Great Basin Sun
Top cowboys, family fun, and true Western action at the Winnemucca Event Center
The dust will fly once again in Winnemucca as the Western States Ranch Rodeo Association (WSRRA) National Finals return October 30 – November 1 to the Winnemucca Event Center. This three-day showcase brings together the best working cowboys and cowgirls from across the West for one of the premier ranch rodeos in the country. This year’s Finals will feature an impressive lineup of over 250 competitors, including 56 Open Ranch Rodeo Teams, 28 Women’s Teams, 8 Junior/Senior Teams, 4 Old Timer Teams, 15 Ranch Bronc Riders, and 15 Women’s Steer Stoppers. Contestants will travel from across 16 states to compete in the heart of Nevada for the 2025 national titles.
Thursday, October 30 – 6:00 PM
PERFORMANCE SCHEDULE
The WSRRA National Finals kick off with the first full night of ranch-rodeo competition as top ranch teams from across the West take the arena. Thursday’s performance will feature the full slate of ranch events along with Ranch Bronc Riding and Women’s Steer Stopping. During the performance, the WSRRA will present the 2025 Producer of the Year Award to the McDermitt 4th of July Rodeo, recognizing its long-standing tradition, strong participation, and dedication to preserving ranch rodeo culture.
Friday, October 31 – 5:00 PM
Round two begins with an evening full of energy and community fun. Bring the family early for a Boot Barn Kids Dummy Roping at 3:00 PM, followed by trick-or-treating with vendors throughout the Event Center before the performance — costumes welcome! The night will feature Ranch Bronc Riding, Women’s Steer Stopping, and continued team events. During Friday night’s performance, the WSRRA will honor this year’s Lifetime Achievement Award recipients — Glen Shelley, Chris Bengoa, and Ramon Vaca — three individuals
who have made lasting contributions to the Western ranching and rodeo way of life.
Saturday, November 1 – 11:30 AM
Championship Saturday brings the Short Go Performance, where the best teams, bronc riders, and steer stoppers battle for national titles.
The WSRRA will also present the prestigious Nelo Mori Ranching Heritage Award, honoring cattleman Blake Nuffer, whose life’s work and legacy continue to embody the true spirit of the Western lifestyle. Expect top-notch cowboy talent, grit, and emotion in this grand finale.
ADMISSION
Affordable family pricing makes it easy to enjoy all three days:
• Adults: $15 per day
• Kids: $10 per day
• Weekend Pass: $40
Tickets are available at the door.
Morning Slack: On Thursday, Oct. 30 and Friday, Oct. 31, slack begins at 8:00 AM and is free to the public—a great chance to watch even more top-tier ranch work up close.
WESTERN TRADITION MEETS TRUE GRIT
The WSRRA Finals honor real working ranch
cowboys and cowgirls who have spent the year qualifying at sanctioned events across the West. Events mirror real ranch work — branding, doctoring, sorting, and ranch bronc riding — showcasing authentic Western skills, teamwork, and grit in front of the Winnemucca crowd.
MORE THAN A RODEO
Between performances, attendees can shop with Western vendors, grab a bite to eat, and take part in the weekend’s charitable efforts. The WSRRA Foundation’s Strong Will Fund will host a silent auction at Michael McGill’s booth and live auction items during Saturday’s Short Go, with proceeds supporting injured cowboys and cowgirls across the West.
PLAN YOUR WEEKEND
Whether you come for the rodeo action, the shopping, or the family-friendly fun, the WSRRA National Finals is where Western roots and community spirit shine.
Join us October 30 – November 1 at the Winnemucca Event Center for a weekend of competition, camaraderie, and true ranch-rodeo action.
For more information: www.WSRRA.org
COVER PHOTO BY MICHAEL MAGILL, OFFICIAL EVENT PHOTOGRAPHER
WSRRA ADMISSION
Affordable family pricing makes it easy to enjoy all three days:
• Adults: $15 per day
• Kids: $10 per day
• Weekend Pass: $40
Tickets are available at the door.
Morning Slack: On Thursday, Oct. 30 and Friday, Oct. 31, slack begins at 8:00 AM and is free to the public—a great chance to watch even more top-tier ranch work up close.
OFFICIAL EVENT PHOTOGRAPHER
Michael Magill
https://www.michaelmagillphotography.com/
