Rodeo Fame

A Selection as Big as

Sized Selection

8 0 S T O R E S A C R O S S 1 1 S TAT E S • 8 M E T R O P L E X L O C AT I O N S

(800) 895-3890

www.RollingMTrailers.com

14

www.rodeofame.com

www.rodeofame.com

15

CONTENTS 57 EDITOR-IN-CHIEF April Bach Patterson COPY EDITOR Alyssa Barnes WRITERS/REPORTERS Lori O'Harver, Shelby McCamey, Kim Zierlein, Shannon Geddes Brenda MatamorosBeveridge CONTRIBUTOR Cara Miller: Fashion Blogger LAYOUT & DESIGN Chantel Miller

44

10

24

BOARD OF ADVISORS Peter and DeeDee Tank, Judy Nelson ADVERTISING joey@rodeofame.com SUBSCRIPTIONS joey@rodeofame.com COVER PHOTO Wade Sundell: Mallory Beinborn Lacie DeMers: Chris Douglas chrisdouglas.photography RODEO FAME PO Box 2264 Boerne, TX 78006 CONTACT 817.613.7508

14 4

www.rodeofame.com

30

All content herein is the property of Rodeo Fame and may not be reprinted or reproduced in any medium without written permission.

Some art work is used at the sole discretion of the adertiser and is not created

by Rodeo Fame.

Editor's letter Where are you going?

Your focus becomes your destination.

I have heard this said a lot in my life but in different ways.

It means whatever you focus on now affects where you will be tomorrow. My dad use to tell me when He was teaching me to throw a baseball or a loop to pay attention to where I was looking because that’s where my ball or loop would go. He was right. I tell my 3 year old son all the time to watch where he is going; he lives in his own little world, until he hits his head on a swinging door or he walks into a car mirror, that’s where aimless walking leads you, into a painful wakeup call. Winners like Wade Sundell don’t accidentally arrive on the doorstep of success without focus. I really admire how he is passionate about what he does and he does it with his own style, he’s not one in a million he’s one of a kind, making him the perfect cover model for this style issue. The professional rodeo world is full of athletes that have focus and a lot of that focus is on making it to the national finals in las vegas, whether it be the pbr or the wnfr. It shows where their focus was all year long when you watch them compete in the arena. So where is your focus in life? I pray if you are reading this that you have a clear vision of the destination you are hoping to reach and that your passion keeps you focused!

I want to give a shout out to a new Rodeo Fame reader, David Jr. Your not alone.

april@rodeofame.com

" Wade is such a good sport.

RF asked him to participate in a fashion show in Vegas, and he came right over! "

www.rodeofame.com

5

ABOUT RODEO FAME MAGAZINE Rodeo Fame Magazine highlights the most talented and talked about Rodeo Stars and Athletes in the world. Known as the People Magazine of the professional rodeo industry, RFM gives an insider’s look at the REAL LIFE of a Rodeo Star – their Fashion, Home Life, Fitness, Rodeo Rigs, Animals, Travel Experiences and more. Rodeo Fame is a must-read for anyone captivated by the icon of the modern day Cowboy and Cowgirl.

A QUARTERLY PUBLICATION PRINTED 4 TIMES PER YEAR

6

www.rodeofame.com

whitneylanderson.com

ATHLETES & STARS

JW HARRIS

Returns Full-Time to the PRCA

By Brenda Beveridge

8

www.rodeofame.com

ATHLETES & STARS Four-time PRCA world champion, JW Harris has left the building. The 2014 PBR Rookie of the Year announced on January 7, 2018 that he has decided it is time to return to his cowboy and rodeo roots this year following four seasons in the PBR and pursue a fifth gold buckle in the PRCA. “I have a lot more friends rodeoing than I did going to PBRs,” Harris said. “[Rodeo folks] were more like family than friends. They are people I trust with watching my kids for a week. That is a big part of the reason.”

Harris and his wife Jackie want to make sure their kids, Aubrey and Dillon, have great memories of driving up and down the rodeo road now that they are getting to the age where they can remember. Plus, Harris just didn’t feel excited about the PBR.

on Honey Hush in the championship round. Harris said that ride inside the Thomas & Mack Center will go down as his favorite PBR memory.

Harris doesn’t expect to make a PBR return in the future as of now.

“Hell, I know I left it all out there every time I got on a bull. Yeah, I wanted to win a world title and it was obviously not meant to be,” Harris said. “That is one thing I don’t have is any regrets because I do leave it out there every time I get on one.”

“I got to where I just didn’t like coming to them anymore. It really is not my thing, I guess you could say. All of the lights, cameras and drama, I was trying to be something that I wasn’t.

I was trying to be a PBR bull rider instead of a rodeo cowboy,” Harris said.

So at the beginning of the 2018 PBR season, Harris took his leave.

“It feels good. No added pressures but going to the events and riding bulls. When you're the reigning world champion there's a lot of added pressure and you've got a lot of media intrigue, there's a lot of stuff going on that I wasn't used to.”

Harris was 28 years old when he accepted an invitation to compete in three premier series events in March 2014. He went on to finish 2014 ninth in the world standings after going 4-for-6 at the PBR World Finals.

He finished only 95.13 points ahead of Gage Gay in the closest Rookie-of-the-Year race since the PBR switched to a points-based system in 2013.

The comeback was highlighted by Harris’ career-high 93.25 points

Photo by Frontier Fortitude Photography

www.rodeofame.com

9

RODEO WIVES

REAL LIVES OF RODEO WIVES

Courtney MOTE

Q: How do you decide on your outfits? Meaning does time of day, type of rodeo indoor/outdoor effect your style and why and how?

"My favorite

event to dress up for is the NFR. It’s one of the only times I actually try and plan my outfits!"

FASHION

Q&A

Q: Favorite rodeo run, stretch of rodeos?

A: I love the fall rodeos up in the northwest. The stands are always packed and the crowds are into the rodeos. Even though it’s closer to the end of the rodeo season it is a more relaxed environment

Q: Favorite event to dress up for each year?

Q: Your top five brands/ designers you love.

A: My top brand is definitely Roper (which includes Stetson and Tin Haul) they have become so stylish with their clothing and have the best booties and boots. I also wear a lot Express, H&M and Forever 21.

I’m pretty much a bargain shopper so I hit up TJ Maxx a lot!

10

www.rodeofame.com

A: I decide on my outfits by the weather and where the rodeo is! There are some rodeos that everyone just dresses up for! Most of the spring rodeos are in big coliseums and parking is on pavement so it’s easier to dress in heels and go all out!!! Then there are the ones that the parking lot and stands are in dirt so I wear my boots.

A: My favorite event to dress up for is the NFR. It’s one of the only times I actually try and plan my outfits! Anything goes out there so it is fun to get creative! My mom comes over and we actually go through my clothes to try and make a list of what shirts, bottoms, jewelry, and shoes make up the outfit.

We make it a fun time!!

Q: What is your go to

piece of jewelry that you wear at least 50% of the time?

A: I have two go to pieces of jewelry that I wear. One is a custom leather cuff with our brand on it made by Rashel Garside. The other is a hand engraved sterling silver ring made by Janneman of Pienaar Saddles. Both of these pieces are unique and I love them!

GOD BLOG

DOES GOD ANSWER PRAYERS? “God definetly answers prayers.

“Yes!

God definitely answers prayers!! God has answered so many of my prayers in different ways that it really teaches you to listen to him when you are looking for your answer. When I was a young Christian I always thought that God answers came from your prayers however it will touch you and other people around you the most to show his presence during your most difficult time.”

JANA BEAN

12

www.rodeofame.com

He answers them in many ways, and your ability to hear or see that answer depends on your trust in Him. He has always answered my prayers and I’m learning to accept ALL of those answers, not just the ones I think I want to hear, because he knows what is best for me.”

HAILEY KINSEL

“Yes, everyday!

• Psalms 37:23 says, “the foot steps of a good man are ordered of the Lord!”

• James 1:5 says if anyone needs wisdom let them ask and He gives it, “I ask and He gives.”

• Psalms 37:4 says, “delight yourself in the Lord and He gives you the desires of your heart.”

• John 15:5 says, “when we abide in His word and His word abides in us, ask what we will and it will be given.”

I could go on and on. Every good thing in my life is an answer to a prayer. My wife, my kids, my career, my dream, horses, house, trailers, employees…the list can go on and on.”

TREY JOHNSON

BUSINESS PROFILE

SAYiWON'T

NEVER TOO OLD TO RIDE

We’ve all been there, someone has told us, you can’t.

SAYiWON’T clothing has taken that motto to heart and searches for those that live the creed, everyday of their lives.

Lauer. Go ahead and tell him it can’t be done and he will take the challenge to heart and do

SAYiWON’t is presently highlighting Seth Lauer, an incredible 79 year old cowboy that has lived this creed all of his life. He grew up on horses and no matter his age, he gets on and does what he has consistently done.

At 79 years old Seth still goes out and checks the pastures two to three times a week and works at the sale barn twice a week. Seth says, “I live everyday to the fullest and for me that’s being in the saddle. I think that rocking chair gets to you after awhile”. He has been told numerous times that he “oughta” not be doing these things, but he challenges himself daily to keep doing those things that he knows and loves.

Seth has no thoughts of giving up riding or stop going to the sale barn anytime soon. He has been mucked out by bulls and lost part of an ear, but still showed up to work the next week. As long as he is healthy, Seth will climb on his horse and ride.

The definition of a true cowboy can be found in Seth For more information: 1-866-SAYiWONT (729-4966) 1330 Foster Ave. Suite 300 • Nashville, TN 37210

www.sayiwont.com

By Shannon Geddes

www.rodeofame.com

13

In order to fully learn and enjoy true Texas style, a trip to Nacogdoches is required study. The oldest town in Texas, Nacogdoches offers a chance to dive deep into Texas history, experience plenty of unique architectural style, and get a taste of good old down-home hospitality.

Nacogdoches oozes historical beauty and a visit to the structures of old Nacogdoches allows a rare glimpse into the past. History buffs especially love Millard’s Crossing Historic Village for a chance to savor the reconstructed historic buildings and experience some hands-on learning in daily chores of the past, like soap making and blacksmithing.

To truly appreciate the history and down-home style of Nacogdoches, though, a stay at one of the historic bed and breakfasts is recommended. The Hardeman House located in the heart of town welcomes visitors with a cozy wrap-around porch and provides easy access to

14

www.rodeofame.com

even more historic structures to explore nearby. If getting out of town is more your style, the Fair Breeze Bed and Breakfast offers a quiet retreat for that perfect romantic getaway, complete with jacuzzi tub, and nature trails.

Don’t worry foodies, Nacogdoches has you covered, too. Stop into C.C.’s Smokehouse for a perfectly cooked down-home “cowboy steak”. Or, if you’re looking for a local favorite, the Republic Steakhouse at Hotel Fredonia features wagyu beef, smoked cocktails and their signature Bananas Foster for dessert.

Nacogdoches is home to the Nacogdoches Pro Rodeo and Steer Show in mid-March. Coincidentally, a perfect time for a visit to the SFA Garden Arboretum to catch the azaleas in bloom. No time to stop and smell the flowers? Try Zip Nac to experience Nacogdoches while breezing above the pines. No matter the reason for the visit, you’ll no-doubt leave Nacogdoches already planning your return trip.

By Shannon Geddes

TRAVEL

www.rodeofame.com

15

RODEO WIVES

REAL LIV ES O F RODEO WI VES

By Shannon Geddes We were lucky enough to spend a few minutes with Stephanie Feild, amazing mom and wife to world champion bareback rider, Kaycee Feild.

Q: Tell us your thoughts on being a rodeo wife.

A: Being a rodeo wife is hard, but fun. As a family, we get to travel together all the time. This is our last year of being able to go a lot with Kaycee as my oldest starts kindergarten in the fall. That is hard, but there is really nothing that I would rather do.

Q: How do you stay positive when things aren’t going the way that you had hoped?

A: I am Kaycee’s safe haven. Kaycee is the most positive person I know. I don’t even really know the which horses are good or bad. Kaycee always tells me whatever he draws is a good one. He never lets his disappointment show. As his wife I try to stay positive for him, make it easier for him to be gone on the road.

Q: Do you feel that your marriage is impacted by the rodeo way of life?

A: I think we really have a better marriage. As a family we have been able to travel together. When we are apart, the times together are much more sweeter, more special.

Q: How do you help your husband with his career?

A: I have a major sweet tooth! But when Kaycee is home, I get up and work out with him and make sure that good, healthy foods are in the house for him (instead of my Oreos). When he is in the swim spa, I will make sure the kids give him that time to exercise and stay in shape.

16

www.rodeofame.com

Q: What are the pros and cons of this lifestyle? Do you ever wish for the routine of a 9 - 5 job?

A: I would never wish for the 9-5 lifestyle. I love that our family can go to work with Kaycee and have fun. We can travel together, see the country and meet the most amazing people. I love that when he is not out on the road, that we are home together as a family. The cons of the rodeo lifestyle is that Kaycee misses a lot of the kids milestones and they seem to grow and change constantly.

Thankfully with technology we are always facetiming and sending videos.

Another challenge can be feeding the horses when I am home by myself. I did have an incident that involved the skidsteer, luckily family lives close by and they were able to come to my rescue!

Q: When it comes to the spotlight of being married to a rodeo champion, how do you handle it?

A: Our kids absolutely love it! They adore seeing their daddy on the TV or to be on the stage with him. I like to stay in the background and be the cheerleader.

BEAUTY

“Hahaha. Most of the time dirt, but when I run I use LipSense.”

KIMMIE WALL

“I have one go to and it’s Mac, color Frost.”

STEVI HILLMAN

“I don’t really wear lipstick but I wear that EOS chapstick 24/7”

Jackie Ganter

“I don’t wear lipstick so Blistex chapstick.”

KELLIE COLLIER

18

www.rodeofame.com

“My favorite cologne is Polo Green and Acqua Di Gio by Giorgio Armani!”

WESLEY THORP

COVER STORY

Wade Su RFD-TV’s The American’s Reigning Million Dollar Bronc Rider

20

www.rodeofame.com

undell

By Lori O’Harver

www.rodeofame.com

21

COVER STORY We all fell in love with Wade Sundell the minute we got to know him. He rode every horse he nodded for like tomorrow would never come. Life was a party that everybody was invited to; the faint of heart knew instinctively to stay away and even the bold were sometimes sorry they tried to keep up.

Over the last eleven years, he’s won almost every major bronc ride in the pros on the rankest horses from north of the border and from sea to shining sea. Sundell has broken down the barriers of those who judged cowboys based on fashionable addresses, the amount of starch in their jeans or how clean their shave was. All over bronc riding nation, beards are seen on fresh young cowboy faces for the first time in the long history of the sport. He’s a game changer.

Sundell was the guy the judges couldn’t ignore even if they were trying. He’s just that good. In his career, he’s come critically close to claiming PRCA gold but close only counts in horseshoes and hand grenades. He’s a guy you never dismiss when you’re handicapping the bronc riding, always there and always loaded for bear. Then came one magical February in 2016 in Arlington, Texas, where RFD TV’s The American dangled $1,000,000.00 in front of contestants who had qualified their way there, not been automatically invited from PRCA’s year end standings. It was to become a part of his legend and change his life forever.

That Sunday afternoon, he made the finals, then the top four in the final round. That’s where he drew Frontier

22

www.rodeofame.com

Rodeo’s great bay mare, the champion Maple Leaf, and dance, they did, for the bronc riding win. Sundell then waited out the barrel racing, tie down roping and bull riding results and as the sun set in the western glass wall of beautiful AT&T Stadium, just like that, he was a millionaire.

That’s a life changing amount of money. These days, Sundell owns an Oklahoma ranch. There are blue-blooded barrel horses everywhere you look. On November 14, 2017, a change more dramatic than the million-dollar check that sat in his post office box for weeks before he picked it up occurred. Wade Sundell became the father of a baby boy they christened Rankan James Sundell.

Responsibility has become reality for Wild West Wade Sundell. There’s more maturity and a little less restless in his crackling, brown eyes today. There’s also the contentment of a man living life on his terms. He’s always followed his dreams, but these days there’s a little less stress when engaging the risks involved in cowboying in 2018.

Has the money changed him? Yes. It’s brought opportunity. Has the fame of being bronc riding’s million dollar man? Yes. He stops to smile for a lot more fan pics these days. Has it changed his soul or the way he rides?

His willingness to ride out there on the crumbling edge like it’s the only place he ever really breathes? Not even a little. He’s still gassing it, still 100% his own man and loving every bit of the good, bad and ugly life might throw at him.

Wade Sundell is currently ranked among the top 15 bronc riders in the world.

Then came one magical February in 2016 in Arlington, Texas, where RFD TV’s The American dangled $1,000,000.00 in front of contestants who had qualified their way there, not been automatically invited from PRCA’s year end standings.

It was to become a part of his legend and change his life forever. www.rodeofame.com

23

MUSIC

24

www.rodeofame.com

MUSIC

WYNN WILLIAMS After sparkling reviews from his NFR 2017 performance, Wynn Williams is more than ready to take 2018 by storm. He has a goal to become a household name in country music. No doubt about it, Wynn has the focus and determination to make it happen.

Country music has always taken precedence over the other genres that Wynn grew up listening to.

His musical influences include George Strait and Alan Jackson and Frank Sinatra. Wynn grew up in the Church of Christ where the voices were the instruments. During his freshman year in high school he joined the choir and experienced first-hand the power music has to move you. On a whim he did the school talent show as a sophomore and knew right then that a career in music was his future. There is no question, if you have seen Wynn Williams on stage you know this decision was the correct one.

Wynn stays true to his Texas roots in the way he exudes kindness and authenticity. He attributes his personal success to surrounding himself with likeminded people with good intentions. Playing music for a living is a business and he lives by that motto.

He says, “At the end of the day you have to ask yourself what it is that you want. That’s how you determine what success is to you. Once you figure it out, you either go for it, or you don’t. I’m choosing the road less traveled….and going for it.”

Wynn’s new album, Words Fly, is a refreshing mix of country songs that take listeners back to the roots of real country music. The album is available for download on itunes. www.rodeofame.com

25

IN THIS ISSUE

Rodeo Fame partners with Junior Roughstock Association!

FILLING THE CHUTES OF THE FUTURE

By Lori O’Harver Every professional athlete came through a youth program. Bareback and bronc riding are no different. Thanks to the dedicated visionaries of the Junior Roughstock Association (JRA), the youth level for those events now has an international sanctioning body that brings those young cowboys and cowgirls into the fold younger than ever and does it as safely and thoughtfully as possible. Their one huge end of the year goal? The Jr. NFR in Las Vegas.

“Our youngest riders are 4 years old,” said Lacie DeMers, JRA secretary and a driving force behind the program. “Our oldest riders are 18 in our newly added Novice Division. Obviously, there’s a huge span in not just age, but physicality for these kids. It’s our job to fit them to appropriate bucking ponies and horses and do it under a standard set of rules that is ethical to not just the contestants, but the animals, as well. We’re not just focused on getting kids involved for a short period of time, we’re focused on bringing top level contestants to the professional level in terms of talent and experience. It’s a process we take very seriously.”

Great bucking horse riders depend on great programs and ponies. Bareback rider Will Norstrom perfects his craft on 406 Rodeo’s Cash Me Ousside.

Photo by Mary Peters Photo

26

www.rodeofame.com

The JRA is divided into 10 Regions across the United States and Canada.

It’s competition divisions are by age, as follows: PeeWee (8 and under), Junior (9 through 11), Senior (12 through 14) and Novice (15 through 18). There are also weight limits per division and exceptions made for members not fitting the weight or competition categories, for example, a 14-year-old over the weight limit can petition the organization and potentially ride in the novice class.

FRONTIER

FORTITUDE >>

BY KIM ZIERLEIN

frontierfortitude.com • frontierfortitude@gmail.com

BRONC RIDING NATION Photo by Ric Anderson

28

www.rodeofame.com

BRONC RIDING NATION

Texas Born

MAY DAY is a Rising Star

By Lori O’Harver Branded #311, Jimmy Ray and Randy Schmutz acquired the gangly, plain dark bay/brown filly in the summer of 2016 from her breeder, Terry Walls of Goldthwaite, Texas.

The partnership purchased Walls’ PRCA Stock Contractor Card, their license to do business as New Star Pro Rodeo at sanctioned events. Walls wouldn’t live to see her buck, he died that fall, but she would have made him very proud. The thoughtful way she’s being managed by her new owners at New West Pro would have confirmed his wisdom in selling his company that direction.

Today, #311 May Day is a 5-year-old with big talent and showing the desire to use it.

While the racing world focuses on fine tuning the best Thoroughbred 3-year-olds for the grueling Triple Crown campaign, the horsemen of bronc riding nation are studying their best 5- year-olds and planning strategies for their futures, as well.

Last year, May Day had three PRCA outs and just a couple in the non-pro’s, far fewer than the top 3-year-olds who’ll head to the gate for the Kentucky Derby, but no less impressive in performance.

“We took some heat from a few guys for our decision to take her to Cheyenne Frontier Days as a 4-year-old, but we believed in her ability to handle the crowd, the small city of horses and maze of alleyways out back and that huge arena. She proved herself that day under Ryder Wright and was marked 21 points. Wright was disqualified at the gate but went on to an electrifying ride that would have seen them in the high 80s.”

This season, she’s pointed for the big ones in the Pacific Northwest. That’s where the ‘big horses’ make their stands at rodeos that have built their legends on great bucking horses. www.rodeofame.com

29

IN THIS ISSUE

LACIE DEMERS

RAISING THE BAR

“We started buying equipment and beating the bushes for rotten ponies.” Lacie said.

“It wasn’t hard. If you know ponies, you know that rotten is in their nature.”

FOR FUTURE

WORLD

CHAMPIONS The Origins of the Junior Roughstock Association

Coat: Filson Jeans: Rock and Roll Gloves: Filson Hat: jaxonbilt hat Boots: Boulet Photo by Chris Douglas

By Lori O’Harver

Lacie DeMers likes her saddle horses tough and a little on the broncy side. She’s gorgeous but prouder of her callouses. She’s a game changer; a fearless innovator who has become a driving force behind the Junior Roughstock Association (JRA) and that happened as naturally as ponies eat grass.

“Like all the men in his family, my husband, Joe, rode bucking horses. Starting kids in the arena is his second nature. Our two boys, Rodee Owen, 9, and Bronc Ryder, 5, have that love in their DNA. At 4, Rooster Reynolds gave Rodee his first bucking pony. The next thing we knew, the boy had convinced a saddler to build him a 10 inch bronc saddle.”

Coat: Filson Hat: Twister ddle Three Forks Custom Sa Photo by Chris Douglas

30

www.rodeofame.com

“In 2013, the Northern Rodeo Association asked Rodee to bring his pony bronc to ride in the opening at their finals,” DeMers said. “He jumped at the chance and everybody loved it! RFD-TV filmed a segment with him calling him the Kindergarten Cowboy. By the time it aired, he had graduated and

IN THIS ISSUE

could barely watch. He wanted to be the ‘First Grade Cowboy’, not the baby ‘Kindergarten Cowboy’.”

“We loved the excitement they generated, but when our phones started blowing up with the parents of kids who really wanted to compete on bucking ponies, I knew something that could change the world of bronc riding nation and keep it strong for generations to come was happening.”

“We started buying equipment and beating the bushes for rotten ponies,” Lacie said. “It wasn’t hard.

If you know ponies, you know that rotten is in their nature.”

While the DeMers’s, 406 Rodeo Company was reinventing itself and catering to kids who wanted to learn the trades, a similar thing was happening in Texas.

“The Cannon family had a growing mini bareback riding program and produced an event during the 2015 Wrangler National Finals Rodeo.

They had a bigger vision than that inaugural event and were invited back for the following year as part of the growing Jr. NFR. We were honored to be contacted about adding bronc riding,” DeMers said.

The organizations merged under the name Junior Roughstock Association and produced their first world finals at the Jr. NFR in 2017. It was a wild success.

The JRA has over 35 stock contractors and 600 contestants from Canada to South Texas and coast to coast. Their goal is to fill the chutes of the future and provide a fun, safe, inspirational environment for young contestants to get started and become ambassadors for their craft. www.rodeofame.com

31

IN THIS ISSUE

Gloves and vest: Filson Hat: Stormy Kromer Shirt: Wrangler Jeans: Rock and Roll Boots: Boulet Photo by Chris Douglas

32

www.rodeofame.com

IN THIS ISSUE

Jeans: Cowgirl Tuff Bracelet: Wild Instincts Shirt & Vest: Filson Hat: Jaxonbilt Three Forks Custom Saddle Photo by Chris Douglas

www.rodeofame.com

33

IN THIS ISSUE

34

www.rodeofame.com

IN THIS ISSUE

By Lori O’Harver Every fan understands that a one day rodeo will come and go quickly, but until five years ago, very few imagined that a one day rodeo could change lives and the face of the sport forever. The reality of RFD-TV’s The American caught almost all of us by surprise.

Fifteen years ago, two men met at a construction site in Arlington, Texas. One was watching his dream of a huge, state of the art venue for his Dallas Cowboys rise from the dirt while the other had a vision for another kind of cowboy and an event that only Texas was big enough to hold. It took 10 years of dedicated orchestration for all the stars to align and Randy Bernard’s vision to verge on reality.

Patrick Gottsch is a visionary who saw importance in uniting the agricultural community and launched RFD-TV to give voice, a platform and entertainment value to the backbone of every society; the farmers and ranchers who proudly feed nations, work hard and live true to their ethics. Without Gottsch and RFD-TV, The American would still be a concept; a project with so many moving parts that aren’t naturally inclined to fit together that lesser men would have simply talked about the impact such an event could have on professional rodeo athletes, the businesses who support them and the non-profit organizations who work tirelessly to preserve the legacies and provide the programs that build the future.

RFD-TV’s The American isn’t a story about lesser men. It’s the product of movers and shakers and is the youngest, richest, most anticipated and watched rodeo in the world.

As rodeos go, The American is as unique as they come and complicated, even by rodeo standards.

Let’s start with the core contestants; the guaranteed entries in the $1,000,000 ‘big show’ held on Sunday, February 25. Invited are the top ten in the world as determined by year end rankings in all events.

The other road that leads to The American is through RFD-TV’s The American SemiFinals. The roads that lead there have a few twists.

First are the exemptions, contestants who are guaranteed access to the semifinals from the Canadian National Finals, College National Finals, High School National Finals, Indian National Finals, Jr. NFR, The Patriot Young Guns World Championships and Better Barrel Races.

Then add winners from the wide web of qualifying events that are open to hopefuls across North America. They, too, gain berth to the $500,000 semifinals at Cowtown Coliseum in the Fort Worth Stockyards on February 22 through 24. The winners will take their places among those world class invitees who’ll be introduced during the opening at the finals and are eligible for the $1,000,000 side pot that the invitees are not.

Amid pageantry, patriotism and pride for the cowboy, The American performance happens fast. The format for the finals is long go (every contestant competes) then back with the top four for all the marbles.

The level of excitement in the building is strong enough to cut with a dull knife and announcer Randy Schmutz keeps fans informed and engaged through every ride, run and wreck.

RFD-TV’s telecast is the most outstanding, in-depth rodeo programming of the year, but nothing compares to being in the house. www.rodeofame.com

35

BUSINESS PROFILE

FLOSPORTS

AUTHENTIC SPORTS COVERAGE FOR FANS

If your love of live comprehensive sports coverage is the one thing keeping you from cutting the cord with traditional television media, you need to get acquainted with FloSports. Forget the hassle, not to mention exorbitant costs of watching sports on cable, FloSports is a direct-to-consumer access channel that can be found via the FloSports apps on iOS, Roku and Apple TV 4.

FloSports prides themselves on providing the authentic coverage and storytelling that fans crave. They employ former athletes and subject matter experts. FloSports is transforming sports media and proving that they are not traditional when it comes to covering sports.

In 2006, FloSports began with $10,000, a van and a passionate desire to provide fans with in-depth coverage of track and wrestling events for the first time ever. What they found was a sizeable gap in coverage for a myriad of sports. Since then, FloSports has grown to cover more than 20 sports in their everexpanding network, including rodeo coverage at FloRodeo.com.

FloRodeo provides live, extensive and on demand coverage of some the largest professional rodeo competitions. Not only can you see complete coverage of the Junior NFR, RFD-TV’s The American and more, FloRodeo provides breaking news and documentaries about your favorite rodeo athletes.

For more information: FloSports 2922 E Cesar Chavez St, Austin, TX 78702

www.flosports.tv 36

www.rodeofame.com

BUSINESS ADVICE?

“A lot of people say, 'content is king' and there is some truth to that.

We certainly invest in our content, but ultimately the experience is king. Our focus is on how people experience our live events and digest our original content.” - FloSports

By Shannon Geddes

BUSINESS PROFILE

THE PLAZA HOTEL & CASINO

LAS VEGAS ICON ROLLS OUT THE COWBOY RED CARPET When its doors opened in 1971, The Plaza Hotel and Casino on Fremont Street was the largest hotel and casino in the world. Once a favorite Las Vegas celebrity hangout, this past December The Plaza rolled out the red carpet for the rodeo famous.

their needs and concerns.”

The Plaza intends to upgrade in 2018 and hopes to offer a permanent arena and stalls for rodeo athletes to enjoy year after year.

Beginning construction just a month and a half before the NFR, The Plaza, unveiled 84 VIP Downtown stalls and a practice arena. Although 2017 was their inaugural year, the ample parking they offered athletes for their trucks and trailers, along with a practice arena and even steers to rope, allowed them to sell out each and every temporarily erected horse stall.

A few of the cowboys that enjoyed the accommodations were team ropers, Jonathan Torres, Clint Summers and Mikey Fletcher. The Plaza also made a swanky home away from home for Wade Sankey’s steers.

The casino is looking forward to continuing to indulge rodeo athletes as well as the team ropers, barrel racers and other contestants who travel to Las Vegas to compete in many events that happen throughout Las Vegas the week of the NFR. The Plaza CEO, Jonathan Jossel said, “ I enjoyed meeting with some of the athletes that stayed and learning more about For more information: The Plaza 1 Main Street, Las Vegas, NV 89101 • 800-634-6575

www.plazahotelcasino.com

By Shannon Geddes

www.rodeofame.com

37

BUSINESS PROFILE

DAVID SINCLAIR

PHOTOGRAPHER SPOTLIGHT

Have you ever looked at your horse and thought, how can I immortalize and celebrate this animal that I have grown up with, that has worked so hard for me and helped me through my hardest times? Let me introduce you to David Sinclair, a photographer who will capture that image of your horse you dream of.

hundred dollars or five million dollars. His images bring that sense of intimacy and can be passed down from generation to generation.

Originally from London, England, with a background in theatre and television, David’s photographic vision is far from ordinary. He has photographed a great number of equestrian events from polo to rodeo, racing and eventing. During the different shoots he found that horses possess a uniquely calming quality and wondered what if he had more control of the shoot? He decided to photograph the horses in a traveling studio setting, much the same way as people. He just wanted the essence of the horse with no sign of humanity in the picture.

David’s goal is to offer a unique service, without high end prices, from commercial and documentary to studio photography. A horse in the studio is just that and it doesn’t matter who the horse is. There is no photoshop used, the portraits are authentic, not staged, and on a human level. He provides an image that is exceptional whether your horse is worth five

For more information: www.shootshorses.com davidsinclair4@mac.com • 806-290-3586 Contact him today for a portrait of your favorite animal athlete!

38

www.rodeofame.com

By Shannon Geddes

Look for animal athlete portraits by David Sinclair in coming issues of Rodeo Fame.

Contact him today for a portrait of your favorite animal athlete!

Photo credit David Sinclair

www.rodeofame.com

39

BUSINESS PROFILE

Special

STYLE

WESTERN TRADING POST

Highlight

THE PICTURES SPEAK FOR THEMSELVES

Western Trading Post is located in Casa Grande, Arizona Check them out at www.WesternTradingPost.com

40

www.rodeofame.com

BUSINESS PROFILE

HALL OF FAME

Champion of Western Fashion

KIMMIEWALL COWGIRL STYLE: Worthy of the Hall of Fame

Las Vegas is known for its glitz and glamour year-round. But during the NFR, the fashion takes on an edgy western flair.

Amidst the sea of sequins, fur, and fringe the women of the WPRA take center stage.

The WPRA and the Cowgirl Hall of Fame give out an award for the best dressed barrel racer at the NFR each year. The award was established in 2012 after the passing of Jerry Ann Taylor, a flamboyant trick rider who had a flair for fashion.

Rodeos are a time for each of these cowgirls to show their personal style. The NFR gives them a chance to really show off their style and shine for the world to see. The Jerry Ann Taylor award recognizes this style and awards the first place winner with a $5,000 prize.

The 2017 Jerry Ann Taylor award went to Kimmie Wall.

Kimmie is not afraid of color and splash. Being in the arena gives her a chance to have fun with fashion. But she isn’t the only one sparkling in the arena; her horse is also decked out to match whatever Kimmie may be wearing. Together they make a highly stylish team. She delights in taking that boldness in the arena with her.

In or out of the arena, Kimmie likes to have fun. She can always be found wearing her boots and spurs and is never without a pair of earrings.

42

www.rodeofame.com

FASHION WAGON FA S H I O N WA G O N

What To Wear For 2018

WILD RAG

from Whipin Wildrags A colorful wild rag can add a western flare to any outfit.

BOLO TIES

Tee: Triangle T Boutique Bag: Espuela Design Co.

Hey ladies, bolo ties aren't just for the boys. Wear one with a flowy top for a fun, yet classy look.

Photo by Emilee B Photography

44

www.rodeofame.com

See exclusive photos at rodeofame.com

Custom apparel that keeps the legacy of rodeo and ranching alive

Order online at roamfashion.net

FASHION WAGON

WHAT TO WEAR FOR 2018 46

www.rodeofame.com

BLAZER

Throw a cute blazer over a funky graphic tee for an effortless yet chic look.

TOOLED LEATHER

from Long X Trading Co Hand tooled leather is wearable art.

Whether it be on a belt or an eye catching pair of heels, we suggest that everyone of some in their wardrobe. It's worth the investment.

Tee: Coyote Cowgirl Jewelry: Rodeo Van Trading Co Bag: Espuela Design Co Photo by Emilee B Photography

CHOKER

from Leather and Vodka A leather choker can give any outfit a showstopper look.

FASHION WAGON

TOP 10 BOOTS FRINGED BOOT

Stetson Black Fringe overthe-knee leather boot

PERFORMANCE BOOT Justin Marfa

MEN'S DRESS BOOT Rio's of Mercedes

BOOTIE

Double D Ranchwear by Old Gringo Tuskegee

WILD SIDE

Rodeo Quincy Bronc Bustin' Rodeo Boot

DRESS BOOT

Lane Tooled Magnolia

ONE OF A KIND

CHILDREN'S BOOTS

MEN'S ALL-AROUND BOOT

MEN'S CUSTOM BOOT

Rocket Buster Boots

Lucchese

Anderson Bean

Diamond D Leather

www.rodeofame.com

47

FASHION WAGON

WHAT TO WEAR FOR 2018 48

www.rodeofame.com

FASHION WAGON

Ladies, time to pull the Rockies out of retirement! They give every woman a vintage, stylish look.

Nothing beats the classic look of a trouser jean. Check out the new "Lola" from Kimes Ranch. It's one of our favorites.

Photo by Emilee B Photography

www.rodeofame.com

49

FASHION WAGON

WHAT TO WEAR FOR 2018 50

Tees and Bomber: Rodeo Time Denim: Rock N Roll Denim Mkenzee's & Cara's Hat: Greeley Hat Works Mary Jo's & Cara's Footwear: Jey's Saddlery Jewelry: Rodeo Van Trading Co. Photo by Emilee B Photography See exclusive photos at rodeofame.com

www.rodeofame.com

Tee: Triangle T Boutique Bag: Espuela Design Co. Photo by Emilee B Photography

WHAT TO WEAR FOR 2018

FASHION WAGON

www.rodeofame.com

51

FASHION WAGON

52

www.rodeofame.com

FASHION WAGON

Ariat has fitness gear!

Get yours today at ariat.com Don’t miss Rodeo Fame’s FITNESS issue coming May 2018 featuring a few of the most fit athletes in the rodeo industry!

www.rodeofame.com

53

ATHLETES & STARS

SAGE KIMZEY

"I’d loved to win Cheyenne."

BIG 5 RODEOS

Most memorable ride: A 93 on bull Magic Train at Lawton, OK was my first ever 90 at a Pro Rodeo in 2013

3.

1. California Rodeo Salinas Long Standing Records (2016) most current:

• Bull Riding: 93 points Mike White, 1999 • All-Around: most earned $8,853 Ty Murray, 1990

"Winning Pendleton has always been a dream of mine."

RICHMOND CHAMPION

4.

2. San Antonio Stock Show & Rodeo

Sage K "I’d loved Cheye

"Cheyenne, this rodeo is such a Legendary rodeo. I have always wanted to win this one."

SHEA FISHER

Arena Records:

• Bareback: (2011) Kaycee Field 93 pts on “Brother” from JK Rodeo Co. • Tiedown: Hunter Herrin tied his own arena record back to back 6.6 sec (2016,2017)

3. Pendleton Round Up Arena Records:

• Most money won for allaround set by Trevor Brazile in 2012 $20,205

1.

• Steer Wrestling: KC Jones with 3.8 sec run in 2001, tied in 2014 by Casey Martin • Saddle Bronc: Cody DeMoss with 91 pt ride in 2010 • Barrel Racing: Kristie Peterson set 2 records in 1996 17.03 sec run and then 3-run average of 51.60 sec

4. Reno Rodeo

Arena Records:

• Team Roping: Colter Todd/ Cesar de la Cruz (2008) Jake cooper/Tyler McKnight (2016) share the record of 4.0 sec run • Bull riding: 3-way arena record tie - Clint Branger 95 pts on Flying 5 Rodeo’s Yellow Jacket 1997 - Shane Drury on Big Bend Rodeo Co. Riverdance 2001 Myron Duarte on Flying 5 Rodeo’s Border Patrol 2002

54

www.rodeofame.com

CASEY MARTIN

" Cheyenne would be my dream rodeo to win.

It's one of my favorite rodeos. The long score and fresh steers make it very challenging which makes it exciting to me."

Kimzey d to win enne."

ACR OSS T H E BOA R D

"I would like to win Fort Worth one day. For whatever reason I’ve never done good in the average there and I would love to change that."

JADE CORKILL

2.

"I'd love to win San Antonio."

CLAY O’BRIEN COOPER

JAKE BROWN

""I would love to win San Antonio."

Most memorable ride: I was 85 points in Logandale Nv in 2015. I just feel like it was a turning point in my career.

www.rodeofame.com

55

ATHLETES & STARS

ROCKER STEINER Rolls Into Bareback Riding

By Lori O’Harver

AUSTIN, Texas – At 14, Rocker Steiner is already a champion wakeboarder. The 4’ 10”, 97 pounder has never met a dare he didn’t love.

Given his DNA, there might have been a silver spur branded on his heart from birth, but it’s the flint in his eye that matters.

His great-great grandfather’s name was Buck Steiner. Born in 1899, by the Roaring ‘20s the young man was producing his own touring wild west show. When those shows went the way of the buffalo, he made the natural move to rodeo production. His son, Tommy, would take over the company, followed by his son, bull riding champion Bobby Steiner.

56

fire. I don’t know if you believe in genetics, but I do.”

The call in the kid’s heart is strong. He’s been riding the bigger horses in practice, but there’s all kinds, shapes and sizes in his dozen-head string.

Bobby would eventually sell the rodeo company to nurture other business interests and thought they’d walked away from the sport until his son, Sid, announced that he wanted to bull dog. Sid Steiner’s entry into the history books is unforgettable in both skill and style. Many good cowboys would go on to win the steer wrestling championship. None would do it in such a short career or with their long, blond hair done up in cornrows. Only one victory lap has been burned in Thomas & Mack by a happy, bare-chested round winner with tribal tattoos rippling over his huge guns.

“These days, it’s hit the lake and wakeboard, then go ride,” said Bobby. “He’s fortunate to have Ty Murray and KayCee Field’s instruction and help. Rocker’s a likeable little guy. I think it’s the happy, passionate way he goes about things that these great riders like. He’s teaching Ty to barefoot ski and both of them are having a blast. KayCee texted Rocker when he was out at the Fort Worth Stock Show & Rodeo after the kid had won his junior bareback riding and had him come behind the chutes with him to ‘warm up his glove’. Rocker wore KayCee’s riding glove around until it was time for him to ride and grinned every minute.”

“We still have horses around but Rocker didn’t show a lot of interest until Don Graham told us about the Mini Bareback Riding World Championship event he’d seen,” said Bobby Steiner. “We went to see one ourselves and Rocker caught

Look for Rocker Steiner in the Junior Roughstock Association Bareback Riding Senior Division as he works to qualify for the 2018 Jr. NFR. For more information, go to Facebook @juniorroughstockchampionships.

www.rodeofame.com

HOLLYWOOD & FILMS

WATCH

Brandon Buttars on Netflix!

By Shannon Geddes

When you ask ten different people for their definition of “cowboy,” you are bound to get ten different answers.

But one thing most will agree on is that cowboys aren’t just found in the rodeo arena. Recently, a less mainstream western discipline got its turn on center stage when the movie Down the Fence debuted on Netflix.

Centered around the triumph and defeat of reined cow horse competition, Down the Fence follows a handful of horse trainers working to make a name for themselves in this most challenging of equestrian disciplines.

The reined cow horse discipline is not something that is widely known beyond those involved in equestrian competition. But inside the reined cow horse world is a tight-knit group of gritty competitors. Reined cow horse trainer Brandon Buttars from Snowville, Utah is deeply entrenched in that world and was one of the trainers featured in the documentary.

Growing up, Brandon had the opportunity to be the jockey for his family’s race horses, but it was not something he particularly enjoyed. In 1989, Brandon won the Utah State High School Rodeo Bull Riding Championship and went on to compete at the National High School Finals Rodeo.

After high school, Brandon started helping horseman Jack Forsberg start colts. Brandon was intrigued by what Jack was doing; his way of riding and training. It didn’t take long for him to realize that he wanted to pursue a career training horses.

Jack taught Brandon to train all horses, not just the ones that are supposed to be the best. Brandon’s wife, Sophia Buttars, says that he has won on horses that probably didn’t have the best odds, but he has figured out a way to train every horse to do what he wants.

The ultimate goal for Brandon as a horse trainer is to become a million dollar rider and win the NRCHA Snaffle Bit Futurity.

www.rodeofame.com

57

14

www.rodeofame.com

(800) 895-3890

www.RollingMTrailers.com

14

www.rodeofame.com

www.rodeofame.com

15

A Selection as Big as

Sized Selection

8 0 S T O R E S A C R O S S 1 1 S TAT E S • 8 M E T R O P L E X L O C AT I O N S