WPRA Stars Shine at South Point Annual Awards Luncheon
By Dee Yates
Photos by Kenneth Springer
The spirit of rodeo filled the South Point Hotel and Casino’s grand ballroom on December 5th, as the Women’s Professional Rodeo Association gathered for their annual Star Celebration luncheon. The afternoon showcased 76 years of western heritage, celebrating the dedication and determination that keeps our sport thriving. From committee members to competitors, the room buzzed with the pride of those who’ve shaped professional rodeo into what it is today.

Kicking off with Cindy Rosser: a cornerstone of the WPRA since 1969, accepted the Mildred Farris Secretary of the Year Award. Her journey from California Circuit Barrel Racing champion to ProRodeo Hall of Fame inductee embodies the grit and determination that defines our sport.

The afternoon’s celebration continued on with Garrett Yerigan earning Announcer of the Year and Four Star Rodeo Co.’s Jeff Davis taking Stock Contractor honors. Scott Fogg’s steady hand was recognized as Pro Official of the Year. Rodeo Austin made history as the first Mega Rodeo of the Year winner, while Price County Rodeo (WI), Jerome County Fair and Rodeo (ID), and Killdeer Mountain Roundup Rodeo (ND) earned top honors in their respective divisions. Gail Woerner received the Lenora Reimers Heritage Award for preserving our barrel racing history, while the Flynn Family – Lynn, Denny, and Ari-Anna – accepted the Lifetime Family Heritage Award, representing three generations of rodeo excellence.

Additional honorees included:
– Corporate Partner: Tito’s Handmade Vodka
– Media Award: Justin McKee
– Outstanding Service: John Gwatney
– Distinguished Partnership: 4M Equine Ranch
– Committee Partner: Spanish Fork Fiesta Days
– Breakaway Trailblazer: Fallon County Fair & Rodeo
– Innovative Media: Miles McNarland
– Innovative Rodeo: Calgary Stampede