BUILDING CHAMPIONS
STACEY MARTIN'S
Nevada’s Richest Breakaway
$10,000 Added!
$400 per roper, enter 2x, 2 full rounds, top 30 to Short. 75% Payback. 18 & Under Youth Incentive - Guaranteed to pay $1,000 to average winner. Hooey Junior Patriot sidepot; see patriotevent.com for details
All-Girl Open Team Roping with 8.5 Incentive presented by Total Feeds - 3:00 p.m.
$2,000 Added!
$300 per roper, pick 1 draw 1, enter 2x or draw up to 4. 75% Payback, 4 steer progressive after 1. 8.5 Incentive capped at 4.5 heeler paid on 3 head.
WED JUNE 18 | 12:00 P.M.
BFI Qualifier Open Team Roping presented by City of Fallon
$600 per roper, enter 2x, 5 steer progressive after 1. Champions will receive their fees paid to 2026 BFI in Guthrie.
THUR JUNE 19 | 8:00 A.M.
OPEN WSTR
$300 per roper, enter 2x, Pick or Draw, NO AGE CAP. Must be at least 7HD/8HL to draw in, Draw In Fee: Xtra $40/roper, 80% Payback
15.5 WSTR
$300 per roper, enter 2x, Pick or Draw, NO AGE CAP. Must be at least 6HD/7HL to draw in, Draw In Fee: Xtra $40/roper, 80% Payback
14.5 WSTR
$300 per roper, enter 2x, Pick or Draw, NO AGE CAP. Must be at least 5.5HD/7HL to draw in, Draw In Fee: Xtra $40/roper, 80% Payback
13.5 WSTR
$300 per roper, enter 2x, Pick or Draw, NO AGE CAP. Must be at least 5HD/6HL to draw in, Draw In Fee: Xtra $40/roper, 80% Payback
HOOEY Junior Championship BFI OPEN
$200 per roper, Pick ONLY, Enter 3x, No caps, 4 steer, progressive after 1, 19 & Under as of Jan 1, 2026. Champions will receive their fees paid to 2026 Hooey Junior Championship BFI Open in Guthrie. Hooey Junior Patriot sidepot; see patriotevent.com for details
HOOEY Junior Championship BFI 10.5
$200 per roper, Pick or Draw, Enter 3x, Capped at 6 heeler, 4 steer progressive after 1. 19 & Under as of Jan 1, 2026. Champions will receive their fees paid to 2026 Hooey Junior Championship BFI 10.5 in Guthrie. Hooey Junior Patriot sidepot; see patriotevent.com for details
12.5 No Cap No Age Limit
$125 per roper, Pick or Draw, Enter up to 6x, 3 steer, progressive after 1, Handicapped down 1 second per number.
TUES JUNE 17 | 11:00 A.M. FRI JUNE 20 | 8:00 A.M. SAT JUNE 21 | 8:00 A.M. SUN JUNE 22 | 8:00 A.M.
12.5 WSTR
$300/roper, enter 2x, Pick or Draw, No # Cap Must be 21. Must be at least 4.5HD/6HL to draw in,Draw In Fee: Xtra $40/roper, 80% PAYBACK
11.5 WSTR 7.5 Heeler Cap
$300/roper, pick or draw, enter 2x, must be 21, Must be at least 4HD/5HL to draw in, Draw In Fee: Xtra $40/roper, 80% PAYBACK
10.5 WSTR 6.5 Heeler Cap
$300/roper, enter 2x, Pick or Draw, Must be 21, draw In Fee: Xtra $40/roper 80% PAYBACK
10.5 Trailer Roping with 9.5 Incentive
$200 per roper, Pick 1/Draw 1, Enter 5x or draw up 10 for $100 per run. 4 steer, progressive after 1, Capped at 6.5 Heeler, Handicapped down 1 second per number. No age cap. TRAILER DOES NOT COME OUT OF ROPERS POT!
9.5 Buckle Roping Buckles to 1st and 2nd in Average!
$160 per roper, Pick 1/Draw 1, Enter 3x or draw up to 6 for $80 per run. 3 steer progressive after 1, Capped at 5.5 Heeler. No age cap.
9.5 WSTR 5.5 Heeler Cap
$300 per roper, enter 2x, pick or draw, must be 21, Draw In Fee: Xtra $40/roper, 80% Payback
8.5 WSTR 4.5 Cap Both Ends
$300 per roper, enter 3x, PICK OR DRAW, must be 21, 80% Payback
7.5 WSTR 4 Cap Both Ends
$300/roper, enter 3x, PICK OR DRAW, 3 STEER, must be 21, 80% Payback
11.5 Slide
$500 Added!
$150 per roper, Pick or Draw, Enter 5x, 3 steer progressive after 1, No age limit. No heeler caps. Stray Gathering
$400 per team. Enter 2x. Must change 2 guys.
40 ALL DAY - LADIES OVER 30 WELCOME!
12.5 $100 per roper, pick or draw, enter 5x,
ROPES GALORE WILL BE SET UP ON SITE FOR ALL YOUR ROPES AND TACK NEEDS!
AIR CONDITIONED FULL SIZED ARENA, NEW PRIEFERT STALLS, PLENTY OF RV HOOKUPS. STALLS AND RV’S ON SITE - NO RESERVATION NEEDED ONSITE CONCESSIONS AND TRADE SHOW. JOIN US NIGHTLY AT THE GRID IN FALLON FOR GREAT FOOD, DRINKS AND TO WATCH THE RODEO ON THE COWBOY CHANNEL.
Cover Story: Stacey Martin
Highlighting Martin’s inspiring journey empowering young women through goat tying and education.
42 Put a Lid on It – Homestead Traditions
10 Legendary Bob Feist Invitational (BFI)
Detailed recap of the prestigious BFI event featuring record-setting performances and significant payouts.
12 The American Rodeo: $1 Million Rolls Over Insights by Speed Williams on the transformative impact and top wins at the American Rodeo.
20 13th Annual Broc Cresta Memorial Roping
A community event honoring the legacy of Broc Cresta, showcasing top roping talent at Davis Ranch.
22 Historic Red Bluff Round-Up Rodeo
Coverage of America's largest three-day rodeo, celebrating Western heritage and exceptional performances.
24 Cal Poly's 83rd Poly Royal Rodeo
A historic college rodeo tradition celebrating student engagement and Western culture at Cal Poly.
36 Smarty Rodeo’s Super Shorty
Introduction to the new roping practice tool designed to elevate roping skills realistically.
38 Women’s Rodeo World Championship (WRWC) Finals
Dee Yates shares highlights from a recordbreaking WRWC, featuring top competitors like Josie Conner, Ashtyn Pratz, and Tamara Lewis.
42 Put a Lid on It – Homestead Traditions
A nostalgic look at home canning with a simple low-sugar strawberry jam recipe.
45 Empty Saddles: Mike Cervi Tribute
Honoring the life and legacy of legendary stock contractor Mike Cervi.
48 Calendar of Events
Essential listing of upcoming rodeo and roping events with key details.
24 Cal Poly's 83rd Poly Royal RodeoRoyal Rodeo
38 Women’s Rodeo World Championship (WRWC) Finals
20 The Broc Cresta Memorial Roping
The ROPERS Team
Dee Yates is a rodeo mom, gardener, and homesteader, Dee Yates creates and publishes work that inspires, empowers, and celebrates the Western way of life.
Lacey Parsons is a dedicated mom, loving wife, marketing specialist, and passionate Western lifestyle storyteller. She navigates life in and out of the arena with a perfect blend of grit and grace.
Darlene Patrick is a true country girl with deep western and mining roots, she’s a devoted wife, loving mom, and passionate gardener. Hardworking, and full of heart, she embraces life. A real go-getter.
Kimberly Mullen is a dynamic and performance-driven sales and marketing executive. Mother of 3 living the farmstyle life.
Vickie Meidinger comes from a long line of Cowboys and is an All-Around Champion Super-Woman. Loves to cook, bake, can, garden and spoil her children and grandchildren, and is the resident problem-solverextraordinaire at Ropers Sports News!
Cyndi King is a graphic designer and triathlete based in Northwest Arkansas. A creative spirit and adventure enthusiast, she loves reading, exploring new places, and cherishing moments with her family.
PUBLISHER AND EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
Dee Yates deeyates@roperssportsnews.com Office line (209)333-2924
ADVERTISING SALES
Senior Account Manager
Lacey Parsons (530)645-8401 lacey@roperssportsnews.com
Account Manager
Darlene Patrick (209)242-6056 darlene@roperssportsnews.com
Senior Account Manager
Kimberly Mullen (209)327-3797 kimberly@roperssportsnews.com
ACCOUNTING
Vickie Meidinger (209)810-6427 vickie@roperssportsnews.com
CONTRIBUTORS:
Bob Feist, Dee Yates, Andersen CbarC Photography, Bullstock media, Speed Williams, Teton Ridge, Crystal Amen, Hailey Kennedy, Michael T. Photography, WRCA, Bambi Potter
GRAPHIC DESIGNER
Cyndi King
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“THE Place to be”
A Note From the Publisher
Spring is here, and wow—California's roping scene is absolutely buzzing! I never fully appreciated just how packed our arenas get until I started typing out all these dates and recording all these results. It really opens your eyes to how amazing our California team roping community truly is. And with the weather and the grass as perfect as any paradise you’d image, California is THE place to be.
In early April, the Broc Cresta event brought tears to my eyes. Seeing everyone come together showed me how close-knit our Northern California roping family really is. We weren't just there to compete—we showed up for friendship, to honor Broc's memory, and to celebrate our shared love for this sport and each other. (See page 22)
I believe there's something truly special about growing up as that kid playing in the dirt, rope in hand, sharing a Capri Sun under an oak tree while watching the grown-ups compete. When I see all those little ones at the dummy roping, with moms juggling snacks and water bottles and strollers, everyone soaking up the sunshine—it reminds me exactly why we do this. Why we drive those thousands of miles every year just to be together.
While I'm busy balancing my favorite season— planting new seeds and watching fresh flowers bloom—I'm also gearing up for summer travels to promote our wonderful advertisers and sponsors. I'm just so thankful for everyone who's stuck with Ropers Sports News and all our new friends who've joined us recently. It means the world to us.
This month's cover features the incredible Stacey Martin, who perfectly embodies what I mean about women being the backbone of our industry. She's tough, wise, and has the biggest heart, dedicating herself to helping young women get their education and make something of themselves, often with limited resources. She's the real deal—a true cowgirl with wisdom, experience, and that gorgeous smile, helping cowgirls nationwide. (See page 16)
If you spot me this summer with my stack of magazines, please stop and say hi! I'd love nothing more than to meet you and hear your story.
Happy trails,
Dee Yates
GET IN TOUCH!
We love hearing from our readers here at Ropers Sports News! If you have a question, correction or simply want to share your thoughts or ideas, contact me at info@roperssportsnews.com You can also find us on Facebook, Instagram, Pinterest and TikTok.
By Bob Feist
A Letter From Bob
I thank Dee Yates for asking me to write a few notes for RSN. I had plenty to cover, as I was blessed to attend this year’s BFI Week at the Lazy E Arena in Guthrie, OK. I was especially proud of Ullman-Peterson Events’ production— setting records with the number of teams and the total payout across all the ropings. Driggers and Nogueira captured back-to-back wins at "The Feist", taking home $154,000 plus a slew of awards. Their time on six head was 41.48 seconds, the second-fastest recorded at this event. The record still stands at 40.54, set by Trevor Brazile and Patrick Smith in 2013. After watching the talent at the Jr. BFI, I believe we’re going to see some incredible BFIs in the future—maybe even some records broken. I can’t wait for next year.
It’s always a pleasure to attend BFI Week and listen to Dru Stewart interview many of the contestants. It was especially great to see Reed Flake honored for his many years of announcing the BFI. Reed and Dru both bring a lot to the event. I can’t say enough about the efficiency of the ground crew and office staff behind the scenes. It’s a pleasure to watch them do an incredible job all week long. Raul and his ground crew ensure the arena and roping boxes are in perfect shape, and in the office, Vicky and Kelsey Munro and their crew make sure the money and entries are intact.
Kami Peterson did an outstanding job, as always, preserving and displaying the history of the BFI for fans to enjoy. She’s also responsible for many of the unique awards given to the winners. On top of that, she handles all the hospitality for sponsors and special guests. Thank you, Kami.
These past couple of months have been both exciting and bittersweet for the rodeo and team roping world. The loss of two legends has stirred up a lot of memories. I’m speaking of Mel Potter and Mike Cervi. Both will be remembered for years to come for their contributions to our industries.
George Aros informed me that the Mike Cervi Jr. Memorial Roping will be renamed the PotterCervi Memorial Pro Team Roping Classic. This roping originally started as the Tubac Pro Team Roping many years ago. Leon Cook, who had a place in Tubac, teamed up with George Aros to produce it. When the event moved to Tucson, AZ in conjunction with the Tucson Rodeo, it was retitled the Tucson Pro Rodeo Classic. After Mike Cervi Jr. was tragically killed in a plane crash, Mel Potter—his father-in-law—helped George Aros turn it into a memorial event in his honor. The roping has continued to benefit the Justin Sports Medicine Crisis Fund, contributing over $250,000 to date.
Mike Cervi Sr. was always a generous supporter of the event, as was Mel Potter. Over time, this roping has grown into one of the premier signature events of the year. In its early days, it was a winnertake-all format, which made for great payouts for one team—but nothing for the rest. Eventually, the payoff structure was revised to spread the money more conventionally. A Pro-Am element was also added, and the pros have always been gracious about roping with the amateurs.
This year’s event was the biggest ever, drawing 234 teams. The winners took home $20,000 per man. Tyler Tryan and Nicky Northcott topped the field with some impressive 5-second runs over the long score. The event continues to benefit the Justin Crisis Fund, and we’re already looking forward to another great roping next spring.
On a more somber note, there was a serious horse wreck involving Trey Blackmore. At last report, thanks to the prayers of many, Trey is steadily recovering from injuries that left him in a coma. The family is thankful for the outpouring of support and continued prayers. He remains hospitalized in Phoenix at the time of this writing.
My thoughts and prayers also go out to Clay Smith and the Richey families for the loss of their great horse, "Bet Hesa Ginnin". That horse earned numerous accolades in his short but impactful nine years.
What a year Walt Woodard is having. At 69 years old, he’s still getting to the horn and taking a dally. He not only teaches roping—he lives it. A man with over 20 WNFR appearances and two world titles, years apart, he won the BFI in 2008 and came back this year to finish fifth, heeling for Manny Equsquiza. Walt has placed at many spring rodeos and might just be headed back to the WNFR. If he makes it, he’ll be 70 years old this summer—a true feat. Walt is a legend who proves you can enjoy team roping at any age.
Congratulations to the Minor boys for winning this year’s Red Bluff Round-Up in Red Bluff, CA. They also won Redmond, OR earlier this month, kicking off a strong spring run. This dynamic duo has each surpassed the $2 million mark in PRCA earnings alone. Their jackpots and wins in unsanctioned rodeos have made them a solid living. Their careers have included major wins at some of the top roping events in the sport.
There are many great ropings and rodeos on the calendar in the coming months, and we look forward to covering them right here in "RSN".
The cattle market has been strong these past couple of years, but when it’s good, the price of roping cattle climbs too. I never thought I’d see today’s prices. Talking with George Aros earlier this month, he mentioned that steers with the “M” brand were going for as much as $1,800 a head, while domestic native cattle were bringing around $1,400. Ouch! I hate to admit it, but I remember paying $125 a head and still complaining. But then again—I’m old.
The Legendary Bob Feist Invitational:
From Humble Beginnings to Roping Excellence
By Dee Yates
The Bob Feist Invitational (BFI), approaching its 50-year anniversary, stands as the longestrunning open roping of its kind, transforming from a doubted concept into a cornerstone of team roping excellence. Founded in 1977 in Chowchilla, California by Bob Feist himself, the event began with just 40 invited teams, $500 entry fees per contestant, and a guaranteed $40,000 payout that many industry insiders believed would never succeed. Feist, coming from the restaurant and hotel business, knew he needed spectators to make the event viable. His solution was simple but effective: $5 tickets paired with a parking lot BBQ, an awards stage surrounded by a bar, and a focus on showcasing the sport's elite competitors.
The BFI's journey included moves to Las Vegas (1981), Denton, Texas (1982), and after taking 1983 off, found its decades-long home in Reno, Nevada from 1984 until 2019. Since 2020, the prestigious event has made the
Lazy E Arena in Guthrie, Oklahoma its home. Throughout its history, the BFI has paid out over $11.2 million in prize money, changing lives through its challenging format of long scores and strong cattle. The event has seen remarkable achievements, including Walt Woodard becoming the oldest winner at age 52 (with Clay Tryan in 2008), while Travis Woodard remains the youngest at just 19 when he won in 2003 heeling for Mickey Fletcher.
The 2025 Charlie 1 Horse All-Girl Team Roping and Breakaway kicked off this year's BFI Week with Beverly Robbins and Jimmi Jo Montera capturing the All-Girl title with four steers in 34.50 seconds, earning $20,000 plus prizes. Jackie Crawford and Annette Stahl secured second place with $14,000, while Kinsley Baxter and Lorraine Moreno rounded out the top three and claimed the 9.5 Incentive title with 26.46 seconds and $9,000. Fast-time honors went to Marissa Mitchell/Emilee Moyer (6.98, Rotation 1), Mitchell/Martha Angelone (6.17, Rotation 2), Cassidy Boggs/Kaitlyn Torres (6.59, Rotation 3), and Dally Peterson/Ashtyn Pratz (14.09, Short Go).
In the Breakaway competition, Emilee Charlesworth dominated with three calves in 9.92 seconds to win $21,000. Danielle Wray finished second (10.33/$17,000), followed by Jessi Everet (11.04/$13,500), Macy Young (11.53/$10,000), and Kate Eiland (11.86/$7,000). Wyoming's Audrey Kremer won the youth incentive with 11.94 seconds and $1,400. The fastest runs came from Charlesworth (2.78, Round 1), Kiely Walz (2.80, Round 2), and Jessi Everet (3.06, Short Go).
The main event saw Kaleb Driggers and Junior Nogueira make history by winning back-to-back BFI championships, roping six head in 41.48 seconds – the fastest time since the event moved to the Lazy E and secondfastest in the roping's 48-year history. Their accomplishment is even more remarkable considering Driggers had lost his main horses in recent months and competed on Brooke Howell's "Cowboy Sangria" with minimal practice, while Nogueira relied on his faithful buckskin "Lucky Bucky." The victory earned them $77,000 each plus numerous prizes and places them in elite company alongside legends like Speed Williams and Rich Skelton (2001-2002), Charles Pogue and Britt Bockius (1999-2000), and Kory Koontz (1995-1996 with different partners) – some of the few teams to accomplish consecutive BFI wins.
The Hooey Junior 10.5 saw 465 teams compete, with Slone Weishaar and Cannin Carson winning $100,000 on a 30.71 foursteer run. Tuftin Becker and Treston Brazile took second (33.18/$66,000), followed by Cort Boyd and Oscar Viera Jr. (34.21/$40,000), Dax Sullivan and Cooper Young (34.76/$24,000), and Treyden Gonzales and Joe Cortese (35.85/$18,000). Fast-time achievements came from Colt Sanders/Cooper Charleston (6.51), Brayden Israel/Owen Clemons (6.40), Chachi Odom/Brody Freeman (5.80), and Colton Williamson/Zander Hinton (5.13). In the Hooey Junior BFI Open, Tyler Tryan and Nicky Northcott roped five in 34.79 for $70,000.
In the professional divisions, Tyler Tryan and Heath Hammerstrom won the 15.5 Team
Barry Berg and Monty Crist
Beverly Robbins Jimmie Jo Montera
Driggers Noguiera celebrates
Kaleb Driggers and Junior Nogueira
Photos by Andersen CBarC
Roping with a 29.00 total, earning $80,000. Dalton Grimes and Colton Thomas dominated the 12.5 Team Roping (29.39 on four, $220,000), while Barry Berg and Monty Crist took the 11.5 Businessman's Roping (32.75, $175,000), and Steve Orth and Jack Morris claimed the Consolation Aggregate title on three steers. The Over-40 divisions saw Leo Amado and Russell Holden win the 10.5 ($150,000) and Jason Posey and Jeff Souza claim the 9.5 ($155,000). Joshua Bray and Ravanna Bey won the 8.5 Team Roping (40.12, $90,000), with Ron Griffin and Jose Meraz adding another $8,000 by winning the 7.5 Incentive.
Top Horse honors went to Bubba Buckaloo's "Frank" (Head Horse) and Joseph Harrison's "Boujee" (Heel Horse), both bringing exceptional skill to the challenging six-head marathon. Teen phenoms Ketch Kelton and Nicky Northcott won the Rickey Green Fast Time Award with a blazing 4.84 in Round 5, while nearly 70-yearold Walt Woodard demonstrated the event's multi-generational appeal by finishing fifth in the average. Before Round 5, the event paused to honor the late Mel Potter and Mike Cervi, paying tribute to their immense contributions to the sport with a special moment of respect.
From its humble beginnings to today's prestigious showcase, the Bob Feist Invitational continues to prove what its founder always believed – that team roping's greatest attribute is its longevity, allowing competitors to participate throughout their lives and creating a rich tapestry of champions spanning generations, with over $11,225,207.15 paid out since its inception in 1977.
Emilee Charlesworth
Leo Amado and Russell Holden
We’ve only been home from the American a couple of hours, and I’m still amazed at what a phenomenal event this is. I was able to see multiple people in all events have a chance to win all or part of $1 million. There was Kaycee Field in the Bareback, Luke Branquinho in the Steer Wrestling, Chad Masters and Cory Petska in the Team Roping, Larry Dee in the Breakaway, and Sherri Cervi in the Barrel Racing. All of these are rodeo veterans who might never have had a chance like this in their careers. We also got to see an 11-year-old girl set an arena record in the barrel racing with an opportunity to compete for $1.1 million. Since no one won it this year, next year $2 million will be up for grabs.
I think we will see more veterans in all disciplines contemplating whether to come out of retirement and see if they can qualify for the American to have a chance to compete for this incredible purse. It’s
life changing money, especially for young people who have never made the NFR. It was fun to watch youngsters in all the events competing against seasoned professionals.
The qualification process for The American Rodeo involves a tiered system, starting with Contender Tournament Qualifying Events, progressing to Regional Semifinals, and culminating in the American Contender Tournament Finals, where the top performers earn a spot in the main event. The top five ranked athletes in the PRCA and WPRA world standings in the respective disciplines are automatically invited to The American Rodeo and the $100,000 prize in each event. If one of the qualifiers/contenders beat the top five in their event they win a share of the $1 million. But if multiple contenders were to win their event(s), they would split the million.
Gabe and I tried to qualify at the Regional Semifinals in Kentucky. We made it to the top ten and drew a steer that got out of Gabe’s loop, so
The American Rodeo
$1 Million rolls over to 2026
By Speed Williams – May 2025
we didn’t progress. Hali roped in Kentucky as well and was able to progress. She roped Friday night at the American, coming in second with a 2.72, and progressed to rope Saturday at noon where things could have gone better. She didn’t draw the calf she needed and broke out.
Ten competed in each event and the top four progressed to Saturday afternoon. 1st won $100,000; 2nd $25,000; 3rd $10,000; 4th $5,000. Winners of each event were: Bareback: Rocker Steiner, 91.75; Breakaway: Josie Conner, 1.89; Team Roping: Kaleb Driggers/Junior Nogueira, 3.95; Saddle Bronc: Damian Brennan, 91.75; Steer Wrestling: Will Lumas, 3.71; Tie Down: Shane Hanchey 6.73; Barrel Racing: Kassie Mowry 15.05; Bull Riding: Tristan Hutchings 89.25. Congratulations to Kaleb Driggers and Junior Nogueira for winning the team roping at the American this year, and $100,000 each. They went first and roped their steer in a 3.9, causing the rest of the field to take some chances to try and beat that time.
I want to thank all the people behind the scenes. Thanks to Teton Ridge for giving the cowboys an opportunity to change their lives competing in the sport of rodeo. It’s unbelievable what the American Rodeo has done for our sport, and what it will bring in the future.
As someone who spent their life trying to perfect his event, and work at being the best header I could be, I now teach and help people improve in heading, heeling, and breakaway. There’s never been higher payouts than there is now when looking at roping events. I think there will be a lot of people come out of retirement for this opportunity and it only comes around once a year. Now we only have a few months before the summer kicks off. Gabe has been making progress with his heading. He’s been turning a lot of steers but we’re still working on handling, getting control of our horse, and being able to put runs together. We did buy a nice head horse named Yellowstone. I’m excited to see how he and Gabe get along and what their future holds.
Hali has been doing good at jackpots. I’m having to hold on to my reins tight. My daughter is trying to take my bald face horse, Blaze, from me for the summer. She has a nice string of horses: Redlight, Lippy (Gabe’s old heel horse), and Chester, have all been working well. I think she’ll ride Blaze at Cheyenne, though I’m still working on him and heeling on him for Gabe at times.
Gabe’s original rodeo partner, Trigger Hargrove, has decided not to travel this year, so I’m hoping he’ll find a partner to go with because ole Dad doesn’t want to be a full-time heeler. It’s ironic how the very thing you craved as a young man looks so completely different at this age. What excites me now is helping my kids and watching them grow into young adults and athletes I’m proud of.
JULY 5th, 6th, & 7th 2025
SATURDAY, JULY 5 th
DAY, JULY 7th
• Everyone Welcome To Rope
• Global Handicap/WSTR # System
• Pacific Coast Shootouts Memberships Are Available For $85.
• All Ropings Pick Or Draw Up To Eight Partners Unless Otherwise Noted.
• No Age Or # Caps On Any Roping, Must Meet # Requirements Of Roping.
SUNDAY, JULY 6th
• Can Only Win One Saddle & Three Buckles In A 30-Day Period At A Pacific Coast Shootouts Roping. Must Be A Pacific Coast Shootouts Member To Win A Saddle
STACEY MARTIN'S MISSION TO ELEVATE GOAT TYING BUILDING CHAMPIONS
Written and Photographed by Dee Yates
With early morning coffee in hand at the Cal Poly arena, Stacey Martin moves with purpose around the practice pen with her lady goat-tiers. The women's rodeo coach at Panola College in Carthage, Texas, and owner of Next Level Goat Tying has traveled across the country to share her expertise with collegiate athletes eager to perfect their craft. It's her third year working with the Cal Poly team, and her passion for the sport remains as fierce as ever.
"What's kept goat tying moving forward is that these girls want to win against you on your very best day. One of the things that I try to teach them is that person's not your competition -- you're your competition."
From Competitor to Coach
Martin's journey began like many of her students -- with determination and limited resources. After tearing her ACL during her senior year of high school in 1996, she spent her recovery studying VHS tapes of championship runs, analyzing techniques, and practicing under a tree with a goat. Without the advantages of today's technology and social media, she pieced together her own training methods through trial and error.
"I had to figure it out on my own," Martin recalls. "I took a old tape of the CNFR, would watch the three or four runs they put out there, and think, 'I like that.' Then I'd go out and try to figure it out."
This analytical approach served her well. Despite competing on a $2,500 horse while bumming rides to college rodeos and paying her own horse rent, Martin found success. She qualified for the College National Finals Rodeo in breakaway roping, though she admits with a laugh, "Not my event. Don't like it."
The Science of Speed
With her background teaching chemistry and physics for 20 years, Martin brings a scientific mindset to goat tying. She approaches training with the precision of a lab experiment -- testing techniques, studying biomechanics, and finding ways to shave precious tenths of seconds off times.
"I'm very experimental," she explains. "Tons of just studying how do we take every extra tenth of a second off."
Her methods have revolutionized the sport. What was once considered impossible is now happening regularly. "I never imagined that we would see fives in this event, and now we see them more and more often."
The Value of Education
For Martin, education is paramount -- both in the arena and the classroom. She emphasizes that goat tying offers a unique opportunity for young women to earn college scholarships.
"My
main goal is advancing the sport and making sure these girls use the opportunity they have through goat tying to get their education," she states firmly. "I taught chemistry and physics for 20 years in high school,
so I am a huge proponent of young girls getting their education and using their goat tying to do it."
"Goat tyers are a very hot commodity. There are hundreds of breakaway ropers, thousands, and every one of them can run out there and rope one in two flat. But goat tyers? There's just a very elite few in the country that can run down and tie in the low consistent low sixes and fives."
This scarcity makes them valuable to college rodeo programs, especially considering the reliability factor.
"When it comes to the most important thing, which is getting your education paid for, that's where we have the advantage. That's where the coaches are looking, and that's where they'll write the check."
"If her horse gets hurt, which has happened, she can get on another horse and go out there and still be a six-second goat tier. It doesn't necessarily work that way for the breakaway ropers. It definitely doesn't work that way for the barrel racers."
Her proudest moments come not from championships, but from seeing her students graduate debt-free. "I have girls that are chemical engineers, doctors, attorneys, teachers... that have paid zero dollars for their educations from goat tying. And that's where we win, right? Because that's $100,000 right there."
Next Level Coaching
Through Next Level Goat Tying, Martin conducts approximately 30 clinics annually across the country, from Hawaii to South Florida. She also offers an online coaching program where athletes can submit videos for analysis, making her expertise accessible regardless of location.
"The shortcut is education. You can get out there and try to figure it out on your own, but you're really gonna struggle. There are so "
many options now to learn, so you have clinics. We have an online coaching program where it doesn't matter where you live -- anywhere in the country, you could be part of this online coaching program."
Her teaching philosophy focuses on understanding rather than repetition. "I want you to learn. I want you to understand," she emphasizes. "We're gonna break it down. I'm gonna explain everything to you."
Martin structures her clinics to break down each component -- footwork, flank, tie, dismount -- into drills that athletes can practice independently. With groups limited to 16 participants divided into smaller cohorts of four, she ensures personalized attention.
The former science teacher approaches goat tying as physics in motion. "If I can teach somebody chemistry and physics, I can teach them to tie goats," she says with confidence.
Rising to New Heights
After years of advocating for greater opportunities in goat tying, Martin's persistence is paying off. "Working with Linsay Rosser-Sumpter, the commissioner for the Women's Rodeo Championship, she helped create a goat tying showcase that will feature the top 20 collegiate goat tyers competing in Fort Worth."
"My goal is to have $10,000 in added money for those girls," Martin shares. "We'll bring the goats, and I'll be taking the stock charge for the goats at the women's finals. I just want the girls to have an even set of goats that lets them showcase their abilities."
The WRC Showcase is set to be the biggest event for open goat tyers ever seen. With $10,000 added money, a Smarty horse, saddle, and other awards, plus featured coverage on the Cowboy Channel, the
WRC has given these women an unprecedented opportunity to showcase their talent and hard work to a national audience.
"I can't thank Linsay Rosser-Sumpter enough for fighting for the goat tyers to have a spot at this event," Martin emphasizes. The showcase represents a significant breakthrough for an event that has historically received less attention and prize money than barrel racing or breakaway roping.
The Hurricane That Changed Everything
Martin's path took an unexpected turn in 2020 when Hurricane 'Laura' devastated her home in Lake Charles, Louisiana. "We lost our home, barn, everything," she recounts. "We lived in a motor home for one year. It was me, my husband, a 12-year-old boy, and I had a one-year-old." Already having survived Hurricane 'Katrina' years earlier, this was the breaking point.
"I told my husband, 'I'm not doing this anymore. I'm tired of evacuating.'"
The family relocated to Center, Texas, on property inherited from her husband's grandmother. This transition led Martin to step away from classroom teaching and call Jeff Collins, the head coach at Panola College, about potential coaching opportunities.
"He didn't have an assistant position, but he's like, 'I'm about to make one,'" she explains. Collins created the women's rodeo coach position for Martin, allowing her to focus on developing female athletes at the collegiate level.
The Future of Goat Tying
Despite the challenges, Martin remains optimistic about the future of goat tying. She's committed to expanding opportunities and recognition for the event, including her own program specifically designed by and for goat tyers.
"These girls work too hard to not have more opportunities. It's not an event that you need a lot of money for. Calves are so expensive, and roping horses have gotten exceptionally expensive. Barrel horses, forget it. But with goat tying, we can spend less than 10,000 on a horse and goats are 150 bucks a piece. You can get out there and work and grind and make it happen even if you don't have financial means to be competitive in the other sports."
At 46, Martin continues to push boundaries and challenge conventions. Whether she's advocating in board meetings or coaching at the arena, her message remains consistent: work ethic and education create opportunities.
As she watches her students graduate, compete, and succeed, Martin sees her life's purpose fulfilled. "The best thing is that picture when they've got that diploma," she says. "They bought themselves their independence with their hard work. That's just sweat equity. That's it."
In a sport that demands equal parts athleticism, strategy, and grit, Stacey Martin stands as a testament to perseverance. Her journey from competitor to coach to advocate has shaped not just her life, but the future of goat tying and the hundreds of young women who have found their path through her guidance.
*For more information about Next Level Goat Tying clinics or the online coaching program, visit nextlevelgoattying.net.*
THE BROC CRESTA MEMORIAL ROPING:
Northern California Gem
By Dee Yates
There are moments in this industry that remind me why I fell in love with the Western way of life and why I've dedicated my career to sharing these stories through Ropers Sports News. The 13th Annual Broc Cresta Memorial Roping at the Davis Ranch in Cottonwood was precisely one of those moments.
Arriving at the Davis property this spring, I was immediately struck by the breathtaking beauty of Northern California ranch land at its finest— lush green pastures dotted with majestic oak trees, quality horses grazing peacefully, and the warmth of genuine hospitality that makes you feel like family rather than a visitor. Having featured Justin Davis and his family in our February/March 2025 issue, I knew their reputation for excellence, but experiencing their generosity firsthand was something special.
What began as a solemn tribute has evolved into something extraordinary—a celebration that brings together the tight-knit Northern California roping community while attracting talent from Nevada, Arizona, Texas, and beyond. This wasn't just another competition; it was a reunion, a homecoming of sorts for all who knew and loved Broc.
The level of talent on display was remarkable. With the Red Bluff Rodeo scheduled later that week, many professionals made their way to Cottonwood, creating a spectacular showcase of roping excellence. The Open Roping moved with precision and speed that would impress even the most seasoned observer, while the Pro-Am format provided a unique opportunity to watch professionals and amateurs combine their talents— creating memorable partnerships and giving spectators plenty to cheer about.
Beyond the competition, what struck me most was the sense of community. This wasn't just about roping—it was about preserving a legacy. During the event, a single steer was roped around the horns and turned out across the arena in Broc's memory, accompanied by beautiful music under perfect California skies. In that poignant moment, you could feel Broc's presence among us all.
For those who may not know, Broc Cresta was a shining star in the team roping world whose light was extinguished far too soon. A fourthgeneration California cowboy, Broc made his mark early, earning Resistol Rookie Heeler of the Year honors in 2007. His talent took him to rodeo's biggest stages, including a victory at "the Daddy" in 2008 with Logan Olson and appearances at the Wrangler National Finals Rodeo in both 2010 (with Turtle Powell) and 2011 (with Spencer Mitchell).
But it wasn't just Broc's competitive achievements that made him special. Those who knew him best—his brother Brent, his mother Kelly, and his tight-knit circle of friends including Spencer Mitchell, Justin Davis, and Russell Cardoza—speak of his straightforward nature, his serious approach to roping, and the loyalty he showed to those who earned his friendship.
When Broc passed unexpectedly in July 2012 at just 25 years old, it left an unmistakable void in the roping community. In response, the Davis family, along with Broc's loved ones, established this memorial roping to ensure his legacy would live on. Now, the event not only celebrates Broc's life but also provides scholarships to young ropers following in his footsteps.
The scholarship program has become a cornerstone of Broc's legacy, touching many young lives. It's particularly moving to witness Kelly Balistreri, Broc's mother, personally connecting with scholarship recipients each year. For her, this event provides healing through giving back—a way to channel grief into something positive that honors the essence of who her son was.
I left the Davis Ranch that day with my calendar already marked for next year's event. There's something profoundly moving about a community that continues to celebrate one of their own more than a decade after his passing. The Broc Cresta Memorial Roping isn't just an annual event—it's a testament to how deeply one young cowboy touched the lives around him and how his spirit continues to inspire us all.
We cover countless events each year, but few capture the heart of our Western heritage quite like this one. It reminds us all that in this community, nobody rides alone—not in the arena, and certainly not in our memories.
2025 BROC CRESTA MEMORIAL OPEN ROPING
James Arviso and Nicky Northcott won the average with a time of 32.07 on five head, winning $12,000. Jake Smith and Douglas Rich finished second with a 33.5, winning $9,500. James Arvisor and Kaden Profili finished third with a 34.49, winning $7,700. Jake Smith and Trey Yates placed fourth with a 34.86, winning $6,000. Cutter Machado and Jason Johe
Photos by Crystal Amen and Dee Yates
DUMMY ROPING WINNERS BIG KIDS CAMEN
DUMMY ROPING WINNERS LITTLE KIDS
were fifth with a 36.24, winning $4,000. Aaron Tsingini and Jade Corkill finished sixth with a 36.3, winning $2,500. Jake Stanley and Justin Davis were seventh with a 37.36, winning $1,800. Brye Crites and Dylan Graham ended with a 38.58. Kolton Schmidt and Jaden Warner had a 39.42. Cutter Machado and Dalton Pearce recorded a 49.67. Colt Cowden and Garrett Busby turned in an 84.18. In the progressive roping with no short-go qualification, Dawson Graham and Douglas Rich had a 29.32, Braden Schmidt and Jaden Warner 30.22, Kreese Thompson and Jace Helton 31.57, Bodie Mattson and Reese Wadhams 35.65, Jace Bland and Austin Rogers 36.18, Rhett Anderson and Caleb Hendricks 36.34, Charlie White and Coltor Butters 37.98, Cameron Irwin and Coley Nicholls 44.33, and Hagen Peterson and JR Gonzalez 44.44. Fast time in Round 1 went to Riley Minor and Paden Bray with a 5.86 for $1,000. Fast time in Round 2 went to Tyler Tryan with a 5.70 for $500. Fast time in Round 3 went to Kolton Schmidt and Jaden Warner with a 5.25 for $1,000.
2025 BROC CRESTA MEMORIAL
AMATEUR HEADERS
Dane Browning and Nicky Northcott won the average with a time of 20.71, winning $4,500 in AM payout and $3,000 in PRO payout. Rob Kramer and Brady Minor finished second with a 20.73, winning $3,950 in AM payout and $2,500 in PRO payout. Rhett Milne and Jake Long were third with a 21.17, winning $3,350 in AM payout and $2,100 in PRO payout. Jayda Staley and Douglas Rich placed fourth with a 22.63, winning $2,760 in AM payout and $1,710 in PRO payout. Scott Evans and Nicky Northcutt finished fifth with a 23.16, winning $2,180 in AM payout and $1,350 in PRO payout. Tyler Silva and Kaden Profili placed sixth with a 23.24, winning $1,600 in AM payout and $1,000 in PRO payout. Mitzy Corkill and Tanner Braden were seventh with a 24.22, winning $1,000 in AM payout and $650 in PRO payout. Jon Scaleri and Douglas Rich placed eighth with a 24.96, winning $400 in AM payout and $250 in PRO payout. Garrett Gallagher and Paden Bray recorded a 26.49. Sammy Jo Duby and Justin Davis finished with a 27.92. James Gradney and Jake Long posted a 30.99. Barrie Molina and Jade Corkill had a 31.84. Clayton Hansen and Dillon Graham finished with a 32.21. Joel Giordano and Chase Tryan posted a 32.74. Delaney Bowder and Cody Cowden roped two for a 16.45 but did not compete in the short go. JJ Heffernan and Ryon Tittel roped two for a 16.43 but did not make the short go. Patrick Benedict and Jace Helton turned in a 16.42 on two but no short go time. Stix Lee and Russell Cardoza turned in a 15.36 on two. Cole Green and Jade Corkill finished on two head with a 15.26. Levi Andrews and Jade Corkill turned in a 15.02 on two. Fast times were posted by Dane Browning with a 6.05, Garrett Gallagher and Paden Bray with a 6.14, Cole Green and Jade Corkill with a 6.25, and Rob Kramer and Brady Minor with a 6.3. Round 1 payoff winners included Cortland
Crume and Jace Helton and Nicky Northcott. Short Go payoff winners included Cortland Crume and Jace Helton. Various rounds paid out $600 to $400 amounts.
2025 BROC CRESTA MEMORIAL AMATEUR HEELERS
Aaron Tsinagini and Shannon Riggs won the average with a time of 24.08, winning $3,036 in AM payout and $3,588 in PRO payout. Tyler Tryan and Zach Salvestro placed second with a 24.44, winning $2,484 in AM payout and $2,236 in PRO payout. Kolton Schmidt and Tom Howell were third with a 24.79, winning $1,932 in AM payout and $1,892 in PRO payout. Wyatt Bray and Ty Shintaku finished fourth with a 25.24, winning $1,380 in AM payout and $1,548 in PRO payout. Jeff Fleniken and Colt Cowden ended fifth with a 28.27, winning $828 in AM payout and $1,204 in PRO payout. Dawson Graham and Shawn Byler placed sixth with a 28.53, winning $552 in AM payout and $860 in PRO payout. Chase Helton and JD Machado placed seventh with a 28.72. Hayes Smith and Sid Harvey posted a time of 15.16 on two head. Riley Minor and Wyatt Stokes finished two head at 15.65. Luke Brown and Brett VanStavern turned in a 16.23 on two head. Jeff Fleniken and Rocky Johnston posted a 16.26 on two head. Jake Smith and Myron Duarte finished with an 18.05 on two. Jake Clay and Domenic Cianfichi turned in a 19.01. Brye Crites and Carson Cash had a 19.08. Jake Stanley and Garrett Mathias posted a 19.46. Brayden Schmidt and Bryor Minton finished two head with a 20.25. Riley Minor and Eli Green posted a 20.97 on two head. Shane Sproul and Justin Vigil finished with a 21.27. Korbin Rice and Ryle Englehart finished with a 21.7. Jeff Fleniken and Casey Robertson finished two head with a 21.88. Fast runs included Brayden Schmidt with a 6.01, Wyatt Bray and Brody Gill with a 5.7, Riley Minor and Wyatt Stokes with a 6.36, and Kolton Schmidt and Tom Howell with a 6.53. Short Go fast time was posted by Korbin Rice and Dean Sherbo along with Bryor Minton. Round payoff amounts included $600 and $400 across rounds.
PROAM AWARDS HEADER MITZY CORKILL TANNER BRADEN
PROAM AWARDS HEADER ROB KRAMER BRADY MINOR
PROAM AWARDS HEADER TYLER SILVA KADEN PROFILI
PROAM AWARDS HEELER JD MACHADO CHASE HELTON
DUMMY ROPING WINNERS MIDDLE KIDS
PROAM AWARDS HEELER KOLTON SCHMIDT TOM HOWELLL
DUMMY ROPING BUCKLE WINNERS
MAY 7, 14, 28
JUNE 4, 11
JULY 2, 9, 16, 23, 30
AUGUST 6, 13, 20, 27
Sign
FRIDAY NIGHT TEAM ROPINGS
JUNE 6
JULY 25 AUG 22
MAY 30 - LOVELOCK, NV
INDEPENDENCE
DAY ROPINGS
JULY 4, 5, & 6
Sign up at 9am, Rope at 10am
P1/D2 $40/$120
#5.5 Pick or Draw $40 #4 Pick or Draw $40
Free Stalls! Come enjoy the NEW Shade! Headstalls to High $$ #1-1.5, 2-2.5 & 3 and Over of the Weekend Must Rope 2 of 3 Days for Prizes!
STAN CERESOLA MEMORIAL ROPING - FERNLEY, NV
JULY 18 & 19
Sign up at 5pm, Rope at 6pm #6 Hdcp P1/D2 $40/$120
#5.5 Pick or Draw $40/Run All ropings ENTER UP!
STAN CERESOLA MEMORIAL SADDLE AWARDED TO HIGH $$ ROPER OVER 2 DAYS! MUST ROPE BOTH
RED BLUFF ROUND-UP Delivers in America's Largest Three-Day
Rodeo
TSign
he historic Red Bluff Round-Up continued its storied tradition this April, showcasing elite talent across the rodeo spectrum. Known as "America's Largest Three-Day Rodeo," the event has occupied its traditional late April slot on the schedule since 1926, evolving from its two-day format to a three-day spectacle in 1966. With an economic impact estimated at more than $5 million annually, the entire town transformed during rodeo week with trail rides, business decorating contests, pancake breakfasts, and numerous community activities celebrating the Western lifestyle.
In the all-around competition, Cody Stewart claimed top honors with $11,028 in earnings from the tie-down roping and team roping events. The bareback riding saw Jayco Roper deliver a masterful 90-point ride on Rosser Rodeo's Right On Q to secure the championship and $8,178, followed by Cooper Cooke (87.5 points, $6,270), R.C. Landingham (87 points, $4,634), and Jess Pope (86 points, $2,999).
The steer wrestling competition showcased Dakota Eldridge's remarkable consistency, as he captured the average title with a four-head time of 21.9 seconds, earning $4,614. Landon Beardsworth placed second with 22.5 seconds ($4,012), while Eli Lord took third with 22.8 seconds ($3,410). In the saddle bronc riding, Brody Wells delivered an electrifying 88-point performance on Four Star Rodeo's Franks Fit, collecting $7,840 for his efforts. Lefty Holman finished second with 87 points ($6,010), followed by Wyatt Casper with 86.5 points ($4,442).
The team roping championship went to the veteran duo of Riley Minor and Brady Minor, who demonstrated exceptional teamwork with a four-head average time of 30.5 seconds, earning $4,631 each. Dan Williams Jr. and Cody Stewart finished second with 31.9 seconds ($4,027 each). In tie-down roping, Chase Webster claimed victory with a four-head
average of 40.3 seconds ($4,916), narrowly edging Tom Crouse's 40.6 seconds ($4,275).
The women's barrel racing saw LaTricia Duke emerge victorious with a two-head average of 34.94 seconds ($3,347), while Hailey Garrison placed second with 35.18 seconds ($2,869). Kellie Jorgensen and former world champion Hailey Kinsel tied for third with identical times of 35.20 seconds ($2,231 each). The bull riding event delivered perhaps the most electric moment of the weekend when Wacey Schalla conquered Big Stone Rodeo Inc's Cherry Bomb for a remarkable 91 points and $7,783, with Lane Vaughan taking second place with 88.5 points ($5,967).
With its unique traditions like the Wild Ride— featuring costumed roughstock cowboys judged not only for their rides but for their creativity—the Red Bluff Round-Up continues to hold a special place in rodeo culture. Drawing from its rich history dating back to 1921 when it became Northern California's first rodeo to join the Cowboys' Turtle Association (a precursor to today's Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association), the event has overcome numerous historical challenges to maintain its position as one of the sport's signature events.
CHASE WEBSTER
BLAKE ASH
AKE CLAY & TANNER BRADEN
Written by Dee Yates | Photos by Crystal Amen
By
The storied tradition of Cal Poly's Poly Royal Rodeo dates back to 1933, when plans for a new campus open house began taking shape. With the support of incoming president Julian McPhee, the event was organized by Carl "Gus" Beck and seven agriculture faculty members as a method of showcasing the school while preparing agricultural students for livestock judging at the state level.
Originally billed as "A Country Fair on a College Campus," the first Poly Royal welcomed hundreds of visitors from coast counties and the San Joaquin Valley on March 31, 1933. The inaugural event featured a stock parade, judging competitions, agricultural equipment displays, a barbecue in Poly Grove, and concluded with a dance in Crandall gymnasium.
What distinguished Poly Royal from previous campus events was its embodiment of Cal Poly's learn-by-doing philosophy. Unlike earlier Chautauqua-style events that emphasized lectures from dignitaries, Poly Royal showcased livestock exhibitions, horticultural displays, and student projects that demonstrated the effectiveness of vocational education.
The event evolved from even earlier roots in the Farmers' Institute and Basket Picnic, first held on May 24, 1904, when more than 200 visitors toured the school's new buildings, enjoyed barbecue, and listened to speeches. By 1913, the event had grown so popular that over 3,000 people attended. Though the Farmers' Institute eventually disappeared in the 1920s, its spirit lived on when Poly Royal was established.
THE 83RD ANNUAL SHOWCASE: FOUR NIGHTS OF WESTERN EXCELLENCE
The 83rd annual Poly Royal Rodeo returned to Cal Poly this April with an expanded schedule, offering an additional performance night to accommodate more attendees. Held at the Cotton Rosser Rodeo Complex during Cal Poly's Open House, the event featured four full nights of action-packed performances.
Melody Gist
Dee Yates | Photos By Hailey Kennedy
FINAL RESULTS
The festivities began on Wednesday, April 9, with a Cal Poly Rodeo Showcase and Associated Students, Inc.-sponsored concert exclusively for students. The general admission events kicked off Thursday, April 10, with the first Cal Poly Rodeo Showcase Performance and culminated on Saturday, April 12, with the Poly Royal Rodeo Finals. Concerts on Wednesday and Saturday nights took place in the rodeo arena, giving attendees ample space to dance and enjoy the music.
As the marquee event of Cal Poly's annual Open House, the Poly Royal Rodeo featured top collegiate rodeo athletes from around the West Coast who advanced to the championship performance from earlier rounds. These skilled competitors battled for championship titles in barrel racing, team roping, breakaway roping, tie down roping, saddle bronc riding, bareback riding, bull riding, and steer wrestling.
The event was held at the Cotton Rosser Rodeo Complex, named after alumnus and founding team member Cotton Rosser (Animal Husbandry, '52). The facility was dedicated in 2022 following the establishment of the Cotton Rosser Endowment, which honors Rosser's dedication to the sport while providing financial support for the future of the Cal Poly Rodeo program through operational costs and student scholarships.
A
ROYAL PERSPECTIVE
"Poly Royal was such an incredible experience for me because I got to see firsthand how involved the whole community is! You won't see another college rodeo around that puts so much effort into the process, it was a year round commitment to make it happen! My goal during my reign is to promote Cal Poly Rodeo and encourage college students that they can do anything they want, as long as they try hard enough.”
-MISS
CAL
POLY
RODEO 2025, MELODY GIST
Under the guidance of coach Ben Londo, Cal Poly Rodeo has established itself as one of the most successful programs in college rodeo history. Since 1949, its studentathletes have claimed an impressive 45 national titles, more than any other college rodeo program. Cal Poly's dominance in collegiate rodeo was undeniable. The event not only showcased exceptional athleticism but also honored the rich tradition that began nine decades ago as a humble agricultural exhibition.
Men’s Team: Cal Poly State University – San Luis Obispo took the top spot in the men’s team standings with 565.00 points. California State University-Fresno followed in second with 490.00 points, while Feather River College placed third with 360.00. Bakersfield College came in fourth with 120.00. Women’s Team: Cal Poly State University – San Luis Obispo also led the women’s team standings with 260.00 points. Feather River College earned second with 155.00 points. Cuesta College took third with 80.00, followed by the University of Nevada-Reno with 60.00. California State University-Fresno and the University of Nevada-Las Vegas tied for fifth with 40.00 each. Men’s All-Around: Tyler Scott Jones from Fresno State claimed the Men’s All-Around title with 260.00 points. Joseph G Rawls of Feather River placed second with 210.00 points, followed by Dylan John Fleming of Cal Poly with 140.00 and Ryan David Wells, also of Cal Poly, with 95.00. Women’s All-Around: Cameron Jeanne Steagall from Cal Poly led the Women’s All-Around standings with 190.00 points. Ava Marie Solberg of Feather River College placed second with 95.00 points. Saddle Bronc Riding: Matt Joseph Cicisly from Cal Poly won the event with a score of 157.0. Teammate Chance Joseph Frost followed with 151.0. Tyler Scott Jones of Fresno scored 70.0 for third. Brendan James Mendosa of Feather River rounded out the top four with 44.0. Bareback Riding: Wyatt Avery Wood of Cal Poly claimed the win with a score of 160.0. Bull Riding: Brayden Leo Liberio of Fresno rode to first place with a score of 80.0. Cody Lane Russell of Feather River followed with 75.0 for second place. Tie Down Roping: Brayden Michael Bennett of Cal Poly roped first with a time of 23.7. Joseph G Rawls of Feather River was second with a 24.8, followed closely by Trent D Jones of Bakersfield at 24.9. Tanner James Kerr of Fresno clocked a 29.0 for fourth. Ryan David Wells of Cal Poly had an 11.7 run, Garrett Lindley Christiansen of Chico finished in 32.8, and Vincent Edward Nino of Cal Poly posted 13.4. Steer Wrestling: Cal Poly’s Owen Russell Redfeairn led the field with a time of 9.8, followed by Dylan John Fleming with 10.1 and Kyler Jerry Morgan at 10.6. Joseph G Rawls of Feather River clocked 10.9 for fourth. Travis Clark Cadwell and Brandon Alexander Low tied for fifth with times of 15.1 and 12.6, respectively. Ryan David Wells (12.6) and Kadin Campbell Javadi (13.7), both from Cal Poly, rounded out the top eight. Team Roping Header: Tyler Scott Jones of Fresno turned in the fastest time at 15.4. Katelyn Carmel Browder of Cal Poly followed with 18.4. Pierce Lee Wold of Cal Poly roped third at 21.0. Dakota Renee McCurley of UPAC came in fourth at 36.4. Ava Marie Solberg of Feather River had an 11.2, and Delaney Marie Browder of Cal Poly finished at 13.5. Team Roping Heeler: Ty Thomas Jacobs from Cal Poly won the event with a 15.4. Blayne Andrew Twisselman and Tucker Robert Donlon, also of Cal Poly, followed with 18.4 and 21.0, respectively. Tessa Belle James (36.4), Wyatt James Cox of Modesto
Junior College (11.2), and Dylan John Fleming (13.5) also placed. Barrel Racing: Karly Grace Camozzi from Cal Poly won with a time of 30.64. Kennedy Paige Bruce of Cuesta and Jessica Hope Krambeer of Cal Poly tied for second with 31.10 and 30.89, respectively. Allyson Eloise Wheeler (41.23), Brooklyn Parkhurst of Nevada-Reno (31.48), Skylar Jayda Alves (40.74), Emma Dayle Jensen of Fresno (40.73), Emma Quinn Garijo of UNLV (31.66), Hannah Kayleen Griffin of Fresno (31.67), and Elsa Rose Flynn of Cal Poly (52.42) followed. Breakaway Roping: Samantha Zera Massey of Cal Poly led with a 6.2. Teammate Cameron Jeanne Steagall followed at 6.6. Sadie Margarette Mullins of Cuesta came in at 7.0. Josie Elizabeth Meyring (7.7), Fallon Rae Ruffoni of Cuesta (3.2), Leah Belle Gibbs (7.8), and a tie between Ella Grace Bramsen and Kaidyn Holland at 3.6 rounded out the field. Goat Tying: Paige Mae Van Loben Sels of Cal Poly won with a 14.4. Regan Viktoria Russ followed at 15.2. Erin Nicole Atkinson and Adriene Taylor Steffen tied at 15.3. Maggie Frances Usher (6.8), Hailey Elizabeth Hicks of Feather River (16.0), Cameron Jeanne Steagall (16.6), Ava Marie Solberg of Feather River (15.7), and Trista Lynn Reid of Cuesta (16.9) closed out the top spots.
Katelyn Browder and Blayne Twisselman
Tyler Jones
La Grange Rode0
Photos by Michael T. Photography
At the La Grange CCPRA Rodeo held April 6, 2025, contestants brought their best to the arena across multiple rough stock and timed events. In Saddle Bronc Riding, Denton Mars and Dana Tainskey tied with a score of 74, with Mars edging out in payout at $928.72 and Tainskey at $928.54. Vinny Templeton followed with a 73 for $464.36, and Reno McGill rode to a 71, taking home $232.18. Bareback Bronc Riding saw Derion Chavis top the leaderboard with a 73-point ride worth $899.20, followed by Tryan Hurley with a 61 for $529.60, and Ian Leavy with a 51 for $265.80. No qualified rides were recorded in Bull Riding. In the Calf Roping, Jordan Ketzer roped his calf in 9.7 seconds to take the win and $1,084.95. Denton Peterson followed closely at 9.8 seconds for $897.89. Eli Green was third with a 10.0 for $710.83, Jason Anderson at 10.1 for $523.77, Travis Smith at 10.7 for $336.71, and Dylan Flemming rounded out the money winners with an 11.5 for $187.06. Steer Wrestling was led by Jace Melvin with a 4.4-second run worth $729.51, followed by Mason Polhemus at 4.9 for $609.30. Garrett Smith and Tait Stickler split the next two spots with runs of 5.3 and 5.7, earning $528.25 and $438.25 respectively. James Bahlster finished at 5.9 for $348.20, Kaian Javadi at 5.9 for $258.13, and Riley Currin at 6.1 for $80.13. The Breakaway Roping featured Kelsey Cadwell winning with a quick 1.8-second time and a payout of $1,332.87. Elliee Gomes was next with a 2.1 for $1,115.02, followed by Haigh Grant with a 2.3 for $985.17. Hailey Wilbor came in at 2.5 for $811.31, tying with Brayden Bourdier, who also clocked a 2.5. Patrcia E. Eagle and River Sage Rodriguez finished the round with times of 2.5 and 2.4, earning $289.74 and $115.90 respectively. In Barrel Racing, Vicky Cook blazed the fastest time with a 17.15, earning $898.17. Christina Potter followed at 17.83 for $749.84, and Erin Ricotti at 17.89 for $641.55. Summer Smith’s 17.94 earned her $556.01, and Susie Gunter’s 18.01 earned $427.70. The rest of the money went to Mary Jo Carrera (18.14) with $342.16, Regan Russ (18.22) for $256.42, Sandra Corbin (18.25) for $171.08, Samantha Proulx (18.31) for $128.31, and Kathleen Wright (18.32) for $85.54. In Team Roping, the fastest time of 5.1 seconds belonged to the duo of Blake Hirdes and Jake Edwards, both taking home $1,598.24 and $1,538.24 respectively. Ross Rivera and Rodney Rivera finished with a 5.3, each pocketing $1,337.42. Colt Cowden and Sid Harvey turned in a 5.5 for $1,136.98 each. Mike Christensen and Trey White (6.1 and 6.1) earned $936.33 each. Preston Burgess and Cody Cowden followed with a 6.3 for $735.67 each. Hayden Webb and Case Hirdes clocked a 6.6 and 6.9, each earning $585.05. Joseph Shumway and Franky Martinez had a 6.7 and 7.1 respectively, taking $334.44 apiece. The final placing team of Kelton Martinez and his partner (both with a 7.1) took home $133.76 each.
NORTHERN CALIFORNIA National Finals Qualifier
FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 19 - INDOOR ARENA
Entreies close at 5:45pm, Rope at 6pm Breakaway Roping 3 for $200 Open Breakaway w/ 14 & under incentive • Prizes to Open & Incentive Progressive after 2 • Top 20 to short • 35% Cattle Charge
FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 19
Any current member can rope and win awards on Friday without being qualified • All Friday ropings-Go 6 Times
Books Open 11am, Close 11:30am, Rope at 12pm
#2 Cap Draw Pot 3 for $60
Go 6 Times • 35% Cattle Charge
#6 Hdcp. Down Pick 1/Draw 1 (or Draw Both) 4 for $60/Run ($120/entry)
Maximum Six Runs Total • 35% Cattle Charge #7 Hdcp. (Up or Down) Pick 1/Draw 1 (or Draw Both) 4 for $60/Run ($120/entry)
Maximum Six Runs Total • Books Will Not Close Before 5pm • 35% Cattle Charge
SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 21
Books Open 7:30am, Close at 8:30, Rope at 9:00am
#10.5 Hdcp. Up/Down 29% Cattle Charge 4 for $100
Super #7 Handicap Down 29% Cattle Charge 5 for $100
Jr/Sr/Cent/Mix #7 Hdcp Up/Down 35% Cattle Charge .3 for $60
Each team must have: 17&under, 55+, female, or a combined age of 100+ (age is day of the roping)
#5.5 35% Cattle Charge 4 for $60
• Hdcp. 1 Second Up/2 Seconds Down
35% Cattle Charge
9233 SIERRA HIGHWAY, AGUA DULCE, CA
AUGUST
$20,000 Added Money! SADDLES! + $90,000 in Awards with no money taken out presents
CALIFORNIA CHAPTER FINALS
SEPTEMBER 24-28, 2025
PAYBACK OVER 90% IN CASH & PRIZES
“No Teams Held For Awards, Your Entry Fee After Cattle Charge Goes To The Pot.”
WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 24
Books Open 9:30, Close 10:30, Rope 11 • 1 Arena
#8.5 Roping (29% Cattle) 4 for $100
Open Roping (20% Cattle) ........................ 5 for $200
Must be a minimum of 3 header/4 heeler to draw in w/o a pick. must draw one, can pick or draw up to 3 more
Do not need to be qualified. Day passes accepted. Books won’t close before 1:00
Breakaway (25% Cattle) 3 for $200
Progresssive After Two. 14 & Under Incentive. Books won’t close before 4:00. Enter 2X.
THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 25
Books Open 7am, Close 8am, Rope 8:30
#10.5 Hdcp. Up/Down (29% Cattle) 4 for $100
Jim Hanner Century #8 Hdcp(33% Cattle)....4 for $75
Books Won’t Close Before 10am
Mixed #8 Hdcp (33% Cattle) 4 for $75 Books Won’t Close Before 2pm
Books for the #7 will close at 5:00 and be posted by 7:00. Late entries accepted Fri morning until 8:00 and will run first at 8:30
FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 26
Books Open 7am, Close 8am, Rope 8:30
#7 Hdcp. Down (29% Cattle) 5 for $150
All Girl (P1/D1) #8 Hdcp (33% Cattle)..3 for $60/$120
Go 3 times (6 total partners max). Must be fully qualified. Books won’t close before noon
#4.5 over 40 (33% Cattle) ..4 for $75
Must be over 40+ to enter Age is day of roping. Books won’t close before 3:00
Wine Tasting & Social Hour 5:00. Books for the #5.5 will close at 5:00 and be posted by 7:00. Late entries accepted Sat morning until 8:00 and will run first at 8:30
SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 27
Books Open 7am, Close 8am, Rope 8:30
#5.5 Roping (33% Cattle) ........ 4 for $75 #3 Pick or Draw (33% Cattle) 4 for $60
Dummy Roping 10 a.m. Age Groups 3 & U; 4-5; 6-7; 8-9
There will be no early draw posted for the #4 due to the draw-in option.
SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 28
Books Open 7am, Close 8am, Rope 8:30 #4 Pick or Draw (33% Cattle) 4 for $60
• Stall & RV Reservations Will Open August 1 On The EZ Stall App
Two Arenas • Must be an ACTRA member and have 10 ropings in by September 1st to rope • Huge year end awards program • Dress code enforced (cowboy hat or no hat, collared shirt) • Cash or Credit Card with 3.95% fee •
Go 4 times • Stall & RV Reservations will Open on August 1st through EZ Stall
By August 23rd (ACTRA25)
4/23/2025 R-W Productions – #8 Hdcp Down P1/D1 Andy Holcomb and Garrett Bourdet topped the round with a time of 6.98, winning $70. Talon Petska and Bodie Savage followed with a 7.34 for $50. In the average, Michael Frost and Levi Segura clocked 11.75 to win $270. John “Scooter” Canty and John Flook were second with a 13.11, earning $200. Third went to Talon Petska and Joe Spencer with 13.52 for $135, while Larry McGrady and John Flook rounded out the top four at 14.56 for $66.
4/19/2025 Fillmore Roping Club – #4 Pick or Draw Rider Cope and Rick Rader took the round with an 8.07, earning $170, while Branson Lee and Poncho Jimenez followed at 8.17 for $110. In the average, Stephen Senteney and Rick Rader posted a 32.07 for $570. Tom Lieb and Harrison Zuk placed second with 34.74 for $300. Jamie Fontes and Alex Perez finished third at 37.74 for $190, and David Ramirez and Rick Rader claimed fourth with 46.68 for $110.
4/19/2025 Fillmore Roping Club – #5.5 Hdcp Down Luis Ramirez and Alex Perez won the round with a 7.70, taking home $150. Steve Davison and Alex Perez followed with 8.04 for $90. In the average, Steve Davison and Wayne Williams posted 26.58 to win $520. Justin Hedrick and Shawn Howell came in at 30.09 for $390. Frank Brancato and Juan Jimenez clocked 30.77 for $260, while Morgan Mainz and Mike Fontes earned $130 for their 32.17.
4/18/2025 7UP Productions – Oakdale #5.5 Hdcp P1 John J. Wheatley and Bryce Graves took the round with 4.96 and $240. Riley Currin and Sid Harvey followed at 5.61 for $160. In the average, Riley Currin and Clay Horton posted 24.39 to earn $780. Brody Nelson and Joseph J. Shawnego placed second with 26.39 for $580. John J. Wheatley and Mike George followed with 29.97 for $420. Bob Joseph and Ward Piazza took fourth with 30.32 for $280, while Rylee George and Ace Flanagan ran 31.41 for $200. David Guerra and Ace Flanagan finished sixth with 35.53, earning $160.
4/17/2025 RCR – #4.5 Jeffrey Coale and Mike Morrison took first in the round with a 7.25 for $140. Macey Mitchell and Toby Willis followed with 7.56 for $95. In the average, Leslie Sims and
Tyler Amos led with 33.13 for $800. Mike Morrison and Lance Laster came in second at 33.96 for $645. Junior (David) Zepeda and Colter Mora were third at 34.12 for $480. Mark Sr Scobie and Tony Domingos placed fourth at 35.86 for $320. Joaquin Gruber and Tristan Quigley ran 36.63 for $240, and Sager Nevarez and Rollando Villalobos rounded out the top six with 37.26 for $185.
4/16/2025 Average Joe Productions
Ranch #5.5 Hdcp Danny Leslie and Royce Brown won the round with a 5.47, taking $200. In the average, Lane Karney and Dugan Kelly took top honors with 21.50 for $710. Danny Leslie and Ty Jacobs followed with 24.10 for $540. Lauryn Wilson and Jorge Martinez ran 25.17 for $360, while Logan Sullivan and Danny Leslie closed out the average winners with 26.92 for $180.
4/16/2025 R-W Productions – #8 Hdcp Hank Brown and Dillon Almason won the round with a 6.10 for $65. Brown and Levi Segura followed at 6.75 for $45. In the average, Brown and Segura came back to win with 12.96 and $254. Wes Aviles and Billy Jay Aviles were second with 13.19 for $185. Lauren Segura and Levi Segura followed with 14.35 for $125, and Hank Brown and Billy Jay Aviles posted 14.36 for $65.
4/13/2025 7UP Productions – Basso’s #5.5
Hdcp P1/D Tanner Kent and Blake VanStavern took the round with a blazing 4.28, earning $200. Layton Oswald and Branstan Joseph followed at 5.56 for $120. In the average, Anthony Leard and Lucas Thompson led with 22.09 for $580. Collin Snyder and VanStavern were second at 22.79 for $400. Oswald and Joseph took third at 25.59 for $300. Andy Holcomb and Branstan Joseph posted 27.00 for $200. Holcomb returned with Paul J. Smith to run 27.66 for $160, and Jose Velo and Dillon Almason clocked 27.67 for $100.
4/13/2025 7UP Productions – Basso’s #8.5
Hdcp P1/D Les Oswald and Layton Oswald led the round with 4.84, winning $150. Erik Smith and Andy Holcomb followed at 7.01 for $100. In the average, Dominic Kastl and Layton Oswald took the win with 32.69 for $520. Oswald also paired with Blake VanStavern to take second at 32.91 for $400. Kevin Hill and Holcomb were third with 33.15 for $250. Dillon Almason and VanStavern followed with 38.27 for $140.
4/13/2025 7UP Productions – Basso’s #5.5
Hdcp Down Dominic Kastl and Lucas Thompson won the round with 5.83, taking $80. In the average, Collin Snyder and Branstan Joseph posted 21.24 to win $240. Anthony Leard and Thompson were second at 28.63 for $200. Branstan Joseph and Snyder ran 33.98 for $140, while Kristina Cochrane and Brandyn Hartfield took fourth with 43.85 for $80.
4/13/2025 Chase N Money Arena – Last Man Standing Noah Jr Cervantes and Royce Brown took first in the average with 109.48 for $400. Cervantes also placed second with Chase Grantham at 138.23 for $250. Lilly Thompson and Jimmy Gardner were third with 55.73, earning $165.
4/13/2025 JPK Arena – #5.5 Pick or Draw Kolby Hand and Paul Mullins won the round with 6.81 for $150. John Fawkes and Julian Bracken followed at 6.96 for $100. In the average, Clark Quigley and
Gavin Eaton clocked 28.18 for $770. Quigley also paired with Gus Hafenfeld for second at 29.72 for $575. Hand and Mullins were third with 30.02 for $380. Ken Maler and Clif Partain wrapped up the money spots with 30.82 for $190.
4/13/2025 JPK Arena – #7 Hdcp P1/D1 John Fawkes and Gavin Eaton led the round with 5.95 for $225. Julianna Perez and Sam McKee followed at 6.49 for $130, and Keegan Perez and Paul Mullins rounded out the round at 6.60 for $90. In the average, Keegan Perez and Clif Partain were first with 17.34 for $970. Clark Quigley and Levi Cash Real took second at 21.10 for $800. Perez and Mullins were third at 21.25 for $640. Kolby Hand and Levi Cash Real placed fourth with 22.40 for $470. Quigley and Gavin Eaton came next at 25.48 for $300, and John Fawkes and Gus Hafenfeld finished with 26.42 for $170.
4/13/2025 Turlock Horsemen’s Club – #5.5 Hdcp P1/D1 Taylor Bennett and Joe Robinson won the round with 5.99 for $125. Jeff Ash and Robinson were next at 6.67 for $80, followed by Bo Beam and Jeremiah Nelson at 10.29 for $35. In the average, Bob Joseph and Robinson came in first with 29.13 for $400. Bruce C. Elliott and Xavier Soto ran 38.58 for $280. Elliott also teamed with Ken Paddock for a 14.26 and $200. Taylor Bennett and Robinson followed with 16.64 for $100.
4/13/2025 Turlock Horsemen’s Club – 2 for $20 Matt Erwin and Bronc Rowland took the round at 6.65 for $40. In the average, Erwin and Rowland posted 18.33 for $90. Greg Jones and Rowland followed with 19.95 for $60.
High Money Saddle Winners of the Weekend. Left side; Mikayla Haynes. Right; Nolan Scott
5.5 Robert Lea Memorial 2nd in the 6 s Steer Long Average Winners Mikayla & Colton Haynes
Earl McKee Memorial Calf Branding Champions! Nolan Scott, Brett Moody, Cade Holman, Justin Rupe
4/12/2025 Porter’s Arena – Clovis #7 Hdcp
Draw Donald Ornellas and Trey White led the round with 5.13 for $120. Bodi Dodds and Mike Christensen were second at 6.17 for $70. In the average, Daniel Alviso and Austin Williams took top honors with 22.16 for $435. Kevin Cantrelle and Justin Bruecker placed second at 23.77 for $325. Herman Holland and Bruecker followed with 27.38 for $220. Zane Denio and Christensen wrapped it up with 27.42 for $110.
4/12/2025 Porter’s Arena – Clovis #5.5 Pick or Draw Donald Ornellas and Kevin Elliott won the round with a 6.66, earning $125. Billy J (Charlie) Prewit and David Daniel followed at 6.96 for $90, and Alberto Estrada and Gilberto Valdez took third with 7.31 for $65. In the average, Prewit and Daniel led with 29.51 for $635. Tyson Porter and Zane Denio placed second at 33.48 for $475. Porter returned with Ornellas to take third at 33.58 for $320. Jack Batey and Tommy Rogers rounded out the placings with 35.12 for $160.
4/12/2025 Porter’s Arena – Clovis #4.5 Pick or Draw Reagan Amador and Donald Ornellas won the round with an 8.22 for $135. Beau Chaney and Tyson Porter were close behind at 8.43 for $100, followed by Justin Dahlem and Kevin Elliott at 8.49 for $65. In the average, Chaney and Neil Amaral came out on top with 39.07 for $600. Elliott and Les Vogt were second with 39.99 for $455. Bill Oglesby and George Porter finished third with 42.09 for $325. Zane Denio and Monty HP Evetts took fourth at 43.53 for $200, and Oglesby returned with Steve O’bar to place fifth at 44.05 for $120.
4/12/2025 Porter’s Arena – Clovis #3.5 Pick or Draw Zayne Carver and Gilberto Valdez took the round with 7.86 for $75. Derek Grant and Anthony Garcia followed with 8.76 for $50. In the average, Tony Jr. Perry and Valdez posted 31.47 to win $320. Chaney and George Porter were second with 45.10 for $240. Carver and Valdez took third at 15.18 for $165.
4/12/2025 Wildwood Ranch – #7 Hdcp 2 for $10 Chad Nunnelee and Cash Worley won the only payout with an 18.57 for $30.
4/11/2025 V7 Roping Cattle – McNaney #5.5 Hdcp P1 Bob Joseph and Clay Horton won the round with a 7.02, earning $125. Leslie Davenport and Branstan Joseph followed with 7.65 for $85, and Davenport also placed third with Connor Nighman at 9.78 for $40. In the average, Joseph and Horton led with 26.37 for $440. Nathan Wohld and Shawn Aguiar followed with 28.08 for $340. Mike Bettencourt and Colton Haynes rounded out the top three with 30.58 for $248.
4/11/2025 V7 Roping Cattle – #8.5 Hdcp P1/D1
Blake Teixeira and Jake Ward led the round with 5.81 for $300. Teixeira returned with Trey White for second at 6.04 and $200, while Leslie Davenport and Blake VanStavern ran 9.77 for $50. In the average, Colton Haynes and Jake Bourdet came in first with 29.79 for $700. Haynes and White took second at 30.34 for $560. Les Oswald and Joseph J. Shawnego were third with 33.24 for $445. Davenport and VanStavern posted 39.90 for $330, and Oswald and Ben Millard placed fifth with 40.42 for $200.
4/10/2025 RCR – #4.5 Bryan Gomes and Alfredo Veliz took the round with 7.02, earning $60. Sager Nevarez and Melody Hutchins were second at 8.41 for $55. In the average, Hayden Soares and Brayden Wiebe posted 31.20 to win $440. Andres Toscano and Tyler Amos followed at 35.51 for $330. Fidel Figuero and Toby Willis were third at 36.46 for $220, and Dudley Little and Brayden Wiebe took fourth with 46.24 for $110.
4/10/2025 Wildwood Ranch – #5.5 Pick N Draw
Justin Weber and Luke McMullen won the round with 5.66 for $35. In the average, Harley Milliken and Cash Worley led with 36.09 for $125. Willie Worley and McMullen took second with 23.22 for $75, while Weber and Milliken placed third at 28.58 for $50.
4/9/2025 7UP Productions – #5.5 Hdcp P1/ D1 Tanner Kent and Stoney Boy Joseph led the round with 4.69 for $160. Ryan Reed and Joseph followed at 5.20 for $120. In the average, Hunter Gonsalves and Joseph posted 24.85 to win $440. Brooklynn Anderson and Joseph were second with 30.52 for $285. Kent and Joseph finished third at 32.30 for $200, and Reed and Joseph took fourth with 33.83 for $120.
4/9/2025 V7 Roping Cattle – McNaney #7.5 Hdcp P1 Ward Fuhlendorf and Sid Harvey won the round with a 6.08, earning $180. Cody McNaney and Myron Duarte followed at 6.11 for $120. In the average, John J. Wheatley and George Dellis led with 20.38 for $570. Colton Haynes and Clay Horton took second at 23.23 for $425. Bob Joseph and Dellis followed at 23.69 for $285, and Colton Santos and Junior Rodin placed fourth with 30.65 for $140.
4/8/2025 Chase N Money Arena – #5.5 Hdcp Caleb Twisselman and Chase Grantham won the event with a 30.22 on the average, collecting $160.
4/6/2025 Chase N Money Arena – #5.5 Hdcp Joaquin Gruber and Lance Laster were the sole placing team, winning $100 with a time of 26.27.
4/5/2025 Wildwood Ranch – #5 Pick or Draw
– Over 4 Jason Krogue and Willie Worley posted the fastest round with an 8.47 to earn $60. In the average, Krogue and Worley topped the leaderboard with 23.06, taking home $310. Chris Moreland and Worley were second at 34.54 for $205.
4/5/2025 Wildwood Ranch – #4.5 Pick N Draw
Willie Worley and Luke White posted a 7.79 to win the round and $100. In the average, Reggie Sutton and Dave Carlson led with 26.30 for $500. Worley and Gary Darst were second with 26.35 for $300. Jason Krogue and Carlson finished third with 29.44 for $200.
4/3/2025 RCR – #4.5 Rollando Villalobos and Tyler Amos won the round with 8.30 for $70. Scott Hutchins and Melody Hutchins followed at 8.63 for $50. In the average, Mike Morrison and Villalobos led with 39.18 for $550. Paige Cecil and Tony Domingos came second at 39.51 for $410. Villalobos and Justin Earl followed at 39.62 for $270, and Hutchins and Domingos rounded out the payouts with 39.63 for $140.
4/2/2025 Average Joe Productions – A+B Ranch #5.5 Hdcp Adrian Sr. Macias and Bryan Gomes posted a 6.02 to win the round and $110. In the average, Trey White and Tammy White led with 25.00 for $500. Noah Jr Cervantes paired with Ty Jacobs for second at 29.74 and $300. Cervantes also teamed with Royce Brown to run 33.03 for $200.
4/2/2025 Average Joe Productions – A+B Ranch #8.5 Hdcp Lane Karney and Ty Jacobs took the average title with 28.11, earning $845. Karney also placed second with Dugan Kelly at 29.66 for $560.
4/2/2025 Thunderhead Ranch – #7 Hdcp John Fawkes and Ryan Longshore led the round with a 6.09 for $100. Clayton Greynolds and Clif Partain followed at 6.30 for $70. In the average, Johnny Borba and David Daniel topped the field with 21.01, winning $400. Don Crowder and Braden Rogers were second at 22.42 for $290. Fawkes and Daniel finished third at 25.47 for $190, and Dalton III Walker and Kevin Pascoe posted 30.42 for $90.
4/2/2025 Thunderhead Ranch – #5.5 Pick or Draw Garrett White and David Daniel took the round with 8.22 for $100. Hadley Fannon and Trent Jones were second with 8.56 for $65. In the average, White and Daniel ran 27.16 for $370. John Fawkes and Julian Bracken followed with 27.91 for $280. Dak Fannon and Kevin Pascoe posted 32.15 for $185, and Jake Logan and Jimmy L. Smith finished with 18.42 for $90.
4/1/2025 B-Bar Arena – #8 Hdcp Justin Stacy and Chant DeForest blazed through the round with a 4.58 for $129. JT Myers and Cade White followed at 7.22 for $85. In the average, David Guerra and Blake White ran 17.25 to lead the field and take home $342. Dino Webb and Tucker Alexander were second at 24.69 for $257. Stacy and Hunter Lowry followed at 24.85 for $171, and Stacy and Luke McMullen closed the payout at 28.76 for $86.
4/1/2025 Chase N Money Arena – #5.5 Hdcp Owen Redfeairn and Lance Laster won the average with 21.46 for $250. Redfeairn also placed second with William Frost at 30.45 for $170. Joaquin Gruber and Laster followed at 13.16 for $40.
4.5 Pick or Draw 2nd in the Average Winners Charlee Marcotte / Daniel Alviso
5.5 Robert Lea Memorial 1st, 3 steer - 2nd in the average winners Mikayla Haynes / Colton Haynes
SATURDAY, OCTOBER 18TH
Rope @ 12 pm
Ladies Breakaway……….…...3/$200
$1,500 Added - 14 & Under Incentive - Enter 2x – 25% Cattle Charge
All Girl………….…………….….4/ $75
Handicap Muley Roping….…..4/$75
#10 ½ handicap, 1 sec per ½ number add/sub, max 5 seconds off
SUNDAY, OCTOBER 19TH
Rope @ 8 am
#10 ½ Handicap…..……4/ $75
Even, 1 sec per ½ number add/sub
Mixed Handicap…………4/ $75
#8 Even, 1 sec per ½ number add/sub
Open…..………..……..….5/$200
$1,000 added – 20% Cattle Charge
MONDAY, OCTOBER 20TH
Rope @ 8 am
RopeSmart Big Bucks #9 Handicap Down……4/$300
80% Payback - $2000 Added - 1 sec per ½ number – 20% Cattle Charge
Gene Aguiar Scholarship Roping …………...3/$60
Pick 1 Draw 1, Enter 2 times, #8 Even, 1 sec per ½ number add/sub #8 ½..………...….……………...4/ $75
TUESDAY, OCTOBER 21ST
Rope @ 8 am
#6 ½ Over 40 - Handicap Down……4/$100
Both Partners Must Be Over 40 - 1 sec per ½ number Century Handicap w/#5 ½ Incentive …4/$75 #8 Even, 1 sec per ½ number add/sub
Member Reception & Cal Custom Super 7 Team Auction at the Nugget
WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 22ND
Rope @ 8 am Cal Custom Super 7.……..5/$150 7 Even, Handicap Down, 1 sec per ½ number – 29% Cattle Charge #4 ½ Over 40………….…4/$75
Both Partners Must Be Over 40
THURSDAY, OCTOBER 23RD
Rope @ 8 am #5 ½ …….………..4/$75
Draw-In option for #4 and under
FRIDAY, OCTOBER 24TH
Rope @ 8 am Red River Arena #4….…….……..4/$75 Draw-In option for #2.5 and under Dummy Roping at approx. 12 pm
SATURDAY, OCTOBER 25TH
Rope @ 8 am #3.………………..4/$75
Draw-In option for #1.5 and under Enter 4 times unless noted 33% cattle charge unless noted
Gene Aguiar Scholarship Roping
2025
This Easter, the arena wasn’t just full of horsepower—it was overflowing with heart. Under sunny skies and the grace of God, families, friends, and ropers gathered for the 2025 Jesus Is Lord Green Memorial Easter Roping to honor two men whose lives were all about love, faith, and cattle—Rickey and Vernon Green. And by all accounts, they would’ve been grinning ear to ear seeing the turnout.
Hosted at the beautiful Parson Ranch, courtesy of Shane and Kim Parsons—who once again opened their gates and hearts—this event had more than just great roping. It was a full-blown celebration of community, cowboys, and Christ.
Dwayne Williams, affectionately known as the Texas Teddy Bear, brought a powerful word from the Lord that led 12 people to give their lives to Christ. That right there was the real jackpot—and exactly the kind of legacy
Rickey and Vernon lived for: reaching unsaved cowboys and cowgirls.
As the arena dust flew, behind the scenes the wheels kept turning thanks to the tireless efforts of folks like Brenda Robbins and Tony Borba, who kept the roping running smoother than a fresh pair of reins. Jeff Henley waved the flag on every run, never missing a beat—and we reckon he deserves a buckle just for flagging the whole event.
Sponsors showed up in a big way, too. Kelly Green, Monte and Angie Creach, Outlaw Buckles and Saddles’ Matt Wilson, and a long list of generous supporters helped make the prize haul as rich as the fellowship. Saddles by Martin Saddlery and beautiful custom buckles added sparkle to the winners’ smiles.
But this wasn’t just a grown-up party. The kids had their own arena of joy with egg hunts, a stick horse barrel race in honor of Nikki Hagemann led by Phyllis Carvalho, and a dummy roping event wrangled by the ever-helpful Jenny Sherby. If you heard giggles and hollers across the fence, that’s where it came from.
To the Green and Weatherby families, and everyone who pitched in—thank you for reminding us what community and Kingdom work really look like. Now, here’s how the champions stacked up.
The Average winners were Mario Reynoso & Justin Shuette, High Point Over Saddle Winner was Mario Reynoso. High Point Reserve Buckle Winner was Justin Shuette. High Point Girl Buckle Winner was Bella Herman. High Point Under Saddle Winner was
Chase Dugo, and the High Point Reserve Buckle Winner for the Under division was again Bella Herman. Fast Time Buckle Winners were Jeff Adney and Billy Butler. Dummy Roping Buckle Winners were Bailey Wiersma in the 5 and Under division, Brylee Van Stavern in the 6 to 8-year-old division, and Kade Ervin in the 9 to 12-year-old division.
Special thanks go out to Kelly Green, Monte and Angie Creach, Outlaw Buckles and Saddles with Matt Wilson, Wyatt and Carol Gibbs at Trailer Specialist, Dan and Andra Erickson, Jack and Bev Sparrowk, Carol Arnold, Jeff Henley, Kingdom Ranch, Dana Iverson, Dan and Gina Iverson, Darren Lowrey, Mike and Dustie Christenson, Blair and Chris Wheatley, John and Carolyn Wheatley, Steve and Linda Grandov.
It was more than a roping—it was a revival on horseback. See y’all next Easter, same spirit, same Savior.
Average winners Mario Reynoso & Justin Shuette
Smarty Rodeo Unveils the Super Shorty A New Era of Innovative Practice Equipment
Mount Pleasant, TX – April 14, 2025—Smarty Rodeo, a brand dedicated to innovation andexcellence in training products, is proud to introduce its latest creation: the Smarty Rodeo Super Shorty. This groundbreaking hybrid practice tool combines the best qualities of the Heel-O-Matic Gen 2 Super Slider and the iconic Smarty Shorty, setting a new standard for roping practice equipment. With a deep passion
for providing high-quality, lifelike training tools, Smarty Rodeo ensures that competitors and enthusiasts alike can refine their skills with the best equipment on the market. The Super Shorty is designed for both durability and performance, making it an essential addition to any practice setup. Product Description: Smarty Rodeo, a brand dedicated to innovation and excellence in training products, is proud to introduce its latest creation: the Smarty Rodeo Super Shorty. This groundbreaking hybrid practice tool brings together the best qualities of the Heel-O-Matic Gen 2 Super Slider and the iconic Smarty Shorty, setting a new standard for roping practice equipment. With a deep passion for providing high-quality, lifelike training tools, Smarty Rodeo ensures that competitors and enthusiasts alike can refine their skills with the best equipment on the market. The Super Shorty is designed for durability and performance, making it an essential addition to any practice setup.
Key Features of the Smarty Rodeo Super Shorty:
• Life-size head for realistic training
• Interchangeable horns for versatile roping scenarios
• Lightweight and portable for easy transport
• Built durable for long-lasting use
• Stationary legs with a dally kit to withstand tough hits
• Unique frame for stability, even through tight turns
• No batteries are required for uninterrupted training sessions
• Compatible with the Smarty Rodeo Super Shoot
The Super Shorty is available now at local Smarty Rodeo dealers and online at www. SmartySupplyCo.com Smarty Rodeo embraces the family values that rodeo instills, and products like the Super Shorty make practice enjoyable and bring families together.
“We’re incredibly excited about the Super Shorty,” said Amanda ShaXer, VP of Business Development for Smarty Rodeo. “Paired with our Super Shoot, we’ve seen some intense jackpots happening in households nationwide. This product is a gamechanger for ropers of all ages, and it brings an element of fun to the fundamentals of practice.”
For more information about the Smarty Rodeo Super Shorty, visit www.SmartySupplyCo.com or contact your local Smarty Rodeo dealer.
ABOUT SMARTY RODEO
Smarty Rodeo is a leader in innovative training products designed to enhance the skills of roping athletes at every level. With a focus on quality, longevity, and performance, Smarty Rodeo continues to be a trusted name in the Western industry.
Train Like a Pro to Achieve Perfect Practice
Carson Valley Roping Days
PUBLISHER’S TAKE:
Witnessing History at 2025 Women's Rodeo World Championship
By Dee Yates | Photos By WCRA/Bullstock Media
ARLINGTON, TX — As the publisher and promoter of Ropers Sports News, I had the privilege of attending the 2025 Women’s Rodeo World Championship (WRWC) at Cowtown Coliseum, Ft. Worth, Texas & finals at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas — and let me tell you, the atmosphere was electric, the talent unmatched, and the payouts recordshattering.
This isn’t just a rodeo. It’s a movement.
Over the course of the week, the WRWC made good on its promise to elevate women’s rodeo, closing out the championship round in front of a roaring crowd and crossing a historic milestone: “Over $5.3 million awarded since the event’s inception in 2020,” making this the richest women’s-only rodeo in the world. That’s not just impressive — that’s revolutionary.
From the publisher’s seat, I watched raw grit and polished skill collide under the stadium lights. This wasn’t just competition — it was legacy in the making.
In Breakaway Roping, Josie Conner of Iowa, Louisiana, threw down a lightning-fast 1.81-second run to clinch the championship and a cool $60,000. Her total haul? $69,000. That’s a payday and a performance to remember. Close behind her was Cheyanne McCartney (Kingston, OK) at
1.82 seconds, earning $25,000 and finishing with $28,250. Utah’s own Quealy Probst rounded out the top three with a 2.22 and took home $15,000 in the final go.
Team Roping was nothing short of bada$$, The duo of Ashtyn Pratz (La Mesa, NM) and Tamara Lewis (Queen Creek, AZ) roped their way to the top with a 6.78-second run and a $60,000 win. That brings their WRWC earnings to $64,250. Jessy Remsburg and Beverly Robbins — Alabama cowgirls who are no strangers to this championship round — earned $25,000 each with a 7.43-second run, marking their third championship-round appearance at AT&T Stadium. Texas team Cassidy Boggs and Rylie Smith secured third, clocking in at 15.44 seconds and taking home $15,000 apiece in the round.
I can say firsthand that this event didn’t just hand out checks — it handed out hope, inspiration, and a powerful message: “Women’s Rodeo is here to stay, and it’s only getting better baby!”
It’s a rare honor to cover an event where every ride, every run, and every handshake feels like a footnote in history. The WRWC isn’t just making noise — it’s setting the standard. And we at Ropers Sports News are proud to be there to document every second of it.
To all the cowgirls who showed up and showed out — your stories are the ones we live to tell. And make note, this isn’t just a blog post that will get lost in internet-never-never land, this is stamped in history, and solidified in print for all the generations to come to remember. Stay tuned to Ropers Sports News — where the legacy of the West is treasured and isn’t going anywhere.
W25 WORLD POINTS
FINALS RESULTS:
BREAKAWAY ROPING – Pro Leaderboard (Final): Katelyn Perkins of Morristown, AZ topped the standings with 16,749.50 points and $3,000.00. Beverly Robbins from Tuscumbia, AL followed with 11,491.00 points and $6,500.00. Markie Battaglia of Ramona, CA took third with 9,349.50 points and $4,750.00. Other notable ropers included Cassidy Boggs from Stephenville, TX with 7,640.25 points ($5,000.00), Jackie Crawford of Stephenville, TX at 7,038.25 ($1,000.00), and Lari Dee Guy of Abilene, TX with 6,990.25 points ($3,250.00).
BREAKAWAY ROPING – CHL Leaderboard (Final):
Ashtyn Pratz from La Mesa, NM led the CHL division with 9,267.50 points and $4,250.00. Kelsey Pepion from Cut Bank, MT scored 8,854.50 points and $4,500.00. Remi Wells of Central City, NE followed with 6,893.00, and Kashlyn McIntyre from Wickenburg, AZ earned 6,636.50 points with a $4,250.00 payout.
BREAKAWAY ROPING – Limited Leaderboard (Final):
Charmaine Holdren of Weatherford, TX won the limited category with 1,606.25 points and $1,381.20. Amy Ohrt from Victoria, TX followed with 1,522.00 points ($310.77). Drew Ellen Stewart of Normangee, TX claimed third with 1,208.50 points and $1,035.90.
BARREL RACING – Pro Leaderboard (Final):
Makenize Mayes from Scroggins, TX took the top spot with 14,880.00 points and $3,500.00. Jordan Driver of Garden City, TX was close behind with 13,794.75 points. Taycie Matthews from Wynne, AR earned 10,075.00 points and $10,000.00. Bella Skinner, Ryann Pedone, and Julie Plourde also ranked among the top six.
BARREL RACING – CHL Leaderboard (Final):Kelsey Howard from Sallisaw, OK led with 9,200.00 points
and $7,250.00. Brandie Inman of Nowata, OK followed with 8,842.25 and $2,750.00. Kathleen Menard from Ocala, FL placed third with 7,979.00 points and $3,500.00.
TEAM ROPING HEADERS – Pro Leaderboard (Final): Jimmi Jo Montera from Greeley, CO led the headers with 22,732.25 points. Rylie Smith of Whitsett, TX followed with 11,367.00 points and $5,000.00. Jessy Remsburg from Muscle Shoals, AL ranked third with 9,834.50 points and $6,500.00. Others included Lorraine Moreno, Kaitlyn Torres, and Whitney DeSalvo.
TEAM ROPING HEADERS – CHL Leaderboard (Final): Shanna Perkins of Geneva, ID claimed the lead with 9,087.75 points. Heather Rogers of Round Rock, AZ followed with 8,752.00 and $4,500.00. Tamara Mann from Sheridan, WY held third with 7,889.75 points.
TEAM ROPING HEELERS – Pro Leaderboard (Final):Tori Brower of Stephenville, TX topped the heelers with 9,174.66 points and $3,520.00. Kristin Reaves from Bullard, TX earned 7,887.00 ($3,065.00), and Jacee Graff of St. George, UT had 7,559.49 ($1,695.00).
GOAT TYING – Final Leaderboard: Blakely Boardman of Alice, TX took first with 6,846.00 points, followed by Emmry Edwards of McCammon, ID with 6,600.00. Kinsey Walz of Ainsworth, NE earned 4,893.25 points, and Carlee Hays of Queen Creek, AZ had 4,288.25.
WORLD ALL-AROUND CHAMPION STANDINGS (Final): Makenize Mayes led the standings with 14,880.00 points and $3,500.00. Jordan Driver followed with 13,794.75 ($500.00), and Bella Skinner finished third with 11,729.25.
TEXAS RATTLERS STANDINGS (Final): Kelsey Howard led the Rattlers with 9,200.00 points and $7,250.00. Brandie Inman came in second with 8,842.25 ($2,750.00), and Kathleen Menard ranked third with 7,979.00 (\$3,500.00).
ALL-AROUND WORLD LEADERBOARD – Martha Angelone of Stephenville, TX ranked first with 38,057.68 points and $1,000.00. Jimmi Jo Montera from Greeley, CO held second with 26,642.75 points ($500.00), and Katelyn Perkins of Morristown, AZ stood third with 25,392.25 and $5,250.00.
WSTR QUALIFIER PORTERVILLE
Also taking place earlier in the month, the WSTR Qualifier in Porterville on March 15, 2025, drew top-notch ropers and recognized high-point winners. Nick Smith took home the High Money Saddle, while fuel card winners were Paul Mullins in the #11.5, Karen Dias in the #10.5, Ashley Hagens in the #9.5, Laramie Collins in the #8.5, and Rick Rader in the #7.5. Thanks went out to Hyder Hay Service for donating the saddle and Valley Pacific for providing five 30-gallon fuel cards.
In the #11.5 WS Qualifier, Dustie Christensen and Paul Mullins won the average with a time of 36.41 and $4,020. Chris Perry and Charlie Hagens came in second with a 38.59, taking $3,020. Third went to Kylie Brown Carter and Camren Boyce with 40.98 for $2,010, followed by C.R. Scott and Chris James in fourth at 43.29 to earn $1,000. Chris Perry and Charlie Hagens also won the Fast Time Short Go with a 7.36, good for $300.
The #10.5 WS Qualifier saw Karen and Kevin Dias win it with a time of 40.43, bringing home
$4,740. Dustie Christensen and David Daniel were second at 41.41, earning $3,380. Karen Dias roped her way into third again with Dominic Patino at 43.68 for $2,570. David Johnston and Nick Smith secured fourth with a 44.4 for $1,900, while Ashley Hagens and Matt Schieltz placed fifth at 44.68 to win $950. Ron and Eric Ratliff won the Fast Time Short Go with a 9.92 for $300.
In the #9.5 WS Qualifier, Ashley Hagens and Shannon Riggs led the average at 38.86 for $6,920. Travis Browne and Charlie Hagens came in second with 40.49, earning $4,820. Joel R. Preston and Matt Schieltz placed third at 41.79 for $3,560, followed by Tyson Porter and Kevin Dias at 44.31 to win $2,510. Sean McRoberts partnered with Wade Garrison to place fifth at 45.94 for $1,890 and returned with Kevin Pascoe for sixth at 51.94 to win $1,260. Ryan and Julie Pascoe took the Fast Time Short Go with a 14.79, earning $300.
In the #8.5 WS Qualifier, Jim Sill and Laramie Clement Collins came out on top with a 46.29 to win $6,730. Ron Ratliff and Nick Smith followed closely with 48.2 for $4,690. Mitch Brown and Turner Houston took third at 51.74, bringing in $3,470. Dalton Walker III and Manuel Enriquez won fourth with a 28.88 for $2,450, while Tres Porter and Donald Ornellas clocked in at 37.54 for fifth and $1,840. Rounding out the top six were HP Evetts and Steve OBar with a 38.03 for $1,220. Mitch Brown and Turner Houston won the Fast Time Short Go with an 11.98 for $300.
In the #7.5 WS Qualifier, Walt Scott and Rick Rader won first place with a time of 33.23, earning $4,340. Jesus Oseguera and Ricardo Caballero took second with a 36.45 for $3,250. Third went to Tres Porter and Gary Holcomb at 41.28 for $2,170. Jenifer Finch and Nick Smith placed fourth at 47.56, winning $1,080. Finch and Smith also took the Fast Time Short Go title with a 10.22 run for $300.
#7.5 Walt Scott_Rick Rader
#10.5 Kareb Dias and Kevin Dias
World Series of Team Roping
STAMPEDE MARCH 29, 2025
In the #11.5 WS Qualifier, Josh Scheiber and Ted Williams roped their way to first place in the average with a time of 38.68 seconds, winning $3,780. Wyatt L. Adams and Dean Sherbo secured second with a 40.94 on four, taking home $2,850. JT Bradley and Warren Enz placed third with 41.43 seconds, earning $1,900, followed by Denton Williams and Nick Nalder in fourth at 41.91 seconds for $950. In the Fast Time Short Go, Wyatt L. Adams and Justin Vigil posted a 6.64 to win $300.
In the #10.5 WS Qualifier, Jared Ross and Brandt Ross dominated with a time of 31.22 to claim the top spot and $5,130. Cody Dorris and Warren Enz were second with a 33.64, worth $3,670. JT Bradley and Warren Enz followed closely with 34.26 for third, taking $2,790. Fourth went to Ben L. McGuire and Adrian Macias with a 35.93 and $2,050. Evelene Ricci and Tom Howell rounded out the top five with a 38.56 and $1,020. Jake Pickering and Jeff Sparrowk won the Fast Time Short Go with a 7.96 for $300.
In the #9.5 WS Qualifier, Jake Pickering and Derek Iverson topped the average at 33.84 seconds, collecting $6,960. Ethan Asbury and Adrian Macias followed closely with a 34.06 to earn $4,850. Josh Scheiber
and Warren Enz came in third with a time of 42.62 for $3,580. Jared and Brandt Ross earned fourth at 42.86 for $2,530, and Justin Weber and Cody Alvernaz took fifth with a 43.63 for $1,900. Walt Niesen and Jeff Jones came in sixth at 45.14, winning $1,260. The Fast Time Short Go win went to Walt Niesen and Warren Enz with a 7.63-second run, worth $300.
In the #8.5 WS Qualifier, Dan Owen and Derek Iverson led the field with a 44.07-second run to win $8,390. Dan Owen came back again in second place, this time with JT Stinson, with a 46.77 to earn $5,850. Third went to Evelene Ricci and Johnny Miller with a 55.57 for $4,320. Allen Hagens and Stew Lowry followed with 69 seconds for $3,050. Kelley Pile and Trevor Sherbo turned in a 26.3 for fifth and $2,290,
and Ken Dewitt and Ed Archuleta clocked a 35.97 for sixth and $1,530. Dan Owen and JT Stinson also took home the Fast Time Short Go with a 10.72-second run, winning $1,000.
In the #7.5 WS Qualifier, Kristina Cochrane and Bill Hammett took first with a time of 28.29 and earned $5,760. Evelene Ricci and Johnny Miller came in second with 34.69 for $4,120, followed by Walt Niesen and Lorilee D. Niesen in third with 34.92 and $3,130. Jerry Corriea and Bobby Thomson took fourth with a 37.85 to win $2,300. Rounding out the top five were Jack Sparrowk and Pat Kirby with a 42.64 to take home $1,150. Allen Hagens and Danny Rice took the Fast Time Short Go with a 13.65, good for $300.
#7.5 Kristina Cochran and Bill Hammett
#8.5 Dan Owen and Derek Iverson
Put a Lid on It
Put a Lid on It
The Sweet, Sassy Joy of Canning Your Own Food
Bambi Potter
There’s something magical about hearing a canning jar pop. It’s the sound of summer sealed in glass. It’s the song of self-sufficiency. It’s also the sound that makes you yell from the kitchen, “That one sealed! We got a good one!” like you just won a blue ribbon at the county fair—because, honey, you did (even if it’s just in your own heart).
Canning isn’t just about making food last longer. It’s about slowing down. It’s about remembering. And it’s about reclaiming a bit of control in a world that feels increasingly, well… processed.
Let’s be honest—our great-grandmas weren’t driving to Trader Joe’s for tiny jars of overpriced jam. They were barefoot in their gardens (or, okay, maybe wearing practical shoes), picking berries in the early morning sun, and boiling them down with just enough sugar to make the whole house smell like home. They weren’t chasing trends—they were the trendsetters. And here we are, all these years later, circling back to their wisdom like it's something new. That’s the boho circle of life, baby.
But seriously—there’s something wildly empowering about taking raw, sun-warmed tomatoes and transforming them into jars of sauce or salsa that’ll knock your Lucchese boots off in the dead of winter. You get to know what’s
Bambi Porter, aka the Gypsy Cowgirl, stirs up magic in mason jars— teaching the art of canning, scratch cooking, and soulful self-reliance with a wink and a wild heart.
going into your food. No weird dyes. No secret preservatives with names that sound like they belong in a sci-fi movie. Just honest-to-goodness ingredients, prepped by your own two hands. With maybe a splash of wine on the side (for the cook, not the sauce—unless you’re feeling fancy).
Canning is also the ultimate slow rebellion. In a world screaming for instant gratification, fast food, and next-day shipping, you’re choosing to do something that takes time, intention, and a little elbow grease. And trust me—your future self will thank you when you’re cracking open a jar of golden peach butter in February, thinking, “Dang, I did this. I made this.”
It’s not all sunshine and pickles, of course. There are moments of doubt. Sticky counters. That one batch of strawberry jam that didn’t set quite right and ended up more like “strawberry surprise.” (The surprise was that it made a great cocktail mixer.) But that’s part of the charm. You get to laugh at your flops, high-five your wins, and learn something with every batch.
And the gear. Ohhh, the gear. Who knew water bath canners and jar lifters could spark so much joy? A vintage funnel here, a rustic basket of new lids there—it’s functional, but also a vibe. Your pantry starts looking like a still life painting: jeweltoned jars lined up like little soldiers of sustenance.
Even more than the food, it’s the feeling that gets you hooked. The feeling of being connected—to the earth, to your family, to the generations before you who stirred their pots with purpose. The feeling of being capable. Like, “Yes, I may not understand how taxes work or where my left sock went, but I can sure as heck preserve this garden bounty.”
It doesn’t matter if you live on a farm, in a cozy little bungalow, or in a home in the middle of town, if you’ve got a stove, some jars, and a willingness to learn, you can be a canner. There’s no one way to do it, no perfection required. Just a little curiosity, a sprinkle of bravery, and maybe a playlist that includes some Merle Haggard, Johnny Cash and Patsy Cline.
So if your heart’s been whispering, I want to try this, consider this your sign. Tie on an apron, roll up your sleeves, and put a lid on it—literally. The world may be wild, but your pantry can be a place of peace, color, and sweet, tangy order.
Start small. Laugh often. And always, always label your jars. Because zucchini relish and pear butter look suspiciously similar in the dark.
Low-Sugar Strawberry Jam
This low-sugar strawberry jam has all the fresh fruit flavor but with less sugar. You can also use a sugar substitute for no-sugar jam.
Prep Time: 30 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Yield: 2 half-pint jars
INGREDIENTS
1 ⅓ cups crushed strawberries (wash, hull, then crush one layer at a time using potato masher)
⅓ cup unsweetened fruit juice, thawed fruit juice concentrate, or water
1 ½ tablespoons Ball RealFruit Low or No-Sugar Needed Pectin
½ cup granulated sugar, sugar substitute, or honey (or less, depending on taste)
2 Ball half-pint (8 oz) jars with lids and bands
DIRECTIONS
1. Prepare waterbath canner, jars and lids according to manufacturers instructions, if preserving. Prepare and measure ingredients for recipe.
2. Combine prepared fruit with fruit juice in a large saucepan. Gradually stir in Ball RealFruit Low or No-Sugar Needed Pectin. Bring mixture to a full rolling boil.
3. Add sugar, sugar substitute, or honey, if using. Return mixture to a full rolling boil. Boil hard 1 minute, stirring constantly. Remove from heat. Skim foam if necessary.
4. Ladle hot jam into hot jars, one at a time, leaving 1/4 inch headspace. Wipe rims. Center lids on jars. Apply bands and adjust to fingertip tight.
5. Place filled jars in canner ensuring jars are covered by 1 to 2 inches of water. Place lid on canner. Bring water to gentle, steady boil.
6. Process jars for 10 minutes, adjusting for altitude. Turn off heat, remove lid and let jars stand for 5 minutes.
7. Remove jars and cool. Check lids for seal after 24 hours. Lid should not flex up and down when center is pressed. Clean and store according to manufacturers instructions.
Notes: You may want to add 1 tsp. orange zest. It will add a fun zip of flavor. You can make up to 5x the recipe.
By Dee Yates
The western sky dimmed a little last week as we said goodbye to a true legend of the rodeo world. Mike Cervi, ProRodeo Hall of Famer and 2022 Legend of ProRodeo, crossed over to his final arena on Wednesday, March 19, at the age of 88, leaving behind a legacy as vast as the Colorado plains he called home.
Mike's remarkable journey began in the 1950s on a ranch near Sterling, Colorado. What started as the work of a young foreman blossomed into one of the most influential careers in rodeo history. Those who knew Mike will tell you he didn't believe in luck – not the kind you need for shooting dice, anyway. He believed in intention, purpose, and calculated risks that often paid off in ways that transformed the sport we love.
By 1964, Mike's business acumen was already legendary. His purchase of cattle from Oregon was reported as the largest livestock sale in Colorado history at that time. But it was his 1974 acquisition of the Billy Minick Rodeo Company – renamed Cervi Championship Rodeo – that cemented his place as a rodeo visionary.
As anyone who's ever been behind the chutes at RodeoHouston, Denver's National Western Stock Show, or the San Antonio Stock Show & Rodeo can attest, Mike's influence stretched far beyond simply providing stock. He shaped how modern rodeos are produced, earning PRCA Stock Contractor of the Year honors in both 1983 and 2001.
The bloodlines of champions run deep at the Cervi Ranch. Descent, Mike's legendary horse from the
1960s, earned Bucking Horse of the Year honors six times and found a place in the ProRodeo Hall of Fame. More recently, Womanizer carried on the tradition of excellence, earning the 2020 PRCA Saddle Bronc Horse of the Year award.
For 21 years, Mike served on the PRCA Board of Directors, helping guide the organization through decades of growth and change. His dedication to the sport earned him the Ben Johnson Memorial Award in 2015 and culminated in his 2022 recognition as the 17th Legend of ProRodeo.
Just days before his passing, on March 17, 2024, Mike received one final honor – induction into the inaugural class of the RodeoHouston Hall of Fame. It was a fitting tribute to a man who had helped build that event into a cornerstone of the rodeo world over more than half a century.
Mike's sons, Binion and Chase, took the reins of Cervi Championship Rodeo more than two decades ago. Binion now serves as Executive Director, while Chase – a two-time NFR Pickup Man of the Year – ensures the health and safety of the stock that carries on their father's legacy.
"Mike loved the Western world and did it his way on his own," Binion shared in a text that perfectly captures his father's independent spirit.
Life wasn't always easy for the Cervi family. In 2001, Mike faced the devastating loss of his eldest son, Mike Jr., who was married to World Champion Barrel Racer Sherry Cervi. But through it all, Mike maintained his characteristic determination and faith.
When asked about his greatest accomplishments, Mike wouldn't point to his many accolades or business successes. Instead, he would speak of his sons and their families, beaming with pride that shone from deep within. The cattle industry may have been his passion, but rodeo and family were his heart and soul.
In his final moments, Mike was surrounded by his beloved sons, leaving this world as purposefully as he lived in it. While our community feels the vast emptiness of his absence – at the ranch, the feedlot, the back of the chutes, and countless other places – we find comfort in knowing he's exactly where he prayed to be.
Mike is survived by his sons, Binion Cervi (wife Hannah) and Chase Cervi (wife Carley); his sister, Carla Cervi, and his cherished granddaughters, Reagan (6), Reese (3), and Clay (3 months).
As we ride on without one of our greatest champions, we carry the torch Mike lit so brightly for so long. His legacy lives not just in record books and hall of fame plaques, but in the very spirit of rodeo itself – in the risks taken, the dreams pursued, and the unwavering dedication to a way of life that defines us all.
In the arena of life, Mike Cervi competed with heart, determination, and unmatched skill. Now, as the final buzzer sounds, we tip our hats to a true legend who forever changed the landscape of the sport we love.
Roy Cooper, widely known as the "Super Looper" and considered one of rodeo's most revolutionary figures, died in a house fire at his Decatur, Texas home on April 24, 2025. He was 69. The fire was reported at 7:08 p.m. in the 600 block of County Road 3051. The large, one-story home was engulfed in flames as Wise County EMS and Decatur Fire Department crews arrived on scene. Several other fire departments responded to provide mutual aid to prevent the fire from spreading to nearby structures. The circumstances were traumatic for family members who were home at the time of the incident.
Cooper, born November 13, 1955, in Hobbs, New Mexico, dominated the professional rodeo circuit for decades, accumulating eight gold buckles— six in calf roping (1976, 1980-84), one in steer roping, and a world all-around championship in 1983. He won the National Finals Rodeo average in calf roping four times (1976, '79, '83, '95) and claimed four National Finals Steer Roping averages (1984, '85, '93, '96).
Membership in the Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association (PRCA) came in 1976, where as a rookie he competed in the first of 18 National Finals calf roping events and ended the year with 1st in the NFR average as well as a World Champion title. A severed wrist in 1979 only delayed his competition, and he went on to win the NFR average. World Champion Calf Roping titles were also awarded in 1980, 1981, 1982, 1983, and 1984. In 1977 and 1978, Roy was the year-end champion roper, but the title of World Champion was awarded to the winner of the NFR only. Qualifications for the NFR in calf roping also came in 1985, 1986, 1987, 1989, 1991, 1992, 1993, 1995, and 1996.
In 1983, Roy won the World Champion Steer Roper title, the calf roping title, and the PRCA All-Around title. This Triple Crown marked the first time in 25 years any cowboy had won three gold buckles in a single season, matching Jim Shoulders' 1958 achievement. Trevor Brazile, Cooper's son-inlaw, would be the next to accomplish this feat 24 years later.
By Dee Yates
Roy competed 13 times in the steer roping Finals; in 1980, 1981, 1983, 1984, 1985, 1986, 1987, 1988, 1990, 1992, 1993, 1996, and 1997. With H.P. Evetts as his header, they competed at the PRCA National Finals in 1981 at the Myriad Arena in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. The number of times Cooper qualified for the NFR and National Finals Steer Roping is staggering: tie-down roping – 19 (1976-87, 1989, 1991-93, 1995-96); steer roping –13 (1980-81, 1983-88; 1990; 1992-93; 1996-97) and team roping as a header for H.P. Evetts (1981).
Cooper transformed calf roping through technical innovation and athletic prowess. "Every once in a while, a guy will come along and change things. Roy changed things. He revolutionized our event," noted roping legend Dean Oliver. Joe Beaver described Cooper's impact more colorfully: "When Roy cracked out, he was like a shark in a sea full of catfish."
The financial milestones in Cooper's career were equally impressive. He became rodeo's second million-dollar cowboy in 1987, surpassed Tom Ferguson as all-time career earnings leader in 1988, and in 2000 became the first cowboy to exceed $2 million in career earnings.
His competitive record included victories at virtually every major rodeo: Houston, San Antonio, Cheyenne, Calgary, Reno, Salinas, Pendleton, Ellensburg, Dodge City, Greeley, Guymon, Nampa, Cody, North Platte, and Prescott, among countless others.
Beyond competition, Cooper was known for his generosity toward younger competitors and his dedication to family. In 2010, he witnessed all three of his sons—Clint, Clif and Tuf—rope at the NFR together, becoming the first trio of brothers to achieve this distinction.
In a heartfelt tribute, his son Clif Cooper shared: "If it's one thing I know Dad loved God, and his entry fee are paid. He's probably got a pen of freshies penned up already in heaven. I love you Dad- I truly Thank you from the bottom of my heart, Clif Cooper."
At the time of his death, Cooper was preparing to receive the Ty Murray Top Hand Award at the PBR's Heroes & Legends event scheduled for July 10 at the National Cowboy Hall of Fame in Oklahoma City. Cooper once summarized his life philosophy simply: "I love to rope. And I love people. Roping and my family are my whole life."
ROPERS SPORTS NEWS CALENDAR OF EVENTS
For more details on events please see ads and calendar online at: roperssportsnews.com/events
See the launch of our new interactive CALENDAR! | With more features and tools on the go |
Note: We are working every month to make the Calendar better and better so please continue to send us your feedback and your events to calendars@roperssportsnews.com. Thank you for all your patience and consideration, Dee
JUNE
June 2 Team Roping Practice at Brewer’s Arena, Los Molinos, CA (pg. 49)
June 3 Gilroy Rodeo Grounds, Gilroy, CA (pg. 3)
June 4 Team Roping Jackpots at Brewer’s Arena, Los Molinos, CA (pg. 49)
June 4 R-W Productions at R-W Arena, Hollister, CA (pg. 48)
June 5 Bar J Arena, Yreka, CA (pg. 48)
June 5 JPK Arena, Agua Dulce, CA (pg. 48)
June 6 Circle Arena, Tulare, CA (pg. 48)
June 6 Carson Valley Roping Days at Douglas County Fairgrounds, Gardnerville, NV (pg. 48)
June 7 Red Bluff Round-Up, Red Bluff, CA (pg. 28)
June 7 Owen Ranch, Middletown, CA (pg. 49)
June 8 Brentwood Ranch, Brentwood, CA (pg. 48)
June 9 Team Roping Practice at Brewer’s Arena, Los Molinos, CA (pg. 49)
June 11 Team Roping Jackpots at Brewer’s Arena, Los Molinos, CA (pg. 49)
June 11 R-W Productions at R-W Arena, Hollister, CA (pg. 48)
June 12 Bar J Arena, Yreka, CA (pg. 48)
June 12 RCR Arena, Paso Robles, CA (pg. 48)
June 13-15 Carson Valley Roping Days, Gardnerville, NV (pg. 48)
June 13 Circle Arena, Tulare, CA (pg. 48)
June 14 Carson Valley Roping Days, Gardnerville, NV (pg. 48)
June 15 Carson Valley Roping Days, Gardnerville, NV (pg. 48)
June 15 Brentwood Ranch, Brentwood, CA (pg. 48)
June 16 Team Roping Practice at Brewer’s Arena, Los Molinos, CA (pg. 49)
June 18 Team Roping Jackpots at Brewer’s Arena, Los Molinos, CA (pg. 49)
June 18 R-W Productions at R-W Arena, Hollister, CA (pg. 48)
June 19 Bar J Arena, Yreka, CA (pg. 48)
June 19 RCR Arena, Paso Robles, CA (pg. 48)
June 20 Circle Arena, Tulare, CA (pg. 48)
June 20 Gilroy Rodeo Grounds, Gilroy, CA (pg. 3)
June 23 Team Roping Practice at Brewer’s Arena, Los Molinos, CA (pg. 49)
June 25 Team Roping Jackpots at Brewer’s Arena, Los Molinos, CA (pg. 49)
June 25 R-W Productions at R-W Arena, Hollister, CA (pg. 48)
June 26 RCR Arena, Paso Robles, CA (pg. 48)
June 27 Bar J Arena, Yreka, CA (pg. 48)
June 27 Circle Arena, Tulare, CA (pg. 48)
June 27 - Sheriff Posse, Browns Valley, CA (pg. 49)
June 28 RCR Arena, Paso Robles, CA (pg. 48)
June 30 Team Roping Practice at Brewer’s Arena, Los Molinos, CA (pg. 49)
July
July 2 Team Roping Jackpots at Brewer’s Arena, Los Molinos, CA (pg. 49)
July 2 R-W Productions at R-W Arena, Hollister, CA (pg. 48)
July 3 RCR Arena, Paso Robles, CA (pg. 48)
July 4-6 Independence Day Ropings (pg. 30)
July 5 JPK Arena, Agua Dulce, CA (pg. 48)
July 7 Team Roping Practice at Brewer’s Arena, Los Molinos, CA (pg. 49)
July 9 Team Roping Jackpots at Brewer’s Arena, Los Molinos, CA (pg. 49)
July 9 R-W Productions at R-W Arena, Hollister, CA (pg. 48)
July 10 Bar J Arena, Yreka, CA (pg. 48)
July 10 RCR Arena, Paso Robles, CA (pg. 48)
July 11 Circle Arena, Tulare, CA (pg. 48)
July 12 Brewer’s Arena, Los Molinos, CA (pg. 49)
July 12 RCR Arena, Paso Robles, CA (pg. 48)
July 16 Team Roping Jackpots at Brewer’s Arena, Los Molinos, CA (pg. 49)
July 16 R-W Productions at R-W Arena, Hollister, CA (pg. 48)
July 16 Gilroy Rodeo Grounds, Gilroy, CA (pg. 3)
July 17 Bar J Arena, Yreka, CA (pg. 48)
July 18 Circle Arena, Tulare, CA (pg. 48)
July 18 Stan Ceresola Memorial Roping, Fernley, NV (pg. 28)
July 18 Fairgrounds Arena, Willits, CA (pg. 49)
July 23 Team Roping Jackpots at Brewer’s Arena, Los Molinos, CA (pg. 49)
July 23 R-W Productions at R-W Arena, Hollister, CA (pg. 48)
Los Molinos, CA – Brewer’s Arena Team Roping Practice
Monday Nights 7:00–9:00
JUNE 2, 9, 16, 23, 30
JULY 7, 21, 28... 3 FOR $25
Team Roping Jackpots
Wednesday Nights S.U. 6:45 Rope 7:00
JUNE 4, 11, 18, 25
JULY 2, 9, 16, 23, 30
#5 Roping #7 HDCP Draw... 3 for $15
Some Like It Hot #3 & under Summer
Saddle Series Starts Wed, June 18
Middletown, CA – Owen Ranch
SATURDAY NIGHT
JUNE 7, JULY 26
S.U. 6:30 Rope 7:00
#5 Roping, #6 Roping, #7 HDCP Draw...3 for $25
Buckle to High Money #3 & under Roper
Browns Valley, CA – Sheriff Posse FRIDAY NIGHT – JUNE 27, JULY 25
S.U. 6:30 Rope 7:00
#5 Roping #6 Roping #7 HDCP Draw...3 for $25
Breast Collar to High Money #2 & Under
WILLITS, CA – FAIRGROUNDS ARENA FRIDAY NIGHTS – JULY 18, AUGUST 15, SEPTEMBER 19
#5 Roping #6 Roping #7 HDCP Draw...3 for $25
S.U. 6:30 Rope 7:00
Buckle Series #2 & under #3 & over Must Rope 2 of 3 Ropings
Los Molinos, CA – Brewer’s Arena SATURDAY NIGHT – JULY 12
S.U. 6:45 Rope 7:00
#4 Roping, #6 Roping, #7 HDCP Draw...3 for $25
Annual Bob Morgan Memorial Buckle to High #2 & under
Corriente Saddle Co Skyline SilverSmithS
