The Official Publication of the
December 2011 • Vol. 14 #12 • $3.00
WNFR Who Will It Be?
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UNITED STATES CALF ROPERS ASSOCIATION P.O. Box 690, Giddings, Texas 78942 979.542.1239 fax 979.542.0170 www.USCRA.com
Clem McSpadden National Finals Steer Roping Meet the Top 15 2011 WNFR Tie-Down Ropers Roland Reid Memorial
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Clem McSpadden National Finals Steer Roping
Brazile Nearly Goes Wire to Wire for 15th Title Trevor Brazile’s final run at the Clem McSpadden National Finals Steer Roping wasn’t his fastest of the two-day, 10-round championship on November 11-12 at the Lazy E Arena. It wasn’t the prettiest, either. But that 13.7-second sprint to the finish was efficient and accomplished a major goal for Brazile’s 2011 campaign, his third Steer Roping World Championship and the 15th Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association World Title in his stellar career. “I owe a lot of that success to San Antone,” Brazile said of the San Antonio Stock Show and Rodeo, which initiated steer roping into its competition this season and provided one of the biggest purses of the season; Brazile won $24,060 there. “That was a huge win for me. I knew it going in. I prepared for that like I would a National Finals.” In fact, it was 25 percent of Brazile’s earnings this season, but it wasn’t the only win. He also earned Steer Roping titles at All-American ProRodeo Finals (Waco, Texas), Lea County Fair & PRCA Rodeo (Lovington, N.M.), Beef Empire Days PRCA Rodeo (Garden City, Kan.), Will Rogers Stampede (Claremore, Okla.), San Antonio Stock Show & Rodeo, SandHills Stock Show & Rodeo (Odessa, Texas), Guymon (Okla.) Pioneer Days Rodeo and the Butterfield Stage Days (Bridgeport, Texas). “I like to win every time I get a chance, therefore I don’t leave everything on one run,” said Brazile, 35, of Decatur, Texas. “I like to get my job done ahead of schedule. “Steer roping’s taught me to win money when you can, because there are more variables in this event than anything.” One of the variables was Two-Time Reigning World Champion Rocky Patterson of Pratt, Kan., who inched his way into the World Standings lead by winning the ninth go-round on Saturday night. After struggling to just two qualified runs during the first five rounds on
Friday night, Patterson placed in four of five rounds Saturday, including the ninth-round victory. That pushed him ahead of Brazile by $173 heading into the final run of the 2011 season. Patterson was not in the average race – he finished ninth in the average with a cumulative total of 87.3 seconds on seven qualified times – so in order to claim his third straight Montana Silversmiths gold buckle, the Kansan had to win the go-round and watch Brazile fall to fifth in the aggregate race. Brazile was the second-tolast cowboy to go, just ahead of Patterson. When he raised his hands in the air and called for time, the World Championship was Brazile’s. “It just made it that much sweeter,” said Brazile, of Decatur, Texas. “There are things you remember, and I’ll remember that run because of that race, whereas you don’t remember it when it doesn’t come down to (that). “When your heart’s not that heavy on your last one, it doesn’t stick with you as long.” Most of the two-day championship didn’t sit pretty for Two-Time World Champion Scott Snedecor, but he got the job done the hard way. Snedecor, of Fredericksburg, Texas, was the only cowboy in the 15man field to rope and tie down all 10 steers, claiming the aggregate title. It’s the second such award Snedecor has earned in his career. “Out of the 10 steers, I probably had seven of them that kicked me or tried to get up,” he said. “These steers were really good two weeks ago. I was on the wrong end of them.” Still, there is a nice new piece of hardware hanging from his belt. “A (NFSR) average title is the second best thing a guy can get in his career,” Snedecor said. “Other than a gold buckle, that’s the next step down. I’m fortunate enough to have two gold buckles and two average buckles.” In addition, Montana Silversmiths also created GoRound Buckles for cowboys who excelled throughout the weekend. Snedecor failed to place in any round and his $15,231 was nice. But it was far from the biggest. In fact, six cowboys earned more money in Guthrie that weekend, led by Chance Kelton of Mayer, Ariz., who pocketed $28,615. Kelton placed in five go-rounds, including the win in the third, and finished second in the average race to Snedecor. Early on in the championship, it looked as though J.P. Wickett of Sallisaw, Okla., had a bulls-eye painted on the Average Title. Wickett won the first round with a 10.5-second run, and then finished second in the LOOPS MAGAZINE • 5
second (11.0) and third in the third (12.0). Then in a All-Around, Tie-Down Roping and Team Ropingtough pen, he slugged through a 13.2-second run to Heading Championships, then added the Steer Roping win the fourth round. In all, he won $17,308 on Title this November. “You’ve got to do what you’ve got opening night. All was great until that fifth go-round, to do (to win). There are times of year when it pays to when the steer got up after the trip. be reckless, and this was not one of those times. “That ticks me off,” Wickett said. “I really wanted to “It’s hard knowing that you’re losing ground. It’s rope all five head tonight. I got in a little bit of a hurry, hard not to listen to that, but you can’t get caught up in and I rushed the trip. That was my fault.” In a rare that. You go to battle in the go-rounds with guys that moment of success on Friday, Patterson won the second aren’t in the average.” As in years past and just like the go-round with a 10.4-second run. That $5,077 check Wrangler National Finals Rodeo, the event will came in handy at the consisted of 10 go-rounds end, where Patterson to determine the PRCA finished second in the World Champion and the world standings with final 2011 PRCA Steer $87,642. Where others Roping World Standings. faltered, first-timer Kim The Lazy E Arena was Ziegelgruber of nearby built to host the NFSR in Edmond, Okla., 1984 by E.K. succeeded. He won the Gaylord II. The Lazy E fifth round and placed hosted this world five others. He finished championship event from fourth in the average 1984 until 2000. After race and earned $19,192 eight years, first in through the weekend. Amarillo followed by “I drew just right for Hobbs, the event moved that last steer,” back “home” to the Lazy 2011 PRCA Steer Roping champion, Trevor Brazile in action at Ziegelgruber told E. In 2009, the Oklahoma the 2011 National Finals of Steer Roping at the Lazy E Arena in Marvin Olberding of state Legislature Guthrie, Oklahoma ProRodeo Sports News. unanimously passed a “I had the opportunity to free this horse up, and that resolution to change the name of the event to honor was perfect for that last one. That steer kind of sat up the late Clem McSpadden, who served for many years when I roped him. I was nervous, because I put a wrap in the Oklahoma Legislature and the U.S. House of and a half on him.” Representatives while also building a reputation as one Chet Herren of Pawhuska, Okla., came out on of the best announcers in rodeo history. He worked the Saturday night with a vengeance, trying to make up for steer roping finals a record 27 times. McSpadden was a rough opening night, where he had qualified times on also known as the “Voice of the Lazy E”. A portion of just two runs and failed. He won the sixth go-round in the proceeds from the 2011 Clem McSpadden National 10.3 seconds, and then earned another Montana Finals Steer Roping were donated to the National Silversmiths Go-Round Buckle in the seventh when he Cowboy and Western Heritage Museum in Oklahoma bested his traveling partners, Patterson and Cody City and the Clem McSpadden Endowed Chair at Scheck, in the fastest of the competition. Oklahoma State University. The Lazy E is proud to Patterson had set the standard early with a 10.8, but support these institutions for Western preservation. Scheck went seven players later and scored a 9.6The 2011 Clem McSpadden National Finals Steer second run. Herren, the next cowboy on the list, Roping was presented by National Saddlery, with bettered that mark but one tenth of a second to take support from Wrangler, American Farmers & Ranchers the round victory. Herren placed in five rounds and Insurance, Boyd Gaming, Montana Silversmiths, the won $20,385. Scheck, though, finished strong. He American Quarter Horse Association, Justin Boots, scored just one qualified time on opening night, but he Priefert Ranch & Rodeo Equipment, Ram Rodeo, John made up for it on Saturday, placing in three rounds and Vance Auto Group, Pendleton Whisky, Purina Mills, winning the other two – well, he split the eighth-round Cinderella Horses, the San Antonio Stock Show & victory with Vin Fisher Jr. (10.0) and won the 10th Rodeo, Kyler Cattle Company, the National Cowboy round in 10.4. Fisher, who entered the Clem and Western Heritage Museum, The Oklahoman, One McSpadden as a contender for the world title, placed in Stop Copy Shop, the Fairfield Inn & Suites – Edmond, just three go rounds. Those are the breaks at Best Western – Edmond, and the Comfort Suites – championship events. Edmond. The Clem McSpadden NFSR was a Lazy E “A little bit too conservative, but in the end, it’s all Production. For more information on the NFSR or other about the ‘W,’” said Brazile, who has won four Lazy E events, contact the Lazy E Arena, 9600 Lazy E Montana Silversmiths Gold Buckles in less than a year – Drive, Guthrie, OK 73044, (405) 282-RIDE, (800) 595he won the Triple Crown in December 2010 with the RIDE or visit www.lazye.com. 6 • DECEMBER 2011
Clem McSpadden National Finals Steer Roping Lazy E Arena November 11-12 First Round 1. J.P. Wickett, Sallisaw, Okla., 10.5 seconds, $5,077; 2. Trevor Brazile, Decatur, Texas, 11.1, $4,077; 3. Chance Kelton, Mayer, Ariz., 11.9, $3,077; 4. Kim Ziegelgruber, Edmond, Okla., 12.1, $2,077; 5. Vin Fisher Jr., Andrews, Texas, 12.3, $1,077 Second Round 1. Rocky Patterson, Pratt, Kan., 10.4 seconds, $5,077; 2. J.P. Wickett, Sallisaw, Okla., 11.0, $4,077; 3. Vin Fisher Jr., Andrews, Texas, 11.1, $3,077; 4. Kim Ziegelgruber, Edmond, Okla., 11.4, $2,077; 5. Will Gasperson, Decatur, Texas, 13.0, $1,077 Third Round 1. Chance Kelton, Mayer, Ariz., 11.5 seconds, $5,077; 2. Chet Herren, Pawhuska, Okla., 11.7, $4,077; 3. J.P. Wickett, Sallisaw, Okla., 12.0, $3,077; 4. Cody Lee, Gatesville, Texas, 12.6, $2,077; 5. Trevor Brazile, Decatur, Texas, 13.7, $1,077 Fourth Round 1. J.P. Wickett, Sallisaw, Okla., 13.2 seconds, $5,077; 2. Rocky Patterson, Pratt, Kan., 13.5, $4,077; 3. Cody Lee, Gatesville, Texas, 14.2, $3,077; 4. Chet Herren, Pawhuska, Okla., 15.8, $2,077; 5. Kim Ziegelgruber, Edmond, Okla., 16.9, $1,077 Fifth Round 1. Kim Ziegelgruber, Edmond, Okla., 10.7 seconds, $5,077; 2. Mike Chase, McAlester, Okla., 11.4, $4,077; 3. Chance Kelton, Mayer, Ariz., 11.5, $3,077; 4. Trevor Brazile, Decatur, Texas, 11.7, $2,077; 5. Bryce Davis, Abilene, Texas, 12.1, $1,077 Sixth Round 1. Chet Herren, Pawhuska, Okla., 10.3 seconds, $5,077; 2. Rocky Patterson, Pratt, Kan.,11.1, $4,077; 3. Will Gasperson, Decatur, Texas, 11.6, $3,077; 4. J.P. Wickett, Sallisaw, Okla., 11.9, $2,077; 5. Cody Lee, Gatesville, Texas, 12.5, $1,077. Seventh Round 1. Chet Herren, Pawhuska, Okla., 9.5 seconds, $5,077; 2. Cody Scheck, Kiowa, Kan., 9.6, $4,077; 3. Rocky Patterson, Pratt, Kan., 10.8, $3,077; 4. (tie) Bryce Davis, Abilene, Texas, 11.4, $1,577; 5. Kim Ziegelgruber, Edmond, Okla., 11.4, $1,577 Eight Round 1. (tie) Vin Fisher Jr., Andrews, Texas, and Cody Scheck, Kiowa, Kan., 10.0 seconds, $4,577 each; 3. Trevor Brazile, Decatur, Texas, 11.0, $3,077; 4. Chance Kelton, Mayer, Ariz., 11.7, $2,077; 5. Kim Ziegelgruber, Edmond, Okla., 12.3, $1,077 Ninth Round 1. Rocky Patterson, Pratt, Kan., 11.8 seconds, $5,077; 2. Bryce Davis, Abilene, Texas, 12.1, $4,077; 3. Chance Kelton, Mayer, Ariz., 12.3,
$3,077; 4. Jess Tierney, Hermosa, S.D., 13.9, $2,077; 5. Will Gasperson, Decatur, Texas, 14.6, $1,077 Tenth Round 1. Cody Scheck, Kiowa, Kan., 10.4 seconds, $5,077; 2. Chet Herren, Pawhuska, Okla., 11.1, $4,077; 3. Mike Chase, McAlester, Okla., 11.3, $3,077; 4. Bryce Davis, Abilene, Texas, 11.4, $2,077; 5. Will Gasperson, Decatur, Texas, 13.3, $1,077. Average 1. Scott Snedecor, Fredericksburg, Texas, 172.8 seconds on ten head, $15,231; 2. Chance Kelton, Mayer, Ariz., 116.5 on nine, $12,231; 3. Trevor Brazile, Decatur, Texas, 121.5, $9,231; 4. Kim Ziegelgruber, Edmond, Okla., 123.5, $6,231; 5. Cody Lee, Gatesville, Texas, 129.7, $3,231; 6. J.P. Wickett, Sallisaw, Okla., 103.8 on eight; 7. Chet Herren, Pawhuska, Okla., 110.7; 8. Jess Tierney, Hermosa, S.D., 135.5; 9. Rocky Patterson, Pratt, Kan., 87.3 on seven; 10. Will Gasperson, Decatur, Texas, 100.2; 11. Mike Chase, McAlester, Okla., 104.7; 12. Vin Fisher Jr., Andrews, Texas, 110.9; 13. Bryce Davis, Abilene, Texas, 75.8 on six; 14. Cody Scheck, Kiowa, Kan., 62.8 on five; 15. Ralph Williams, Skiatook, Okla., 80.9.
Pratt, Kansas roper, Rocky Patterson made up a lot of ground at the 2011 NFSR to finish second for the season.
Scott Snedecor of Fredericksburg, Texas, roped and tied all ten head in 172.8 seconds at the 2011 NFSR, on his way to win the Average. LOOPS MAGAZINE • 7
Meet the Top 15 2011 WNFR Tie-Down Ropers
Tuf Cooper 2011 earnings $145,311 Joined PRCA: 2008 PRCA Career Earnings: $713,264 WNFR Qualifications: 4 Current Residence: Decatur, Texas Wrangler NFR average titles: 1 (2009) 2011 Highlights • Won the Justin Boots Championships, Omaha, NB • Co-champion at the Kitsap County Fair & Stampede, Bremerton, WA • Won the Snake River Stampede, Nampa, ID • Won the Clark County Fair & Rodeo, Logandale, NV • Won the Walker County Fair & Rodeo, Huntsville, TX • Won the Pasadena, TX) Livestock Show & Rodeo • Won the Dixie National Rodeo, Jackson, MS • Won the Butterfield Stage Days, Bridgeport, TX • Won the Livingsto, MT Round-Up • Won the Gooding, ID) ProRodeo Hunter Herrin 2011 earnings $114,946 Joined PRCA: 2004 PRCA Career Earnings: $837,765 WNFR Qualifications: 5 Current Residence: Apache, Oklahoma 2011 Highlights • Won the Ram Prairie Circuit Finals Rodeo, Weatherford, OK • Won the Caldwell, ID Night Rodeo • Won the Colorado State Fair & Rodeo, Pueblo, CO • Won the Original Will Rogers Memorial Rodeo, Vinita, OK • Won the Rodeo of the Ozarks, Springdale, AR • Won the Black Hills Stock Show & Rodeo, Rapid City, SD • Won the Buc Days Pro Rodeo, Corpus Christi, TX • Won the 101 Wild West Rodeo, Ponca City, OK • Won the Clovis, CA Rodeo • Won the Buffalo Bill Rodeo, North Platte, NB Trevor Brazile 2011 earnings $259,043 (AA), $92,014 (TD), $96,700 (SR), $70,238 (TR) Joined PRCA: 1996 PRCA Career Earnings: $4,169,002 World Titles Won: 15 WNFR Qualifications: 37 Current Residence: Decatur, Texas 2011 Highlights, Tie-down roping titles • New Mexico State Fair Rodeo, Albuquerque, NM • Horse Heaven Round-up, Kennewick, WA • Parker County Frontier Days ProRodeo, Weatherford, TX • Mesquite, TX ProRodeo Series • West Texas Fair & Rodeo, Abilene, TX • Treaty Day Celebration & PRCA Rodeo, Window Rock, AZ • Fort Bend County Fair & Rodeo, Rosenberg, TX • Central Wyoming Fair & Rodeo, Casper, WY
Shane Hanchey 2011 earnings $88,867 PRCA Career Earnings: $329,707 WNFR Qualifications: 2 Current Residence: Sulphur, Louisiana 2011 Highlights • Won the Ram Southeastern Circuit Finals, Rodeo, Davie, FL • Won the Trinity Valley Exposition, Liberty, TX • Won the Angelina County Benefit Rodeo, Lufkin, TX • Won the Home of Champions Rodeo, Red Lodge, MT • Won the Franklin, TN Rodeo Clint Cooper 2011 earnings $84,688 Joined PRCA: 2001 PRCA Career Earnings: $627,584 WNFR Qualifications: 4 Current Residence: Decatur, Texas 2011 Highlights • Won the Pikes Peak or Bust Rodeo, Colorado Springs, CO) Cody Ohl 2011 earnings $84,064 (AA), $80,340 (TD), $3,724 (SR) Joined PRCA: 1994 PRCA Career Earnings: $2,877,578 World Titles Won: 6 WNFR Qualifications: 17 Current Residence: Hico, Texas 2011 Highlights • Won the Reno, NV Rodeo • Won the San Antonio Stock Show & Rodeo • Won the Dodge City, KS Roundup Rodeo • Won the Spokane, WA Interstate Rodeo Tyson Durfey 2011 earnings $80,044 Joined PRCA: 2003 PRCA Career Earnings: $692,034 WNFR Qualifications: 5 Current Residence: Colbert, Wash. 2011 Highlights • Won the Dodge National Circuit Finals Rodeo, Oklahoma City, OK • Won the Matagorda County Fair & Rodeo, Bay City, TX • Won the San Augustine County PRCA Rodeo, San Augustine, TX • Won the Elgin, OR Stampede
Cory Solomon 2011 earnings $73,722 Joined PRCA: 2009 PRCA Career Earnings: $140,632 WNFR Qualifications: 1 Current Residence: Prairie View, Texas 2011 Highlights • Won the Inter-state Fair & Rodeo, Coffeyville, KS • Won the Strathmore, Alberta Stampede • Won the Medicine Hat, Alberta Stampede • Won the World’s Oldest Rodeo, Prescott, AZ • Won the Dinosaur Roundup Rodeo, Vernal, UT • Won the North Texas State Fair & Rodeo, Denton, TX Scott Kormos 2011 earnings $70,748 Joined PRCA: 2001 PRCA Career Earnings: $818,598 WNFR Qualifications: 7 Current Residence: Teague, Texas 2011 Highlights • Won the Deadwood, SD Days of ‘76 Rodeo • Won the Spanish Fork, UT Fiesta Days Rodeo • Won the Greeley, CO Independence Stampede • Co-champion at the Tri-State Rodeo, Fort Madison, IA • Won the Magic Valley Stampede, Filer, ID • Won the Dillon, MT Jaycee Rodeo • Won the Mo Betta Stampede, Anadarko, OK Timber Moore 2011 earnings $70,344 Joined PRCA: 2007 PRCA Career Earnings: $233,656 WNFR Qualifications: 1 Current Residence: Aubrey, Texas 2011 earnings: $70,344 2011 Highlights • Won the all-around at the Farm-City ProRodeo, Hermiston, OR • Won the all-around at the Buc Days Pro Rodeo, Corpus Christi, TX • Won the Lea Park Rodeo, Marwyane, Alberta • Won Kansas’ BIggest Rodeo, Phillipsburg, KS • Co-champion at the Heart of the North Rodeo, (Spooner, WI Matt Shiozawa 2011 earnings $67,622 Joined PRCA: 1999 PRCA Career Earnings: $979,802 WNFR Qualifications: 5 Current Residence: Chubbuck, Idaho 2011 Highlights • Won the Fort Worth, TX Stock Show & Rodeo • Won the Walla Walla, WA Frontier Days • Won the Red Bluff, CA Round-Up • Won all-around and tie-down roping at the Pony Express Days Rodeo, Eagle Mountain, UT • Won the Rocky ProRodeo, Rocky Mountain House, Alberta • Won the Taber, Alberta ProRodeo • Co-champion at the Canby, OR Rodeo • Co-champion at the St. George, UT Lions Dixie Round-up
Adam Gray 2011 earningsPRCA Career Earnings: $346,063 WNFR Qualifications: 2 Current Residence: Seymour, Texas 2011 Highlights • Won the All-American ProRodeo Finals, Waco, TX Jerrad Hofstetter 2011 earnings $65,109 Joined PRCA: 2006 PRCA Career Earnings: $412,551 WNFR Qualifications: 3 Current Residence: Athens, Texas 2011 Highlights • Won the 115th Cheyenne, WY Frontier Days Rodeo • Won the Oregon Trail Rodeo, Hastings, NB • Won the Range Days Rodeo, Rapid City, SD • Won the Longford, KS Rodeo Ryan Jarrett 2011 earnings $64,327 Joined PRCA: 2004 PRCA Career Earnings: $984,398 World Titles Won: 1 (AA 2005) WNFR Qualifications: 6 Current Residence: Comanche, Oklahoma 2011 Highlights • La Fiesta de los Vaqueros (Tucson) • Lincoln County Fair Rodeo (Afton, Wyo.) Clif Cooper 2011 earnings $64,070 Joined PRCA: 2008 PRCA Career Earnings: $249,626 WNFR Qualifications: 2 Current Residence: Decatur, Texas 2011 Highlights • Won the Lewiston, ID Roundup • Won the Last Chance Stampede, Helena, MT • Won the Santa Rosa Roundup, Vernon, TX • Won the Guy Weadick Memorial Rodeo, High River, Alberta • Won the North Idaho Fair & Rodeo, Coeur d’ Alene, ID • Won the Sanders County Fair & PRCA Rodeo, Plains, MT • Co-champion at the Sundre, Alberta ProRodeo • Won the Andy Devine Days Rodeo, Kingman, AZ
LOOPS MAGAZINE • 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.
00 Roping Split The 00 Roping will be divided into two ropings for the 2012 season. There will be a 00 and 00 Select. You may now call and check your status.
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 10th 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 $2500 and a buckle. PAYOFF AVERAGE 1st $2,500 2nd $,1800 3rd $1,350 4th $900 5th $450
Christmas Roping Check out the Christmas Bonus Roping ad!
GO ROUND WINNERS Winner 1st round $250 Winner 2nd round $250
USCRA is now on Facebook The United States Calf Ropers Association now has an official Facebook Page! Go “Like” us!
• 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 December 10 & 11 Christmas Bonus Roping Stephenville, TX
March 3 & 4 Spring Classic Giddings, TX
June 30 & July 1 Firecracker 5 Header Stephenville, TX
January 14 & 15 West Texas Championships Sweetwater, TX
April 14 & 15 TBA
July 21 & 22 Denton, TX
May TBA
August 4 Hill Country Championships Hamilton, TX
February 25 & 26 Tejas Championships Bulverde, TX
10 • DECEMBER 2011
June 9 & 10 North Texas Championships Denton, 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.
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_ _ _ _-_ _ _ _ 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_________________________________________________
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ROPING SECRETARY USE ONLY Record class. #, date, dues paid, and paid by when application is turned in by roper. CLASSIFICATION #_______
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LOOPS MAGAZINE • 11
1/2 horizontal
December 10 & 11, 2011 Lone Star Arena Stephenville, TX Buckles to Average Winners $250 Bonus to the roper that wins the 4th go-round on the bonus calf.
$100-Bonus to the high money EE or 00 roper that enters the 00 select roping. Must win money in the 00 select to collect bonus.
$100-Bonus to the high money #1 roper that enters the #2 roping. Must win money in the #2 to collect bonus.
USCRA National
Classic Equine The Official Tack of the USCRA 1301 Weatherford Hwy. Granbury, TX 76048 800.654.7864; www.classicequine.com
SCHEDULE Saturday 9:00 a.m. 00 11:00 a.m. #2 1:00 p.m. 00 Select Sunday 9:00 a.m. EE 11:00 a.m. #1
All ropings are 4 Head for $250
73% PAYBACK New “00” Number system will be in effect. Call 979/540-7755 for numbering info. Pre-Enter on Monday from 12-8 979/540-7755. There will be a $10 Walk-up late charge. GPS Directions: 4696 N US Hwy 377, Stephenville, TX 76401 Driving Directions: Located on Hwy 377 north of Stephenville. Plenty of stalls and hookups.
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 12 • DECEMBER 2011
The Official Feed of the USCRA “For Maximum Performance” Made by: Mannsville Ag Center 580-371-9588 www.mannsvilleagcenter@cableone.net
CALF ROPINGS & ROPING SCHOOLS
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January 14 & 15, 2012 Nolan County Coliseum (Climate Controlled) Sweetwater, Texas Buckles to Average Winners •
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2012 PRCA Tie-Down World Standings
GPS Directions:
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CALF ROPINGS & ROPING SCHOOLS
# " $+.
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.
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EE Will Parker Colton Williams
Stephenville, TX Waco, TX
00 Dakota Felton Glenn Conner
Mt. Home, TX Evadale, TX
00 Select Bodie Read Dave Laster
Aubrey, TX Alvarado, TX
#1 Bill Sharber Bailey Thurston
Konowa, OK El Reno, OK
#2 Martin Poindexter Seymor, TX Brian Gibson Gonzales, TX
LOOPS MAGAZINE • 13
Seventeenth Annual
Presents.....
80
OF THE WORLD’S FASTEST CALF ROPERS; PRCA WORLD CHAMPIONS IPRA WORLD CHAMPIONS NFR QUALIFIERS IFR QUALIFIERS
Mike Johnson’s
S T E C H A C I L F ROPING R S ’ D L R O W $100,000 PURSE DECEMBER 27, 2011 Expo Square Ford Truck Arena Tulsa, Oklahoma
SHERRY LYNN JOHNSON’S INVITATIONAL BARREL RACE DECEMBER 27, 2011 50
FORD TRUCK ARENA • EXPO SQUARE, TULSA, OKLAHOMA OF THE NATIONS’S TOP BARREL RACERS COMPETE FOR $20,000
$5,000 IN ADDED MONEY 12:00 P.M. LONG GO BARRELS • 6:00 P.M. SHORT GO BARRELS VSA IN HOUSE PROOF CRX’D 1:30 P.M. 1ST & 2ND GO ROUND ROPING • 7:00 P.M. 3RD GO & ‘WRANGLER CHUTE OUT’ OF CALF ROPING HELD IN CONJUNCTION WITH THE TULSA HOLIDAY WINTER CIRCUIT DECEMBER 28, 2011 - JANUARY 2, 2012
EXPO TICKET XPRESS 918/376-6000 22nd Annual New
Years Calf Roping
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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:
Joe: (936) 827-7132 Caleb: (936) 689-9197
CALF ROPINGS & ROPING SCHOOLS
LOOPS MAGAZINE â&#x20AC;˘ 15
Roland Reid Memorial ropers came to try their luck and show their skills at the Historic Cowtown Coliseum at the Ft. Worth Stockyards where the Roland Reid Memorial was held. The conditions in the small coliseum allowed little room for error and kept the roping very interesting. The big winner on Sunday was Bill Sharber of Konowa, Oklahoms. Bill won the #1 roping by less than 1 tenth of a second, but it was good enough for first and $900. Sharber was the only average winner of the day that placed in two of the three rounds. His total time on three calves was 31.47. The 2011 Roland Reid Memorial roping marked the first roping of the 2012 USCRA season and the first roping to have a 00 Select division. Bodie Read of Aubrey, Texas, is the first roper to win a USCRA 00 Select roping. With a time of 37.16 on three calves, Bodie never placed
in a round, but the average win was his along with $635. The small coliseum does not give EE ropers much time to get ready but Will Parker of Stephenville, Texas, made it work to his benefit. Will’s time of 47.10 on three head was good enough for $615 and a win that he has worked hard for. It was a fine moment for me to take a picture with Will and his new buckle. Well you don’t see it very often but the 00 roping ended in a tie. Glenn Conner and Dakota Felton both tied their three calves in 43.92 seconds. Dakota of Mt. Home, Texas, won $482 for his efforts. Glenn Conner of Evadale, Texas, won $660 by placing in a round on his way to the average win. Martin Poindexter of Seymor, Texas was the high man back in the #2 roping, and he took care of business with a strong run and a victory. Martin was 33.64 on three calves and placed in one round on his way to the win.
#1 Roland Reid Average winner, Bill Sharber
00 Select Roland Reid Average winner, Bodie Read
105
16 • DECEMBER 2011
For his efforts Martin took home $655. EE 1st Round 1. Terry Davidson, 12.28, $300; 2. Steve Milligan, 13.33, $225; 3. Ricky Harris, 14.32, $150; 4. Will Parker, 16.23, $75 2nd Round 1. Clay Thomasson, 12.74, $300; 2. Ricky Harris, 13.34, $225; 3. Calvin Steen, 13.54, $150; 4. Cole Warren, 13.7, $75 Short Round 1. Clay Thomasson, 12.29, $90; 2. Colton Williams, 14.56, $60 Average 1. Will Parker, 47.1, $540; 2. Colton Williams, 55.97, $400; 3. Clay Thomasson, 25.03/2, $270; 4. Ricky Harris, 27.66/2, $135 0 1st Round 1. Stephen Perry, 13.37, $286; 2. Walter Johnson, 14.75, $250; 3. Glenn Conner, 15.04, $178 2nd Round 1. Garrett Rose, 9.77, $286; 2. Dusty Miller, 10.93, $250; 3. Scott Cunnningham, 11.51, $178 Short Round 1. Lee Reed, 10.49, $86; 2. Stephen Perry, 10.96, $57
00 Roland Reid Average Winner, Dakota Felton
Average 1. Dakota Felton, 43.92, $482; 2. Glenn Conner, 43.92, $482; 3. Garrett Rose, 55.47, $321 00 Select 1st Round 1. Bobby Ralls, 10.14, $355; 2. Dennis Mckinley, 10.42, $265; 3. Ruben Wood, 11.91, $175; 4. Richard Agan, 12.36, $90 2nd Round 1. Dave Laster, 10.07, $355; 2. Cody Dunn, 10.1, $265; 3. Ty Harris, 10.39, $175; 4. David Martin, 12.49, $90 Short Round 1. Ruben Wood, 9.56, $105; 2. Ty Harris, 10.2, $70 Average 1. Bodie Read, 37.16, $635; 2. Dave Laster, 37.23, $475; 3. David Martin, 38.41, $320; 4. Ricky Harris Jr., 38.61, $160 #1 1st Round 1. Joby Rickman, 8.9, $340; 2. Tyler Milligan, 9.64, $295; 3. Bill Sharber, 10.73, $215 2nd Round 1. Bailey Thurston, 9.64, $340; 2. Lane Livingston, 9.88, $295; 3. Cory Jordan, 10.06, $215 Short Round 1. Westyn Hughes, 8.85, $100; 2. Bill Sharber, 9.96, $70 Average 1. Bill Sharber, 31.47, $615; 2. Bailey Thurston, 31.8, $535; 3. Westyn Hughes, 33.43, $380
11.05, $177 2nd Round Neil Dove, 9.25, $265; 2. Shawn Felton, 10.19, $177 Short Round Brian Gibson, 12.01, $88 Average Martin Poindexter, 33.64, $478; 2. Brian Gibson, 46.66, $318 EE Roland Reid Average Winner, Will Parker
2012 Agricultural Appropriations Bill Clears the Way For The Restoration of the U.S. Horse Industry
#2 1st Round Will Kiker, 9.96, $265; 2. Martin Poindexter,
#2 Roland Reid Average winner, Martin Poindexter
International Equine Business Association applauds the removal of HSUS driven annual riders that prevented USDA inspection of horse processing On the evening of November 14, 2011, the Conference Committee on HR 2112 consolidated appropriations for Agriculture, Commerce-JusticeScience and Transportation Housing and Urban Development signed a conference report resolving differences between the House and Senate versions of the bill that for the first time since 2005 does not contain annual riders that prohibit USDA from providing necessary inspection for horse processing facilities.
The International Equine Business Association (IEBA) is a new association that is an outcome of the alliances that United Horsemen has formed with hundreds of entities like the National Tribal Horse Coalition, Charros Federation USA, horse councils, production agriculture, pet animal and animal entertainment groups, as well as international partners like the Horse Welfare Alliance of Canada. The Association is eager to work with equine businesses, organizations, state, tribal, and federal agencies to maximize this opportunity. “We could not be more pleased,” says IEBA U.S co-chair Sue Wallis, “and grateful to our many partners and supporters to once again have a clear path to increase the welfare of horses, reinvigorate the devastated horse related economy, and promote the ethical, appropriate use of horses that will be welcomed by a worldwide and domestic market, create jobs, and preserve our CONTINUED ON PAGE 18
LOOPS MAGAZINE • 17
CONTINUED beloved horseback American culture for our children and grandchildren. The now devastated horse industry looks forward to the day when we can once again contribute more than $1.9 Billion dollars in tax revenue nationwide from an industry that prior to 2007 was a $102 Billion dollar sector of animal agriculture...to once again supporting 1.4 Million full-time jobs working with horses everyday.” The tide turned for the horse industry when Congress received a report from their research office that looked into the effect of the closure of the U.S. horse processing facilities. That Government Accountability Office (GAO) report, HORSE WELFARE: Action Needed to Address Unintended Consequences of Domestic Slaughter Cessation, documents the decline in horse welfare, and the negative impacts on the overall equine economy as a direct result of the loss of a humane option for otherwise unwanted, unusable, excess horses. Because of the back-door exclusionary efforts of the Humane Society of the United States (HSUS), Congress adopted the first of these damaging appropriations riders in 2005, with more added in 2007 that have prevented any facilities from operating in the forty-six states that do not have state law preventing them. “That roadblock is now removed,” noted Wallis, “now we shift our focus to resuming profitable legitimate businesses in the horse industry, and a return of normal markets for horses at every level, and every sector of the diverse horse world.” The IEBA is positioned to promote and encourage equine 18 • DECEMBER 2011
harvesting businesses that are held to high humane handling and food safety standards, in order to bring quality products to a vibrant and viable worldwide market. IEBA will be providing legal defense, political advocacy, business consulting, technological solutions, and more for all aspects of the equine industry. United Horsemen is a 100% volunteer grassroots nationwide organization, joined by practically every animal agriculture and horse industry organization in the country to advocate for humane and regulated horse processing to end the unnecessary and wasteful suffering of horses. Click here for Brief FACTS from the horse industry, and a sample of what real horse people have to say about the need for humane slaughter. For more information from the perspective of professional horsemen and horsewomen see http://United-Horsemen.org.
Taking The Show In a “SMART” New Direction
The Fort Worth Stock Show & Rodeo has announced its first-ever smart phone application. With this free “app”, users can navigate their way around the Stock Show grounds, find the next real-time event or plan an entire day at the Show. The application is now available for Apple and Android users in their respective markets. The new “smart” phone application acts as an interactive
guide to the legendary event featuring: GPS functionality, parking maps, a daily schedule of events and many other user friendly functions. With five fully functional menu selections: Find Us, Schedule, Live Music, Activities and More, attending events and planning a Show schedule is more convenient. Other features of the app include: a daily schedule of activities; customizable schedules; Rodeo Roadhouse and Frost Stage lineups; a Guest Services option – including ATM, First Aid and Lost and Found locations and plenty of maps to navigate your favorite Show areas. One of the most interactive features allows users to access their facebook and twitter pages right from the application. Another feature, Friend Finder, can actually pin point a friend on the Show grounds. “We are proud to maintain the rich heritage and traditions of the Stock Show, while embracing these amazing advances in technology to enhance our visitor’s experience,” said Brad Barnes, the Stock Show’s president and general manager. Reserve your rodeo seats today! For rodeo ticket order forms and detailed information contact (817) 877-2420 or visit www.fwssr.com. On Monday, November 28, the Stock Show Rodeo Ticket Office will officially open for business. At that time, rodeo tickets will then also be available through Ticketmaster by calling 800-745-3000 or visit www.ticketmaster.com. Convenience charges are added by Ticketmaster and are nonrefundable. Come “buck the ordinary” at the Fort Worth Stock Show & Rodeo, January 13 through February 4, 2012. This thing is legendary®.
by Ryan Davis
W
ell, it is a couple of days away from Thanksgiving which means the Holidays are officially here. What a time of year! For me it means I got through the busiest time of year here in the office and I can look forward to relaxing a little bit with family and friends. I have always enjoyed the Holidays and even more so over the past several years now that I have kids. It seems everything gets a little merrier around this time of year. Thanksgiving is the time of year to give thanks for what we have and I guess that is why it is followed by Christmas, so we can ask Santa Clause for the things we don’t. Just kidding! See I am already getting in the Holiday spirit and yep, things are getting merrier! Now on to our favorite subject, tie-down roping and what’s happening in the rodeo world. It is an exciting time of year for the sport as well. The National Finals Rodeo is just around the corner and, of course, everyone will be tuned in to see if Tuf can keep his lead and win his first of what I think will be many world championships. I am sure the action will be as exciting as it always is and look forward to riding my recliner alongside this year’s contestants in all of the events. It looks like the USCRA is off to a good start. The Roland Reid Memorial kicked off the 2012 season in pretty good shape and I am thinking the Turkey Roping next week ought to attract a lot of attention from calf ropers. With 77% payback, I bet they come out of the woodwork for a shot at the money. Although the past couple of years have
been tough on events throughout the country, not only calf roping events, but rodeo events in general, I think they are on the increase once again. Looking at some of the local associations around my neck of the woods, there is an excitement stirring and many who have been faced with the burdens of the overall economy are finally getting back in the swing of things and finding ways to get back on the road to local and national events. Looking at the whole picture, the trickle down effect from companies who can no longer support rodeo events in the form of sponsorships due to the bad economy and the fact that the price of inflation has outpaced the overall income of families, both have played a huge role in association success. I applaud those who continue to host events and know that the heyday of yesterday when producers could actually make money is gone and most of them are struggling to keep events alive. I have hopes for a plan that I am involved in that will help smaller amateur associations all across the country. From the USCRA to rodeo events and pretty much everything in between, I hope we can get things going that will help build events everywhere. I will keep you posted on anything that comes up. I am excited about this opportunity and the positive outcome it can bring. Until next month, I hope you had a great Thanksgiving and I wish everyone of you a Merry Christmas! Ryan Davis
LOOPS MAGAZINE • 19
From the Archives – Down the Line – December 2008 ast month I wrote about preparing for the match roping against Cody Ohl at the San Angelo Roping Fiesta. Roping fifteen calves weighing the neighborhood of 300 lbs. is nothing short of an endurance race and it was a great test for the physical conditioning I have done for the last year. I was excited that the calves really didn’t give me much trouble.
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With big calves in a rocky arena I decided to ride my backup horse. Mid-way through the match I had a decent lead and things starting going better for Cody. Then, my eleventh calf was about to get away and when I roped him, my loop bounced off his shoulder and came off. It was just one of those things that happen and I wouldn’t have done it any differently. When it got down to the last calf I had to be twelve to win the match. For just one run, and a crucial one, I decided to ride my mare. Though I saw the same out
on the barrier as I had all day, my mare leaves so much harder that we broke it and ultimately lost the match. It would have been great to win the match but I’m more than satisfied with my performance and stamina in the roping itself. In less than ideal conditions I lived up to my own expectations. If my life were all tied up in what goes on at the end of a rope and when I throw my hands up, then it would be hard, if not impossible to have a fulfilled life – because you’d live and die with each run.
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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20 • DECEMBER 2011
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Grantlin Rice, known as one of the greatest sports commentators, would always close his show with this statement that pretty much sums up my feelings, “And when that one great scorer comes to mark against your name, he marks not whether you won or lost, but how you played the game.” A member of my church recently wrote something I want to share with you. Anyone who competes – at anything – can benefit from these words. A Fine Line Confidence is a great attribute to possess God given to many, self developed by others It produces a high unmatched by any The effects almost drug-like Sought after, most likely by everyone But like drugs, overdose can be fatal Arrogance steps in and destroys the character of confidence Being overconfident is as dangerous as lacking Such a fine line to walk So walk hand in hand with God
Sid Miller Calf Roping Horses
The Christmas Gift
J
ohn 3:16 For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life. Without a doubt, my favorite holiday throughout the whole year is Christmas. Many people get weary of all the hustle and bustle of Christmas, but I really enjoy it. The gift that was given to us 2000 years ago is a continual reminder that it truly is better to give than to receive. As we approach the Christmas season, I can’t help but think of the wonderful gifts that I have been given. I have been given the gift of a wonderful wife and two beautiful kids who love God even more than they love their Daddy. (I taught them to do that!) Things and stuff are wonderful to unwrap at Christmas time, but please understand that your greatest gifts will not be under your tree. They will be in your heart and in your life and in the very air that you breathe. If you think that this cowboy preacher is a little bit mushy about Christmas, you are right. I have never been one to leave a gift under the tree. So I am extremely blessed to know that God’s gift of His only begotten Son is a gift that will allow me to live with Him for eternity because I made the simple choice to receive that gift. Always remember that Jesus really is the reason for the season and that wise men still seek Him. God Bless, Pastor Randy Weaver Lone Star Cowboy Church 21627 Eva St. Montgomery, TX 77356 (936) 597-5742
Stephenville, Texas 254/977-9133 repmiller@hotmail.com
Service Times: Sundays 8:30; 10:00 and 11:30am Mondays 7:00pm
LOOPS MAGAZINE • 21
ADVERTISERS’ INDEX
J Mike Johnson’s Richest Calf Roping . . . .14
O Old Shadows Calf Roping . . . . . . . . . . .14
K King’s Saddlery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .22
R Rattler Ropes, Inc. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .23 Rodeo Rig For Sale . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3
L Lone Star Calf Roping . . . . . . . . . . . . .15 M Mannsville Ag Center . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 Sid Miller Calf Horses . . . . . . . . . . . . . .21
P/U W CH VSA
S Sparky Superior Roping Machines . . . . . .2 Stran Smith . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .20
IN HOUSE PROOF
U USCRA Christmas . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12 USCRA Membership Application . . . . . .11 USCRA Sponsors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12 USCRA West Texas . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .13
W Willard Ropes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .22 Wrangler . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .24
VSA
CRX’D
IN HOUSE PROOF
800.827.7613 www.willardropes.com Visit Our Website For All Your Calf Roping Supplies
USED BY TOP PRCA CALF ROPERS Jake Hannum Tyson Durfey Adam Gray Cade Swore Shane Hanchey Kody Curry
Supplier of all sizes of syn grass. All sizes of poly ropes (3 & 4 strand), strings and skid boots. A complete tack store for all phases of the sport.
184 North Main Sheridan, Wyoming 1.800.443.8919 307.672.2702 or 672.2755 22 • DECEMBER 2011
Fax: 307.672.5235
Polygrass 57 thread 60 thread
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