DECEMBER 2023
Elevating rodeo photography to aN art form www.imagehounds.com
In the Arena 06 EMMA CAMERON — Crowned 2024 Miss Rodeo America 12 STETSON WRIGHT — Cowboy Secures fifth consecutive PRCA all-around world championship
16 KEENAN HAYES — Rookie bareback rider makes PRCA history with his world championship
20 TYLER WAGUESPACK — Steer wrestler Tyler Waguespack’s Round 10 magic results in world title No. 5
CLICK TEXT TO VISIT LINKS
24 ZEKE THURSTON — Saddle bronc rider wins world championship No. 4
28 TYLER WADE & WESLEY THORP — Team ropers Wade & Thorp win header, heeler titles
32 RILEY WEBB — Rookie Tie-down roper claims his first world title 38 BRITTANY POZZI TONOZZI — Cowgirl solidified her status as a
rodeo legend at the 2023 Wrangler National Finals Rodeo in Las Vegas, securing her third world championship.
44 KY HAMILTON — Aussie bull rider clinches first career PRCA Bull Riding World Championship
50 SHELBY BOISJOLI-MEGED — Wins 2023 WPRA Breakaway
COVER SHOT 2023 NFR Bull Riding Round 07 Ky Hamilton Photo: Imagehounds™
CREATIVE DIRECTOR
KEVIN CARMONA thearenapress@gmail.com SALES DIRECTOR
KEN CARMONA
thearenapress.ken@gmail.com EDITORIAL WRITER
HANNAH CRANDALL
thearenapressHannah@gmail.com
World Championship
53 STUDENT SPURS — Our new column foused on the best in collegiate rodeo
FEATURE STORY 56 ROSEANNA SALES — PRCA photographer of the year 2017, and an official photographer of this NFR 2023
THANK YOU TO THE CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS OF THE PRCA in this issue
Christopher Thompson Roseanna Sales Clay Guardipee Hailey Rea Jackie Jensen and Imagehounds™
RODEO IS THE WORD
Letter from the ARENA
Reflecting on a Remarkable Year As we bid farewell to another exhilarating year of rodeo, our deepest thanks go to our incredible sponsors. Your unwavering support has been the cornerstone of our journey throughout 2023. In a world where the cherished rural lifestyle faces challenges, your generosity has been a vital source of strength. Your commitment to promoting and preserving the essence of rodeo has not only built a platform for brands but has also enabled us to contribute significantly to the sport’s vitality. Appreciation goes to Happy Animals LLC, Kelly Slover - Custom Silver Trophy, Three Palominos, and Performance Stall Mats for their role in our growth. Their partnership has driven our ability to provide quality content that resonates with our audience. Special thanks to our friends at the PBR for their collaborative spirit, allowing us to cover events and providing valuable footage. The positive feedback we’ve received about our work has fueled our excitement for the upcoming year. For those who share our passion and believe in the power of storytelling, join us in supporting the promotion of this great American sport. It’s not just about advertising; it’s about being part of a movement to keep rodeo alive. Get into the Arena and get into the action. For advertising and sponsorship opportunities, contact us at thearenapress.ken@gmail.com. At The Arena Press, we extend our sincere appreciation to our sponsors for their unwavering belief in our mission. Together, we’ve achieved significant milestones, and we eagerly anticipate continuing this journey in 2024. Here’s to an exciting year filled with adventures, shared successes, and the enduring spirit of rodeo. Thank you for your generosity and support. Warm regards, The Arena Press
HELP SPREAD THE WORD
Photo: IMAGEHOUNDS™
2024 MISS RODEO AMERICA
EMMA CAMERON
LAS VEGAS, NEVADA — EMMA CAMERON OF NEW MEXICO CROWNED 2024 MISS RODEO AMERICA Las Vegas, Nevada — Emma was crowned as Miss Rodeo America 2024 on Sunday, December 10th at the South Point Hotel and Casino.
The 24 year-old from Santa Fe represented her home state at the Miss Rodeo America Pageant as the 2023 Miss Rodeo New Mexico, becoming the 3rd from her state to hold the coveted national title.
After graduating with honors from Cornell University, Emma worked as a commodity risk management analyst in Kansas City before moving back to the Southwest where she worked as a diagnostic technical specialist in the animal health industry. In her spare time, she enjoys rodeoing, showing ranch riding and reined cow horses, weightlifting, and working with 4-H and youth rodeo organizations. In the future, she plans to attend law school and pursue a career representing producers to ensure sustainability of the agriculture industry. Outside of the rodeo and agricultural arenas, foster children and children who face less fortunate circumstances as they try to learn who they are in the world have always held a special place in her heart. The Landstrom’s Black Hills Gold crown is accompanied by more than $20,000 in educational scholarships and prizes including a wardrobe of Wrangler jeans and shirts, an assortment of Montana Silversmiths jewelry, and a selection of Justin Boots and Greeley Hat Works hats.
MISS RODEO AMERICA 2024 — EMMA CAMERON CONTINUED
In addition to the title, Emma earned the Written Test, Personality and Horsemanship Awards. This year, thirty-one contestants represented their states in the weeklong national pageant consisting of a horsemanship competition, a written test on equine science and rodeo knowledge, extensive interviews, extemporaneous speaking, and a fashion show. The top five contestants – from Oklahoma, Texas, Mississippi, New Mexico, and Washington – each answered a question about what Miss Rodeo America represents and how she would relate that to someone who was not familiar with the organization.
During her reign as the official representative of the Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association, Emma will travel around 50,000 miles and appear at nearly 100 rodeo performances, as well as make appearances at schools, civic groups and other special events in order to educate the public and create awareness about the sport of rodeo, its sponsors, and its opportunities. Emma will also serve as a spokesperson at a variety of promotional events and model in commercial advertisements for western clothiers, publications, sponsors and other service providers to the western industry. As Miss Rodeo America 2024, Emma began her duties by attending press conferences immediately following her coronation and spent the remainder of the Wrangler National Finals Rodeo presented by Teton Ridge attending appearances with Miss Rodeo America 2023, Kennadee Riggs of Arizona. She was introduced for the first time in the Thomas & Mack Center during the third performance of the WNFR on Sunday, December 10th.
Photo: IMAGEHOUNDS™
Miss Rodeo America 2024: Emma Cameron
FIRST RUNNER-UP: Miss Rodeo Texas Brylee Johnson
SECOND RUNNER-UP: Miss Rodeo Oklahoma Allie Mae Baker
THIRD RUNNER-UP: Miss Rodeo Mississippi Jacqueline Ervin
OTHER TOP TEN CONTESTANTS:
APPEARANCE: Miss Rodeo Texas Brylee Johnson
WRITTEN TEST: DESIREE LARSON Miss Rodeo New Mexico MEMORIAL Emma Cameron ACHIEVEMENT AWARD (GIVEN TO ARLENE KENSINGER HIGH SELLER FOR MEMORIAL MRA SCHOLARSHIP CONGENIALITY FOUNDATION AWARD: DRAWING): Miss Rodeo Iowa Miss Rodeo Washington Micah Barnes Bailey Nachtigal OTHER AWARDS WRANGLER MARDEE SWANSON DECORATED DRESS LEGACY AWARD AWARD Judy Wagner - CMO of Miss Rodeo Washington Montana Silversmith Bailey Nachtigal
Miss Rodeo Nebraska Rebel Sjeklocha Miss Rodeo Arkansas Abigail Benz
Miss Rodeo Minnesota Kendra Klosterman Miss Rodeo Michigan Khalilah Smith
Miss Rodeo California McKensey Middleton
PERSONALITY: Miss Rodeo New Mexico Emma Cameron
HORSEMANSHIP: Miss Rodeo New Mexico Emma Cameron
PHOTOGENIC: Miss Rodeo Oklahoma Allie Mae Baker
SPEECH: Miss Rodeo Michigan Khalilah Smith
FOURTH RUNNER-UP: Miss Rodeo Washington Bailey Nachtigal
PEOPLE’S CHOICE CHAP AWARD Miss Rodeo Oklahoma Allie Mae Baker BREAKING BARRIERS SCHOLARSHIP Miss Rodeo Michigan Khalilah Smith
WEAR THE WEST YOUR WAY PRESENTATION OF MONTANA SILVERSMITH Miss Rodeo Iowa Micah Barnes
SHERRY LYNN SMITH MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP Miss Rodeo Oklahoma Allie Mae Baker
ROXANN HARRIS MEMORIAL COMPETITIVE SPIRIT SCHOLARSHIP Miss Rodeo Iowa Micah Barnes MASTER OF BEEF AWARD Miss Rodeo Arkansas Abigail Benz
50 PINK HORSES CHALLENGE Miss Rodeo North Carolina Rachel Gagliardi TRACTION AWARD Miss Rodeo Wyoming Reata Cook
BEX BEAUTY AWARD Miss Rodeo Washington Bailey Nachtigal
SHINING STAR SCHOLARSHIP IN MEMORY OF HARVEY SHUMWAY Miss Rodeo Iowa Micah Barnes
MISS RODEO AMERICA TOP HORSE AWARD LR Hancock Two Bugs “Levi” Owned by Randy and Kathryn Britton of Colorado ZONA VIG SCRAPBOOK AWARDS: TRADITIONAL 1st Place Miss Rodeo Arkansas Abigail Benz 2nd Place Miss Rodeo Washington Bailey Nachtigal 3rd Place Miss Rodeo Kansas Jessica Klumpe 4th Place Miss Rodeo Texas Brylee Johnson
Photo: IMAGEHOUNDS™
CHAP AWARD (SCHOLARSHIP FROM WOMEN’S PROFESSIONAL RODEO ASSOCIATION FOR CONTESTANT WITH UNIQUE CHAPS & STORY): Miss Rodeo Arkansas Abigail Benz
2023 ALL AROUND CHAMPION
STETSON
WRIGHT
SECURES FIFTH CONSECUTIVE PRCA ALL-AROUND WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP
Las Vegas, Nevada — Stetson Wright, the sensational cowboy from Milford, Utah, has etched another milestone in his illustrious career by clinching his fifth PRCA All-Around World Championship and eighth world title overall. Despite being sidelined due to a right hamstring strain after Round 2 of the 2023 Wrangler NFR, Wright’s dominance throughout the season propelled him to the all-around crown with a total of $479,621.
Expressing his excitement, the 24-year-old stated, “This will be a world title I will not forget. I stopped thinking about world titles after I pulled myself out of the NFR. I just wanted to be healthy, and it is pretty special to win something like that when you’re not even able to finish the richest ten days of the year.” Wright’s impressive collection of world titles includes all-around championships from 2019 to 2023, along with bull riding titles in 2020 and 2022 and a saddle bronc riding title in 2021. Joining the ranks of ProRodeo Hall of Fame legends, Wright stands alongside iconic figures like Joe Beaver, Roy Cooper, and Larry Mahan, who have each secured eight PRCA World Championships. In the quest for greatness, Wright aspires to surpass Trevor Brazile’s record of 26 world championships, emphasizing the need for strategic decision-making to ensure a lasting and healthy career. Acknowledging the challenge ahead, Wright asserted, “My goal is to break Trevor’s (all-around) record, and the way I’m going to do that is being wise enough to know when to hold’em and when to fold’em.”
Reflecting on his difficult decision to withdraw from the NFR due to injury, Wright expressed peace with the choice, prioritizing his long-term health. He plans to undergo surgery on December 18 with an undetermined return date, asserting, “I will be back when I’m 100 percent. I will be back, so everybody still believes in Superman.”
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Photo: Roseanna Sales
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2023 BAREBACK CHAMPION
KEENAN HAYES
ROOKIE BAREBACK RIDER MAKES PRCA HISTORY WITH HIS WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP Las Vegas, Nevada — It was a fitting end to an amazing season for bareback rider Keenan Hayes Saturday night.
The Hayden, Colo., native became the first cowboy to win a PRCA Bareback Riding World Championship in his rookie season.
Hayes secured his spot in the PRCA record book with his electric 90-point ride on J Bar J’s Straight Ringer in Round 10 of the 2023 Wrangler National Finals Rodeo presented by Teton Ridge before 17,620 spectators at the Thomas & Mack Center. The ride allowed Hayes to finish with $434,050, which is a PRCA Bareback Riding single-season earnings record. The record was $425,843 by Clayton Biglow in 2019. “It was awesome, me and Jess (Pope) were over there fighting with some buckskin horses that’s mostly what we were thinking about just getting out on those horses, so it was really fun,” said Hayes, 20.
Hayes placed in five rounds and finished first in the average with 850 points on 10 head. That garnered him a $78,747 check. Jess Pope, the 2022 PRCA Bareback Riding World Champion finished second in the world standings with $315,095 and second in the average with 845.5 points on 10 head. “I was just worried about getting my hand ready and just let the ride take care of itself and it ended up working out,” Hayes said. “We knew what it was (being the first rookie to win the bareback world championship), I didn’t want to think about it too much, I just knew I had to get the job done.
“I mean I knew it was all going on but like I said I was trying not to think about it much just go out do my job for something I’ve worked for my entire life, it’s pretty awesome,” Hayes said. “No, I’m not surprised at all (how I did this season), like I said I’m sure blessed that God gave me this ability and that I get to show it to everyone, it’s just an amazing experience that I wanted to get done my whole life.”
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Photo: Christopher Thompson
CLAYTON BIGLOW
MASON CLEMENTS
COLE REINER JESS POPE
TIM O’CONNELL KADE SONNIER
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JAYCO ROPER
JACOB LEES
RICHMOND CHAMPION
DEAN THOMPSON
ORIN LARSEN
ROCKER STEINER
LEIGHTON BERRY TANNER AUS
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2023 STEER WRESTLING CHAMPION
TYLER WAGUESPACK
STEER WRESTLER TYLER WAGUESPACK’S ROUND 10 MAGIC RESULTS IN WORLD TITLE NO. 5 Las Vegas, Nevada — For the second year in a row, Tyler Waguespack worked his Round 10 magic to win another PRCA Steer Wresting World Championship.
Waguespack split the Round 10 win with a 3.8-second run, which helped him to reach third in the average and walk away with world championship No. 5.
“The run that I was able to pull off with the steer that I had was awesome, he was a hard running steer,” said Waguespack, who entered Round 10 in fourth place in the world standings. “I wasn’t very happy about him and having drawn him. I talked to my hazer and said if you can get up there and shut him down at all, we can get a good run. We ran him over halfway and the Lord was behind me right there. We turned sideways, but golly it worked out.” Dalton Massey, who was leading the world standings as the last cowboy out, clocked a 13.3-second run, which included a 10-second penalty for breaking the barrier. He failed to place in the round and was sixth in the average.
That left Waguespack atop the world standings with $303,576, breaking his previous single-season record of 298,676 set in 2016. Massey finished second in the world standings with $283,993. Waguespack joins exclusive company. Only ProRodeo Hall of Famers Homer Pettigrew (6) and Luke Branquinho (5) have won at least five steer wrestling gold buckles.
In 2022, Waguespack entered Round 10 third in the world standings and left the Thomas & Mack Center in first. “I come from a great family; they’ve always been there. Helping me throughout and kept pushing me to be better and better,” Waguespack said. “We’d go to practice, and we worked hard, and we got a lot of trust in the Lord. All of this gets us where we need to be. “I can’t wait for January to come around. Let’s get rolling and let’s go do it again.”
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Photo: Hailey Rae
NICK GUY
JESSE BROWN
CODY DEVERS J.D. STRUXNESS
BRIDGER ANDERSON TY ERICKSON
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DIRK TAVENNER
STAN BRANCO
DALTON MASSEY
DAKOTA ELDRIDGE
JACOB TALLEY
DON PAYNE
WILL LUMMUS STEPHEN CULLING
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2023 SADDLE BRONC CHAMPION
ZEKE THURSTON
SADDLE BRONC RIDER WINS WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP NO. 4
Las Vegas, Nevada — Zeke Thurston secured his fourth PRCA Saddle Bronc Riding World Championship on Saturday night, clinching the title with a remarkable performance in Round 10. He shared sixth place in the round, scoring 86.5 points on Calgary Stampede’s Dandy Delight, propelling himself to both the world championship and the average title. Hailing from Big Valley, Alberta, Thurston now boasts world championships in 2016, 2019, 2022, and 2023. His exceptional NFR included victories in four rounds—Round 1, Round 5, Round 8, and Round 9—along with placements in eight out of the 10 rounds. Expressing his satisfaction, Thurston commented on his final ride, acknowledging the challenges but highlighting the resilience that led to his victory. Despite the horse’s unpredictable movements, Thurston weathered the challenges, solidifying his championship aspirations.
Thurston not only claimed the world championship but also shattered his previous single-season earnings record, finishing the 2023 season with an impressive $456,356. Joining the ranks of Brad Gjermundson, Clint Johnson, and Pete Knight, Thurston now holds four world championships. Only Dan Mortensen and Casey Tibbs with six, and Billy Etbauer with five, have achieved more saddle bronc riding world championships.
For Thurston, this accomplishment fulfills a childhood dream, emphasizing the importance of hard work and dedication in achieving one’s goals. Winning the NFR average with 863 points on 10 head, Thurston secured his third average title, adding to his previous victories in 2016 and 2022.
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Representing Canada, Thurston expressed the significance of his achievement, upholding the legacy of great bronc riders from his country. Emphasizing the importance of consistency and mastering each ride, Thurston reflected on the week as a successful culmination of his efforts and dedication to the sport. The-Arena-Press.com
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Photo: Roseanna Sales
SAGE NEWMAN
RYDER WRIGHT
TANNER BUTNER BRODY CRESS
KADE BRUNO WYATT CASPER
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CHASE BROOKS
BEN ANDERSEN
STETSON WRIGHT
DAWSON HAY
RYDER SANFORD
LEFTY HOLMAN
DAMIAN BRENNAN LAYTON GREEN
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2023 TEAM ROPING CHAMPIONS
TYLER WADE & WESLEY THORP
TEAM ROPERS WADE & THORP WIN HEADER, HEELER TITLES Las Vegas, Nevada — An all business, efficient run in Round 10 was all that separated team ropers – header Tyler Wade and heeler Wesley Thorp – from coveted world championships.
Well, the duo clocked a 5.4-second time and that left them third in the average with a $50,517 check, catapulting them to capture gold buckles. Wade was making his sixth NFR appearance and finished a career-best eighth in the 2022 world standings. That’s not the case anymore. Wade finished with $308,057 in the world standings and Thorp earned $325,284.
“I don’t know yet. It hasn’t sunk in. I told Thorp I don’t know if I’m a world champion or not. I know he is cause he already has one. I just let him guide me,” Wade said. “I think the whole time we weren’t trying to do anything different other than give ourselves a chance. Take the risk we needed to take when we needed to take them, and it could not have worked out better in our favor. Every time we needed to step up in the round and make a run, we drew the best steer. It felt like God’s timing more than anything.” Thorp won his lone world championship in 2019.
“This is unbelievable because all I can think about are the times you are down throughout the year, and you have to find something to pick you up,” Thorp said. “How do you get that low to this spot right here. This is everything when you get here because it makes you realize that you just have to be ready for any opportunity that comes.”
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Photo: Roseanna Sales
LUKE BROWN & HUNTER KOCH
CLINT SUMMERS & JAKE LONG
ANDREW WARD & BUDDY HAWKINS
DERRICK BEGAY & COLTER TODD
RHEN RICHARD & JEREMY BUHLER
CLAY SMITH & PADEN BRAY
MARCUS THERIOT & COLE CURRY
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ERICH ROGERS & PAUL EAVES
JAKE CLAY & TYLER WORLEY
KALEB DRIGGERS & JUNIOR NUNES NOGUEIRA
NELSON WYATT & JONATHAN TORRES COLEMAN PROCTOR & LOGAN MEDLIN
TANNER TOMLINSON & PATRICK SMITH DUSTIN EGUSQUIZA & LEVI LORD
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MEETS MEETS
CLICK TO LISTEN “Where Rodeo meets the Road” is property of The Arena Press. ©2023 All RIghts Reserved.
WHERE WHERE
RODEO THE ROAD
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Las Vegas, Nevada — Shyla Navarre, a 17-year-old professional entertainer, is carrying on a deeply rooted
family tradition in the world of trick riding. With a career
spanning 12 years, Shyla embarked on this journey alongside her mother, Melissa Navarre, from Weatherford, Oklahoma. Having traveled across the country, Shyla has showcased her talent at prestigious events such as the
2013 Wrangler National Finals Rodeo and the 2013 Ram
National Circuit Finals, leaving a lasting impression at numerous PRCA rodeos. Not only skilled in trick riding,
Shyla has a passion for whip cracking, honing her craft
with the guidance of her mentor, Ryder Kiesner. As the leader of the trio, she captivates audiences with her whip-cracking maneuvers, a skill she developed since
the age of 5. Beyond her equestrian talents, Shyla’s
understanding of production and timing in the arena reflects her years of experience. When she’s not on a
horse or showcasing her whip-cracking prowess, Shyla, a true country girl at heart, enjoys sports and embraces the rural lifestyle with enthusiasm.
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2023 BREAKAWAY CHAMPION
SHELBY BOISJOLI-MEGED
WINS WPRA BREAKAWAY WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP
Las Vegas, Nevada — Shelby Boisjoli-Meged secured the prestigious title of WPRA Breakaway Roping World Champion after a stellar performance at the NFBR. Beginning in the top spot in the world standings, the Alberta-native, now residing in Stephenville, Texas, maintained her lead through 10 rounds of intense competition. In the opening round, Meged shared second place with Martha Angelone, both posting a time of 2.3. The momentum continued as Meged claimed first place in Round Two with a swift time of 2.1 seconds, sharing the win with Cheyanne MacCartney and Williams. Despite a minor setback with a “No Time” in Round Three, Meged consistently excelled in the initial five rounds.
After the first day on December 5, Meged amassed $16,378, reinforcing her lead in the world standings. Reflecting on her performance, Meged attributed her success to a focused, almost subconscious, roping approach. “I feel like I was just roping in my subconscious,” she mentioned.
Navigating the mental challenges, Meged emphasized the importance of resilience in the fast-paced competition. “You have to be able to bounce back. It’s super fast-paced, and you can’t let the highs get too high, but you can’t let the lows get too low,” she noted. The final day on December 6 saw Meged maintain her stellar performance, earning a check for sharing third place in Round Six. Finishing fifth in Round Seven, she secured the No. 2 position in the aggregate with a cumulative time of 27.6 seconds on eight head, earning $11,250. Meged’s total earnings across 10 rounds reached an impressive $30,372, extending her world standings lead to $194,920.50.
Expressing her emotions after earning her first world title, Meged shared, “I’m feeling everything right now. It’s super emotional. I’m so happy. The whole year was a fairytale.” Meged credited her success not just to roping skills but also to her equine partners, emphasizing their role in shaping her as a person.
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Photo: Jackie Jensen
2023 TIE DOWN CHAMPION
RILEY WEBB
TIE-DOWN ROPER CLAIMS HIS FIRST WORLD TITLE
Las Vegas, Nevada — Tie-down roper Riley Webb’s memorable season added one last memorable chapter on Saturday night.
Webb clocked a 10.9-second time in Round 10 to clinch the coveted gold buckle – the first of his career.
“It hasn’t even sunk in yet. I’m just blessed to be in this situation at 20-years-old. I’m so fortunate to have this support system from my family to the horses that have made this dream come true. I’m so grateful,” said Webb, 20.
“I drew a great calf (in Round 10) and just knew that I needed to hold my spot down. It actually took me longer than I was hoping, with it being my longest time of the week,” Webb said. “Thankfully, I had a great year and a great showing at the NFR, so I didn’t have to go out and win the round to make it happen. All the runs and the miles we traveled throughout the year put me in that position and I’m so grateful.” Although Webb didn’t place in Round 10, Webb finished second in the average – 82.9 seconds on 10 head – which earned him a $63,889 check. Webb finished atop the world standings with $452,852, a single-season tie-down roping record, breaking the mark of $374,737 set by Caleb Smidt in 2022. Webb had to hold off hardcharging Haven Meged, who finished second in the world standings with $411,263 and won the average with an NFRrecord 77.4 seconds on 10 head.
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Webb placed in five rounds, highlighted by his Round 3 win in 6.9 seconds.
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Photo: Roseanna Sales
BEAU COOPER
SHANE HANCHEY
TY HARRIS HAVEN MEGED
CALEB SMIDT CORY SOLOMON
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BLANE COX
JOHN DOUCH
BRUSHTON MINTON
TUF COOPER
WESTYN HUGHES
SHAD MAYFIELD
HUNTER HERRIN KINCADE HENRY
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John Harrison Rodeo Clown
Photo: IMAGEHOUNDS™
In the pulsating atmosphere of the Wrangler National Finals Rodeo, John Harrison, the celebrated rodeo clown and barrelman, emerges as the heartbeat of the arena. Dressed in his signature yellow shirt adorned with red fringe and crowned by a distinctive red cowboy hat, John is a dynamic presence.. Rooted in rodeo heritage, his legacy traces back to his grandfather, the legendary Freckles Brown. With 11 appearances at the esteemed Wrangler National Finals Rodeo, John brings a wealth of experience. His performances, blending tricks, flips, and barrelman finesse, infuse an unpredictable energy. Beyond the showmanship, John exudes familial warmth and genuine joy, he’s more than just an entertainer— he’s a man deeply in love with rodeo and its cherished community.
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2023 BARREL RACING CHAMPION
BRITTANY
POZZI TONOZZI
SOLIDIFIED HER STATUS AS A RODEO LEGEND AT THE 2023 WRANGLER NATIONAL
FINALS RODEO IN LAS VEGAS, SECURING HER THIRD WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP. Las Vegas, Nevada — The Lampasas, Texas, cowgirl’s exceptional performance throughout the 10-day event catapulted her to the pinnacle of barrel racing.
In Round 7, Pozzi Tonozzi showcased her prowess, winning with a swift 13.47-second run. Benny, her remarkable horse, demonstrated increasing strength, contributing to their success. Reflecting on their strategy, Pozzi Tonozzi remarked, “He always gets better with more repetition. I was just waiting my turn to get to the top of the ground, and I was glad we could clinch it tonight.”
Her outstanding regular season set the stage for this triumph, as she led the world standings with $403,389. At the NFR, Pozzi Tonozzi added $132,826 to her earnings, putting her in a commanding position. Topping the average with 95.64 seconds on seven runs, she emphasized the positive developments in barrel racing. “Our breeding program has gotten amazing, the riding has gotten so much better, and the ground has gotten so much better. This is such a cool time in our sport,” she noted. By securing second place in Round 8 with a 13.34-second run, Pozzi Tonozzi clinched her third world title, adding to her victories in 2007 and 2009. Finishing atop the standings with $496,499, she established a single-season barrel racing record. While she finished second in the average with 141.18 seconds on 10 runs, the overall accomplishment marked a historic milestone in her illustrious career.
As she navigated the challenges of the NFR, Pozzi Tonozzi expressed her focus on the average, recognizing the significance of her positioning. “Now, we kind of have the average on our mind. We’ve set ourselves up pretty good for the average, and we’ll just wait and see how it goes,” she stated confidently. In this moment of triumph, Brittany Pozzi Tonozzi stands as a testament to the dedication and excellence that define the world of professional rodeo.
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Photo: Roseanna Sales
JESSICA ROUTIER
EMILY BEISEL
SUE SMITH SUMMER KOSEL
JORDON BRIGGS HAILEY KINSEL
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PAIGE JONES
ILYSSA RILEY
WENDA JOHNSON
LISA LOCKHART
SISSY WINN
STEVI HILLMAN
KASSIE MOWRY TAYCIE MATTHEWS
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Photo: IMAGEHOUNDS™
THREE
OF A KIND
In the electrifying aftermath of Ky Hamilton’s triumphant 8-second ride in the 7th round of the Las Vegas rodeo, the camera captures a riveting moment. Three American bullfighters, the elite trio of Dusty Tuckness, Cody Webster, and Nathan Jestes, stand united, facing off against the formidable Alberta Prime Devil’s Advocate. In the dust-filled arena, their presence is a testament to their unparalleled skill and courage.
As recipients of the highest honors in their field, including Tuckness’s impressive 10-time PRCA Bullfighter of the Year title, they embody the epitome of bullfighting prowess. With a shared commitment to both the safety of the athletes and the welfare of the animals, these bullfighters stand as guardians, ready to confront the next challenge in the unforgiving world of rodeo.
2023 BULL RIDING CHAMPION
KY HAMILTON
CLINCHES FIRST CAREER PRCA BULL RIDING WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP
Las Vegas, Nevada — The climactic journey of bull rider Ky Hamilton at the 2023 Wrangler National Finals Rodeo culminated in a dual triumph — clinching his inaugural PRCA Bull Riding World Championship and the coveted average buckle. Hamilton, hailing from Mackay, Australia, not only topped the PRCA | RAM World Standings with $595,414 but also set a new single-season bull riding record, surpassing Stetson Wright’s mark of $592,144 in 2022. A significant accolade accompanies Hamilton’s victory — he is the first Australian to capture a PRCA Bull Riding World Championship. Additionally, Hamilton seized the RAM Top Gun Award, earning $239,060. This award, instituted in 2010, recognizes the contestant who accumulates the most money in a single event at the Wrangler NFR. Reflecting on his achievement, Hamilton expressed, “That’s what I came over here to do. By the time I started riding when I was 12, I told everyone that all I wanted to do was be a bull riding world champion. To come over here and get that done, it’s just the icing on the cake.”
Hamilton joins the elite ranks of ProRodeo Hall of Famers Dave Appleton and Glen O’Neill as the only native Australians to clinch PRCA World Championships. Despite a Round 9 re-ride, where he was bucked off, Hamilton secured the world crown based on the unfolding events in Round 9. No other bull rider could surpass him in the world standings, even if they won Round 10 and the average. In a dramatic NFR, Hamilton’s tenacity shone brightly. After a concussion in Round 5, he defied expectations and competed in Round 6, splitting third place. The following rounds saw him claim victory and the lone rider status, earning a substantial payday. Hamilton secured three round wins throughout the 2023 Wrangler NFR.
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Hamilton’s resilience and historic achievement underscored his unwavering commitment to his childhood dream. In a journey filled with highs and lows, Hamilton’s triumph as the first Australian PRCA Bull Riding World Champion stands as a testament to his indomitable spirit and the mentors who shaped his cowboy mentality. The-Arena-Press.com
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Photo: Hailey Rae
TREY KIMZEY SAGE KIMZEY
T PARKER
JEFF ASKEY TRISTEN HUTCHINGS
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JARED PARSONAGE
HAYES WEIGHT
JOSH FROST
JORDAN HANSEN
CREEK YOUNG
CODY TEEL
CULLEN TELFER TREY HOLSTON
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STUDENT SPURS RODEO CHRONICLES
By Jesse James Harris
The Arena Press is thrilled to launch a new column shining a spotlight on the experiences of intercollegiate rodeo athletes. I’m Jesse Harris, your guide for this exciting journey, and a proud member of the Texas A&M Rodeo Team. Across the 11 regions of the National Intercollegiate Rodeo Association (NIRA), more than 135 colleges participate, with student-athletes required to complete a minimum of 12 credit hours each term while maintaining passing grades to be eligible for competition. The NIRA, a vast network encompassing over 3,500 rodeo athletes, is the stage where these dedicated individuals vie for the chance to compete in the esteemed College National Finals Rodeo (CNFR) held annually in Casper, Wyoming. Amidst the rugged challenges of collegiate life, these athletes demonstrate resilience and dedication to their sport. Qualifying for the CNFR is no small feat; only the top three athletes in each event, the leading two men’s and women’s rodeo teams from each region, and the crowned men’s and women’s champions and reserve champions all-around earn the coveted opportunity to showcase their skills on the national stage.
Through this column, we’ll dive into the lives of various collegiate athletes and coaches, unraveling the intricate tapestry of their experiences within the NIRA. Expect to hear tales of triumphs, overcoming hardships, forging lasting friendships, and the multifaceted journey that defines the NIRA landscape for these students. As we move forward, we’ll engage in insightful conversations with these talented athletes and coaches, providing a unique perspective on their remarkable journeys within the NIRA. With the upcoming Spring semester rodeos just around the corner, stay tuned for more captivating updates.
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Giving another look into the sport of rodeo, Roseanna Sales’ photographs are more than just good flicks, but rather true works of art. In her rookie year as a Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association (PRCA) photographer (2017), Sales was also selected as PRCA Photographer of the Year and to shoot behind the scenes at the Wrangler National Finals Rodeo (NFR). In 2020, she became one of the first women to shoot in the dirt at the finals.
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Photo: Roseanna Sales
Header team roper, Coleman Proctor catching calves at Thomas & Mack 2023 NFR R1 — Roseanna Sales
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ROSEANNA SALES PRCA PHOTOGRAPHER CONTINUED...
Now, she’s still shooting rodeos across the country, the NFR and mentoring other rodeo photographers. After shooting with three other renowned photographers at the 2023 NFR (Click Thompson, Clay Guardipee and Hailey Rae), Sales is excited to see how far every up and coming photographer can take it.
“It’s kind of like a proud big sister moment, because I’ve been able to talk to all three of them or help them out in some way,” Sales said. “They’ve all put in their own work, and they are all talented doing their own thing. I did not do anything to help them get there at all, but it’s been neat to watch them grow and excel. And now to be able to stand there next to them, it makes my heart so happy; and that is very exciting to be able to do that with them.”
Residing in eastern Washington with her husband and two daughters, Sales is dedicated to being a great wife and mom, while also chasing her dreams and preserving memories for others.
“It’s been a wild ride, and a lot of work. And I have kids, so it takes a village,” Sales explained. “There’s not a lot of photographers I’ve found that are moms, so it’s a challenge; but I feel like I’m teaching my girls that you can still chase your dreams. That’s been fun to show them, but there were times where I felt like giving up; and I’m glad I didn’t because I wouldn’t be here.” Sales prioritizes storytelling in her work, and it’s evident in the moments she captures - whether in the arena or behind the scenes. Even though her technique has developed throughout her career, her style and where her heart lies when shooting has remained much the same.
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“For me, I just want to tell a story. When I first started shooting rodeo, I didn’t know what the hell I was doing from the traditional rodeo side of it. I was just feeling that emotion,” Sales said. “So that’s what I was trying to show through my camera for people. Some people didn’t like that because I wasn’t showing the traditional shot of the horse stretched out. I was showing the cowboy sleeping on the back of the car or something different, but I was seeing stuff that I didn’t get to see as a little kid sitting in the stands. So, I thought, ‘This is what people need to see.’ I realized there was more to the story, and that’s where I felt I belonged more in the rodeo world was on the storyteller side of it.” The-Arena-Press.com
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