Final Roster Set: Meet the 2024 NFR Team Roping Qualifiers
It’s Over: These 15 Headers and Heelers Qualified for the 2024 NFR
In the dusty arenas of PRCA rodeos, the final battles of the season play out under glaring lights and bated breaths. This year, the drama culminated in San Bernardino, where the echoes of charging hooves marked the last dance of the regular season and solidified the lineup for the 2024 National Finals Rodeo in Las Vegas. Among those securing their tickets were two of rodeo’s finest, Paul Eaves and Erich Rogers, showcasing their grit in a performance that clinched Eaves his 11th Finals appearance.
On a balmy Sunday night, September 29, amidst the charged atmosphere of San Bernardino’s Sheriff’s PRCA Rodeo, the stakes couldn’t be higher. With the header positions already decided, all eyes were on the heelers as Paul Eaves entered the arena. The two-time World Champion had a slim $80 lead over his close friend and teammate, Colter Todd, the reigning NFR average champion. With both ropers hungry for a spot at the Finals, the tension was palpable.
Eaves, partnered with Erich Rogers, was among the first to perform. The duo exhibited a calm precision that has defined their careers, laying down a smooth 5.0-second run that not only won them $3,763 but also set a new standard in the arena. Their flawless execution under pressure was a reminder of their seasoned partnership and tactical prowess.
Following them were Derrick Begay and Colter Todd, a duo that had shown promise throughout the season. However, fate had a different plan that evening. In a twist of misfortune, Todd missed his catch, resulting in a no-time that dashed their hopes for a spot at the Las Vegas showdown. This turn of events ensured that Begay would be heading to the Finals with another teammate, presumably Florida heeler Jonathan Torres, whose regular partner, Nelson Wyatt, just missed the cut, finishing 16th.
As the dust settled, the final list of qualifiers was a testament to a season of fierce competition and dramatic finishes. Heading to the 2024 NFR as headers are:
- Dustin Egusquiza
- Tyler Wade
- Kaleb Driggers
- Coleman Proctor
- Clint Summers
- Andrew Ward
- Jake Smith
- Brenten Hall
- JC Yeahquo
- Luke Brown
- Clay Smith
- Cyle Denison
- Cody Snow
- Derrick Begay
- Erich Rogers
Joining them in the heelers’ lineup are:
- Levi Lord
- Wesley Thorp
- Junior Nogueira
- Jake Long
- Logan Medlin
- Douglas Rich
- Kaden Profili
- Kollin VonAhn
- Tanner Braden
- Coleby Payne
- Jonathan Torres
- Buddy Hawkins
- Travis Graves
- Hunter Koch
- Paul Eaves
The road to Las Vegas is paved with the grit, sweat, and dreams of rodeo’s finest. As they prepare for the grandest stage in rodeo, each contestant carries not just the hopes of a championship but the spirit of a sport that continues to captivate and challenge its bravest hearts.
