2011 World Champions! I’m going to get well and then I’ll see you all somewhere down the line. God Bless. K

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LOOPS MAGAZINE • 19

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New Beginnings

A

s we go through life, we go through seasons of life. Throughout the Word of God we see many times where God gave individuals a do-over.

Have you ever needed a do-over with your spouse, with your kids, at work or with God? I remember many times as a child I would not be obedient. The directions that my parents gave me out of love were not appreciated and consequences were painful because of the choices I made. In John Chapter 3, Jesus gave a man named Nicodemus a do-over.

He said you MUST be born again. It wasn’t an option. It was a commandment. In order to have peace with the one we have transgressed against, there must be a path to forgiveness. Because of God’s mercy, because of His grace, as well as His discipline, we can obtain a do-over. As a child there were many days that I would get a whipping from my dad. My dad would use his belt on the seat of my understanding to get the results of discipline. However, his love was always the reason I accepted his discipline.

I have witnessed individuals in the horse world who thought they could train

20 • JANUARY 2012

their roping horses by whipping them into submission. I would submit to you that those horses that were MADE to do it did not last near as long as the ones who were trained to do what they were already created to do. They just needed a correct path. Discipline is not pleasant, but when we are trained to follow Christ because we love Christ, we will live for Him because we want to, not because we have to. Whether we recognize it or not, we were all created to need a Savior.

All of the guidance and instruction for peace is in His word. His mercy is not something we should ever take for granted, but appreciate and cherish as the most valuable gift for new life in the New Year.

God Bless!

Pastor Randy Weaver Lone Star Cowboy Church 21627 Eva St. Montgomery, TX 77356 (936) 597-5742 Service Times: Sundays 8:30, 10:00 and 11:30am Mondays 7:00pm

by Ryan Davis

J

anuary if here and if you are like me, you’re sorry the Holidays are over and your’re not looking forward to the next couple of cold months ahead of us.

The weather here in New Mexico has already been cold. The white Christmas was nice, but I am already sick of it and ready for spring.

The only thing I can look forward to is spending nights playing board games and cards with my boys after work.

As we break into this New Year, I am sure a lot of you, like me, are wondering what kind of New Years resolutions can I make that I won’t forget about in three weeks. I have never been one for solid resolutions.

However, I believe the older we get the more important these kind of things are.

I spend a lot of my life running at the moment. I don’t think this is a bad way of living and don’t get me wrong, I have planned a few things out that seem to be going okay, but I like to live life in the moment. I know this has led me to where I am and I am happy with it. However, during the past few years as the country has turned toward a downward spiral, I have thought more and more about the “if I’s,” the “Should have’s” and the “Could have’s.” If only I had looked more at the future then living so much in the present. I believe I am like a lot of other folks in this situation–looking back we know we could have done better if we had planned a little bit better.

With a New Year, I am prepared to begin looking into my future a bit more and planning my life a bit better. Like I said, I am not unhappy about anything I have done and I thank the Lord for what I have and how he has blessed me. But, being a Monday morning quarterback, at what I could have done more if I had only planned a bit better gives me an idea on what to do in the future.

I think everyone should find a quiet place to sit back and go over their lives and see what they need to do to improve it. What better time to begin then with the New Year.

It may be more time devoted to family and friends, more time for yourself to enjoy the things you want to do, or perhaps it’s

something as simple as working harder to get what you want. This may be at work, at roping or at that hobby you always wanted to take up. Really, I believe it is a good time to find something that makes you happy and go after it.

I hope I don’t sound like I’m preaching, but in these stressful times, I believe we could all benefit from a little more happiness. I hope you will be like me and figure out one thing you can do to help bring you a little more delight to yourself this New Year.

Until – IN next HOUSEtime PROOF Good Luck and God Bless Ryan Davis

VSA

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LOOPS MAGAZINE • 21

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22 • JANUARY 2012

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