The historic Red Bluff Round-Up continued its storied tradition this April, showcasing elite talent across the rodeo spectrum. Known as “America’s Largest Three-Day Rodeo,” the event has occupied its traditional late April slot on the schedule since 1926, evolving from its two-day format to a three-day spectacle in 1966. With an economic impact estimated at more than $5 million annually, the entire town transformed during rodeo week with trail rides, business decorating contests, pancake breakfasts, and numerous community activities celebrating the Western lifestyle.
In the all-around competition, Cody Stewart claimed top honors with $11,028 in earnings from the tie-down roping and team roping events. The bareback riding saw Jayco Roper deliver a masterful 90-point ride on Rosser Rodeo’s Right On Q to secure the championship and $8,178, followed by Cooper Cooke (87.5 points, $6,270), R.C. Landingham (87 points, $4,634), and Jess Pope (86 points, $2,999).
The steer wrestling competition showcased Dakota Eldridge’s remarkable consistency, as he captured the average title with a four-head time of 21.9 seconds, earning $4,614. Landon Beardsworth placed second with 22.5 seconds ($4,012), while Eli Lord took third with 22.8 seconds ($3,410). In the saddle bronc riding, Brody Wells delivered an electrifying 88-point performance on Four Star Rodeo’s Franks Fit, collecting $7,840 for his efforts. Lefty Holman finished second with 87 points ($6,010), followed by Wyatt Casper with 86.5 points ($4,442).
The team roping championship went to the veteran duo of Riley Minor and Brady Minor, who demonstrated exceptional teamwork with a four-head average time of 30.5 seconds, earning $4,631 each. Dan Williams Jr. and Cody Stewart finished second with 31.9 seconds ($4,027 each). In tie-down roping, Chase Webster claimed victory with a four-head average of 40.3 seconds ($4,916), narrowly edging Tom Crouse’s 40.6 seconds ($4,275).
The women’s barrel racing saw LaTricia Duke emerge victorious with a two-head average of 34.94 seconds ($3,347), while Hailey Garrison placed second with 35.18 seconds ($2,869). Kellie Jorgensen and former world champion Hailey Kinsel tied for third with identical times of 35.20 seconds ($2,231 each). The bull riding event delivered perhaps the most electric moment of the weekend when Wacey Schalla conquered Big Stone Rodeo Inc’s Cherry Bomb for a remarkable 91 points and $7,783, with Lane Vaughan taking second place with 88.5 points ($5,967).
With its unique traditions like the Wild Ride—featuring costumed roughstock cowboys judged not only for their rides but for their creativity—the Red Bluff Round-Up continues to hold a special place in rodeo culture. Drawing from its rich history dating back to 1921 when it became Northern California’s first rodeo to join the Cowboys’ Turtle Association (a precursor to today’s Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association), the event has overcome numerous historical challenges to maintain its position as one of the sport’s signature events.
