2023 Brush Rodeo

A restored John Deere A owned by the Curtis family was entered in the 2022Independence Day parade in Brush.

Everything you need to know if you ’ re going to the Brush Rodeo

By Robin Northrup Special Contributor

Headed to the Brush Rodeo? Here is what you need to know.

The Brush Rodeo will be celebrating its 68th year in 2023 and an inaugural year as a Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association (PRCA) event at the Morgan County Fairgrounds, 750 Ellsworth Street in Brush. Saddle up for a three-day event of bull riding, barrel racing and more The Brush Chamber of Commerce will host a Beer Garden each evening during the rodeo Tickets are available at the gate and at Brush City Hall, 600 Edison Street in Brush, priced at $10 for adults and $5 for children 12 and under. Three-day passes are also available. Gates open at 5:30 p.m. daily. Mark your calendar, load up your family, and join in the fun! Following is a glance at some of the events you will not want to miss:

Stay up to date on Brush Rodeo announcements by following facebook.com/brushrodeoco or facebook.com/BrushRodeo. Also, visit brushrodeo.com for detailed information

Sunday, July 2

• The CACE Western Art Show, sponsored by Hubbard Feeds, will take place from 3 to 7 p.m. in the Mark Arndt Event Center on the Morgan County Fairgrounds. The annual show, hosted by the Morgan Community College (MCC) Center for Arts and Community Enrichment (CACE), features talented artists from Morgan County and beyond. This year’s featured artist is Zach Chapman from Otis, who was chosen as People’s Choice in 2022. Chapman’s work is featured on this year’s Brush Rodeo poster and other promotional material. Artists will be on site for several hours each day and willing to visit with rodeo-goers about their works in the show Most of the works are for sale

• From 5 to 7 p m , Eben Ezer Lutheran Care Center will present the “Second of July BBQ” at the 4-H Building on the Morgan County Fairgrounds. Advance tickets are available at ebenezer-cares.org, facebook.com/EbenEzerCares or brushrodeo.com. Ticket prices are $6 for adults, $8 at the door, and $4 for children under age 10. Family packs are available priced at $20 for two adults and two children. The event is a fundraiser for Eben Ezer and proceeds raised will be used for activities and outings for the Neighbors across the campus. The meal is provided by Unidine. Robert Woodward of Yuma will perform acoustic red dirt country and classic rock covers

• Gates open at 5:30 p m for the first performance of the 68th annual Brush Rodeo, with the first

bronc bucked at 7 p m The evening begins with opening rodeo ceremonies and the National Anthem performed by Christine Yung Cheryl Brindisi will sing Proud to be an American. The colors will be raised by VFW Post No. 3551.

• Additional entertainment will include mutton bustin’ and a boot scramble during the rodeo performance. No pre-entry is required for children interested in participating in the boot scramble. Entry into the mutton bustin’ was predetermined. Princess rides will be available at 5 p.m. with Brush Rodeo Queen Rebecca Boone and other royalty. The Brush Chamber of Commerce’s Beer Garden will be open throughout the evening

Monday, July 3

• Slack will begin at 9 a m This

is a free event featuring contestants not drawn into the three nightly performances Contestants will compete in timed roping events and barrel racing. Roughstock entries will not be included in slack. The CACE Western Art Show will be open from 3-7 p.m. in the Mark Arndt Event Center.

• Entertainment will begin at 6:30 p.m. with the mounted Shock Wave Trick Riders. The group is a high-velocity trick riding team of multiple intricately skilled stuntmen and stuntwomen based in Denver. Gates open at 5:30 p.m. for the second performance of the 68th annual Brush Rodeo, with the first bronc bucked at 7 p m The evening begins with opening rodeo ceremonies and the National Anthem performed by Terry Larsen

DOUG LARKEY SPECIAL TO THE NEWS-TRIBUNE

A participant in the 2019rodeo’s bareback riding competition

PROFESSIONAL RODEO COWBOYS ASSOCIATION

Move to PRCA marks a new era

By Robin Northrup Special Contributor

When the 68th Annual Brush Rodeo opens for three nightly performances July 2-4, don't be surprised to hear a few contestant names you may have seen on TV.

The Brush Rodeo has announced a move from the Colorado Pro Rodeo Association (CPRA) to the Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association (PRCA) in 2023

The (PRCA) Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association is the largest rodeo organization in the world. Headquartered in Colorado Springs, Colo., the organization sanctions 650 multiple-event rodeos in 38 states and Canadian provinces.

The Brush Rodeo Association

made the change to PRCA to enhance the rodeo by increasing the level of competition and attracting more top-level athletes, said Brush Rodeo President Dave Sharman. Its membership includes some of the best rodeo athletes in the world. By joining the PRCA, the Brush Rodeo Association ensures that its event will feature the best possible competition, Sharman said

Over the years, many changes have been made to grow and improve the Brush Rodeo Organizers originally launched the Brush Rodeo as a one-day amateur event. It grew into the world's largest amateur rodeo and eventually to a three-day event.

The first rodeo was held in 1925, but the grandstands were not added until 1948. The Jaycees

68TH ANNUAL BRUSH RODEO

and other organizations formed the Brush Rodeo Association in 1955 and added events like the parade, barbecue, and fireworks.

In 1975, the Brush Rodeo Association created the Watrous Pioneer Award to honor an individual whose pioneering spirit makes Brush a welcome spot for rodeo fans. The naming of the award pays tribute to Doc and Helen (Petteys)

Watrous The grounds where the rodeo is held today were deeded by Helen's father, Alonzo Petteys

The land was also deeded by J.R. Ryland to include the fairgrounds and Memorial Park.

In 1992, the Brush Rodeo Family of the Year award was created and awarded by the Brush Rodeo Association. Three years later, the Brush Rodeo was honored by the

United States Postal Service with a collector's stamp honoring the Brush Rodeo.

In 2005, when the Brush Rodeo joined the CPRA, the once amateur rodeo went professional. Only once, because of COVID protocols, was the rodeo not held, in 2020.

PRCA sanctions rodeos in various events, including bareback bronc riding, saddle bronc riding, bull riding, steer wrestling, team roping, tie-down roping, barrel racing, and steer roping The organization also sanctions the National Finals Rodeo (NFR), a premier rodeo event.

Many of the cowboys competing in the 2023 Brush Rodeo are regular performers in the PRCA's Mountain States Circuit, which includes Colorado and Wyoming

Nearly a century of Brush Rodeo history

Following is a through-the-years glance at the history of the Brush Rodeo.

1924 A group of visionary Brush businessmen, spearheaded by Alonzo Petteys and J.R. Ryland, bought land and deeded it to the City of Brush. This property is known as Memorial Park and the Morgan County Fairgrounds

1925 The first Rodeo and Race was held

1927 Some 17,000 attended the 3rd annual Brush Rodeo and Race when governor Billy Adams led the parade.

1929 A small fee was charged for parking in addition to a 50 cents gate charge. This helped finance a new amplified public address system.

1940s Local participants won several events: 1942, Dean Christensen finished third in the pony race; 1943, Dale Stinton won the shoe race contest for boys over 70 pounds; 1946, Harry Mohrlang finished second in saddle bronc riding, while Bill Lowry won the bull dogging and calf roping.

FILE PHOTO

This photograph of the Brush Rodeo from circa 1940shows an announcer’s booth jutting out from the section with a full roof The shape of the fence is more like what you would see with horse racing, as opposed to the kind you would see at a rodeo or fair grounds

FROM PAGE

1948 New grandstands were added.

1949 The first pari-mutuel horse racing in Colorado made its debut in Brush

1953 Brought temporary changes with the horse racing held in May and June; the Brush Jaycees sponsored midget auto races in July.

1955 The Jacyees and other organizations formed the Brush Rodeo Association. The Association has since offered parades, rodeos, barbecues, fireworks and plenty of good, old-fashioned fun.

1975 The Watrous Pioneer Award, to honor an individual whose pioneering spirit makes Brush a welcome spot for thousands of rodeo fans each year, was introduced.

1992 The Rodeo Family of the Year Award was created by the Brush Rodeo Association. The Robert Walker family was the first recipient

1995 The Texas-Montana Trail Drive marker was dedicated to the public and new grandstands were added. Also, the United States Postal Service created a collector's stamp honoring the Brush Rodeo.

2004 Brush Rodeo celebrates 50 years

2005 Brush Rodeo joins CPRA. 2014 Brush Rodeo celebrates 60 years.

2017 The first performance of the Colorado Cowgirls Performance Team was marked. The annual rodeo dance made its return. As an added treat, seven-time PRCA tie-

down champion and 1999 PRCA all-around champion Fred Whitfield entered the field.

2020 The COVID-19 pandemic forces the annual rodeo to be canceled.

2023 The 68th Annual Brush Rodeo is held with Dave Sharman serving as the rodeo president. A new rodeo era begins with a move to the PRCA

FILE PHOTO

Circa 1940, a rider attempts to stay on a bucking bronco at the Brush Rodeo.

FILE PHOTO

Nate Oetter holds on while riding in the Saddlebronc competition at the 2015Brush Rodeo

Princess rides give kids a royal experience

The Brush Rodeo Little Princess Rides will be at 5 p m Sunday, July 2 before the rodeo This activity involves a royalty ride with the reigning 2023 Brush Rodeo Queen Rebecca Boone, and 2024 Brush Rodeo Queen contestants. All children ages 5-10 are welcome to participate and a horse is not required.

Registration will begin at 4:30 p.m. and end at 4:55 p.m. Registration will be in the 4-H building, on the southeast corner of the Morgan County Fairgrounds.

Rodeo

FORT MORGAN TIMES FILE PHOTO

The balloon scramble on July 3is one of the fun and entertaining activities for children during the Brush Rodeo A boot scramble will be featured July 2, and a bring-your-own-stick horse race will be held July 4

COURTESY PHOTO

Children ages 5-10are invited to take a ride with rodeo royalty during the Little Princess Rides

Rebecca Boone looks back on life in small-town

Special to The Times

Though the Brush Rodeo Queen’s reign officially began in October, Brush resident and 2023 victor Rebecca Boone, is already looking forward to partaking in the upcoming Brush Rodeo.

“Growing up here in Brush, I grew up riding horses and have always had an interest in our Brush royalty. Becoming the 2023 Brush Rodeo Queen has truly been an amazing experience and has taught me so much,” Boone commented about the honor.

This year, the queen’s agenda is already packed full but the thought is far from daunting. She will

carry both the American and sponsor flags during the rodeo’s Grand Entry However, she is particularly looking forward to helping with the Mutton Bustin’ event as well as the Little Princess Rides at 5 p m on July 2 Additionally, she will appear in the Brush Fourth of July Parade.

Throughout the rodeo, she will be accompanied by her Sweetheart, who will be crowned on July 1, as well as two contestants who are currently running for 2024 Brush Rodeo Queen.

“I can’t wait to be apart of the rodeo this year and represent the Brush Rodeo. I hope to see as many people there as possible this year,” Boone commented.

1967— Beverly Nuss

since 1956 Following is a glance at those who have served as queen

1956 Joy Lowry

1957 Donna Koehler 1958 Lila Geyer 1959 Carol Bott 1960 Amy Asheim

Waitman

1968— Sandy Tegtman

1969— Verna Segelke

1970 Rozalind Walbye

1971 Debra Hall

1972 Susan Wright

1973 Jaylene Ruggles

1974 Carol Wright

1975 Merrigwen Segelke

1976 Julie Weiderspan

1977 Kathie Krengel

1978 Jean Segelke

1979 Teri McCartney

1997— Vanessa VonFeldt

1998— Kimber Thompson 1999— Lindsy Redman 2000 Elisa Magnuson 2001 Seandale Poe

2002 Crystal Sexton

2003 Michelle McCracken 2004 Erin Query

2005 Laura Klenda 2006 Kassi Watson 2007 Krystal Booth 2008 Jessie Haake

2009 Megan Dooley

2010 Kolby Bright

2011 Morgan Norris

2012— Rachael McCracken

2013— Elysa Mora

2014— Ayla Newman

2015 Madison Warffeli

2016 Clara Petersen

2017 McKenna VonFeldt

2018 Kyleigh Mellott

2019 Jordan Uhrig

2020-21 Rozilyn Sheppard*

2022 Sateen Keller

2023 Rebecca Boone

* COVID era, served a two-year term as queen

PHOTOS COURTESY OF LACEE J PHOTOGRAPHY

2023Brush Rodeo Queen Rebecca Boone

Rodeo

FROM PAGE 4

Cheryl Brindisi will sing Proud to be an American. The colors will be raised by VFW Post No. 3551. A second round of mutton bustin’ and a balloon scramble will be included in the rodeo performance

The Brush Chamber of Commerce’s Beer Garden will be open throughout the evening

• The Brush Rodeo Association will present the Watrous Pioneer Award prior to the rodeo performance. Established in 1975, this award was created to honor those who helped build the Morgan County community and have shown true Pioneer spirit. The award recognizes an individual, a couple, or a deserving family who has represented and tirelessly contributed to the Morgan County community for 65 or more years.

Tuesday, July 4

• The Brush Lions Club will offer a pancake breakfast from 6 to 10 a.m. at the Library Park, located at 500 Clayton St They will serve

pancakes, eggs, sausage, coffee and juice for a donation of $10 for adults and $6 for children.

• After breakfast, head inside the East Morgan County Library and check out the book sale and

35th annual quilt show from 7-10 a.m.

• At 10 a.m., the Brush Chamber of Commerce’s annual Independence Day Parade will step off. The parade theme is “Americana of the

West.” Grand Marshals are longtime Brush residents Greg Mullen and his wife, Ronda. Chuck Miller will announce the parade, and will be located near the Library Park. The parade route will begin at the intersection of Eaton and Centre Avenue, travel south to Edmunds Street, east to Ray Street, north to Howard Street, east to Turner Street, south to Edmunds Street, east to Cameron Street and head north, where it will end at Mill Street

• Back at the Morgan County Fairgrounds, the CACE Western Art Show will have extended hours and be open from 1-7 p.m. Gates open at 5:30 p.m. for the third and final performance of the 68th annual Brush Rodeo, with the first bronc bucked at 7 p.m. Events include a final round of mutton bustin’ and a “Bring Your Own Stick Horse Race.” No pre-entry is required for the stick horse race. The 2023-24 Brush Rodeo Queen will be named. The Brush Chamber of Commerce’s Beer Garden will be open throughout the evening. At 9 p.m. or immediately following the conclusion of the rodeo, the Fantastic Fireworks Display will begin

FILE PHOTO COURTESY PAM RIEHL

A bareback contestant attempts to stay aboard his draw during a past Brush Rodeo

Watrous Pioneer to be named July 3

By Brian Porter bporter@prairiemountainmedia.com

The Brush Rodeo Association annually awards a deserving community member, family or group in Morgan County the Watrous Pioneer Award

The award began in 1975 to honor those who have contributed significantly and helped build the Morgan County community, and those who have shown a "pioneer" spirit.

Named for Doc and Helen (Petteys) Watrous, this award encompasses the true pioneer spirit they exhibited throughout their lives In 1924, Helen's father, Alonzo Petteys, and businessman JR Ryland purchased and later deeded the land known today as Memorial Park and the Morgan County Fairgrounds.

That legacy of giving back has continued. Doc and Helen, along with Alozo and JR, all knew that Morgan County was a very special place and dedicated time, resources and hard work to make the Morgan County community what it became, the award description reads.

Recipients of the award have helped Brush and Morgan County welcome guests from around the state and throughout the nation for the annual rodeo during the past 47 years and longer.

The award recipient is announced on July 3 prior to the start of the rodeo performance, known as Pioneer Day Until the announcement, the recipient is a secret.

On Pioneer Day, all who are 62 years of age or older are admitted free of charge, a long-standing tradition. Following are prior recipients of the award.

1975 Chris Danielsen

1976— John Amen

1977 William ‘Bill' Luers

1978 Charley Starr

1979— N C ‘Jack' Wagers

1980 Grace Eakins

1981 Harold Gray

1982— Ted Rediess

1983— Guidotta Bates

1984— Ruth Henderson

1985— Pat Kastler

1986 Harvey Reinert

1987 Joe Bowman

1988— Ruth Powell

1989 Warren M. ‘Doc' & Helen Watrous

1990 Reverend Reinhold Opp

1991— Elizabeth Church

1992 Frank & Kathy Mercer

1993 Calvin ‘Cal' Leach & Eileen Wahlert

1994— Howard & Idessa Mann

1995 Don & Margaret Queen

1996 Scott Wolever

1997— Sylva Kula

1998— Jim & Anna Marie Hutcheson

1999 Phil & Betty Vondy

2000— Mary Mohrlang

2001— Carl & Lucille Schlothauer

2002 Elton & Laura Ingmire; Ray & Bev Ingmire

2003— Ruth Scott

2004— Harry Mohrlang

2005 Etheldean Bell

2006— John Glenn Family

2007— Ron Edwards Family

2008 Lloyd Hansen

2009 John Woodward

Donald, Reinholt and Reuben Bostron, along with his wife Llova, accepted the Watrous Outstanding Pioneer Family Award from 2014Brush Rodeo Queen Ayla Newman and Lady-in-Waiting Madison Warffelli at the 60th annual event last week

2010 Louis J Lorenzini

2011— Joy Kjeldgaard

2012— Homer Wickham

2013 Marvin and Beverly Kembel

2014— Conrad Bostron Family

2015— Art & Bernice Crosthwait

2016 Phil Mortensen

2017— Gary Hodgson

2018 Larry & Patty Chartier Family

2019 Steve Treadway

2021— Jack "Doc" Collins

2022 Donald "Chic" & Donna Ruhl

FILE PHOTO

FILE PHOTO

Surrounded by family members at the Brush Rodeo, John Woodward, left, and his wife Marilyn receive the 2009Watrous Outstanding Pioneer Award from Brush Mayor Dan Scalise

FORT MORGAN TIMES FILE PHOTO Dr Jack Collins is awarded a plaque alongside the honor of being the 2021Watrous Outstanding Pioneer Award winner

Rodeo Family of the Year celebrates rodeo tradition

The Brush Rodeo annually honors a Rodeo Family of the Year, an award established in 1992 to recognize families and organizations who have dedicated their time and energy to the advancement of the rodeo tradition and who compete or have competed in rodeo around the state.

The recipients of this award are selected by the Brush Rodeo Committee This year's recipient will be honored at the Brush Rodeo VIP reception. Prior recipients of the award are:

2021 Dave Sharman family

2020 No award presented*

2019 Segelke Family

2018— Jim Odle

2017— Toby Padilla

2016— Robin Varelman

2015— Randy & Jackie Danielsen

2014— Brush Police Department

2013— Tim and Lana Stutzman

2012— Chuck Miller family

2011— Al Campbell family

2010 John Hinds

2009 Brush Lions Club

1995 Dr. John Collins

1992 Robert Walker family

* COVID era Rodeo was not held.

If you have more background detail on prior recipients of the Rodeo Family of the Year Award, email bporter@prairiemountainmedia.com.

Mr and Mrs David Sharman were recognized as the 2021Rodeo Family of the Year

FILE PHOTO

Jeff Osuch and Toby Padilla along with McKenna VonFeldt and Kylie Mellott. Padilla received the Rodeo Family of the Year Award.

FORT MORGAN TIMES FILE PHOTO

Rodeo association annual scholarship

By Brian Porter bporter@prairiemountainmedia com

The Brush Rodeo Association and Foundation began a $1,000 scholarship for a graduating high school senior in 2005

The scholarship is presented to a Northeast Colorado student involved in rodeo, and who intends to continue the sport in college. The award is also based upon community involvement and high academic standing.

The scholarship is renewable for up to three years, provided the recipient maintains eligibility and continued participation in a rodeo program.

Following is a list of those who have received the scholarship.

2005— Jesse Jolly

2006 Kara Kraich

2007 Christina Basler

2008 Caleb Adle

2009— Jenna Jolly

2010— Brooke Barker

2011— Hayden Segelke

2012— Stetson Corman

2013 Michaela Dineen

2014 Celie Vick

2015 Teisha Coalfield

2016— Alex Odle

2017— Zach Hamar

2018— Sidney Odle

2019— Chadron Walter

2020 Not awarded*

2021 Award recipient unknown

2022 Rowdy Weil

* COVID: No award was presented.

Sydney Odle, who received the Brush Rodeo Association’s annual $1,000 scholarship in 2018, gave a special thanks to the volunteers, sponsors, board members and committee members

FILE PHOTO

FILE PHOTO

Teisha Coffield, of Yuma, was selected as the Brush Rodeo Association Scholarship winner for 2015.

Celie Vick of Byers was chosen as the 2014Brush Rodeo Foundation Scholarship winner

FILE PHOTO

Mutton Bustin’ competitors to entertain rodeo-goers

Mutton bustin’ returns to entertain the crowds at the Brush Rodeo, with three sets of competitors ages 5 to 7 ready to hold tight to their sheep and see who can cling the longest. The event is sponsored by Leprino Foods

All participants will receive a commemorative belt buckle, and the longest-lasting riders are awarded a trophy for their impressive skills

Participants for this year’s contests are:

July 2

Cedar Erker

Qakley Erker

Jocelyn Drew

Emery Meryhew

Aria Manes

Cason Pachek

Emmaline Alvidrez

Remi Sanchez

Grayson Harlan

Jameson Saurini-Fisher

Jameson Jones

Jenson Jones

Brock Unrein

Emily Trevizo

Remi Smith

Brielle Gonzales

Paisley Lefever

Isabelle Langley

Riley Langley

Zayven Zassenhaus

July 3

Addison Austin

Trenten Johnson

Grant Marini

Leon Hall

Eliana Armendariz

Eliam Armendariz

Frank Farnam

Colten Lover

Colter Kroskob

Rourke Walker

Gunner Vondy

Case Hansen

Adler Massey

Waylon Grooms

Devin Sandeen

Camden Schiel

Briggs Hoffman

Braylon Schiel

Emry Kroskob

Cole Rhoades

July 4

Caden Krob

Kasen Noe

Logan Robinson

Asher Pivik

Tatum Lee

Savannah Malone

Dylan Rickets

Delaney Malone

Quinn Ginther

Nolan Dobyns

Mason Dobyns

Tobias Rowe

Vaughn Weimer

Creed Weimer

Jack Strayer

Bohdye Pope

Hudson Pope

Marlee Beydler

Tanzin Dardano

Austin TeWinkle

2021Rodeo Queen Rozilyn Sheppard stands alongside the Mutton Bustin’ champion as he holds up his trophy

PHOTOS BY KATIE ROTH THE FORT MORGAN TIMES

A brave child hangs onto a sheep during Mutton Bustin’ at the 2021Brush

Morgan County Extension Agent Marlin Eisenach (top left) opens the gate for a Mutton Bustin’ participant at the 2021Brush Rodeo

Books for sale abound in Brush at annual July Fourth sale at EMCL

Special To The News Tribune

Children’s books, novels, cookbooks and craft books, travel books, book bundles, large print, historical books, and various audio and visual media handily organized and categorized are all available at the annually anticipated book and media sale at East Morgan County Library (EMCL), 500 Clayton St. in Brush, on July 1, 3 and 4.

The sales are held at the library in the Book Cellar (library basement) with Friends members ready to assist customers and run the sales. The entrance to the Cellar is on the south side of the building. This year’s book sales will take place on Saturday, July 1 and Monday, July 3 from 10 a m to 2 p m

The Tuesday, July 4 sales will be held from 7 to 10 a.m. during the Lion’s Club pancake breakfast at Library Park in Brush.

A special at the present time and throughout the July 4 book sales

is a “Buy One-Get One” sale on all cookbooks and quilting books available in the Book Cellar Children’s books and all paperbacks are $.25 each with a 5 for $1 regular special. Hardback and gaming CDs are $1, and movie DVDs and music CDs are 4 for $1. Book bundles are marked at various prices and are often in the $1.50-$3 price range.

Items for sale consist largely of private donations made by library patrons and area citizens, and often include those in nearly-new condition. Certain items can sometimes be found in new or “gift quality,” condition, all at an economical price. Other items for sale are discards from the library itself.

Each year, held in conjunction with the City of Brush Fourth of July celebration, the Friends’ Or-

ganization of EMCL hosts the annual event, making the most of visitors at the rodeos, parade, pancake breakfast and other activities All proceeds are used by the Friends to help with library events, programs, new books and other library materials.

While the earliest sales on July 1 will provide the best selection for those interested in purchasing, the July 4 sales typically yield the most sales, as the pancake breakfast in the park attracts many visitors. The sale is just prior to the annual Fourth of July parade, which begins at 10 a.m.

Shoppers do not need to bring a bag unless so desired. If buying large quantities of items, however, EMCL Friends recommend bringing boxes if possible

BRUSH NEWS-TRIBUNE FILE PHOTO Shoppers check out the used books for sale at the East Morgan County Library Book Cellar during the annual sale in 2021.

Close circuit standings could make Brush an enticing destination

By Brian Porter bporter@prairiemountainmedia com

As they ride out of Greeley and before making the trip west to Estes Park, the addition of the Brush Rodeo to the PRCA could make Morgan County a destination for new faces and familiar names.

Those cowboys and cowgirls who will load up for Brush in search of a rewarding Cowboy Christmas remain unclear as of press time, but likely it will be a who's who of the Mountain States circuit.

The all-around cowboy competition is tight, which could lead to many of the top-earning cowboys making the stop in Brush. That could include four Colorado cowboys Jase Stoudt of Saguache leads the circuit all-around with $6,049, with Seth Peterson of Welling sitting second with $3,519 Garrett Uptain of Craig ranks fourth in the all-around money with $1,786 and Wade Shoemaker of Greeley sits sixth.

The best chance for a look at a Morgan County cowboy could be in tie-down roping. Cason Kingsbury of Orchard sits ninth in the circuit standings with $2,070. Riley Pruitt of Gering, Nebraska, leads the circuit with $6,592. Weld County cowboy Owen Wahlert of Grover sits seventh with $2,737. Jeremiah Peek of Pueblo leads a string of Colorado

Cowboy Darnell Johnson, of Fowler, lassos a steer in tie down roping for a time of 6 7seconds on day five of the PRCA ProRodeo Series during the 100th Greeley Stampede at Island Grove Regional Park in Greeley June 29, 2022 The timing of the Greeley event may help bring more top PRCA competition to the Brush Rodeo this year

cowboys with $3,606 to sit third

Keenan Hayes of Hayden presently sits atop the bareback standings with $7,617 Myles Carlson of Evanston, Wyoming, with $1,737 in earnings, is second ahead of Jarrod McCane of Cisco, Texas, with $1,522, and Drake Amundson of Wheatland, Wyoming, with $1,138.

Jace Angus of Fallon, Nevada, with $3,400 in earnings, and Ira Dickinson of Rock Springs, Wyoming, with $3,339 are in a tight race atop the circuit saddle bronc standings. The top Colorado cowboy in the standings is fourth-

ranked Brady Love of Wellington with $1,679 in earnings

Bryce Burnell of Sheridan, Wyoming, has $7,474 in earnings to sit comfortably at the top of the circuit bull riding standings. The draw could feature three Colorado cowboys giving pursuit: Garrett Uptain of Craig, Colt Rohrig of Rifle, and Weld County cowboy Hunter Boydston of Grover.

Another nearby cowboy, Trey Jackson of Keenesburg, is leading the circuit steer wrestling standings with $3,952 in earnings. Avery Jamerman of Torrington, Wy-

oming, ranks second with $3,186 and Jace Logan of Yampa is third with $2,115 Tait Kvistad of nearby Hudson ranks sixth in the standings with $1,624.

Two Greeley cowboys are in the chase for the circuit lead as team roping headers: Todd Drummond with $2,623 to rank fourth and Edgar Aguilar with $1,927 to rank sixth. Pedro Egurrola of Florence, Arizona, presently sits atop the header standings with $4,318.

Carson Johnson of Casper, Wyoming, sits atop the heeler team roping standings with $3,917 in earnings. Tyler Lauridsen of nearby Nunn ranks 11th, Chad Wahlert of Kersey sits 12th and Marcus Bannister of Brighton is 15th. Jason Devore of Fort Lupton sits second in the standings with $2,623

Chris Glover of nearby Keenesburg leads the circuit steer roping standings with $4,661 in earnings The other Colorado cowboy breaking the circuit standings is Wade Shoemaker of Greeley in seventh place.

Hali Williams of Comanche, Texas, has been the class of breakaway ropers this season with $103,624 in earnings, double the earnings of Stephenville, Texas, cowgirl Martha Angelone. Erin Johnson of Fowler is the top Colorado cowgirl in the standings with $37,412.

ALEX MCINTYRE GREELEY TRIBUNE

Mountain States Circuit champions

Following is a list of the PRCA Mountain States Circuit record holders entering the 2023 season

Career titles

All-around: 7, J D Yates, 1981-82, 1984, 1988-90, 2011

Bareback: 10, Bruce Ford, 1976, 1978-79, 1981-83, 1985-86, 1989, 1991

Bull riding: 4 (tie), Myron Duarte, 1994-97, and Clayton Savage, 2008-10, 2014

Saddle bronc riding: 7, Billy Farmer, 1994-2000

Steer roping: 5 (tie), Troy Tillard, 2005, 2012, 20142016; Bobby Harris, 1989, 1990, 1993, 2000-01; and J.D. Yates, 1994, 1996, 1998, 2003, 2009

Steer wrestling: 5, Leon Vick, 1987, 1991, 1994-95, 1998

Team roping: 6, Dick Yates, 1976, 1980-81, 1983-84, 1987

Tie-down roping: 5, K C Jones, 1990, 1992, 1994, 2004, 2011

Following is a list of PRCA Mountain States Circuit champions from the 2022 season:

All-around: Jase Staudt

Bareback: Keenan Hayes

Barrel racing: Brandie Halls

Bull riding: Clayton Savage

Saddle bronc riding: Brody Wells

Steer roping: Wade Shoemaker

Steer wrestling: Seth Petterson

Team roping: Garrett Tonozzi and Trenton Watts

Tie-down roping: Cody Darnell

PRCA Reigning World champs

Following is a list of the PRCA champions from the 2022 season.

All-Around: Stetson Wright, Milford, Utah

Bareback: Jess Pope, Waverly, Kansas

Bull riding: Stetson Wright, Milford, Utah

Saddle bronc riding: Zeke Thur-

Cowboy Stetson Wright, of Milford, Utah, is introduced before he competes in the Pro Rodeo Finals at the Denver Coliseum on the final day of the National Western Stock Show on January 22, 2023in Denver.

ston, Big Valley, Alberta

Steer roping: J. Tom Fisher, Andrews, Texas

S t e er w r e s t l i n g : Ty ler Waguespack, Gonzales, Louisiana

Team roping: Header, Kaleb Driggers, Hoboken, Georgia., and heeler, Junior Nogueira, Presidente, Brazil/Burleson, Texas

ERIC LUTZENS THE DENVER POST

Jase Staudt of Northrop, Colorado dismounts his horse while competing in the TX Whiskey Tie Down Roping competition during the Pro Rodeo Military Appreciation Night at the National Western Stock Show in Denver in 2019.

A look at PRCA World Records

Following is a list of the PRCA record holders entering the 2023 season

Single performance

Bareback Riding: 95 points, by Rocker Steiner on C5 Rodeo's Virgil, Darby, Montana, 2022.

Bull Riding: 100 points, Wade Leslie on Growney's Wolfman, Central Point, Oregon, 1991.

Saddle Bronc Riding: 95.5 points, Logan Hay on Calgary Stampede's Xplosive Skies, Pollockville, Alberta, 2022

Steer Roping: 7.7 seconds, Cody Scheck, Fort Smith, Arkansas, 2012.

Steer Wrestling: 2 2 seconds (without barrier), Oral Zumwalt, Palm Springs, California, 1939 2 4 seconds (with barrier), Jim Bynum and Todd Whatley, Marietta, Oklahoma, 1955; Gene Melton, Pecatonia, Illinois, 1976; and Carl Deaton, Tulsa, Oklahoma, 1976.

Team Roping: 3.3 seconds, Chad Masters/Jade Corkill, Wran-

gler National Finals Rodeo, 2009; Brock Hanson/Ryan Motes, Na-

cogdoches, Texas, 2012; Kaleb Driggers/Junior Nogueira, Wrangler National Finals Rodeo, 2017; Clay Smith/Jade Corkill, San Antonio, Texas, 2021; and Dustin Egusquiza/Travis Graves, Oakley, Utah, 2021.

Tie-down Roping: 5.7 seconds (did not leave box), Lee Phillips, Assiniboia, Saskatchewan, 1978. 6.3 seconds, Ricky Canton, Strathmore, Alberta, 2005.

Career world titles

All-around titles: 14, Trevor Brazile

Bareback Riding: 6, Kaycee Feild

Bull Riding: 8, Don Gay

Saddle Bronc Riding: 6 (tie), Dan Mortensen and Casey Tibbs

Steer Roping: 18 Guy Allen

Steer Wrestling: 6, Homer Pettigrew

Team Roping: 8, Speed Williams and Rich Skelton

Tie-down Roping: 8, Dean Oliver

Atop the PRCA World Standings

Following is a list of the PRCA earnings leaders for the 2023 season as of June 16.

All-Around: 1. Stetson Wright, Milford, Utah, $183,122; 2 Nelson Wyatt, Clanton, Alabama, $69,770; 3 Bruston Minton, Winter Springs, California, $66,775; 4 Marcus Theriot, Lumberton, Mississippi, $53.042; 5. Trevor Hale, Perryton, Texas, $49,588.

Bareback riding: 1. Leighton Berry, Weatherford, Texas, $125,032; 2. Keenan Hayes, Hayden, Colorado, $121,434; 3. Rocker Steiner, Weatherford, Texas, $81,944; 4. Kaycee Field, Genola, Utah, $69,020; 5. Jayco Roper, Oktaha, Oklahoma, $55,645.

Barrel racing: 1. Jordon Briggs, Tolar, Texas, $87,509.07; 2. Kassie Mowry, Dublin, Texas, $66,744.25; 3. Sissy Winn, Chapman, Texas, $52,408 23; 4 Jackie Ganter, Abilene, Texas, $51,117 74; 5 Brittany Pozzi Tonozzi, Lampasas, Texas, $47,551 26

Breakaway roping: 1 Hali

Williams, Comanche, Texas, $103,624.11; 2. Martha Angelone, Stephenville, Texas, $50,553.83; 3. Cheyanne Guillory, Kingston, Oklahoma, $49,250.68; 4. Joey Williams, Volborg, Montana, $44,122 75; 5 Tiffany Schieck, Floresville, Texas, $41,597 65

Bull riding: 1 Ky Hamilton, Mackay, Queensland, Australia,

$132,847; 2. Stetson Wright, Milford, Utah, $118,352; 3. Josh Frost, Randlett, Utah, $109,691; 4. Jestyn Woodward, Custer, South Dakota, $94,247; 5 Jeff Askey, Athens, Texas, $92,366

Saddle bronc riding: 1 Sage Newman, Melstone, Montana, $125,161; 2 Stetson Wright, Milford, Utah, $116,827; 3. Zeke Thurston, Big Valley, Alberta, $106,642; 4. Kade Bruno, Challis, Idaho, $89,735; 5. Dawson Hay, Wildwood, Alberta, $69,484.

Steer roping: 1. Cole Patterson, Pratt, Kansas, $76,160; 2. Scott Snedecor, Fredricksburg, Texas, $60,776; 3. Cody Lee, Gatesville, Texas, $54,041; 4. Jess Tierney, Hermosa, South Dakota, $42,999; 5. Reo Lohse, Kaycee, Wyoming, $40,806.

Steer wrestling: 1. Dalton Massey, Mermiston, Oregon, $101,895; 2 Jesse Brown, Baker City, Oregon, $69,093; 3 Tyler Waguespack, Gonzales, Louisiana, $57,625; 4 Will Lummus, Byhalia, Mississippi,

$55,170; 5. Jacob Talley, Keathcie, Louisiana, $52,803.

Team roping (headers): 1. Rhen Richard, Roosevelt, Utah, $86,065; 2 Nelson Wyatt, Clanton, Alabama, $65,492; 3 Andrew Ward, Edmond, Oklahoma, $62,832; 4 Dustin Egusquiza, Marianna, Florida, $53,728; 5 Kaleb Driggers, Hoboken, Georgia, $43,377.

Team roping (heelers): 1. Jeremy Butler, Arrowwood, Alberta, $86,065; 2. Buddy Hawkins, Stephenville, Texas, $62,832; 3. Levi Lord, Sturgis, South Dakota, $53,728; 4. Justin Davis, Cottonwood, California, $51,777; 5. Junior Nunes Nogueira, Presidente Prudente, Brazil/Burleson, Texas, $43,377.

Tie-down roping: 1. Riley Webb, Denton, Texas, $126,944; 2. Hunter Herrin, Apache, Oklahoma, $65,741; 3 Westyn Hughes, Caldwell, Texas, $55,607; 4 Shad Mayfield, Clovis, New Mexico, $53,074; 5 Riley Pruitt, Gering, Nebraska, $49,638

ALEX MCINTYRE GREELEY TRIBUNE

Logan Hay, of Wildwood, Alberta, is launched from horse Nutrena’s Anything Goes while riding saddle bronc on the sixth and final day of the PRCA ProRodeo Series during the 99th Greeley Stampede at Island Grove Regional Park in Greeley June 30, 2021

HELEN H RICHARDSON THE DENVER POST Sage Newman, of Melstone, Montana, rides Hitman in the Saddle Bronc Riding event at the Pro Rodeo Finals at the Denver Coliseum on the final day of the 2023National Western Stock Show in Denver

Want to talk like a boss at the Brush Rodeo? Here’s some terms you may need in order not to appear to be a greenhorn around the arena

All-around: Term for a cowboy competing in multiple events Trevor Brazile holds the PRCA record with 14all-around titles

Arena bearings: An announcer often may direct the audience to the north or south end of the arena In Brush, the arena has a north-south orientation The north end is where the timed event chute and contestants are located. The out gate and rough stock chutes are located on the east side of the arena, along with the announcer

Barrel: The safe haven generally reserved for a rodeo clown Three barrels are also used in women’s barrel racing. The pattern run by barrel racers is called a clover leaf

Barrier: A cord stretched across the box in timed events The contestant may not cross until the calf or steer has a head start, releasing the barrier Breaking the barrier is a 10-second penalty

Box: The area in which a contes-

tant and horse are located before a timed event

Breakaway roping: A women’s event similar to tie-down roping, except a catch completes the run and a tie-down is not made

Bulldogger: A synonym for a steer wrestler

Bullfighter: A bull rider’s best friend. A bullfighter protects the bull rider after he is bucked off to prevent injury

Calf roper: A synonym for a tiedown roper

Chute: The pen where a rodeo animal is loaded before being released into the arena

Circuit: Geographic divisions of the PRCA Cowboys competing in Brush are largely regular performers in the PRCA’s Mountain States Circuit

Contractor: The stock provider contracted by the rodeo committee to bring livestock to the rodeo In Brush, the contractor is Southwick Rodeo Company

Covered: Making a qualified ride of eight seconds in a roughstock event

Crossfire: A penalty given when the heeler in team roping catches before the header changes the steer’s direction The run is disqualified.

Dally: The term used to describe when a team roper wraps the loose rope around a saddle horn to make the rope taut and stop the clock

Delivery: A rodeo announcer may describe an animal as a left or right delivery This refers to the direction a rough stock animal prefers to

ENJOY THE BRUSH RODEO!

FILE PHOTO

Laura Lambert of Wiggins rounds the second barrel during her run in the barrel racing event at the 64th annual Brush Rodeo on Wednesday, July 4, 2018at the Morgan County Fairgrounds.

I’m Rick Hinojos, and as your American Family Insurance agent, I believe there’s more to insurance than the policy itself. It’s about providing dependable protection and services. That’s why earning your trust is my

The new Case IH Farmall Series tractors are built with proven basics – like a dependable, fuel-efficient diesel engine and a straightforward mechanical transmission – for simple operation and rugged reliability No fancy electronic controls. Just simple machines built with all the pulling power and hydraulics you need for loading, blading, tilling, mowing, baling and more.

stand in the chute It also describes the manner in which the animal typically exits the chute

Draw: The manner in which an animal is assigned to a contestant. In all timed and roughstock events, animals are randomly assigned. The exception is women’s barrel racing, where the horse ridden is owned by the contestant

Fairgrounds: The location of the Brush Rodeo and the arena in Morgan County

Flag: In timed events, one judge will have a flag to signal the stoppage of the clock The flag can also be used to signal a broken barrier

Flanking: In bucking events, a cowboy or cowgirl who assists the contestant in adjusting the flank strap on the animal

Go-round: In rodeos which have multiple rounds of competition, all cowboys entered may compete in each “go” unless another format is used. Brush is not a go-round rodeo, although it has three performances

Hazer: The cowboys riding opposite the steer wrestler from the right of the contestant. That hazer’s role is to cause a straight run of the steer for the contestant.

Header: The lead partner in team roping. The header ropes the head of the steer and typically aims to throw “around the horn”, a term also used in baseball

Heeler: The trailing partner in team roping. If the header is successful, the heeler attempts to rope both hind legs. Roping a single leg is a 5-second penalty

Hooey: Term for the knot used to tie the calf’s legs in tie-down roping. Eight-time PRCA champion Joe Beaver made the term popular

In the money: A term referring to a performance good enough to earn a payout. A bull rider with a 90-point ride will be “in the money”

Judges: Similar to a football referee, judges in rodeo record times and scores, and enforce penalties

Mark out: A rule in bareback and saddle bronc riding requiring the rider to give the bronc the advantage on its first move out of the chute by having the rowels of both spurs at the break of the bronc’s shoulders

Failure to mark out a bronc results in a disqualified ride

Mutton bustin’: A children’s event at the Brush Rodeo. Selected contestants ride sheep in bull riding gear. Muttons are mature sheep older than one year, but the term is generally only descriptive of their meat

Nod: A sign to arena help from a cowboy A nod in roughstock events leads the gateman to open the chute gate A nod in timed events is a signal to release the calf or steer from the chute.

Penalty: Issued by a judge, 10 seconds for a broken barrier and five seconds for a one-leg catch in team roping. A five-second penalty is also issued for each barrel knocked down by a barrel racer A penalty will generally take a contestant out of the money

Pickup men: Seen in the arena during the rodeo, these mounted cowboys assist roughstock riders in dismounting and to escort animals out of the arena

Piggin’ string: The small rope used in tie-down roping to tie a calf’s legs in order to stop the clock The piggin’ string is held in the roper’s teeth before and during the run

Re-ride: An option given to a roughstock rider at the judge’s discretion to have a second out An equipment failure or an animal that

does not buck would be cause for a re-ride.

Riggin: In bareback riding, the handhold and cinch that is used by the rider

Rope: The correct term, rather than lasso

Roughstock: Bulls and horses used in three scored events, bareback riding, saddle bronc riding and bull riding. Contestants must cover the animals for eight seconds to record a qualified ride In these events, a free hand is required.

Score: Generally refers to the score given in a roughstock event Judges may award up to 50points to the cowboy and 50to the animal. The only perfect bull riding score of 100 was recorded by Wade Leslie in 1991 Eight-time world champion

Don Gay set the record of 97in 1977 and two years later Denny Flynn made a 98-point ride Dale Brisby claims to “always go 90”

Slack: Contestants not drawn into rodeo performances are placed into slack In Brush, slack is typically held on the morning of July 3. Some contestants choose to enter slack in order to compete at two rodeos in the same day.

Spurs: Worn around the heel of the boot with a dulled rowel The rowel does not penetrate the animal’s

skin. In Brush, the “Spur of the Year” is awarded by the chamber of commerce.

Team roping: An event in which a header and heeler must both catch a steer in order to record a time Speed Williams and Rich Skelton, who hold the PRCA record with eight world titles, are among prior performers to enter the event in Brush.

Tie-down roper: The modern term for a calf roper “Super Looper” Roy Cooper was referred to as a calf roper in his era, but his son Tuf Cooper is called a tie-down roper

Timed events: Includes events decided by the fastest runs Steer wrestling, team roping, tie-down roping and steer roping. While rough stock events are timed, they are not considered timed events because they are decided by a judge’s score Barrel racing is also decided by the fastest time

Turn out: When a contestant chooses not to make a ride, he “turns out” the animal

Watrous Pioneer: An award given at the Brush Rodeo, it honors Doc and Helen (Petteys) Watrous. The grounds where the rodeo is held today was deeded by Helen’s father, Alonzo Petteys

Casey Redman ropes a calf in the team roping competition at the 2016Brush Rodeo

7:00

PM................. Brush Rodeo & Rodeo Clown Mutton Bustin’ and Boot Scramble

PM ..................

Trick Riders

PM.................. Brush Rodeo & Rodeo Clown Pioneer Night (Ages 62 and up in FREE) Watrous Pioneer Award | Mutton Bustin’ | Balloon Scramble

Monday, July 4

Winning Artwork

Zach Chapman