Photos by Fernando Sam-Sin
Champions Crowned at Final Performance of the California Rodeo Salinas
The 2025 California Rodeo Salinas once again brought the spirit of the West to life, drawing nearly 60,000 fans over four action-packed days of professional rodeo, community celebration, and family fun. From thrilling arena action to meaningful moments like the Golden Circle of Champions, this year’s event showcased the tradition, talent, and heart that make Salinas one of the premier rodeos in the nation.
The arena action did not disappoint. Fans witnessed the best in the business battling it out across all events, and the champions left their mark in grand Salinas style:
All-Around Cowboy: Wacey Schalla, flexing in Bareback Riding & Bull Riding
Bareback Riding Average Champion: Jayco Roper, 174 points on two head
Steer Wrestling Average Champion: Mike McGinn, 21.3 seconds on three head
Team Roping Average Champions: Tanner Tomlinson and Travis Graves, 48.5 seconds on five head; Saddle Bronc Riding Average Champion: Damian Brennan, 174 points on two head; Tie-Down Roping Average Champion: Dylan Hancock, 30.1 seconds on three head…
Barrel Racing Average Champion: Jordan Driver, fast with 64.84 seconds on four runs; Bull Riding Average Champion: Jordan Spears, 174.5 points on two head Breakaway Roping Average Champion: Rylee George.
Team roping fans know Salinas is the ultimate test. It’s the only five-header in professional rodeo and lays down the longest scoreline in the sport. As 1974 Champ of the World HP Evetts, who claimed Salinas in 1973 heading for Jerold Camarillo, put it, “The cowboys say THANK YOU California Rodeo Salinas for keeping this sacred, time-tested rodeo tradition alive.”
The California Rodeo is more than a rodeo—it’s a way of life, a reunion, and a reminder of the values that hold this sport together: community, grit, and Western tradition.
Mark your calendars: the 2026 California Rodeo Salinas is set for July 16–19. Follow @carodeosalinas on social media for updates throughout the year.
