By Mike Sweeney ACTRA Business Manager RENO, NEVADA – The year 2023 was one of the more challenging years the ACTRA Board had to deal with, but as things turned out, the 2023 ACTRA National Finals was one of the most successful in many ways. Announcer: After 15 years of announcing our National Finals, Jody Carper was stepping away from that job. The National Board started looking for someone to make our Finals memorable, and we knew this would be challenging. The final decision was to bring on Branden Edwards as the voice of the ACTRA National Finals. Branden lives in Colorado with his wife and two sons. He is a college rodeo coach, rodeo announcer, and team roper when he can find the time. Branden made himself right at home in Reno, giving a passionate rendition of the National Anthem. He knocked it out of the park with his singing skills. Webcast: The following item for the Board was to find a webcast company for our Finals. We had previously only worked with one company and didn’t know where to start or what to expect. We were fortunate to have Stephanie Anderson of Ropers Sports News introduce us to Jeff and Stacey Freitas, JF Video Company. Jeff and Stacey introduced us to so many marketing opportunities we can’t wait to get started with new marketing strategies. Cattle Contractor: Next, the Board tackled the cattle contractor. Cattle is one of the most challenging aspects of producing a roping. Through the years, the Board tried several variations to make it work to the roper’s satisfaction. This year, the Board awarded Zane Dansie from Utah a shot at the cattle contract. Zane was known for producing many large ropings and doing a good job. Although Zane was familiar with ACTRA, he had not produced in Reno until last June, where he made an excellent impression. Zane is confident that his catch ratio will improve in all future ropings as he better understands the roping categories. Super 7 Roping: California Custom is the new title sponsor for the Super 7 Roping in 2023. Their sponsorship featured two Charmac Trailers. The total payout of the Super 7 this year would exceed $197,500 in cash and awards. That equals a payback of 111% in the California Custom Super 7 Roping. A very special thank you to Trevor Messersmith and his family for their sponsorship. Wrangler Bucking Cancer #5.5 Roping: In this roping, ACTRA sold Wrangler shirts with the proceeds going into a unique pot and a portion to Moms On The Run, which provides support for everyday living expenses, including mortgages, rent, food, utilities, car expenses, insurance, and more, to help offset medical costs and alleviate the financial stress of Postage Pre-Paid TIME DATED MATERIAL – DO NOT DELAY ROPERS SPORTS NEWS NOVEMBER-DECEMBER 2023 VOL. 55, NO. 9 $2.50 “The Original Team Roping Publication” Official Publication Of ACTRA PACIFIC COAST SHOOTOUTS 24060 N. Ray Rd., Lodi, CA 95242 • 209-333-2924 • info@roperssportsnews.com • www.roperssportsnews.com Wrangler/Professional’s Choice ACTRA National Finals Draws 4,219 Teams And Pays Out Over $921,500 in Cash and Awards Super 7 winners Trell McFarlane and Trey McFarlane receive their Charmac trailers and Skyline buckles from Mike Nizzoli representing California Custom and ACTRA National President Bill Horner (right). – Andersen CBarC photo Brothers Trell McFarlane and Trey McFarlane were the big winners of the Super 7 Roping at the ACTRA National Finals, taking home Charmac trailers, Skyline buckles and $8,745. – Andersen CBarC photos See ACTRA NATIONAL FINALS On Page 20
PAGE 2 ROPERS SPORTS NEWS NOVEMBER-DECEMBER 2023 Crownline RR $5,200 ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ 2021 RAM Mega Cab Limited Edition Full loaded, tow pkg, B&W hitch, new condition! CIMARRON NORSTAR 3 HORSE 7’7” tall, 7’6” wide with front tack, dividers, escape door, rubber wall and floor mats. Drop down windows and more! Cimarron Lonestar Stock Combo with trainer tack! 28 ft x 7’6” wide. Insulated roof. Double door front tack with dual swing out saddle racks and blanket bars. Stock compartment with 2 horse dividers and center gate. Norstar SC $9,599 2500/3500 tow pkg, power, Big Horn, Laramie and Tradesman dually or single rear wheel ready to go! Full warranties are available. 3 TO CHOOSE FROM! 2022 RAM Trucks in stock! Great financing options! Up to 240 months available. Apply online at: www.jhsanders.com/financing $1100 + tax Installed – applies to Ford, Chevy, GMC, Ram Trails West bumper pull and goosenecks in stock with more arriving weekly! 2-4 horse, warmblood or standard size with front tack rooms, swing out saddle racks, water tanks, rubber floor and wall mats and warranties. Many used trailers to choose from! Horse, stock and LQ’s. All fully serviced and safety checked with financing available. Livestock & Dump Trailers in stock! Reduced!! 6.7L Powerstroke V8 diesel, crew cab, Platinum and Lariat in stock! 4x4, loaded! Leather, tow pkg, gooseneck hitch and great financing! MANAGER’S SPECIAL Three FORD 6.7L Diesel 4x4’s in stock! SANTA FE 24 ft. gooseneck with trainers tack and hay pod! USED TRAILERS IN STOCK! F250-F450 Lariat, King Ranch and Platinum models in stock Cimarron bumper pulls in stock! 2-4 horse with drop down windows, all aluminum, insulated roof, swing out saddle racks and 8-year warranty. Madera, CA 559-822-4500 www.jhsanders.com FINANCING AVAILABLE! Apply online today! ROPERS SPORTS NEWS www.roperssportsnews.com Ropers Sports News (USPS 701920) is published monthly for $25 per year by Ropers Sports News, 24060 N. Ray Road, Lodi, CA 95242. Periodical postage paid at King City, CA 93930. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Ropers Sports News, 24060 N. Ray Road, Lodi, CA 95242. Advertising rates may be obtained by writing to Ropers Sports News, 24060 N. Ray Road, Lodi, CA 95242, or by phoning (209) 333-2924. Fax (209) 368-9512. E-mail: info@roperssportsnews.com. Ads, News Copy and Photos must be received by the 10th of each month to make the next month’s issue. Owner/Publisher BOB FEIST • General Manager STEPHANIE REYNOLDS ANDERSON ROPERS SPORTS NEWS www.roperssportsnews.com Ropers Sports News (USPS 701920) is published monthly for $25 per year by Ropers Sports News, 24060 N. Ray Road, Lodi, CA 95242. Periodical postage paid at King City, CA 93930. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Ropers Sports News, 24060 N. Ray Road, Lodi, CA 95242. Advertising rates may be obtained by writing to Ropers Sports News, 24060 N. Ray Road, Lodi, CA 95242, or by phoning (209) 333-2924. Fax (209) 368-9512. E-mail: info@roperssportsnews.com. Ads, News Copy and Photos must be received by the 10th of each month to make the next month’s issue. Owner/Publisher BOB FEIST • General Manager STEPHANIE REYNOLDS ANDERSON Zeke Thurston Captures Fourth Canadian Finals Rodeo Title Courtesy ProRodeo.com RED DEER, Alberta – He just keeps racking them up. Make it four in a row for Canadian saddle bronc riding sensation Zeke Thurston. The defending Canadian and PRCA World Champion earned his latest title while winning $40,695 during the 49th edition of the Canadian Finals Rodeo in Red Deer, pushing his Canadian season earnings to $89,186. The 29-year-old Big Valley, Alberta, cowboy who’s seemed bullet proof, gave fans a scare with a rare buckoff on his very first horse at the CFR, but he bounced back to win three straight go-rounds, then a third place, and tied for first with Logan Hay on his last horse Sunday with an 88.25-point ride on Calgary Stampede’s Tokyo Bubbles. “The competition is stiff,” Thurston said. “It’s never a layup. “They always joke all roads to a Canadian title go through Zeke Thurston, but I really wish they wouldn’t say that, because it’s not a gimme. It’s anybody’s game when you get out here. They threw me off the first one, and I was just lucky enough to draw good and put together a few more good rides and got myself back in the thick of things.” The win etches Thurston into the Canadian pro rodeo record books, as the first to win four consecutive saddle bronc championships, surpassing the three each won by Kenny McLean and Mel Coleman. “I really don’t know what to say about that,” Thurston said. “That’s pretty elite company Zeke Thurston won his fourth consecutive saddle bronc riding title at the Canadian Finals in Red Deer, Alberta. This photo shows his winning form from the 2022 NFR where he wrapped his third world title. – PRCA ProRodeo Photo by Phil Doyle right there. This is a bunch of outstanding bronc riders, and great horses. I can’t say enough about all of them. I love the competition and a good battle.” Cheering Thurston on was his family, including the newest addition, baby girl Maggie Mae, born Oct. 26. “It’s really special. We just had our third. To be able to share this with your family – there’s no better feeling,” Thurston said. “That’s what the memories are all about. It’s not the buckles, it’s not the money. It’s sharing those moments with your loved ones, and just enjoying them.” Thurston will head to his ninth Wrangler NFR next month, where the possibility of repeating last year’s two country sweep, and a fourth PRCA world title, is there. “It would be really nice to ride this wave down to Vegas and keep things rolling and do our deal,” he said. “Hopefully we draw good and put together some good rides.” The highest CFR and season money winners were team ropers Brady Tryan and Calgary Smith, who won the average and the Canadian title, picking up $62,838 with a record fast 24.3 seconds on six head during the Finals, for a season tally of $91,494. Other Canadian champions at the $1.4 million dollar event include allaround champion Logan Spady ($22,861 CFR; $60,894 Season); bareback rider Clint Laye, 516.5 on six head ($53,262 CFR; Season $90,894); bull rider Edgar Durazo, 437.25 on five rides ($46,320 CFR; Season $82,467); steer wrestler Scott Guenthner, 32.9 seconds on six runs ($42,729 CFR; Season $73,326); tie-down roper Haven Meged, 53.8 seconds on six runs ($45,123 CFR; Season $82,482); barrel racer Lynette Brodoway, 88.23 seconds on six runs ($25,016 CFR; $72,831 Season); breakaway roper Shaya Beiver, 7.6 seconds on three runs ($13,933 CFR; Season $32,444).
NOVEMBER-DECEMBER 2023 ROPERS SPORTS NEWS PAGE 3
PAGE 4 ROPERS SPORTS NEWS NOVEMBER-DECEMBER 2023 Tanner Kent and Dusty Bravos, 6.70, $160. Average: 1. Colton Suther and Eric Cozzitorto, 34.92, $1,000. 2. Kolby Bravos and Hunter Lowry, 35.67, $725. 3. Max Loya and Tucker Alexander, 36.11, $470. 4. Max Loya and Ted Williams, 36.84, $230. SATURDAY, SEPT. 23 #10.5 HDCP: 4 for $75 1st go: 1. Tanner Kent and Stoney Boy Joseph, 5.58, $280. 2. Blake VanStavern and Eric Cozzitorto, 5.98, $185. Average: 1. Tanner Kent and Stoney Boy Joseph, 26.51, $1,300. 2. Tanner Kent and Tucker Alexander, 27.82, $780. Kaley Schorovsky, Allen Gill Win Super 7 Great Weather, Great Turnout At NorCal ACTRA Qualifier CORNING, CALIF. – The weather couldn’t have been better for our NorCal ACTRA Finals in Corning at the Rolling Hills Equestrian Center from September 22-24. JD Machado and MD Barnmaster became the title sponsor of the Finals this year which allowed us to award some fantastic prizes to our ropers. Mac Mullins, Sadie Mullins and Brenda Robbins ran the roping flawlessly. Billy Butler did a great job with the flagging duties for the weekend, and the staff at Rolling Hills worked tirelessly to ensure everything was in great shape throughout the weekend. Eric Cozzitorto with V7 Cattle provided great steers that held up very well throughout all of the ropings. Winners of the Super 7 roping at the Northern California ACTRA Finals Qualifier were Kaley Schorovsky and Allen Gill. Presenting their saddles sponsored by MD Barnmaster is California ACTRA President JT Bradley. Winners of the #7 Hdcp. Pick or Draw were Colton Suther (r) and Eric Cozzitorto. California ACTRA President JT Bradley presenting. Winners of the #5.5 roping on Saturday were Justin Burgess and Justin Stacy. California ACTRA President JT Bradley presenting. #6 Hdcp. Down winners Stacey Brooks and Blake VanStavern. Presenting is California ACTRA President JT Bradley. Winners of the NorCal #10.5 Hdcp. average and fast time were Tanner Kent and Stoney Boy Joseph. California President JT Bradley presenting. We added a barrel race on Saturday night and a dummy roping on Sunday which really helped entertain the families all weekend. Our biggest winners were Kaley Schorovsky and Allen Gill, who took home the MD Barnmaster saddles for winning the Super 7. We ran well over 1,000 teams over the three days and handed out $25,000 in awards to the ropers. Results follow and payoffs are per man: FRIDAY, SEPT. 22 #2 DRAW POT: 3 for $50 1st go: 1. Chad Nunnelee and Larry McGrady, 8.78, $250. 2. Nathan Wohld and Cuatro Sanchez, 9.00, $150. 3. Tucker Martson and Glenn Kelley, 9.06, $100. Average: 1. Paige Littrell and David Guerra, 33.76, $1,130. 2. Paige Littrell and Lori L. Nevis, 39.77, $875. 3. David Futch and Billy Hammett, 40.25, $620. 4. Brooklynn Anderson and Steve Springer, 42.53, $400. 5. Triston Benedict and Sophia Fowler, 43.85, $210. #6 HDCP DOWN P/D: 4 for $50 1st go: 1. Cole Green and Cody Alvernaz, 6.90, $325. 2. Kaula’ili Gouveia and Kolby Bravos, 7.29, $200. 3. Kaula’ili Gouveia and Myron Duarte, 7.41, $125. Average: 1. Stacey Brooks and Blake VanStavern, 36.49, $1,100. 2. Stacey Brooks and Tyler Kala’e Masada, 38.00, $900. 3. Jake Pickering and Casey Loverin, 38.13, $720. 4. Nathan Wohld and Justin Schuette, 39.25, $540. 5. David Rosenthal and Jeff Sparrowk, 44.42, $350. 6. Sophia Fowler and Ryan Fowler, 49.19, $190. #7 HDCP P/D: 4 for $50 1st go: 1. Colton Suther and Eric Cozzitorto, 5.95, $240. 2. See NOR-CAL ACTRA QUALIFIER On Page 6 Winners of the #3 Pick Or Draw roping were Riley Bitle and Brett Lewis, with Ryan Fowler of Skyline Silversmiths presenting. Paige Littrell and Aaron Bean won the #4 Pick Or Draw on Sunday, Sept. 24. California ACTRA President JT Bradley presents Skyline/Vaquero buckles.
NOVEMBER-DECEMBER 2023 ROPERS SPORTS NEWS PAGE 5 24155 N. Hwy 99, Acampo Hwy 99 & Jahant Rd. (209) 334-9600 (800) 835-1554 Sales Office Hours: Mon-Fri: 8am-5pm • Sat: 9am-3pm FULL SERVICE AND PARTS DEPARTMENT Welding | Wiring | Hitches & More Mon-Fri: 8am-5pm "WE LIVE THIS LIFE" We Also Carry... New 2023 Elite 3 Horse BP Horse Trailer with Ramp Upgraded 7’6” width, Aluminum Wheels, Drop Down Window Bars, Blanket Bar - Swing Out, Fold Up Step and Swing Out Saddle Rack. VIN20997 $51,995 Price Reduced to $45,250 + fees New 2022 Lakota 4-Horse Charger GN Living Quarters Horse Trailer 8’ wide and 15’ LQ This trailer has it all! Dual 12k jack, 32” TV, fireplace, convection microwave, hayrack with generator, rear ramp, interior/exterior speakers, awning. Come check it out, you won’t be disappointed! VIN00944 $113,195 Price Reduced to $106,995 + fees New 2023 Logan Coach Trailers Bullseye 3 Horse LQ Horse Trailer The basics never looked better! The Bullseye LQ has all the features any horseman may need including upgraded features of Aluminum Whizproof with permanent Suregrip rubber flooring. Full width rear ramp and 12’ electric awning! VIN10464 $83,695 + fees We are a BLACK WIDOW ARENA DRAG DEALER HORSE & LIVESTOCK TRAILERS WWW.THETRAILERSPECIALIST.COM VISIT OUR WEBSITE FOR INVENTORY AND SPECIALS New 2023 Logan Coach 26’ GN Stockman Combo Horse Trailer! No matter how tough the job, the Stockman Combo helps you get it done. 7’ tall, 7’3” wide, 42” HD man doors with brush box on each door, 2 4-tier swing out saddle racks, 2 4-tier blanket racks and 12 bridle hooks & more. VIN12549 $46,495 + fees New 2023 Titan Avalanche-I 2-Horse Bumper Pull Trailer Water tank, spare tire, electric brakes, swing out saddle rack, 7’ inside height, tack organizer + more. Tough, durable and affordable! VIN92721 $14,500 + fees New 2024 4-Horse Lakota Charger LQ Horse Trailer! 8’ Wide/15’ LQ with ★★★BUNK BEDS!★★★ Rear side load package, dinette, recessed cooktop, hay pod, 3.6 generator with remote, elec/hyd disc brakes, dual 12k jack. Everything you need for the whole family + more. VIN00124 $128,995 + fees UTV NOW CARRYING THE THE ALL-ELECTRIC EXPEDITION VEHICLE FOR FARMERS, HUNTERS & THE BRAVE Senior Gold Card held the Clarence Ritchie Memorial and Finals on October 14th at Ritchie’s Arena in Visalia, Calif. Thank you to the Ritchie family for all their hard work putting on the Clarence Ritchie Memorial and the Senior Gold Card Finals. Thanks to Nuno Meneses for doing a great job flagging and Lori Meneses for all you do. Added money of $3,000 sponsored by the Ritchie family, Mike Kovac and Senior Gold Card. Sponsors for 2023 included: Oakdale: Christopher Britton, Coastal Seeds Inc., Compass Foods Inc. Madera: David Gill, Bar- Cattle Co./Jack Sparrowk, Jeff Ritchie Clovis: Clovis Rodeo Association, Earl Hall and Hall Ag, Kovac Equipment Livermore: Livermore Rodeo Association Ritchie’s Arena: Ritchie’s Arena, Jeff Ritchie, David Gill Salinas: Salinas Rodeo Committee, MY Chevrolet, Darrick Hoskins Paso Robles: Chris and Monique Hanneken, Monty Joe and Kathy Petska, David Gill, Earl Hall, Integrative Cancer Centers, Visalia Livestock Market, Madonna Inn, Clark Company, HP Evetts, Pam Wilken, MY Chevrolet/Darrick Hoskins Memorial: Jeff Ritchie, Kovac Equipment Finals: Jeff Ritchie, MY Chevrolet/Darrick Hoskins Payout is per man and amounts rounded down to the nearest dollar: OCTOBER 14 VISALIA, CALIF. OPEN 1st go: 1. Ron Darnell and Denny Watkins, 7.1, $294. 2. Derrek Hee and Todd Hampton, 7.6, $176. 3. Sean Pascoe and Carl Wilken, 8.0, $117. 2nd go: 1. Justin Spence and Mike George, 5.7, $294. 2. Scott Cowden and Paul Mullins, 6.5, $176. 3/4. Zane Denio and Tony Boggs; Blaine Lockett and Brent Lockett, 6.9, $58. Short go: 1. HP Evetts and Monty Joe Petska, 6.3, $180. 2. Derrek Hee and Todd Hampton, 6.5, $135. 3. Justin Spence and Mike George, 6.9, $90. 4/5. Darrick Hoskins and PK Kennedy; Ron Darnell and Denny Watkins, 7.5, $22. Open Average: 1. Ron Darnell and Denny Watkins, 22.7, $352 + buckles. 2. Derrek Hee and Todd Hampton, 22.8, $264. 3. Justin Spence and Mike George, 23.5, $176. 4. HP Evetts and Monty Joe Petska, 23.8, $88. INCENTIVE 1st go: 1. Ron Darnell and Denny Watkins, 7.1, $282. 2. Sean Pascoe and Carl Wilken, 8.0, $169. 3. HP Evetts and Monty Joe Petska, 8.8, $113. 2nd go: 1. Larry Branco and Cliff Garrison, 7.6, $282. 2. Ron Darnell and Denny Watkins, 8.1, $169. 3. HP Evetts and Monty Joe Petska, 8.7, $113. Incentive Average: 1. Ron Darnell and Denny Watkins, 15.2, $282. 2. HP Evetts and SENIOR GOLD CARD TEAM ROPING & FINALS Monty Joe Petska, 17.5, $160. 3. Joe Murray and Ron Garcia, 19.5, $113. SENIOR GOLD CARD FINALS RESULTS Added money $6,500 sponsored by Jeff Ritchie, Darrick Hoskins and Senior Gold Card. OPEN 1st go: 1. Zane Denio and Tony Boggs, 6.3, $369. 2. Darrick Hoskins and PK Kennedy, 7.3, $221. 3. Ron Darnell and Denny Watkins, 7.5, $148. 2nd go: 1. Blaine Lockett and Brent Lockett, 5.6, $369. 2. Derrek Hee and Todd Hampton, 6.6, $221. 3. Cody Cowden and Walt Rodman, 7.0, $148. 3rd go: 1. Justin Spence and Mike George, 5.4, $369. 2. Ron Darnell and Denny Watkins, 7.7, $221. 3/4. Sean Pascoe and Carl Wilken; Larry Branco and Cliff Garrison, 7.8, $74. Short go: 1. Hank Brown and Gary Ford, 6.5, $180. 2. Zane Denio and Tony Boggs, 7.3, $145. 3. Ron Darnell and Denny Watkins, 8.4, $90. 4. Derrek Hee and Todd Hampton, 8.5, $45. Open Average: 1. Ron Darnell and Denny Watkins, 30.8, $590 + spurs. 2. Cody Cowden and Walt Rodman, 33.7, $443. 3. Hank Brown and Gary Ford, 35.7, $295. 4. Jeff Ritchie and Frank Perez, 36.7, $148. INCENTIVE 1st go: 1. Ron Darnell and Denny Watkins, 7.5, $331. 2. HP Evetts and Monty Joe Petska, 8.2, $199. 3. Hank Brown and Gary Ford, 9.1, $132. 2nd go: 1. Ron Darnell and Denny Watkins, 7.2, $331. 2. HP Evetts and Monty Joe Petska, 8.6, $199. 3. Jeff Ritchie and Frank Perez, 9.2, $132. Incentive Average: 1. Ron Darnell and Denny Watkins, 22.4, $496. 2. HP Evetts and Monty Joe Petska, 25.6, $298. 3. Jeff Ritchie and Frank Perez, 27.2, $199.
PAGE 6 ROPERS SPORTS NEWS NOVEMBER-DECEMBER 2023 Paige Littrell and David Guerra were the winners of the #2 Cap Draw Pot. California ACTRA President JT Bradley presenting. WTRA president Donna Mahoney (r) presents Paige Littrell with an award as the high money winning WTRA member. 3. Max Loya and Walt Rodman, 28.11, $520. 4. Daren Lowry and Hunter Lowry, 32.36. 5. Trey Camarillo and Gary Ford, 35.69. SUPER 7 HDCP DOWN: 5 for $100 1st go: 1. JT Bradley and Gary Ford, 7.18, $550. 2. Willie Worley and Justin Vigil, 8.05, $350. 3. Ryan Fowler and Blake VanStavern, 8.07, $200. Short go: Joel P. Giordano and James Ferreira, 8.72, $100. Average: 1. Kaley Schorovsky and Allen Gill, 46.58, $1,850. 2. Jose Pantoja and Tucker Alexander, 46.92, $1,535. 3. Kaula’ili Gouveia and Pistol Bray, 48.47, $1,215. 4. Connor Highman and Trey Camarillo, 49.75, $900. 5. Lacy Hook and Dusty Bravos, 52.59, $575. 6. Alex Vigil and Tucker ACTRA California President JT Bradley presents awards to the dummy ropers at the Northern California National Finals Qualifier in Corning, Calif., Sept. 22-24. Northern California ACTRA... From Page 4 Alexander, 53.98, $320. #5.5 ROPING: 4 for $60 1st go: 1. Josh Scheiber and Ted Williams, 6.91, $300. 2. Kaula’ili Gouveia and Cowboy Hammons, 7.51, $220. 3. Levi Andrews and Luke Andrews, 7.80, $150. 4. Rich Bakke and Frank VanArtsdalen, 8.21, $60. Short go: Lacy Hook and Ronnye Garcia, 7.09, $100. Average: 1. Justin Burgess and Justin Stacy, 36.67, $1,260. 2. Colt Bray and Jeff Sparrowk, 37.71, $1,125. 3. Stacey Brooks and Gary Ford, 38.59, $1,000. 4. Travis Bentley and Dan Williams Sr., 39.94, $850. 5. Colt Bray and Hunter Lowry, 40.70, $730. 6. Daren Lowry and Frank VanArtsdalen, 40.72, $600. 7. Daren Lowry and Pete Williams, 41.38, $450. 8. Lacy Hook and Ronnye Garcia, 41.80, $330. 9. Hank Brown and Steve Mitchell, 42.44, $200. 10. Lacy Hook and Jeff J. Jones, 42.47, $70. SUNDAY, SEPT. 24 #4 PICK/DRAW: 4 for $60 1st go: 1. Jay T. Hart Jr. and Buck Baca, 8.15, $340. 2. Russell McGrew and Rodney McGrew, 8.57, $200. 3. Geoff Bitle and Levi Andrews, 8.86, $140. Short go: Shelby Stone and Pete Williams, 7.91, $100. Average: 1. Paige Littrell and Aaron Bean, 41.51, $1,300. 2. Jenni Teasley and Ronnye Garcia, 44.98, $1,170. 3. Nathan Wohld and Gary Darst, 45.79, $1,050. 4. Shelby Stone and Colt Bray, 48.69, $800. 5. Annie Ney and Buck Baca, 49.54, $620. 6. Shelby Stone and Pete Williams, 52.47, $480. 7. Becky Moore and Earl Robbins, 67.02, $370. 8. Jay T. Hart Jr. and Buck Baca, 26.65 on 3, $250. 9. Chad Nunnelee and Jason Snow, 32.96 on 3, $120. #3 PICK/DRAW: 4 for $60 1st go: 1. Travis Carmesin and Brady Smith, 8.63, $300. 2. Abel Bermudez and Jon Tucker, 8.70, $175. 3. Annie Ney and Dennis Nissen, 9.19, $110. Short go: Riley Bitle and Brett Lewis, 11.37, $100. Average: 1. Riley Bitle and Brett Lewis, 47.04, $1,200. 2. Blake Earley and Daniel Owen, 33.29, $1,050. 3. Annie Ney and Dennis Nissen, 34.68, $900. 4. Patrick Benedict and Clint Earley, 42.23, $740. 5. Becki Bean and Sophia Fowler, 46.77, $600. 6. Stephanie Andrews and Cliff Wilbanks, 47.66, $420. 7. John Griffin and Lori L. Nevis, 51.08, $270. 8. Abel Bermudez and Jon Tucker, 17.98 on 2, $100. The Ropers Sports News Staff would like to wish all of you a Safe and Wonderful Holiday Season. Look for your next issue of Ropers Sports News (January/February 2024) in the mail the week of January 15th.
NOVEMBER-DECEMBER 2023 ROPERS SPORTS NEWS PAGE 7 www.BenchmarkBuckles2.com Terri Campbell (775) 427-0898 Mention this ad and receive 20% OFF any item Merry Christmas from All Things Western Stop by our beautiful booth and get that someone special something special! Dec. 9th thru Dec. 17th at the South Point Hotel & Casino 9am - 6pm • Western Jewelry • Home Decor • Christmas Goodies Good luck to all contestants!
PAGE 8 ROPERS SPORTS NEWS NOVEMBER-DECEMBER 2023 Circle N Saddle Shop 12742 Avenue 240 • Tulare, CA 93274 Over 50 Years in Business with a Reputation of Being No-Nonsense And Having GREAT PRICES! Over 150 Saddles New & Used Martin • Circle Y • Cactus • Reinsman Scott Thomas • Alamo • ETS McCall • Sulphur River 5 Star & Best Ever Pads • Resistol Hats Wrangler Clothing • Smarty Products Heel-O-Matic Products • STS Ranchwear Jewelry & Gift Items (559) 686-4476 Ropes from: Classic • Rattler • Cactus • Fast Back • Rocky Mountain Circle N Stables Saddle Shop SoCal ACTRA Finals Qualifier Expands To Two Days FILLMORE, CALIF. – The Southern California ACTRA National Finals Qualifier was held September 8-9 at the Fillmore Roping Club. It was a two-day event for the first time this year. We kicked off the action with a great roping Friday night and had several ropers spend the night to continue the fun on Saturday. Our big winners of the weekend were Jamie and Jeff Fontes, who both took home a beautiful Scott Thomas saddle for being the high money winners over the two days. Second high money earners, winning Scott Thomas breast collars, were Jimmy Smith and Juan Jimenez. We also gave away beautiful Skyline/Vaquero buckles, Professional’s Choice storm blankets, Scott Thomas breast collars, Scott Thomas trophy halters, Yeti tumblers, and Wrangler gift cards. We thank our sponsors for helping us give away such great quality awards. The office ran smoothly thanks to Mac and Sadie Mullins. Jeff Fontes brought us good cattle for the weekend and everyone had a great time. We thank the Fillmore Roping Club for hosting our event. Results follow and payoffs are per man: FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 8 #5.5 HDCP: 4 for $50 1st go: 1. Ethan StrassburgCalifornia ACTRA President JT Bradley presents Skyline/Vaquero buckles to champions of the #5.5 Hdcp. roping on Friday, Shawn Howell and Jamie Fontes. Abilene Chavez and Brett VanStavern won the #4 Pick/Draw on Saturday. California ACTRA President JT Bradley presents their Skyline/Vaquero buckles, as well as Yeti Tumblers for their fast time. Jamie Fontes (r) and Jimmy L. Smith won the #5.5 Hdcp. Down Pick/Draw. JT Bradley presents their buckles. Karen Fontes and Jeff Fontes won the #6 Hdcp. California ACTRA President JT Bradley presents their buckles. er and Tim Boyle, 7.38, $240. 2. Jamie Fontes and Mike Fontes, 7.83, $160. Average: 1. Jamie Fontes and Shawn Howell, 38.23, $820. 2. Jamie Fontes and Jeff Fontes, 38.26, $630. 3. Juan Jimenez and Wayne Williams, 38.84, $440. 4. Roger Coons and Arturo Chavez, 44.16, $280. 5. Kevin Wright and Tanner Smith, 46.34, $160. SATURDAY, SEPT. 9 #4 PICK/DRAW: 3 for $50 1st go: 1. Abilene Chavez and Brett VanStavern, 6.13, $210. 2. Artemio Semder and Mark Bohannan, 7.17, $140. Average: 1. Abilene Chavez and Brett VanStavern, 25.85, $730. 2. Rebeccah Haller and Juan Jimenez, 31.61, $555. 3. Cort Huserik and Steve Hatcher, 31.80, $400. 4. Walt Scott and Steve Hatcher, 36.47, $250. 5. Karen Fontes and Steve Hatcher, 38.40, $150. #5.5 HDCP DOWN: 3 for Jamie Fontes (r) was the winner of the high money #2.5 & under saddle and Jeff Fontes won the #3 & over high money saddle. California ACTRA President JT Bradley presenting. Jimmy L. Smith (l) was reserve high point #3 & over roper, and Juan Jimenez was reserve high point #2.5 & under. California ACTRA president JT Bradley presenting. $50 1st go: 1. Jeff Mang and Luke Stamper, 6.69, $270. 2. Ralph Theising and Val Ericson, 7.55, $180. Average: 1. Jamie Fontes and Jimmy L. Smith, 25.63, $940. 2. Jamie Fontes and Juan Jimenez, 26.46, $720. 3. Rebeccah Haller and Tony Lee Boggs, 27.24, $500. 4. Regina Christensen and Jeff Fontes, 28.25, $320. 5. Rebeccah Haller and Richard Haller 29.37, $190. #6 HDCP: 4 for $50 1st go: 1. Preston Burgess and Todd Hampton, 5.65, $255. 2. Preston Burgess and Jason Sanders, 5.91, $170. Average: 1. Karen Fontes and Jeff Fontes, 32.06, $1,000. 2. Mike Redfeairn and Paul Mullins, 32.82, $725. 3. Jeff Mang and Rob Donlon, 33.48, $475. 4. Zane Denio and Todd Hampton, 34.16, $235.
NOVEMBER-DECEMBER 2023 ROPERS SPORTS NEWS PAGE 9 Safe & Easy To Use! Contact Jim Yarbrough (559) 875-8548 3385 N. Academy Ave. • Sanger, CA 93657 US Patent 6775965B2 Roper’s Quick Release #13.5 WS Qualifier winners Todd York and Tyler Friday. #12.5 WS Qualifier winners Toby Gordon and Tyler Friday. Todd York and Carl Wilken won the #11.5 WS Qualifier. PCS Holds Both WSTR And USTRC Qualifier Ropings SANGER, CALIF. – Pacific Coast Shootouts produced a World Series of Team Roping Qualifier September 9-10 at S Bar J Arena in Sanger. Eight WSTR qualifiers as well as three USTRC ropings were held over Saturday and Sunday. Results of the roping follow with payoffs per team: SAT., SEPT. 9 #9.5 WS QUALIFIER Fast time short go: Keith Blevins and Earl Robbins, 17.37, $1,000. Average: 1. Billy Aviles and Connor Nighman, 41.44, $8,820. 2. Doug Parker and Casey Loverin, 43.56, $6,150. 3. Lee Loverin and Casey Loverin, 47.09, $4,540. 4. Mike Miranda and BJ Kelley, 52.89, $3,210. 5. Ramon Padilla and Rick Rader, 53.84, $2,400. 6. jeff Adney and Earl Robbins, 57.49, $1,600. #8.5 WS QUALIFIER Fast time short go: Mike Kenney and Julie Pascoe, 10.23, $1,000. Average: 1. Abby Mitchell and Steve Mitchell, 42.79, $10,390. 2. Bart Bonfantini and Tel Jones, 47.88, $7,270. 3. Gary Vieira and Clay Horton, #10.5 WS Qualifier winners Nick Paboojian and Davis Grupe. #9.5 WS Qualifier winners Billy Aviles and Connor Nighman. #8.5 WS Qualifier winners Abby Mitchell and Steve Mitchell. #7 WS Qualifier winners Thelma Cardoza and Philip Pipkin. 56.82, $5,540. 4. Mike Kenney and Julie Pascoe, 57.38, $4,160. 5. Mark W. Harris and Wendy Frazier, 58.52, $3,120. 6. Nick Paboojian and Bob O’Brien, 59.27, $2,430. 7. AJ Moreno and Pat Kirby, 30.54, $1,730. #7 WS QUALIFIER Fast time short go: Thelma Cardoza and Philip Pipkin, 15.85, $300. Average: 1. Thelma Cardoza and Philip Pipkin, 56.17, $7,470. 2. Ted Pardick and Johnny Miller, 58.6, $5,200. 3. Lee Loverin and Jolie Thurston, 59.01, $3,840. 4. Alex Cook and Rusty Green, 65.09, $2,710. 5. Lane Bensko and Will Jones, 36.21, $2,040. 6. Sergio Rangel and Cris Robles, 46.54, $1,360. #9.5 USTRC Fast time short go: Daniel Alviso and Will Jones, 8.01, $200. Average: 1. Karen Dias and Adrian Macias, 42.27, $2,050. 2. Richie Gonzales and Carlos Martinez, 44.46, $1,540. 3. Daniel Alviso and Will Jones, 45.81, $1,030. 4. Karen Dias and Kevin Dias, 48.63, $510. #6 USTRC Fast time short go: Joey Sanchez and Bobby Linn, 12.06, $200. Average: 1. Cuatro Sanchez and Wendy Frazier, 36.15, $1,240. 2. Joey Sanchez and Bobby Linn, 44.99, $750. 3. Jon Kaye and Cristie Jones, 49.5, $500. SUNDAY, SEPT. 10 #11.5 USTRC Fast time short go: Todd York and Tim Gaither, 8.25, $200. Average: 1. Gavin Cardoza and Adrian Macias, 34.18, $1,500. 2. Karen Dias and Kevin Dias, 34.82, $1,130. 3. Todd York and Carl Wilken, 36.18, $750. 4. HP Evetts and Trey Camarillo, 37.4, $380. #10.5 WS QUALIFIER Fast time short go: Ben L. McGuire and Kevin Pascoe, 6.01, $300. Average: 1. Nick Paboojian and Davis Grupe, 38.02, $5,310. 1. Chris Perry and BJ Kelley, 39.2, $3,800. 3. Jamie Anthony and Justin Vigil, 40.75, $2,880. 4. Daniel Velazquez and Tim Gaither, 40.88, $2,130. 5. Juan Ramirez and Adrian Macias, 41.52, $1,060. #11.5 WS QUALIFIER Fast time short go: Alex Vigil and Blair Wheatley, 6.82, $300. Average: 1. Todd York and Carl Wilken, 31.67, $4,200. 2. Chris Perry and Carl Wilken, 33.46, $3,150. 3. Donald Ornellas and Kevin Dias, 34.49, $2,100. 4. Connor Nighman and Trey Camarillo, 34.84, $1,050. #12.5 WS QUALIFIER Fast time short go: McKenna Wood and Walt Rodman, 8.86, $300. Average: 1. Toby Gordon and Tyler Friday, 33.32, $2,490. 2. CR Scott and Justin Sorensen, 35.55, $1,490. 3. Karen Dias and Frank Perez, 36.92, $1,000. #13.5 WS QUALIFIER Fast time short go: Toby Gordon and Todd Hampton, 13.41, $300. Average: 1. Todd York and Tyler Friday, 38.62, $1,400. 2. Todd York and Walt Rodman, 39.73, $940.
PAGE 10 ROPERS SPORTS NEWS NOVEMBER-DECEMBER 2023 SATURDAY - SUNDAY: NOVEMBER 18-19, NOVEMBER 25-26 McGRADY LIVESTOCK ARENA Hollister, CA 650 Comstock Rd., 95023 Weather Permitting • All Ropings Same Each Day • SU 9am, Rope at 10am All ropings: (2) #8 Hdcp ...........2 for $20 Pick 1, Draw 1 or Draw All 35% Cattle Charge (except Nov. 13) ACTRA Qualifiers Must Be ACTRA Member To Rope Memberships Available The Day Of The Roping For information contact Larry McGrady, (408) 655-4744 Stacie McGrady, (831) 455-5098 THANKSGIVING ROPING THURSDAY, NOV. 23RD Winning the #11.5 MegaBucks roping were Dean Drosos and Clayton Williams. #10.5 MegaBucks winners were Josh Whipple and Spencer K. Whipple. #7.5 Buckle Up winners were Branden Locke and Betsy Ward. Second through fourth place also received buckles. NTR Arizona Kick-Off Held At Rancho Rio In Wickenburg WICKENBURG, ARIZONA – And we’re off! Welcome to the 2023-2024 Arizona roping season. Thank you to everyone who came out to the NTR Arizona Kick-Off October 21 (despite the record-setting heat) to kick things off at Rancho Rio. We’re so excited to be back in the ’Burg! Congratulations to John Alps who picked up $5,000 guaranteed cash in the #9.5 with a little help from the Legend himself, Earl Higgins. Dally Peterson and Cade Hubbell took home $3,060 and trophy saddles in the #8.5, while Ace and Towel Peterson topped the average in the #9.5. Shout-out to all of our champions. Results of the ropings follow with payoffs per team: OCTOBER 21 #11.5 MEGABUCKS Fast time short go, 1st not placing in average: Clint Craig and Chad S. Turner, 9.78, $200. Average: 1. Dean Drosos and Clayton Williams, 36.81, $2,360. 2. David Lackey and Kip Hunter, 37.97, $1,400. 3. Jhett Judd and Trey Gargis, 41.06, $940. #10.5 MEGABUCKS Fast time short go, 1st not placing in average: John Alps and Brian Arave, 7.83, $200. #8.5 saddle winners were Dally Peterson and Cade Hubbell. John Alps shows off the $5,000 he won as high point roper in the #9.5 Arizona 5000 roping. Rising Stars dummy roping winners: 9-12 years, Jesse White; 6-8 years, Kylan White; 5 & under, Riggin Judd. Average: 1. Josh Whipple and Spencer K. Whipple, 38.27, $2,800. 2. Robin Gasser and Clyde Gasser, 41.52, $1,680. 3. Katie Green and Carlos Aranda, 41.76, $1,130. #9.5 AZ 5000 $5,000 winner, John Alps; VIP winner, Ace Peterson Fast time short go, 1st not placing in average: Julio Cesar Talamantes and Alonso Ramirez, 8.41, $300. Average: 1. Ace Peterson and Rowel Peterson, 26.57, $4,060. 2. Kenny Law and Dale Lackey, 29.58, $2,700. 3. John Alps and Earl Higgins, 29.64, $2,100. 4. Branden Locke and Austin Vigil, 29.76, $1,480. 5. Bart Judd and Justin Judd, 30.48, $1,100. 6. John Alps and Aaron Fisher, 31.01, $860. #8.5 AZ KICKOFF Fast time short go, 1st not placing in average: Monty Lira and Paul Rosson, 11.66, $300. Average: 1. Dally Peterson and Cade Hubbell, 25.59, $3,060 + saddles. 2. Buster Hynes and Troy A. Clark, 27.57, $2,040. 3. Kelsey Pugmire and Justin Judd, 34.34, $1,600. 4. Cole Hubbell and Ron Pittman, 35.06, $1,200. 5. Ty Gibson and Jeff Lira, 36.29, $600. #7.5 BUCKLE UP Average: 1. Branden Locke and Betsy Ward, 22.15, $2,020 + buckles. 2. Chase Middleton and Cesar Villalobos, 22.95, $1,520 + buckles. 3. Nicole Zuelke and Troy A. Clark, 23.37, $1,000 + buckles. 4. Bert Franco and Troy A. Clark, 23.56, $500 + buckles. RISING STARS 5 & under, Riggin Judd; 6-8 division, Kylan White; 9-12 division, Jesse White, all received buckles.
NOVEMBER-DECEMBER 2023 ROPERS SPORTS NEWS PAGE 11
PAGE 12 ROPERS SPORTS NEWS NOVEMBER-DECEMBER 2023 Jeff Moore, PRCA Gold Card Life Member Sept. 14, 1937 - Aug. 31, 2023 Imperial Valley (CA) Press Geoffrey (Jeff) Allan Moore was born in Los Angeles on September 14, 1937, to Dr. Clare and Evelyn Moore and grew up in Alhambra, Calif. He graduated from Alhambra High School in 1955, then went on to earn his college degree from University of California, Davis, graduating in 1960. After college graduation and serving in the Army and National Guard, a livestock supply salesman job brought him to El Centro in 1962. Jeff went on to manage a feedyard, followed by a position buying and selling cattle which then became his life’s career. In 1965, he married Joanie Goss and they embarked on a happy life together, recently celebrating their 58th anniversary. Together, they had one child, Jennifer, of whom they were so very proud. He was just as happy when son-in-law, Frank Van Der Linden joined the family and of course, he loved and adored his grandchildren, Lexi and Luke. Jeff and Joanie were honored to become extended members of the Van Der Linden family. Jeff and Joanie established their own livestock business, Moore Livestock Company, in 1972. Jeff was smart, ambitious and determined and their business thrived. They were a team in their business and daily lives and were very seldom apart. Jeff loved to team rope and enjoyed many years roping in his arena with local cowboys. He was always willing to help young cowboys get their team roping start. Out-oftown friends knew they were always welcome to stay at their home and ranch on the way to or from a rodeo or roping. He always had a good herd of corriente roping steers and a great arena for practicing. Jeff, Joanie and Jennifer spent many years traveling to rodeos, team roping events and barrel races and he was always proud of their good horses. Jeff enjoyed sharing his National Finals Rodeo tickets with friends and family every year since 1985 and that tradition continues today. In 2022, Jeff and Joanie did not attend the rodeo in person for the first time but enjoyed watching every performance on TV. Jeff’s other hobbies throughout the years were golf, hunting, boats and cars. He enjoyed watching Chargers Football, San Diego Padres and golf matches on TV. He was known for having owned many cool pickups and various custom street rods including the loud and fast purple 1933 Ford hot rod which could be heard approaching from blocks away. Many of his younger friends thought he was the “coolest old guy around.” He served on the California Mid-Winter Fair Board for 15 years, was a member of the Stockmen’s Club, Del Rio Country Club and Sunrunners Car Club. He was proud to be a Gold Card life member of the Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association (PRCA). He was a familiar face for many years at the California Mid-Winter Fair large animal weigh-ins. He is survived by his wife, Joanie; daughter and son-inlaw, Jennifer and Frank Van Der Linden; grandchildren, Lexi and Luke Van Der Linden; sister Donna’s long-time companion, Henry Chavez; brotherin-law and sister-in-law, Joe and Channie Heimer; sisterin-law, Bonnie Slack; nephew, Mike Atkinson; and nieces, Jill Atkinson and Lisa French. And his beloved dog, Daisy Mae. He was preceded in death by his parents; sister, Donna AtJeff Moore kinson; and father-in-law and mother-in-law, Johnnie and Virginia Goss. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Justin Cowboy Crisis Fund, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, Pioneers Memorial Hospital or the Humane Society of Imperial County. The family wishes to thank Heart and Hand and Accent Care Hospice for their compassionate care; Jeff’s long-time doctor George Maloof MD; and Pioneers Memorial Hospital ED and Scripps ED staff for their care during the past few years. A celebration of life was held on September 22 at the Stockmen’s Club in Brawley. Wally Evans Santa Cruz Sentinel APTOS, CALIF. – Wallace Eugene Evans was born August 9, 1933 and died August 27, 2023. Wally grew up in Aptos, California, the oldest son of Charles Rodley Evans and Georgie Mae Evans. He had one sibling, younger brother Claude Richard Evans. Wally attended Santa Cruz High School, graduating in 1951. He went on to take classes at Cal Poly and University of Texas, before joining the Air Force. Returning to Santa Cruz County, he married Dona Suzanne Cox (Suzie) August 18, 1957. They had three children: Craig Rodley Evans, Dana Lynn Evans, and Todd Garner Evans. Wally worked for Granite Rock for over 20 years, rising through the ranks from truck driver to executive. He bought Valley Feed in Watsonville in 1976, and ran the feed store until he sold it in 2017. An avid horseman, Wally was particularly passionate about team roping, and horse packing (as well as fishing) in the Sierras. He owned many beloved horses over the years, and won numerous team roping buckles and saddles, including at the Santa Cruz County Fair and the Salinas Rodeo. One of his most memorable moments occurred at the 1997 Salinas Rodeo, when he Wallace Eugene Evans and his local partner defeated several well known professional rodeo cowboys to win the Gold Card Championship Team Roping event. Wally is preceded in death by his youngest son Todd in December 2008, his beloved Suzie in January 2021 and his younger brother Claude in November 2021. He is survived by his son, Craig Evans, a Santa Cruz County veterinarian, and his daughter, Dana Dentice, an auto loan consultant, as well as his grandchildren—Nicholas Rodley Evans, Kiersten Lynn Evans, Casey Ryan Evans, and Peter Joseph Dentice. There were no services as was his wish. His ashes will be scattered around several of his favorite spots. In lieu of flowers the family requests donations be made to the Santa Cruz County Fair or the National Park Service. OBITUARIES Rick Rosaschi Loses Cancer Battle Sept. 8, 1954 – October 1, 2023 “The journey is the reward,” and what a journey it has been. On October 1, 2023, Richard (Rick) Woodrow Rosaschi with his loving wife by his side; along with numerous close friends and family, lost his battle with cancer. There are no words to describe this amazing man. He was a true leader, inspiring and motivating to all those he met. He was always willing to go above and beyond to help others achieve their goals. He built trust and above all, led by example. Rick was born in Auburn, California, to Woodrow and Mary Rosaschi. He grew up riding, roping and rodeoing. In 1998 he moved to Texas to follow his life-long dream as a horse trainer in the Quarter Horse industry. His many accomplishments include: (2) AQHA World Championship titles, (2) AQHA World Championship Reserve titles, numerous Top 10 Finalist awards, and the accumulation of over 10,000 AQHA Points. In 1999, he won (2) AQHA World Championship Reserve titles in Heading and Heeling, which led to winning the AQHA Super Horse Award for Look Whos Larkin. He was a professional horseman for well over 20 years and was recently inducted into the American Rope Horse Futurity Hall of Fame – a title well deserved. Rick embraced each day and each ride and expected only the best. He was grateful for every day that he was able to do what he truly loved. Rick leaves behind the love of his life, Lynda, numerous family members, and countless friends. He loved and had a true soft spot for children and animals. Although he never had children of his own, through marriage, he accumulated his share of children and grandchildren. He will be truly missed by all who knew and loved him. We will never forget you, Rick! Rick Rosaschi on AQHA Super Horse Look Whos Larkin. Fred O’Dell 1928-2023 SHANDON, CALIF. – As some of you already know my amazing, funny, loving, talented Dad passed away at age 95. Fred lived a very full life. From his humble beginnings born in Centralia, Oklahoma, to his life in California rodeoing, team roping and working in the motion picture industry. He was a great man, a great father, husband, grandfather and great grandfather. He served in the Navy. He was at one time captain of the Sheriff’s posse. He worked as a wrangler in the motion picture industry for decades and retired from that at age 65. He was a horse trainer, a team roper, and a ranch manager. He spent his last years of his life living in Shandon, California. He was still riding and training colts up until just a few years ago. He was amazing! He loved his friends and has outlived most of them. So, Fred O’Dell Momma (Vernice) and his closest friends Gene O’Brien, Dick Wells, Phil Rawlins, Emery Kauzlarich and Jim Jones and so many others that he cherished that have gone before him – please have fun in heaven with my Daddy and take good care of him for us who are left behind without him. We love you with all our hearts! I will never stop missing you!
NOVEMBER-DECEMBER 2023 ROPERS SPORTS NEWS PAGE 13 Dakota Kirchenschlager DK Performance Horses NFQ Qualifier #QualityToTheCore fastbackropes.com The ultimate weapon JAMIE ARVISO PHOTO 4 x 8.75” for March 2023 For more information, or to see the Speed Trainer in action, visit speedroping.com. For ordering information call: Developed by 8-Time Consecutive World Champion Team Roper, Speed Williams The Speed Trainer can help: • Improve balance and horsemanship • Learn to rope quicker • Dally better • Isolate and correct mistakes • Work with your horse for ` smoother and quicker runs 888-908-9047 2 x 4.3” Sept-Oct 2023 appealing for businesses to sponsor some of these girls because they are poised and able to give good interviews and have interesting conversations. We’re going to work on healing Hali’s foot so she can practice and get ready for her first NFR. I have been using the Speed Trainer a lot with both kids to work on some of their weaknesses before we ever get on our horses. It’s invaluable for isolating and addressing problems with roping and/or riding. I don’t think my kids would be as far along as they are if we had not had the Speed Trainer. I’m not sure how much time we’ll spend in Arizona going to jackpots this year. I’ve been heeling a lot and Gabe has been working on his heading. It’s very tough for him to win heeling when the top 15 are home and going to local jackpots and rodeos. I’ve tried to explain to him about keeping his money together and taking some time to work on his heading. We are doing much better and starting to turn the corner of getting out, catching, and handling steers. For a long time, he had the same mentality as my father… “he was loose when I caught him.” Teaching my son to head was a challenge in the beginning, but it’s starting to be fun getting into the intense part of heading. I’ve been heeling for some of my clients and getting some checks. This heeling is a lot less work than heading. Breaking It Down with Speed Williams We’re Headed To Las Vegas For The NFR Well… it’s that time of year. Hali is getting ready for the Breakaway National Finals. The other day she was unloading one of her horses when he stepped on her right foot, breaking a bone. In all the years I went to the NFR, I can’t tell you how many times I was injured in October or November. In 1999 and 1998, it was from playing basketball. I’m not that good of a player, but I enjoyed the exercise and the mental part of the game. However, from 2000 on, my wife said there would be no basketball played in October and November. She spent many hours doctoring my shoulder and back and actually threatened to take the tractor and bulldoze the basketball court if I was caught playing. I told Hali we just need to figure out a way for her to practice. Fortunately, we have a very good physical therapy guy, Brad Bettis, in DeLeon, Texas. Since she’s been injured, she competed at the circuit finals and the World’s Richest Breakaway roping and didn’t rope her best. But after getting her air boot operational she was excited and felt like she could make it work. Making her first National Finals Rodeo is a major milestone. Rodeo Houston really changed the landscape of her roping and career. The interview she gave at that rodeo played an important role in adding sponsors and helping her realize her dream. Though she led the standings most of the year after Houston, she didn’t have a good summer. Shelby Boisjoli had an unbelievable summer winning $25,000 and was able to win Sioux Falls. Now Hali is going into the Finals in second place, $18,000 behind first. I told her, “If I had told you at the beginning of the year you would have close to $150,000 won and a chance to fight for the title when you got to Vegas, would you be happy? You still have a chance but you’re going to have to roll the dice.” For me, mentally it’s less stressful to come in at second than to go in at the lead for your first world title. She’s had a phenomenal year and there’s a lot we’re working on with her roping, riding, and getting more horses. I really feel like the Breakaway world has the opportunity to explode like no other event in rodeo. When you go to the 15 & Under, and 12 & Under jackpots there are girls from all over the country who are very competitive and riding nice horses. The opportunities in front of these young ladies are exciting. It’s also very
PAGE 14 ROPERS SPORTS NEWS NOVEMBER-DECEMBER 2023 Bring On The Bright Lights Of Vegas 2023 NFR Worth A Record $11.5 Million By Lane Karney The lights are set to shine a little bit brighter at this year’s Wrangler National Finals Rodeo presented by Teton Ridge, which will run December 7-16 at the Thomas & Mack Center in Las Vegas. In addition to the guaranteed $10,000 shelled out to every contestant upon arrival, they will also be vying for their share of a record-breaking, shiny, new $11.5 million payoff. Relative to last year’s payout, when the rounds paid $28,914 and the average was worth $74,150 per man, each go-round will this year pay $30,706 a man, with $78,747 apiece to the winners of the all-coveted 10-head average. More money means more drama in the quest for the gold buckles. As the Top 15 headers and heelers in the world strap in, here’s some insight on the brink of the most exciting 10 days in the business. For the second straight season, Kaleb Driggers leads the charge of headers into Vegas with $160,144 won on the year. Though the regular-season title may not be as glorious as strapping on the gold buckle at TEAM ROPING (Payoffs Are Per Roper) 10 Go-Rounds 1st. . . . . . .$30,706 2nd. . . . . . .$24,268 3rd. . . . . . .$18,325 4th.. . . . . . .$12,877 5th. . . . . . . .$7,924 6th.. . . . . . . .$4,953 Each Go-Round: $99,053 Average 1st. . . . . . . . $78,747 2nd. . . . . . . . $63,889 3rd. . . . . . . . $50,517 4th.. . . . . . . . $37,145 5th. . . . . . . . $26,744 6th.. . . . . . . . $19,315 7th. . . . . . . . $13,372 8th.. . . . . . . . . $7,429 Average: $297,158 2023 WRANGLER NATIONAL FINALS RODEO TEAM ROPING PAIRINGS Luke Brown/Hunter Koch Jake Clay/Tyler Worley Marcus Theriot/Cole Curry Clay Smith/Paden Bray Clint Summer/Jake Long Andrew Ward/Buddy Hawkins II Tanner Tomlinson/Patrick Smith Erich Rogers/Paul Eaves Rhen Richard/Jeremy Buhler Coleman Proctor/Logan Medlin Dustin Egusquiza/Levi Lord Nelson Wyatt/Jonathan Torres Derrick Begay/Colter Todd Kaleb Driggers/Junior Nogueira Tyler Wade/Wesley Thorp year’s end, it might be just as fulfilling to those who accomplish the feat. It says a lot to be standing on top of the mountain at the end of a 75-rodeo-count season under all possible conditions. While Driggers, who has won the last two world titles with Junior Nogueira, is once again the heading leader coming in, this is the tightest the team roping standings have been prior to the NFR in recent memory. The No. 15 header, Luke Brown, is just $62,392 behind Driggers. That’s less than what the average will pay, and the sidenote kicker is this— Brown is a three-time NFR average champion. On the heeling side, Wesley Thorp, who roped with Tyler Wade for most of the year, will ride into the Thomas & Mack ranked No. 1. This is Thorp’s eighth consecutive NFR, and the 2019 world champion and NFR average champ enters the NFR with $172,152 won in the regular season. “The feeling of winning the regular season hasn’t quite sunk in yet. It’s something that I always looked up to since I first started rodeoing. To be able to come out on top against the competition there is today is definitely something I don’t take for granted,” said Thorp, who edged out six-time regularseason-leading heeler Nogueira by a little over $12 grand. Thorp and Wade will do NFR battle for the first time together, and are looking forward to it. “My partnership with T Wade has been great. We think similarly and get along great. We’ve been taking turns traveling to each other’s houses a couple days a week to build our run for Vegas. We have been riding the better end of our horses, and running 15 to 20 quality practice steers in the NFR set-up. The remainder of our sessions will be more jackpot style to work on our fundamentals,” said Thorp, who will make a game-time decision on which horse to ride at Rodeo’s Super Bowl. He’ll decide between his 9-year-old sorrel Juice and his 14-year-old faithful black, Ray Jay. “I feel it’s a good problem to have, because I’m confident in both. I just have more experience on Ray Jay, but I feel as if Juice is very close to earning his spot.” There are three men with five gold buckles between them on the head side, with Driggers being the two-time and reigning champ. Erich Rogers won the world in 2017, and Clay Smith has a pair of gold buckles from 2018 and 2019. Luke Brown, the oldest team roper in the bunch at 49, has been to more NFRs than any other header in the field, and those three NFR average wins are the most of any header who will rope at NFR ’23. After 13 consecutive trips to the Finals from 2008 to 2020, Brown is back after a two-year hiatus. He will rope with young-gun Hunter Koch. Brown’s three NFR average titles and 14 NFR qualifications tie him for the most in both categories with Patrick Smith. Smith is undeniably the most veteran of the heelers at the age of 43, and with those 14 back numbers, three average buckles and a pair of gold buckles dated 2005 and 2010 has won and done it all. Fellow return heeling world champions are Jeremy Buhler (2016), Paul Eaves (2018 and 2020), Thorp and Nogueira, who also sports the all-around world championship from 2016. Don’t forget, it was last year when Smith returned to the NFR with rising superstar and Finals freshman Tanner Tomlinson after a seven-year abSee BRIGHT LIGHTS OF VEGAS On Page 16 Kaleb Driggers has won back-to-back team roping heading world championships. – PRCA ProRodeo Photo by Click Thompson Luke Brown will rope at his 14th NFR in 2023, at the age of 49. – PRCA ProRodeo Photo by Clay Guardipee Wesley Thorp, the 2019 world champion and NFR average champion, enters the NFR as the No. 1 heeler in the world. – PRCA ProRodeo Photo by Phil Doyle
roperssportsnews.comRkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy Mjk2Mjk=