The Denver Round-up
Well the famed National Western Stock Show and Rodeo is now complete. For years this huge event has brought millions of cattleman from around the globe to showcase their livestock and all things related to ranching. The annual rodeo also is a huge drawing card for fans and contestants alike. This year’s rodeo wasn’t a huge success for the cowboys and cowgirls from Nebraska. The Steer Wrestling has always been a staple event here in Nebraska. Over the years the Cornhusker state has produced; 2X World Champ Ote Berry, Harrison Halligan (considered the best hazer in the business) Dean Edelman former Cheyenne winner, WNFR qualifiers-Todd Suhn, Randy Suhn, Sean Mulligan, Linn Churchill, Drew Melvin, Garrett Nokes and the 2006 World Champ Dean Gorsuch. It seems only fitting the event with the most success at this years Denver Stock Show would be Steer Wrestling. Jeff Richardson from Fullerton NE was able to cash his first paycheck of the year in the opening round by placing 3rd and collect over $2800. Jeff is not the biggest guy in the Steer Wrestling but has great technique, a lot of try, and is always riding a great horse. One of Nebraska’s most decorated rodeo cowboys is Kyle Whitaker from Chambers. Kyle is a third generation cowboy and between He and his dad Chip own nine Linderman awards. Kyle’s efforts earned him a trip to the short go where he placed 7th and was fast enough on three runs to earn over $3200. Over his career Kyle has had success in the winter and good success in the summer. I would love to see him be able to put together a season that would put him into the 2010 WNFR in Las Vegas. He is very deserving.
The tie-down roping should give Jayce Johnson some confidence for this season. Jayce is originally from Lakeside Nebraska. His college career has taken him from Torrington WY to Durant OK. His address is currently Durant OK He failed to cash a check but was one of only 12 ropers to qualify for the short go.
Will Farrell (no not the actor) is a native of Wyoming but received his education at Chadron State College. Will won over $4400 in the opening round and hopefully will jumpstart his year to get back to the WNFR.
In the next few weeks Ft. Worth and Rapid City will wrap up and I’ll let you know how those with Nebraska ties do.
Let me know if there is a subject you want me to cover or contestant you want me to talk about.
With warmest western regards,
Travis Schauda
Rodeo Announcer
