WNFR News
Bucking stock of the Wrangler NFR
Date: 12/12/2011
For the second time in three years, Frontier Rodeo''s Delta Ship was named the Wrangler NFR Bareback Horse of the Year, wrapping up a remarkable year of achievement for the Winnie, Texas-based stock contractors. Frontier had the PRCA Bareback Horse of the Year (Full Baggage) and PRCA Saddle Bronc Horse of the Year (Medicine Woman) this year, the first time one company had swept those two awards.
Round 9 news and notes
Date: 12/9/2011
The opening act tonight is singer, guitarist and fiddler Charlie Daniels and the national anthem will be performed by Terry Fator. The performance sponsor is Ram Trucks. Bareback rider Brian Bain will sit out at least one more round of competition tonight, the result of dislocating his right shoulder during Round 7 Wednesday. He underwent treatment on Thursday morning with Justin Sportsmedicine Program Executive Director Mike Rich and Dr. Tandy Freeman, and it was decided that he should sit out Thursday night’s performance
Roudn 8 news and notes
Date: 12/8/2011
The opening act tonight is Canadian Night with trick riding by Madison MacDonald and Niki Cammaert of Alberta. The United States national anthem will be performed by the Tanya Tucker and the Canadian National Anthem by Wayne Vold. The performance sponsor is Justin Boots.
Miller moves into steer wrestling average lead
Date: 12/8/2011
Steer wrestler Jason Miller moved into the average lead when he won his third round of the week in front of 17,558 fans Thursday night at the Wrangler National Finals Rodeo. Miller of Lance Creek, Wyo., topped Round 8 with a 3.9-second run that was one-tenth of a second faster than Billy Bugenig and Mickey Gee. Miller has failed to place just once – in Round 6 – at the Finals as he moved to second in the world standings. He trails California bulldogger Luke Branquinho by just $9,659 in the world standings with two rounds to go.
Round 7 News & Notes
Date: 12/7/2011
The opening act tonight is A Salute to Our Armed Forces and the national anthem will be performed by the U.S. Navy Band Southwest. The performance sponsor is Boyd Gaming..
Muncy shows world championship form in Round 7
Date: 12/7/2011
New Mexico cowboy Taos Muncy turned in the best regular season of his career, but he had mustered only a split of third and two fourth-place checks in the Wrangler National Finals Rodeo’s first six rounds. The 2007 world champion changed that on Wednesday when he rode Korkow Rodeos’ Blew Apart for 86.5 points to win Round 7 in front of 17,180 fans at the Thomas & Mack Center. The win moved him from third to second in the pivotal average race and pushed his Finals earnings to $41,971.
Round 6 News & Notes
Date: 12/6/2011
The opening act tonight is Red Steagall and A Tribute to Ol’ Glory. The national anthem will be performed by Cierra Smith, 12, from Bakersfield, Calif. The performance sponsor is the PRCA and this year’s PRCA/Resistol Rookies of the Year will be honored in the arena – bareback rider J.R. Vezain, Cowley, Wyo.; steer wrestler Ty Erickson, Helena, Mont.; team roping-header Joshua Torres, Bell City, La.; team roping-heeler Dakota Kirchenschlager, De Leon, Texas; saddle bronc rider Sterling Crawley, College Station, Texas; tie-down roper Jud Nowotny, La Vernia, Texas; bull rider Chandler Bownds, Lubbock, Texas, and steer roper Rob Denny, Willcox, Ariz. Bownds is the only rookie qualified for the Wrangler NFR; he won Round 2.
Rookie wins on Wrangler NFR Rookie Night
Date: 12/6/2011
Resistol Bull Riding Rookie of the Year Chandler Bownds celebrated twice in front of 17,277 fans on Tuesday night at the Thomas and Mack Center. The Lubbock, Texas, cowboy turned in an 89-point ride on Rookie Night at the Wrangler National Finals Rodeo to win Round 6 and move to fifth in the world standings. It’s been feast or famine for Bownds, who won Round 2 with a 91-point ride on Robinson Pro Rodeo’s RMEF Bugle and won on Tuesday, but failed to make the eight-second whistle in the other four rounds.
Round 5 news and notes
Date: 12/5/2011
The performance opening for Tough Enough To Wear Pink Night will feature the Ghost Riders and the national anthem will be performed by the Jersey Boys. The annual Exceptional Rodeo was held in the Thomas & Mack arena this morning, bringing together more than 40 Wrangler NFR contestants with special needs children for rodeo instruction and fun. The performance sponsor is Montana Silversmiths.
Powell, Johnson celebrating personal bests at WNFR
Date: 12/5/2011
It’s only fitting that on Tough Enough to Wear Pink night at the Wrangler National Finals Rodeo, cancer-survivor Jhett Johnson took a victory lap. Teamed with header Turtle Powell, the duo turned in a 3.8-second run to win Round 5 in front of 17,242 fans on Monday at the Thomas & Mack Center.
Round 4 news and notes
Date: 12/4/2011
This is the first matinee at the Wrangler National Finals Rodeo since 2005. The performance opening will feature country rock singer Bonnie Bishop. The national anthem singer will be Trace Adkins. Today is Memorial Night Day the rodeo world pays tribute to the great rodeo figures who have died in the past year. The performance sponsor is the PRCA.
Brazile puts finishing touches on ninth all-around
Date: 12/4/2011
The sun comes up in the morning, the moon rises at night and Trevor Brazile is the World Champion All-Around Cowboy. Some things are inevitable. Brazile clinched his record ninth world all-around championship and his 16thgold buckle overall – which ties him with Jim Shoulders for second all-time in ProRodeo history. Only steer roper Guy Allen (with 18) has more.
News and notes for round 3
Date: 12/3/2011
The performance opening will feature a tribute to the PRCA’s Legendary Bucking Horses with a video presentation and appearances in the arena of Skitso, Cool Alley and Painted Smile. The national anthem singer will be Susie McEntire. Garth Lamb, winner of the 2011 PRCA Veterinarian of the Year Award presented by Purina, will be recognized in the arena. The performance sponsor is Hesston by Massey Ferguson.
Bareback rider has Feild day
Date: 12/3/2011
LAS VEGAS – Kaycee Feild of Payson, Utah, became just the second bareback rider in Wrangler National Finals Rodeo history to win each of the first three rounds of the Finals when he marked 90.5 points on Mosbrucker Rodeos’ Magic Wars in front of 17,430 fans in Round 3 on Saturday at the Thomas & Mack Center.
Round 1 winners shine again in Round 2
Date: 12/2/2011
Thanks to the fastest run of his eight consecutive trips to the Wrangler National Finals Rodeo, Trevor Knowles is two-for-two and closing fast on the top spot in the world standings. Of course, he’s just one of three cowboys who are having a dream start to the $6 million Wrangler National Finals Rodeo. Tie-down roper Cody Ohl and bareback rider Kaycee Feild are in the same enviable boat.
News & notes for round 2
Date: 12/2/2011
The performance opening will feature PRCA contract acts Tomas Garcilazo, Niki Cammaert, Madison McDonald and Anthony Lucia. Carly Smithson will sing the national anthem tonight. The performance sponsor is Coors.
World title dominates Feild’s thoughts
Date: 12/1/2011
All season, the words, “world title, world title” echoed through Kaycee Feild’s head as the chute cracked open at rodeos across North America. Since the regular season ended on Sept. 30, he has been thinking constantly about joining his ProRodeo Hall of Fame and five-time World Champion father, Lewis Feild, in the gold buckle club. After a season in which he won more than $140,000 and carried the world standings lead into the 53rd Wrangler National Finals Rodeo at the Thomas & Mack Center, Feild took yet another step toward his goal with an 89-point ride aboard Bar T Rodeo’s Bitter Robin.
Brazile seeks third Triple Crown … and other things to watch for at the Wrangler NFR
Date: 11/21/2011
Montana Silversmiths might as well ship the all-around champion buckle pre-printed with Trevor Brazile’s name on it. he Decatur, Texas, cowboy will arrive in Las Vegas with a $140,019 lead on nearest challenger Shane Proctor, and Brazile will compete in two events while those in pursuit have qualified for just one at the Dec. 1-10 Wrangler National Finals Rodeo.
Hesston by Massey Ferguson donates tractor
Date: 11/14/2011
As part of its new sponsorship deal with the Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association, Hesston by Massey Ferguson will be donating a Massey Ferguson tractor to be auctioned at the Nov. 28 Wrangler Gold Buckle Gala in Las Vegas.
2011 WNFR Shuttle Bus Schedule
Date: 11/9/2011
Rodeo fans looking for transportation to and from the Wrangler National Finals Rodeo (NFR) will have the option to utilize complimentary shuttle bus service with routes from the Las Vegas Convention Center and NFR official host hotels on the Las Vegas Strip and Downtown to the Thomas & Mack Center.
Hesston by Massey Ferguson returns to Wrangler NFR
Date: 11/8/2011
Hesston® by Massey Ferguson® is going back to its roots by sponsoring the Wrangler National Finals Rodeo (WNFR) in 2011 and plans to continue this sponsorship in the years to come. Hesston was a long-time supporter of the PRCA and WNFR, beginning in 1974, and now Hesston by Massey Ferguson is carrying on the tradition by becoming the official tractor and farm equipment company of the Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association, with high visibility during the Wrangler NFR.
Cooper first Canadian named WNFR barrelman
Date: 10/25/2011
Crash Cooper has been named the barrelman for the Wrangler National Finals Rodeo, becoming the first Canadian to fill that role in the rodeo’s 53 years. "I laughed when I heard that it was only going to be myself and barrel racer Lindsay Sears representing Canada at the NFR this year,” Cooper said. “I’m sure all of the rodeo fans at home in Canada are proud; both of their representatives will be wearing makeup at the NFR."
Experienced crew to handle bullfighting duties
Date: 10/17/2011
Dusty Tuckness of Meeteetse, Wyo., the 2010 PRCA Bullfighter of the Year, will be back to work his third consecutive Wrangler National Finals Rodeo this December, paired with Darrell Diefenbach and Kenny Bergeron.
Roughstock Permit Holders of the Year spotlighted
Date: 10/11/2011
The top five permit holders from each roughstock event – based on total money at the end of the 2011 regular season – will be invited to compete Dec. 2-3 at the Benny Binion’s World Famous Bucking Horse and Bull Sale in Las Vegas.
Ticket Policy for Wrangler NFR Qualifiers
Date: 9/7/2011
Each Wrangler NFR qualifier will receive one (1) complimentary ticket in the plaza and have the option to purchase up to eight (8) additional tickets in the plaza at $710 per ticket.
WNFR to have first matinee performance since 2005
Date: 3/14/2011
Las Vegas Events (LVE) announced today the start times for the 2011 Wrangler National Finals Rodeo, scheduled for Dec. 1 -10 at the Thomas & Mack Center in Las Vegas. The Sunday, Dec. 4 performance will now start at 12:45 p.m. (PT) to accommodate the running of the Rock ‘n’ Roll Las Vegas Marathon and Half Marathon at night under the lights of the Las Vegas Strip. All other performances of the rodeo will start at 6:45 p.m. (PT).
Online ticket exchange launched for WNFR
Date: 2/22/2011
Las Vegas Events (LVE) and PrimeSport have announced the launch of the Wrangler National Finals Rodeo Official Online Ticket Exchange. This new service will become the official marketplace to source and purchase tickets for every session of the rodeo. At the culmination of the rodeo season, the top 15 contestants in bareback riding, steer wrestling, team roping, saddle bronc riding, tie-down roping, barrel racing and bull riding qualify to compete at the Wrangler NFR. Known as the richest and most prestigious rodeo in the world, the Wrangler NFR is scheduled for Dec. 1-10 at the Thomas & Mack Center in Las Vegas.
Herriman loses battle with cancer at 59
Date: 12/16/2010
Glenn Clay Herriman, owner of the Northern Cross Rodeo Company, died Dec. 11 at his home in Omak, Wash., surrounded by his family, after a courageous two-year battle with cancer. He was 59.
Cowboy Downhill set for Jan. 18
Date: 12/16/2010
The 37th annual Cowboy Downhill slalom and stampede races will be held on Jan. 18 at Steamboat (Colo.) Resorts.
Bull riders help raise $10,000 for JCCF
Date: 12/15/2010
Bull riders J.W. Harris, Wesley Silcox and Cody Whitney were among those who tallied 90-point or 90-point plus rides at the Wrangler National Finals Rodeo, held Dec. 2-11 in Las Vegas. A donation of $2,000 each was made in their name from Crown Royal to the Justin Cowboy Crisis Fund.
Justin Boots donates $25,000 to JCCF
Date: 12/15/2010
The Justin Boot Company announced a $25,000 donation to the Justin Cowboy Crisis Fund during the 52nd Wrangler National Finals Rodeo, which was held Dec. 2-11 in Las Vegas. Justin Boots raised the money through its Wrangler NFR gear bag promotion. The JCCF financially assists contestants injured while competing in ProRodeo. To learn more about the JCCF, visit the page on ProRodeo.com. Pictured some of the JCCF supporters and board members: Front row: Randy Watson; President of the John and Jane Justin Foundation J.T. Dickenson; PRCA Commissioner Karl Stressman.
Winners crowned at annual permit challenge
Date: 12/15/2010
The second annual PRCA Permit Holder of the Year Challenge was held during the Benny Binion’s World Famous Bucking Horse & Bull Sale at the South Point Hotel, Spa & Casino’s Equestrian Center, Dec. 4-5, with PRCA permit holders competing for cash and prizes. Justin Miller of Billings, Mont., won the bareback riding, Keith Brauer of Freeburg, Ill., took the saddle bronc riding competition and Ty Pozzobon of Merritt, B.C., was the bull riding winner.
Mirage Hotel preparing for 10th Night After-Party
Date: 12/12/2010
Set up has been under way at The Mirage Hotel in Las Vegas for the Official Wrangler NFR World Champion Awards Show and 10th Night After-Party to be held immediately following the last performance of the Wrangler NFR, at approximately 8:30 p.m. (PT) Dec. 11. The evening will feature an unforgettable night including the presentation of awards to the 2010 PRCA World Champions on stage and recognition of all WNFR contestants. In addition, there will be live performances by select country music artists, exclusive prize giveaways, celebrity appearances and more.
2010 world champions crowned in Las Vegas
Date: 12/12/2010
The 2010 ProRodeo World Champions gathered together on a stage at The Mirage Hotel during The Official Wrangler NFR World Champion Awards Show and 10th Night After-Party, Dec. 11 in Las Vegas. From left to right: Cody Wright (saddle bronc riding), J.W. Harris (bull riding), Sherry Cervi (WPRA barrel racing), Trevor Brazile (all-around, tie-down roping and team roping), Patrick Smith (team roping, heeling), Dean Gorsuch (steer wrestling) and Bobby Mote (bareback riding). All the 2010 champions have previously won a gold buckle.
World champs, fans celebrate at WNFR After-Party
Date: 12/12/2010
Thousands of ProRodeo fans were treated to an up-close look at the 2010 ProRodeo world champions at The Official Wrangler NFR World Champion Awards Show and 10th Night After-Party, Dec. 11 at the Mirage Hotel & Casino.
Harris clinches third consecutive world title
Date: 12/11/2010
Bull rider J.W. Harris clinched his third consecutive world championship in Round 9 of the Wrangler National Finals Rodeo, Dec. 10 in Las Vegas. The Mullin, Texas, cowboy mathematically secured the gold buckle by finishing second in the round with an 89.5-score on Four L & Diamond S Rodeo’s Insaniac. He is the first bull rider since Don Gay, from 1979-81, to win three straight. Harris also is assured to break B.J. Schumacher’s WNFR earnings record of $142,644, set in 2006.
Willy to retire after Round 10 of WNFR
Date: 12/11/2010
Legendary Canadian steer wrestling horse, Rtr Little Willy, is being retired from competition at the Wrangler National Finals Rodeo, Dec. 11 in Las Vegas after carrying four cowboys to world titles – Rope Myers (2001), Lee Graves (2005), Jason Miller (2007) and Luke Branquinho (2008). Willy was voted the PRCA/AQHA Steer Wrestling Horse of the Year in 2008. Willy, 24, is owned by Greg Cassidy, of Donalda, Alberta, and being ridden in some rounds by his sons, Curtis and Cody. Curtis, aboard Willy, split the Round 9 win in 3.6 seconds with Dean Gorsuch.
WNFR news & notes for Dec.11
Date: 12/10/2010
Brett Eldredge will sing the national anthem tonight. The performance sponsor is Wrangler. The presentation of championship saddles and buckles will be part of the Wrangler NFR World Champions Awards Show & 10th Night After-Party at The Mirage. The party begins at 8:30 p.m. and the introduction of world champions is scheduled for 9:40 p.m. There is no admission charge. Everyone is welcome.
ProRodeo League of Women raises $100,000 for JCCF
Date: 12/10/2010
A fashion show and luncheon is a light-hearted way to spend an afternoon during the Wrangler National Finals Rodeo in Las Vegas. However, the event annually raises a lot of money for an important cause. This year''s, Sequins, Spurs & Stilettos ProRodeo League of Women Fashion Show raised $100,000 for the Justin Cowboy Crisis Fund. It is the largest fundraiser of the year for the JCCF, which financially assists contestants injured while competing.
Ohl wins 40th round overall in Las Vegas
Date: 12/10/2010
Six-time World Champion Cody Ohl has split or won four rounds at the Wrangler National Finals Rodeo through Dec. 9 at the Thomas & Mack Center in Las Vegas. The tie-down roper, from Hico, Texas, won Round 8 with a 7.2-second run and is first place in the average.
WNFR news & notes for Dec.10
Date: 12/10/2010
Tonight’s Wrangler National Finals Rodeo will be televised live on ESPN Classic at 7 p.m. (PT) with Jeff Medders, Joe Beaver, Butch Knowles and Don Gay calling the action and Jennifer Smith handling the arena interviews. ProRodeo Live is airing coverage on a national network of radio stations and also online at www.prorodeolive.com with Steve Kenyon, Wade Wheatley, Freya Ford and Clint Corey doing the announcing. ProRodeoLive.com is also doing a daily broadcast (11 a.m.-noon PT) of NFR Today from Cowboy Christmas, featuring interviews and rodeo news. All 10 rounds of the Wrangler NFR will also be broadcast online at ESPN3.com and the replays are available at the website for one week
Msnbc.com coverage of the Wrangler NFR
Date: 12/10/2010
Bob Harkins, a writer and editor, and James Cheng, a senior multimedia editor and photographer, covered the 52nd Annual Wrangler National Finals Rodeo at the Thomas & Mack Center in Las Vegas. Their coverage is posted on Msnbc.com. Visit the links below to see the portraits, stories and videos.
Harris, Branquinho take over standings lead
Date: 12/9/2010
Two-time World Champion Steer Wrestler Luke Branquinho moved into first place in the average and PRCA World Standings with a round win, Dec. 8 at the Wrangler National Finals Rodeo in Las Vegas. The Los Alamos, Calif., cowboy picked up his third round win with a 3.3-second run
Cowboy bowlers help raise money for JCCF
Date: 12/9/2010
World champions Cody Wright and Kelly Timberman can certainly ride bucking horses, but can they bowl? The answer is yes.
And so can PRCA Commissioner Karl Stressman.
TETWP reaches $9.75 million in six years
Date: 12/9/2010
Wrangler Tough Enough to Wear Pink co-founder and cancer survivor Terry Wheatley (far left), PRCA Commissioner Karl Stressman and Katie Wheatley, TETWP coordinator display a check for $9.75 million to announce funds raised in six years to fight breast cancer.
WNFR news & notes for Dec.9
Date: 12/9/2010
It’s Canada Night at the Thomas & Mack Center, when the Wrangler National Finals Rodeo pays tribute to our neighbors to the north. Sabina Peterman will perform the Canadian national anthem and Due West will sing the United States national anthem. The performance sponsor tonight is Justin Boots.
Ryan Gray, recovery from injury blog
Date: 12/9/2010
I can’t express the thanks and gratitude that I have received from family, friends and fans. I received overwhelming support from thousands of people. After my accident, it made me realize even more what is truly important in life. We always talk about the danger factor in our sport and we see the occasional wreck or injury and then when it strikes you, the reality of it all sets in. As a rodeo athlete we learn to be prepared for any circumstance including injury. But the key to happiness I’ve learned is not letting your circumstances determine your joy or happiness.
Ohl climbs into world title hunt
Date: 12/8/2010
Sometimes, luck can transfer from one person to another. Just ask Cody Ohl. Wearing 11-time World Champion Dean Oliver''s "lucky" 1958 world championship buckle, Ohl won for the third consecutive night at the 52nd Wrangler National Finals Rodeo after stopping the clock in 7.3 seconds in front of a sold-out crowd of 17,032.
WNFR news & notes for Dec.8
Date: 12/8/2010
It is Tough Enough to Wear Pink Night in the Thomas & Mack Center, part of a continuing effort to bring the sport of professional rodeo and the Western community together to rally against breast cancer. Since its inception in 2004, TETWP has empowered rodeos and Western events in the U.S. and Canada to focus attention on the need for a cure. To date, the campaign has raised nearly $9 million for breast cancer charities, much of which stays in the community. The national anthem will be sung by Pat Boone, and Charlie Daniels is the opening act. The performance sponsor tonight is Montana Silversmiths.
Wright continues to make most of chance
Date: 12/7/2010
Saddle bronc rider Jesse Wright has been walking with a noticeable limp in Las Vegas – all the way to the pay window. The Wrangler National Finals Rodeo rookie, riding with a broken bone in his left ankle, finished in the money for the fourth consecutive night by winning Round 5 in front of a sold-out crowd of 17,008 at the Thomas & Mack Center with an 89.5-point ride aboard Burch Rodeo’s Lunitic Fringe.
PRCA announces GAC as new home of WNFR
Date: 12/7/2010
The Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association (PRCA) announced today its 2011 television schedule, featuring Great American Country (GAC) as the new home of the Wrangler National Finals Rodeo. GAC, which is available in nearly 60 million households nationwide, will also become the home of the PRCA Seminole Hard Rock Xtreme Bulls Tour, presented by B&W Trailer Hitches, and the PRCA’s championship rodeos.
Wrangler Million Dollar Tour Expands
Date: 12/7/2010
At today’s annual PRCA Commissioner’s press conference at the Thomas & Mack Center, Karl Stressman announced that the Wrangler Million Dollar Tour presented by Justin Boots will be expanding from 22 to 26 events in 2011.
PRCA unveils 2011 Xtreme Bulls tour dates
Date: 12/7/2010
The Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association’s PRCA Seminole Hard Rock Xtreme Bulls Tour, presented by B&W Trailer Hitches, rides into 2011 with a national schedule that will continue to bring the excitement of PRCA bull riding to millions of fans with national television coverage, according to PRCA Commissioner Karl Stressman, who made the announcement today during the Wrangler National Finals Rodeo in Las Vegas.
WNFR bullfighters receive bonus
Date: 12/7/2010
The fifteen bull riders competing at the Wrangler National Finals Rodeo collected money and put it together to give it to bullfighters Dusty Tuckness, Darrell Diefenbach and Kenny Bergeron. The bull riders donated a total of $12,000 of their own money, so they could give each bullfighter $4,000 apiece on top of the money they are receiving to work at the rodeo, Dec. 2-11. The bullfighters work to protect the cowboys from being injured while competing. “It’s what they do for us all year round,” bull rider Dustin Elliott said.
WNFR news & notes for Dec.7
Date: 12/7/2010
It is Rookie Night in the Thomas & Mack Center tonight with all of the 2010 PRCA Rookies of the Year to be recognized in the arena – Ace Slone (all-around and tie-down roping), Dylan Werner (overall and bull riding), Ty Breuer (bareback riding), Cody Moore (steer wrestling ), Kaden Richard (team roping heading), Matt Garza (team roping heeling), Troy Crowser (saddle bronc riding), Lindsey Ewing (barrel racing) and Gannon Quimby (steer roping). The national anthem will be sung by Susie Dobbs and Bob Avila and his Working Cowhorse is the opening act. The performance sponsor tonight is the PRCA.
Clint Cooper completes brotherly trifecta
Date: 12/6/2010
As brothers, tie-down ropers Clint, Clif and Tuf Cooper share numerous things, including spots in this year’s Wrangler National Finals Rodeo, and now the trio can add go-round championship buckles to the list. Clint, the eldest of ProRodeo Hall of Famer Roy Cooper’s sons, joined his brothers as round winners at this year’s $5.875 million Wrangler NFR by tying five-time World Champion Tie-Down Roper Cody Ohl for the Round 4 victory with a 7.1-second run.
WNFR news & notes for Dec.6
Date: 12/6/2010
It is Memorial Night at the Thomas & Mack Center, when rodeo fans will pause to pay tribute to the 15 men and women who passed from our midst this year after playing a significant role in elevating the Wrangler National Finals Rodeo to status as the sport’s greatest showcase. (Information on all 15 is published on page 163 of the official Wrangler NFR Program). The national anthem will be sung by Josh Thompson and Susie McEntire is the opening act. The performance sponsor tonight is Boyd Gaming.
Exceptional Rodeo held at Finals
Date: 12/6/2010
PRCA cowboys and contract personnel joined WPRA barrel racers as they hosted between 35-40 students with special needs from three schools at the Exceptional Rodeo, Dec. 6 at the Thomas & Mack Center in Las Vegas. Among the cowboys in attendance were tie-down roper and Round 3 winner Tuf Cooper, as well as steer wrestler Matt Reeves, who had just picked up a victory in Round 4 last night. All three of this year''s Wrangler NFR bullfighters - Kenny Bergeron, Darrell Diefenbach and Dusty Tuckness - were also in attendance.
16 offspring of Night Jacket bucking at WNFR
Date: 12/6/2010
Sixteen offspring of the legendary stud Night Jacket, including 2010 Bareback Riding Horse of the Year Big Tex of Classic Pro Rodeo, are bucking at the Wrangler NFR this year, which runs through Dec. 11 in Las Vegas.
Miss Rodeo America crowned (updated)
Date: 12/5/2010
McKenzie Haley, Miss Rodeo South Dakota, was crowned Miss Rodeo America on Dec. 4 at The Orleans Hotel in Las Vegas. More information will be added as it becomes available.
Dent takes over world standings
Date: 12/5/2010
Bareback rider Steven Dent scored 85 points on Carr Pro Rodeo’s Big Lights to win Round 3 of the Wrangler National Finals Rodeo, Dec. 4 in Las Vegas. Dent’s traveling partner, Ryan Gray, sustained a lacerated liver last night when a bucking horse stepped on him, and he is now out of the competition. Gray encouraged Dent to win a world title since he can’t.
WNFR news & notes for Dec.5
Date: 12/5/2010
The performance sponsor tonight is the PRCA. It is Wrangler National Patriot Night, part of a program created to raise awareness and funds for wounded or fallen military veterans and their families. The national anthem will be sung by Staff Sgt. Brian Pop and Lee Greenwood is the opening act. Trell Etbauer of Goodwell, Okla., will be presented with his third Linderman Award for excellence in both timed event and roughstock events tonight in the arena, and Miss Rodeo America 2011 McKenzie Haley of Colome, South Dakota, will be introduced.
Brazile clinches record eighth all-around title
Date: 12/4/2010
Trevor Brazile claimed a record eighth all-around world title, surpassing the legendary Ty Murray, at the Wrangler National Finals Rodeo Dec. 3 at the Thomas & Mack Center in Las Vegas. The Decatur, Texas, cowboy received a standing ovation from the sold-out crowd.
Injured Ryan Gray information
Date: 12/4/2010
Bareback rider Ryan Gray was stepped on by Beutler & Son Rodeo''s Golden Dream in Round 2 of the Wrangler National Finals Rodeo after being bucked off, and suffered a liver laceration.
Tuckness talks: Bullfighter recalls crazy Round 1
Date: 12/4/2010
He describes his work week in Las Vegas as a “dream come true,” but it’s safe to say not many aspire to tangle with the top 15 bulls in the world to make a living. For Dusty Tuckness, a second-generation bullfighter, it is simply the ideal job. The Wyoming native got under way in his second consecutive year at the Wrangler National Finals Rodeo, Dec. 2.
Dec.4 Wrangler NFR news & notes
Date: 12/4/2010
The performance sponsor tonight is Dodge. The national anthem will be sung by Josh Gracin and Sensational Six with Shawn Brackett is the opening act. Dr. William Anderson of Haltom City, Texas, the first PRCA Veterinarian of the Year presented by Purina, will be recognized in the arena tonight. The Miss Rodeo America 2011 selection will be announced today.
Quartet of WNFR rookies lead Round 1 winners
Date: 12/3/2010
Bareback rider Joe Gunderson scored 88 points on Brookman Rodeo’s Good Times to win Round 1 in his first Wrangler NFR appearance, Dec. 2 in Las Vegas. The Agar, S.D., cowboy won $17,512.
Anderson wins PRCA Veterinarian of the year
Date: 12/3/2010
The Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association is proud to announce the winner of the 2010 “PRCA Veterinarian of the Year Award” presented by Purina. Dr. William Anderson of Haltom City, Texas, was recognized at the PRCA Contract Personnel Banquet on Dec. 1 in Las Vegas and also will be honored Dec. 4 at the 52nd Wrangler National Finals Rodeo at the Thomas & Mack Center.
WNFR news & notes for Dec.3
Date: 12/3/2010
Trevor Brazile and partner Patrick Smith finished third in the team roping in Round 1 of the Wrangler NFR and earned $10,451 apiece. Brazile now has a lead of $169,401 over second-place Curtis Cassidy in the all-around world standings as he seeks to break the record he now shares with Ty Murray by winning an eighth all-around gold buckle. It is mathematically possible that Brazile can clinch tonight. That lead is $20,000 more than anyone has ever earned at an NFR and Brazile is qualified in team roping and tie-down roping, while Cassidy is only qualified in steer wrestling. As practical matter, it is over now.
Opening night on rodeo's biggest stage
Date: 12/2/2010
Tonight begins the 26th year of Wrangler National Finals Rodeo performances in the Thomas & Mack Center. The NFR moved here in 1985 from Oklahoma City with $1,790,000 in prize money and has kept raising the ante each year to the point where this year’s Super Bowl of rodeo is offering a record $5,875,000 to the most talented professional rodeo athletes in the world.
Images from the WNFR Welcome Reception
Date: 12/1/2010
The 2010 WFNR Welcome Reception took place Nov.30 at the South Point Hotel and Casino. Contestants received their back numbers, Resistol hats, official WNFR Jacket, ring and other gifts.
Purple Cowboy wine pours into the WNFR
Date: 12/1/2010
The cowboys are coming to town and Purple Cowboy wines is making sure there will be plenty of wine. The 52nd Wrangler National Final Rodeo, the 10-day competition to crown the world’s rodeo champions, begins Thursday, Dec. 2, at the Thomas & Mack Arena on the UNLV campus.
Gala marks beginning of gold-buckle pursuit
Date: 11/30/2010
The Third Annual Gold Buckle Gala was held on Nov. 29 at the South Point Hotel, Casino & Spa Ballroom in Las Vegas. This year’s event honored Eight-time World Champion and Hall of Famer Larry Mahan as a Legend of ProRodeo. The event also signified festivities for the 2010 Wrangler National Finals Rodeo have begun. The $5.875 million event runs Dec. 2-11 at the Thomas & Mack Center on the UNLV campus. The Wrangler NFR will feature 119 of ProRodeo’s best in pursuit of the event-winner’s gold buckle, along with some of the record purse.
The cowboys are in town! Read the Hanchey blog
Date: 11/30/2010
Well guys, here comes the second blog of my career. I am happy and proud to say it’s coming from the suite I was blessed to receive from the MGM Grand. It’s amazing it is so comfortable and really user-friendly and it makes it that much easier to focus the task at hand!
The drive to Las Vegas from Sulphur, La., felt like it took three weeks because I was so excited to be going. It only really took about 24 hours. My great friend Corde Skinner, cousin Ross Beasley and me embarked on the drive at about 10 p.m. Central Time on Friday night (Nov. 26), we arrived in Vegas at about 11.
GAC Channel airing Inside the WNFR tonight
Date: 11/30/2010
The Great American Country Channel is airing Inside the WNFR tonight at 10 p.m. (ET) and then re-airing the broadcast at 2 a.m. on Dec. 1. The show provides insight about the Wrangler National Finals Rodeo and features several WNFR contestants. The show was filmed on Ty Murray''s Ranch in Stephenville, Texas.
Livestock draws posted, Dec. 2-3
Date: 11/30/2010
The 10-day Wrangler National Finals gets under way at 6:45 p.m. (PT), Dec. 2 and runs through the final performance at 5:45 p.m., Dec. 11 at the Thomas & Mack Center on the UNLV campus.
Thankful for being No. 1 and much more
Date: 11/24/2010
Seven PRCA cowboys, and their families, are counting their blessings this Thanksgiving as the cowboys head into the Wrangler National Finals Rodeo as the No. 1 man in their event. The favorites hope to claim a lion’s share of the record $5.875 million up for grabs, Dec. 2-11 in Las Vegas.
Pat Boone All-American Meats joins PRCA/WNFR
Date: 11/19/2010
The Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association (PRCA) is pleased to announce a new partnership with chart-topping recording artist Pat Boone and his legacy brand of premium, U.S.-grown meats, Pat Boone All-American Meats. The partnership recognizes the gourmet-quality steak brand as the “Official Steaks of the PRCA and Wrangler National Finals Rodeo” and includes a number of promotional opportunities over a two-year term.
Injured Hay yields Wrangler NFR spot to Wright
Date: 11/19/2010
Canadian saddle bronc rider Rod Hay, a 20-time Wrangler National Finals Rodeo qualifier, has vacated his spot in the $5.875 million Wrangler NFR due to a leg injury, and will be replaced by Utah’s Jesse Wright, who was not quite six months old when Hay made his NFR debut in 1989.
PRCA launches Ram Truck Wrangler NFR Top Gun Award
Date: 11/18/2010
The Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association (PRCA), in conjunction with Ram Truck, announced today that it is launching the Ram Truck Wrangler NFR Top Gun Award during the 2010 Wrangler National Finals Rodeo in Las Vegas. Feeding off the excitement the world championship races create, this prestigious award will honor the cowboy or cowgirl who earns the most money during the grueling 10-day PRCA ProRodeo Finals.
PRCA rolls out red carpet for world champions
Date: 11/17/2010
The Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association (PRCA) announced today it has partnered with The Mirage Hotel & Casino and Rodeo Vegas to bring The Official Wrangler NFR World Champion Awards Show and 10th Night After-Party to Las Vegas Saturday, Dec. 11, immediately following the last performance. The trio will host an unforgettable night featuring the presentation of awards to the 2010 PRCA World Champions on stage and recognition of all WNFR contestants. The evening will include live performances by select country music artists, exclusive prize giveaways, celebrity appearances and more.
Brazile by the numbers
Date: 11/15/2010
Texan Trevor Brazile is virtually assured of his record-setting eighth all-around gold buckle; his lead over second-place Curtis Cassidy is $158,950, which is more than anyone has ever earned at the Wrangler National Finals Rodeo. Brazile’s season total is nearly $35,000 more than any reserve all-around world champion has ever earned (Josh Peek’s $261,692 in 2007), and he is qualified in both the team roping and tie-down roping events in Las Vegas, Dec. 2-11. No one else is qualified in more than one event.
XBulls tour riders to hold WNFR autograph session
Date: 11/12/2010
The PRCA’s top bull riders will interact with fans during the Wrangler National Finals Rodeo at the Seminole Hard Rock Xtreme Bulls Tour autograph session from 1 p.m. to 2 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 9 at the Hard Rock Café on the Las Vegas Strip, 3771 S. Las Vegas Blvd, NV 89109. The Seminole Hard Rock Xtreme Bulls Tour, presented by B&W Trailer Hitches, is the PRCA’s premier bull riding tour. Viewed by millions of fans both in-arena and on ESPN Networks, Xtreme Bulls Tour contestants earn money throughout the year to help qualify for the Wrangler NFR.
Wrangler NFR to be webcast on ESPN3
Date: 11/4/2010
ESPN3, formerly ESPN360, will have live web streaming of the 52nd Annual Wrangler National Finals Rodeo, Dec. 2-11 at the Thomas & Mack Center in Las Vegas.
Wrangler NFR team roping pairs
Date: 11/1/2010
Team ropers Chad Masters, pictured, and Jade Corkill set a world and arena record of 3.3 seconds at the 2009 Wrangler NFR on Dec. 11, in what was considered one of the most exciting rounds of team roping in history. There were five sub-four-second runs, including a 3.4 by JoJo LeMond and Randon Adams that very briefly stood as the world record -- until the run by Masters and Corkill.
Wrangler NFR back numbers
Date: 11/1/2010
Texan Trevor Brazile, who will again wear back No. 1, will be going for a record-setting eighth world champion all-around cowboy title at the 2010 Wrangler National Finals Rodeo, Dec. 2-11 at the Thomas & Mack Center in Las Vegas. Brazile is the lone contestant of 119 competing in two events. He will be tie-down roping, as well as team roping with heeler Patrick Smith.
Quick information about the WNFR
Date: 10/29/2010
This year’s Wrangler National Finals Rodeo, Dec. 2-11 in Las Vegas, will feature 10 rounds of exciting action and will be broadcast on ESPN2, ESPN Classic, webcast on ESPN3 and radio streamed on ProRodeoLive.com. Arrive at the Thomas & Mack Center early and visit the popular ProRodeo Zone and join the ProRodeo FanZone – the official fan club of the PRCA. The ProRodeo FanZone tent also will be the place to be after the rodeo, Dec. 2-10.
Nine relatives of Grated Coconut to be at Finals
Date: 10/25/2010
Calgary Stampede’s Knife Money, a half-sister of Grated Coconut, is among nine relatives in the Calgary Stampede string of the retired stallion who will be competing at the Wrangler National Finals Rodeo this year. Knife Money is a four-time selection to the Wrangler NFR and has teamed up with Taos Muncy (86 points) pictured here, and Bryce Miller (89 points) to win the opening rounds of the Finals the past two years.
Cowboy Reunion returns to Las Vegas Dec.9-11
Date: 10/15/2010
The Cowboy Reunion – the brainchild of ProRodeo Hall of Famers June Ivory, Harry Tompkins and several others – is returning to The Orleans Casino & Hotel in Las Vegas, Dec. 9-11, for a chance, “to tell old rodeo stories, share and make memories, visit with those we may only see once a year, and remember those we lost.”
2010 WNFR contract personnel announced
Date: 10/15/2010
Gold, silver and bronze. The announcing team selected for the 52nd Wrangler National Finals Rodeo isn’t just the most experienced group ever assembled for the task, but they are 1-2-3 in seniority.
Gold Buckle Gala set for Nov. 29 in Las Vegas
Date: 10/1/2010
The Third Annual Gold Buckle Gala is Nov. 29 at the South Point Hotel, Casino & Spa Ballroom in Las Vegas. Doors open at 6 p.m. This year’s event will honor eight-time World Champion Larry Mahan as a Legend of ProRodeo. Mahan was inducted into the ProRodeo Hall of Fame’s inaugural class in 1979. Along with six all-around world titles, Mahan claimed bull riding gold buckles in 1965 and 1967.
Mahan to be honored as Legend of ProRodeo at Gala
Date: 9/21/2010
Larry Mahan, who earned six all-around gold buckles and eight world championships overall, will be presented with the Legend of ProRodeo Award during the third annual Wrangler Gold Buckle Gala at 6 p.m. (PT) Nov. 29 at the South Point Hotel & Casino's Grand Ballroom in Las Vegas.
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