Transcript
Stock contractorS
Bar T Rodeo’s Fancy Pants, looking 100 percent focused just before bucking off his Round 9 cowboy, was named top saddle bronc of the 2011 Wrangler National Finals Rodeo, capping a Kerby-Flitton family celebration that started at the PRCA Awards Banquet Nov. 30 when Bar T won the 2011 Remuda Award for providing the best pen of bucking horses at PRCA rodeos.
PRCA ProRodeo photo by Greg Westfall
Stock contractors
Working behind the scenes from long before the rodeo begins until the last animal is loaded up, stock contractors may be the most overlooked people in rodeo production. While cowboys get most of the recognition, the livestock at Prca rodeos plays a vital role in the success of the contestants. In roughstock events, the cowboy’s riding ability produces half the score and the animals’ ability to buck powerfully and skillfully earns the other half. For the timed events, stock contractors work to provide cattle of similar size for each event, so that cowboys are tested on their own skills – on a level playing field. the stock contractors’ primary goal is to ensure that the four-legged athletes of professional rodeo are healthy, well-fed, properly cared for and fit to perform. this job includes tasks familiar to all ranchers: breeding livestock with the desired characteristics, loading and transporting animals safely, providing veterinary care and supervising handling. rodeo stock contractors also have sport-specific jobs, including working behind the chutes to ensure safety for both people and animals, caring for animals during the rodeo itself – even handling public relations for the sport’s animal superstars. Stock contractors are heavily invested in the health and welfare of their livestock. the value of top bulls can reach $60,000 or more; a first-rate bucking horse can sell for more than $80,000. But the animals are more than a monetary investment – while they are not cuddly pets, they do become respected and valued members of the stock contractors’ families. the Prca sets rules that ensure the humane treatment of rodeo animals. (See “Prca and Livestock Welfare” in the first chapter of this Media Guide.) Stock contracting companies that want to supply livestock for Prcasanctioned rodeos agree to follow these rules. collectively, they set and represent the highest industry standard for livestock care. Prca card-holding member stock contractors as of Feb. 2, 2012, include:
all american rodeo company
Stock contractor: Sam Swearingen
LOCATION: Piffard, n.Y. BACKGROUND: In early 2005, an exciting new chapter began for all american rodeo. With the retirement of ron and kathy Martin, Sam Swearingen purchased all american rodeo’s assets and became the company’s sole owner. Swearingen had successfully competed in Prorodeo as a saddle bronc rider for nearly 30 years. Since then, he has continued his commitment to rodeo as the owner of the fastest-growing rodeo company in the northeastern U.S. and canada. Each year, Swearingen and his staff produce more than 100 award-winning performances in new York, Pennsylvania, new Jersey, connecticut, Massachusetts, Virginia, West Virginia, ontario, Quebec and nova Scotia.
meeting the challenges of rodeo’s future while preserving its rich Western heritage. Blending award-winning bucking stock with the hottest music, Bad company produces a rocking rodeo concert experience to appeal to a new generation of rodeo fans. Since Bad company’s inception in 1982, altizer has striven to grow every aspect of the business (total payout, added money, spectator attendance, contestant entries) every year, keying on unique advertising, promotion and community involvement.
Bar t rodeo Inc.
Stock contractor: Jeff Flitton
andrews rodeo Inc.
Stock contractors: Sammy and James Andrews
LOCATION: Bagwell, texas. BUCKING STOCK OF THE YEAR: Bareback horse Skoal’s outlaw Willie, 1991; bull Bodacious, 1994-95 (inducted into Prorodeo Hall of Fame, 1999). OTHER NOTABLE STOCK: Bull Fender Bender voted third for Prca Bull of the Year 2007, runner-up, 2006; bull cat Daddy voted second for Prca Bull of the Year, 2005. BACKGROUND: Sammy andrews, 2002 Prca Stock contractor of the Year, is a third-generation stock contractor. With knowledge gained from a lifetime of rodeo experience, Sammy and his son, James, operate the business and have enjoyed success with their breeding program for bucking bulls and horses. Four of their bareback horses, one saddle bronc and four bucking bulls were selected for the 2011 Wrangler nFr; outlaw was named one of the top five bulls of the 2011 Finals.
Bad company rodeo
Stock contractor: Mack Altizer
LOCATION: Del rio, texas. NOTABLE STOCK: championship bulls include seven-time Wrangler nFr bull Wild thing, texas circuit Bucking Bull of the Year, 1996, 1999; Hammer time, selected to Wrangler nFr seven times; perennial Wrangler nFr bull Walk this Way. BACKGROUND: Mack altizer, 1998 Prca Stock contractor of the Year, is
LOCATION: chester, Utah. BUCKING STOCK OF THE YEAR: alley cat, tie, 1977, also top-three bareback horse at nFr 1976, 1982, and top bareback horse of the Wilderness circuit, 1976-77, 1981-83. NOTABLE STOCK: Sparrow, top-three Prca saddle bronc, 1991-93, top saddle bronc at 1990 nFr and among top three 1991-3; Highland Special, who went to the nFr 20 times; Deception, High & Mighty and reception, also Wrangler nFr bucking horses; Son of Sadie and Eight Ball were named among the top five saddle broncs of the 2009 Finals. BACKGROUND: Bar t rodeo has been a family-run operation for more than 60 years. Stock is kept on 2,500 acres, leased and owned, in central Utah. In 1997, Swanny kerby, who started the business, was inducted into the Prorodeo Hall of Fame. His son, saddle bronc rider and pickup man Bud kerby, and Bud’s wife Evelyn built up Bar t rodeo’s breeding program and helped produce the first-ever olympic exhibition rodeo in Farmington, Utah, in 2002. Bud kerby passed away in october 2010; in 2012, Evelyn sold the business to their daughter and son-in-law Wendie and Jeff Flitton, their son cody and daughter kellie addington and her husband Sam, who operate it with another kerby daughter, Lori Pierce, and her husband, Martin. Evelyn kerby continues to advise the family. two Bar t bareback horses, four saddle broncs and two bucking bulls were selected for the 2011 Wrangler nFr; saddle bronc Fancy Pants was named top saddle bronc of the 2011 Finals and Bar t rodeo livestock won four gold buckles there. also in 2011, Bar t rodeo won its second remuda award for providing the best, most consistent pens of bucking horses to Prca rodeos, and Bar t livestock swept the Wilderness circuit awards
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as Bitter robbin, 8 Ball and top Gun were named best bareback horse, best saddle bronc and best bucking bull, respectively.
Barnes Prca rodeo
Stock contractor: Bob Barnes
LOCATION: Peterson, Iowa. BUCKING STOCK OF THE YEAR: Saddle bronc crystal Springs, 1977. OTHER NOTABLE STOCK: Bucking bull t Bar, reliant Stadium arena-record 94 points with terry Don West. Bareback horse Smokeless Bow tie carried Wes Stevenson to a 93-point ride at the 2002 Summer tour Finale in Dallas, tying the second-highest score in Prca history. BACKGROUND: Bob Barnes has been in the business for nearly 60 years; he has had stock at each nFr since its inception in 1959 and at every Dodge/ram Great Lakes circuit Finals rodeo. one of the most respected stockmen in professional rodeo, he was 1984 Prca Stock contractor of the Year and was inducted into the Prorodeo Hall of Fame in 1994. Barnes is among the most prominent stock contractors in the Midwest, where he continues to educate people about the sport and its Western heritage. Bob has served on the Wrangler nFr commission, Prca Executive Board and Prca Board of Directors; his son John currently serves on the Prca Board of Directors. His wife, Donita, was posthumously awarded the inaugural Lifetime achievement award for contract personnel at the Prca’s awards Banquet just before the 2011 nFr. one Barnes saddle bronc was selected for the 2011 Wrangler nFr, and John Barnes was livestock superintendent there. WEBSITE: www. BarnesPrcarodeo.com.
Unforgiven, 2002; tahonta, 2003-04. OTHER NOTABLE STOCK: kool toddy, tied for no. 3 saddle bronc in the Prca, 2010; Dog Face, top bull of the columbia river circuit and selected for Wrangler nFr, 1992, runner-up for bull of the year, 1996. BACKGROUND: Don Hutsell and Sonny riley, who also co-own Flying 5 rodeo company, formed Big Bend rodeo in april 1992 when they bought the kelsey and McLean rodeo company from the late ralph McLean. In 1997, Big Bend completed a rare double play when both bareback horse Spring Fling and bucking bull rapid Fire captured stock-of-the-year honors. after the 1999 Dodge national circuit Finals rodeo, Hutsell decided to put a saddle on Spring Fling, and it paid off as she was voted top saddle bronc for two years, then returned to the bareback string and was voted one of the top three bareback horses for 2005. Big Bend bulls Unforgiven and tahonta held the top title for three years straight between them; tahonta retired in 2006. Big Bend rodeo sent one saddle bronc to the Wrangler nFr in 2011.
Big Stone, Moreno and Growney rodeo company
LOCATION: cessford, alberta. NOTABLE STOCK: at the 2002 Wrangler nFr, Big Stone rodeo company bareback horse chester Dippin Bandit and Will Lowe combined for a 91-point ride. the horse, owned and raised by art klassen, was selected as top bareback horse of the 2002 Wrangler nFr and has been named top horse of the canadian Finals rodeo four times. BACKGROUND: Bruce Sunstrum was a canadian Professional rodeo association contestant for 13 years, competing in all three roughstock events. In 1975, he and partner art klassen started Big Stone rodeo company. In early 2011, the company took on additional partners: Julio Moreno and long-time Prca stock contractor John Growney. Big Stone, Moreno and Growney rodeo brought one bareback horse and one saddle bronc to the 2011 Wrangler nFr.
Manager: Bruce Sunstrum
Beutler & Son rodeo company
Stock contractors: Bennie and Rhett Beutler
LOCATION: Elk city, okla. BUCKING STOCK OF THE YEAR: Bareback horses Sam Bass, 1973; copenhagen comotion, 1998-2000; saddle broncs Blowout, 1985; challenger & Skoal, 1987; bulls cowtown, 1985; Voodoo child, 2007-08. OTHER NOTABLE STOCK: Fighting Stock of the Year –4B, 1991; red, 1992; Wack-o, 1996; Spotted Demon, 1998-99, Black out, 2000. Black cat tied for no. 3 Prca Bareback Horse of the Year, 2011; Wonderland, top-three Prca bareback horse, 2010; Little Lightning, top-three Prca bull, 2009. BACKGROUND: Longtime Prca stock contractor Bennie Beutler and his son, rhett, joined forces in 2001 to form Beutler & Son rodeo company, which was known as Beutler and Gaylord rodeo from 1989-2001. the Beutler name has been synonymous with stock contracting since 1929. Bennie’s grandfather, Elra, and his great-uncles, Jake and Lynn, began supplying stock to oklahoma and texas rodeos more than 70 years ago. Bennie Beutler has served as assistant general manager of the Wrangler nFr since 1982; nFr chute boss, 1979-80; member of Prca rules committee, 1980; stock contractor representative on nFr committee, 1981-82; member of Prca board of directors, 1989-91; stock contractor director on Prca board until 2004. He was Prca Stock contractor of the Year in 1997 and was inducted into the Prorodeo Hall of Fame in 2010. Seven Beutler & Son bareback horses, four saddle broncs and three bulls were selected for the 2011 Wrangler nFr. the firm was nominated for Prca Stock contractor of the Year in 2010 and 2011.
Big Stone rodeo Inc.
LOCATION: cessford, alberta. NOTABLE LIVESTOCK: Spoonful of Sugar, canadian Bucking Bull of the Year, 2008. BACKGROUND: Big Stone rodeo Inc. is a separate company from Big Stone, Moreno and Growney rodeo company. It sent one bareback horse to the 2011 Wrangler nFr.
Stock contractor: Bruce Sunstrum
Brookman-Hyland rodeo LLc
Stock contractor: Dave Wieferich
LOCATION: Sidney, Mont. BACKGROUND: In 2006, cathy and Dave Wieferich and their three children, Latasha, tesa and tate, took over the rodeo business from the late Prorodeo Hall of Fame stock contractor Marvin Brookman, cathy’s great-grandfather. While continuing to focus on Brookman’s famous breeding program, the Wieferiches have added sound, production and rodeo entertainment to the sport and added Joe Hyland as a partner. they produce 10 rodeos across the northwestern United States and subcontract for many events all over the U.S. they sent one saddle bronc and one bucking bull to the 2011 Wrangler nFr; another bucking bull was selected but unable to attend. WEBSITE: www.Brookmanrodeo.com.
Big Bend rodeo company
Burch rodeo company
Stock contractor: Chad Burch
LOCATION: Gillette, Wyo. NOTABLE STOCK: Burch’s Blood Brother tied for Prca Saddle Bronc of the Year award, 2008, runner-up, 2002-03. BACKGROUND: For more than 20 years, Max Burch bred bucking horses that cowboys
Stock contractors: Don and Chad Hutsell
LOCATION: ritzville, Wash. BUCKING STOCK OF THE YEAR: Bareback horse Spring Fling, 1997; saddle bronc Spring Fling, 1999, (tie) 2000; bulls rapid Fire, 1997;
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Stock contractors
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carr Pro rodeo sent eight bareback horses, three saddle broncs and one bull to the 2011 Wrangler nFr. WEBSITE: www.carrProrodeo.com.
have described as “rank” or “eliminators.” Burch purchased Midwest rodeo company from Steve Sutton in 1999, and now Max’s son, chad, runs the company. Burch rodeo sent three bareback horses, four saddle broncs and two bucking bulls to the 2011 Wrangler nFr.
cervi Brothers rodeo company
Stock contractor: Binion Cervi
LOCATION: Sterling, colo. BUCKING STOCK OF THE YEAR: Saddle broncs Descent, 1966-69, 1971-72; Frontier airlines, 1975; Brookman’s Velvet, 1980; bull, tiger, 1975. OTHER NOTABLE STOCK: Hard times was named top bull of the 2010 Wrangler nFr. BACKGROUND: Binion cervi’s father, Mike cervi, has produced many of the largest rodeos in the United States. He served on the Prca Board of Directors for years and was named Prca Stock contractor of the Year in 1983 and 2001. In 1967, Mike cervi purchased Beutler Bros. rodeo company, one of the oldest (since 1929) and most prestigious rodeo companies, as well as the Billy Minick rodeo company. retaining the Beutler name, he formed two companies, Beutler Bros. & cervi rodeo company and cervi championship rodeo. Several years ago, he sold Beutler Bros. & cervi rodeo to his son Binion, who renamed it cervi Brothers rodeo in 2012. Beutler Bros. & cervi sent two bareback horses and four saddle broncs to the 2011 Wrangler nFr; one of the saddle broncs, Vitalix Party Shop, was among the top five.
Burns rodeo company
Stock contractor: Hal Burns
LOCATION: Laramie, Wyo. BUCKING STOCK OF THE YEAR: Bulls Mr. t, 1986; Blenderhead, top-three Prca bull, 2004. BACKGROUND: Burns rodeo company stock is kept at Hal Burns’ High Plains arena, six miles from Laramie, Wyo., and at his ranch about 23 miles from Laramie in southeastern Wyoming, where some portions of the ranch reach 8,500 feet in elevation. Hal Burns, son of stock contractor Pete Burns, began his own bucking stock breeding program a few years ago. they are now bucking young horses they raised and have bull calves sired by Wrangler nFr bulls Mr. t and Mardi Gras. Burns rodeo has had stock selected for the Wrangler nFr every year since 1983, including one saddle bronc and three bulls in 2011. Hal Burns currently serves as a Prca stock contractor member on the Prca’s Board of Directors.
c5 rodeo company
Stock contractor: Vern McDonald
LOCATION: omak, Wash. BACKGROUND: Glenn Herriman, a former Prca contestant and pickup man, and his wife, Belinda, started their northern cross stock contracting business in the amateur ranks 20 years ago and gradually brought their five daughters into the operation. In 2004, the company purchased its Prca card. Glenn Herriman passed away in December 2010 and Belinda ran the family business on their ranches in omak, Wash., until 2011, when she sold it to Vern MacDonald, who changed its name to c5 rodeo company.
cervi championship rodeo
Stock contractor: Mike Cervi
LOCATION: Sterling, colo. BUCKING STOCK OF THE YEAR: Saddle bronc Brookman’s Velvet, 1980; bull tiger, 1975. OTHER NOTABLE LIVESTOCK: Multi-chem texas cocktail, no. 2 bull in the Prca, 2009. BACKGROUND: the man responsible for producing many of the largest rodeos in the U.S., Mike cervi, sold his business in 2004 to his son Binion, who now runs one of the largest stock companies in rodeo history. the cervis draw from a herd of more than 600 head of bucking stock and thousands of head of other livestock at their colorado ranches. the company is a conglomeration of several company interests acquired over the years, including Beutler Bros. & cervi rodeo company. In 1973, Mike cervi acquired cervi championship rodeo company, previously owned by Harry knight and Gene autry. Mike was named Prca Stock contractor of the Year in 1983 and 2001. cervi championship rodeo sent three bareback horses and two saddle broncs to the Wrangler nFr in 2011; another saddle bronc was selected but unable to attend.
calgary Stampede
Manager: Keith Marrington
LOCATION: calgary, alberta. BUCKING STOCK OF THE YEAR: Bareback horses Grated coconut, 2003-04, 2006-09; Lonesome Me, 1984, 1994; Moon rocket, 1976; saddle bronc horses Wanda Dee, 1964; kloud Grey Skoal, 1987; Lonesome Me Skoal, 1989-90. BACKGROUND: In 1961, the calgary Stampede bought a ranch to provide the flexibility needed for their event, breeding 70-plus mares a year to get a continuous supply of high-caliber bucking rodeo stock. With more than 22,000 acres, 500 horses and 90 head of bulls, the ranch recently has ventured into embryo transfers. In 2011, they sent four bareback horses and six saddle broncs to the Wrangler nFr.
classic Pro rodeo Ltd.
Stock contractor: Scotty Lovelace
LOCATION: Waskom, texas. BUCKING STOCK OF THE YEAR: Big tex, Prca Bareback Horse of the Year, 2010, top three, 2008, 2011. NOTABLE LIVESTOCK: Wise Guy, top bareback horse of the Wrangler nFr, 2006, and no. 2 in the Prca, 2009; cattle Drive, who carried ryan Stutes to a 93-point ride in texarkana, ark., tying the secondhighest scored bareback ride in Prca history, in 2007. BACKGROUND: Lovelace, a former bareback rider, developed a love of rodeo in high school. He, his wife, tonya, and his mother, Patty, purchased classic Pro rodeo as an amateur company in 1991; in 1995, it received its Prca stock contracting card. Lovelace reached the top of his craft in 2003 when he was named Prca Stock contractor of the Year. classic Pro rodeo has taken livestock to every Wrangler nFr since it became eligible in 1997, and in 2011, sent 12 bareback horses, one saddle bronc and five bulls to the 2011 Wrangler nFr; another bull was selected but unable to attend. the firm was
carr Pro rodeo
Stock contractor: Pete Carr
LOCATION: Dallas, texas. BUCKING STOCK OF THE YEAR: bareback horse real Deal, 2005, runner-up, 2006. OTHER NOTABLE LIVESTOCK: riverboat annie, runner-up, Prca Bareback Horse of the Year, 2007. BACKGROUND: carr Pro rodeo was established in 2005 by Pete carr to produce Prca rodeos and provide high-caliber livestock throughout the United States. He, his wife, Sherrill, and their crew produce the richest rodeo in oklahoma, Guymon Pioneer Days; the oldest rodeo in texas, the West of the Pecos; and the richest rodeo in new Mexico, the Lea county Fair and rodeo in Lovington. they have excelled at both ends of the arena, providing the calves for the 2007 Wrangler nFr. carr stock has also won many circuit awards and set arena records at some of the biggest rodeos in the country.
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nominated for Prca Stock contractor of the Year in 2010-11. WEBSITE: www.classicProrodeo.com.
family roots go back to oklahoma statehood. they sent a bucking bull to the 2011 Wrangler nFr. WEBSITE: www. DavidBaileyrodeo.com.
corey & Lange rodeo company
Stock contractors: Mike Corey and Tom Lange
LOCATION: Moses Lake, Wash. NOTABLE LIVESTOCK: king of Hearts, no. 3 Prca bull, 2010-11; War Zone, topthree Prca bull, 2008; Seven of Hearts, tie for no. 3 Prca bull, 2005. BACKGROUND: Mike corey, a bull rider, pickup man and amateur contractor, joined forces with financial partner George Horst in 1999. the next year, corey purchased Southern rodeos from Billy Jaynes, who started that company in 1990. In 2011, corey brought in his partner in another stock contracting firm, Flying Diamond rodeo: tom Lange. the company sent three bulls to the 2011 Wrangler nFr, including king of Hearts, who was named top bull of that nFr; two other corey & Lange bulls were selected but unable to attend.
Diamond G rodeos Inc.
Stock contractors: Steve and Cyndi Gilbert
LOCATION: toquerville, Utah. NOTABLE LIVESTOCK: Mr. t, whom 2000 World champion Bull rider cody Hancock rode for 96 points at the 2001 Wrangler nFr – an event record. BACKGROUND: Steve and cyndi Gilbert purchased two stock contracting companies in 1991. Steve Gilbert served as a stock contractor representative on the Prca Board of Directors from 2005-08. the Gilberts sent one bucking bull to the Wrangler nFr in 2011.
Do or Die Pro rodeo
Stock contractor: Vernon Guidry
LOCATION: Madisonville, texas. BACKGROUND: “ranchreared” Vernon Guidry raises most of his formidable bucking bulls. In 1993, Guidry purchased the Dorenkamp rodeo company, Holly, colo. He also has established a phenomenal “born to buck” program with such notable sires as red Wasp, Hot Damn, coopers comet, Western Hauler, Final Dose, XS Energy and Hopscotch, each of whom possesses foundations that go back to legendary bulls such as rooster, Hobo, Houdini, tequila and Spook. Guidry partnered with Binion cervi 2005-11 and the company was named cervi & Guidry at that time, but is now Guidry’s alone. In 2011, Do or Die Pro rodeo took two bulls to the 2011 Wrangler nFr.
cowtown rodeos, Inc.
Stock contractors: Grant and Elizabeth Harris
LOCATION: Pilesgrove, n.J. BACKGROUND: Grant Harris’ grandfather started producing rodeos in 1930 as a sideline to the family’s livestock market. In 1955, Grant’s father, Howard, started a weekly rodeo. In 1978, Grant Harris purchased an Eastern rodeo and renamed it cowtown; he and his wife, Elizabeth (Betsy), continue to produce rodeos in conjunction with livestock auctions, farmers’ markets and farming operations. Harris, who joined the Prca in 1973, competed in bull riding, team roping and saddle bronc riding. He was the First Frontier circuit saddle bronc riding champion in 1975 and 1977-78.
Five Star rodeo Inc.
D & H cattle
Stock contractors: Lori Franzen, Dillon and Hoyt Page
Stock contractors: Marty Johns and Paul Bowers Jr.
LOCATION: okeechobee, Fla. BACKGROUND: Five Star rodeo was formed in 1986 when brothers troy, Dan and Wayne Weekley and their lifelong friend, Donald Parrish, purchased Flying G rodeo from Eric Goolsby of okeechobee, Fla. Marty Johns bought Five Star rodeo in october 2006.
LOCATION: riverton, Wyo. BACKGROUND: In 2005, Powder river rodeo company owners Hank and Lori Franzen formed a partnership with renowned bull breeder Dillon Page to start D & H cattle. the Franzens’ horses reside on their 15,000-acre ranch in Wright, Wyo., while the bulls are raised on Page’s ranch in ardmore, okla. they sent three bucking bulls to the 2011 Wrangler nFr.
Flying 5 rodeo company
Stock contractor: Walter “Sonny” Riley
LOCATION: ritzville, Wash. BUCKING STOCK OF THE YEAR: Bulls Yellow Jacket, 1999; Border Patrol, 2000; saddle bronc Spring Planting, 2009, no. 2, 2011. OTHER NOTABLE LIVESTOCK: Miss amerititle, top-three Prca Bareback Horse of the Year, 2008. BACKGROUND: after producing amateur rodeos in the northwest for four years, Flying 5 joined the Prca in 1974. the rodeo company is a familyoriented operation, as are their wheat farm and cattle ranch. riley is a former sale yard owner and has established a breeding program for bucking horses. It isn’t unusual for Flying 5 to put on a rodeo with as many as 20 young horses in the draw. “nothing pleases us more than to be able to buck a good cowboy off one of our colts,” riley said. He sent one bareback horse and four saddle broncs to the Wrangler nFr in 2011.
Dakota rodeo company
Stock contactors: Joe Simon and Chad Berger
LOCATION: Webster, Minn., and Mandan, n.D. BACKGROUND: Long-time Prca stock contractor Joe Simon joined forces with chad Berger in 2009 to form Dakota rodeo. In the summer, most of their bulls roam a 100-acre spread in Mandan, n.D., and about 100 head of their horses are in Minnesota, as the company focuses on rodeos in the Great Lakes region. In the winter, many of their horses and bulls move to the company’s spread in warmer Perkins, okla. Dakota rodeo sent three bucking bulls to the 2010 Wrangler nFr.
David Bailey Pro rodeo company
Stock contractor: David F. Bailey
LOCATION: Fort Gibson, okla. NOTABLE LIVESTOCK: Dippin’ Super cool, top bull, Wrangler nFr, 2002-03, and his sire, Playboy; Lucky Strike, top bull, Wrangler nFr, 2005-06, and his sire, Gunslinger; Prairie circuit Bareback Horse of the Year Flying High, 2007-08. BACKGROUND: though 1989 was his first year as a Prca stock contractor, David Bailey has been in the rodeo business for more than 40 years. Bailey and his wife, Lisa, own and manage both David Bailey Pro rodeo and the ranch where David Bailey’s
Flying Diamond rodeo company LLc
Stock contractors: Tom Lange and Mike Corey
LOCATION: Moses Lake, Wash. BACKGROUND: In 2007, longtime Prca stock contractor Frank Beard, of Beard rodeos, retired. tom and Leslie Lange, of Greeley, colo., took over his operation, changing the name to Flying Diamond rodeo and putting Prca stock contractor Mike corey in charge of day-to-day operations. corey and Lange
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calves a year on 14,000 acres, deeded and leased. they sent one bareback horse, one saddle bronc and one bucking bull to the 2011 Wrangler nFr; Skippy’s Fine Line was named one of the top five bulls of that nFr.
also co-own corey & Lange rodeo. Flying Diamond sent one bareback horse to the 2011 Wrangler nFr.
Flying U rodeo company
Stock contractor: Cotton Rosser
LOCATION: Marysville, calif. BUCKING STOCK OF THE YEAR: classic Velvet, Prca Bareback Horse of the Year, 1981; Buckskin Velvet, Prca Saddle Bronc of the Year, 1982. OTHER NOTABLE LIVESTOCK: troubadour, top bull of the Wrangler nFr, 2008, top-three Prca bull, 2008; Bring It, top bull of the 2009 nFr. BACKGROUND: cotton rosser, president and operations manager of the Flying U rodeo company, has a successful bucking horse breeding program that has produced excellent bucking stock. rosser raises 80 percent of his bucking horses, 10 percent of his bulls and 50 percent of his calves, making only one or two trips to purchase stock each year. rosser’s oldest son, Lee, also holds a stock contractor’s card. Sons reno and Brian are Prca contestants; Brian and Levi rosser are also Flying U pickup men. cotton rosser’s wife, karin, and his daughter, cindy, are Prca rodeo secretaries and timers. rosser has served on the Prca’s Board of Directors. Flying U rodeo sent one bareback horse and one bucking bull to the 2011 Wrangler nFr.
Frontier rodeo company
Stock contractors: Jerry Nelson Jr. and Jim Crowther
4L and Diamond S rodeo
Stock contractors: Charlie Lowry
LOCATION: Summerville, Ga. BUCKING STOCK OF THE YEAR: Palm Springs, 2011. OTHER NOTABLE LIVESTOCK: Big Iron, no. 2 Prca bull, 2010-11. BACKGROUND: 4L and Diamond S rodeo is a family-owned and -operated firm founded by former Prca contestant charlie Lowry, 2002 Women’s Professional rodeo association Stock contractor of the Year. In 1981, Lowry won the steer wrestling and all-around titles at cheyenne (Wyo.) Frontier Days, pocketing $18,000 – at the time, the most money ever won at a single regular-season rodeo. He qualified for the nFr in 1978-79 and 1981. He also holds 16 yearend titles in the Southeastern circuit. He obtained his Prca card in 1974 and started his stock contracting business in 1985. Lowry and David Simpson joined in 2009 to form 4L and Diamond S rodeo, which works rodeos in the southeastern part of the country and is Georgia’s largest, most established professional rodeo producer. 4L and Diamond S rodeo sent seven bulls to the 2011 Wrangler nFr; another bull was selected but unable to attend. WEBSITE: www.4Lrodeo.com.
LOCATION: Winnie, texas. BUCKING STOCK OF THE YEAR: bareback horse Full Baggage, 2011, also top-ranked horse at Wrangler nFr, 2010; saddle bronc Medicine Woman, 2011, reserve, 2010, also top saddle bronc of the nFr, 2010. NOTABLE LIVESTOCK: Delta Ship, top bareback horse of the Wrangler nFr, 2009, 2011; Let ‘er rip, no. 2 saddle bronc in the Prca, 2009, tied for no. 3, 2010; Big Bucks, three-way tie for third place, Prca Bull of the Year, 2005. BACKGROUND: In 2004, Jerry nelson partnered with Jim crowther, who had been in the rodeo business for more than 25 years, to form Frontier rodeo. operating on his ranch in roxbury, kan., crowther has 500 head in his cow-calf operation and runs 2,000 head of yearling grass cattle. the partners have more than 500 bulls performing in amateur and Prca events. they sent five bareback horses; eight saddle broncs and five bulls to the 2011 Wrangler nFr; Medicine Woman and Wild Bill were both among the top five saddle broncs at the nFr that year and Delta Ship was named best nFr bareback horse for the second time.
Growney Brothers rodeo company LLc
Stock contractors: John Growney and Don Kish
Four Star rodeo company
LOCATION: cottonwood, calif. BACKGROUND: In 2007, Dan M. russell of the russell rodeo company sold his operation to california stock contractor Jeff Davis, who renamed it Four Star rodeo company. Davis’ son, Justin Wade, qualified for the 2009 Wrangler nFr as a team roper. Four Star rodeo sent one bucking bull to the 2011 Wrangler nFr.
Stock contractor: Jeff Davis
Franklin rodeo company
Stock contractor: Shane Franklin
LOCATION: Bonnyville, alberta. BUCKING STOCK OF THE YEAR: Bareback horses kingsway Skoal, 1988; airwolf, 1993; saddle bronc kingsway Skoal, 1995-96. BACKGROUND: Franklin rodeo company has been in operation since the early 1970s and produces rodeos in British columbia, alberta and Saskatchewan. Franklin rodeo raises its own bucking stock from a carefully selected breeding program. they raise 40 colts and 50 bull
LOCATION: red Bluff, calif. BUCKING STOCK OF THE YEAR: Bulls red rock, 1987; Dodge ram tough, 1996 (also Dodge truck Bull of the Year). OTHER NOTABLE LIVESTOCK: Moulin rouge was top bareback horse of the Wrangler nFr, 2003, no. 2 in the Prca in 2010, no. 3 in 2009; bareback horse Dreamboat annie paired with Larry Peabody for an 89-point ride in 1981 for a record that held until 1995; Sock Dancer was top saddle bronc of the 2008 Wrangler nFr; bull Wolfman (whose bloodlines include Prorodeo Hall of Fame bulls red rock and oscar) in 1991 teamed with Wade Leslie for the only 100-point ride in rodeo history. BACKGROUND: Growney Brothers rodeo started with stock that Growney, a Prca roughstock competitor, used for practice. In 1979, Growney purchased rodeo Stock contractors and, after three years in the amateur rodeo business, turned professional. Growney, the 2000 Prca Stock contractor of the Year and 2008 winner of the Prca remuda award for best pen of bucking horses, has added partners Don kish, who oversees the bull program and works as a pickup man, and tim Bridwell, who oversees the horse program. Growney Brothers’ headquarters is on 50 acres just south of red Bluff. another 2,000 acres three miles west of town are leased for winter ranging. Growney Brothers rodeo sent to the 2011 Wrangler nFr four bareback horses, including top-five nFr bareback horse Wild and Blue, as well as six bucking bulls. the firm was nominated for Prca Stock contractor of the Year in 2010, and Growney served on the Prca’s stock contractor executive council 2008-10.
Harry Vold rodeo company
Stock contractors: Harry Vold and Kirsten Vold
LOCATION: avondale, colo. BUCKING STOCK OF THE YEAR: Bareback horse Smokey, 1974; saddle broncs Sarcee Sorrel, 1976; rusty, 1981; angel Sings, 1978-79; Wrangler Savvy, 1986; Bobby Joe Skoal, 1991-93; Painted Valley,
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2010 (also top saddle bronc of the 2009 Wrangler nFr); bulls Panda Bear, 1976, no. 777, 1979-80. BACKGROUND: Born and raised in canada, Vold started his rodeo company in 1954, relocating to a colorado ranch in the late 1960s. Vold’s goal is “to produce top rodeos all over north america and to have the best stock at the biggest and best rodeos, featuring the top cowboys.” Vold, voted Prca Stock contractor of the Year 11 times, buys most of his bulls but breeds many bucking horses and raises approximately 50 colts a year. Vold and his daughter kirsten put on rodeos in 15 states; they sent two bareback horses and two saddle broncs to the 2011 Wrangler nFr, including Painted Valley. the firm was nominated for Prca Stock contractor of the Year in 2010-11.
Jk rodeo company
Stock contractor: Jim Kenney
LOCATION: carlsbad, n.M. NOTABLE LIVESTOCK: Brother, no. 2 Bareback Horse of the Year, 2011, turquoise circuit Bareback Horse of the Year, 2007-09, third at Wrangler nFr, 2009, first at San antonio Livestock and Show, 2009; Jumping Bean, turquoise circuit Saddle Bronc Horse of the Year, 2009; Stepper, turquoise circuit Bareback Horse of the Year, 2006. BACKGROUND: Jim kenney, a Prca Gold card member, began competing in tie-down roping and steer roping in 1961 and has been involved in rodeo ever since. He purchased custer-bred mares from Harry Vold in the early 1990s and, with help from Ike Sankey, started raising bucking stock. He also raises commercial stock on his ranch in Guadalupe Peak, texas. In 2000, kenney purchased auger rodeo company and renamed it. Jk rodeo has sent horses to the Wrangler nFr from 2007-11, all raised by kenney. Jk rodeo sent three bareback horses and two bucking bulls to the 2011 Wrangler nFr; Molly was named one of the top five bareback horses of that nFr.
Harvey northcott rodeo
Stock contractor: Eileen Northcott
LOCATION: caroline, alberta. NOTABLE LIVESTOCK: Get Smart, no. 3 Prca saddle bronc, 2011; Wyatt Earp, top saddle bronc of the 1997-98 nFr; Matt Dillon, top nFr saddle bronc, 1988; bull truck Payment, reserve world champion, 1989. BACKGROUND: Harvey northcott raised some of his bulls from a herd of 65 ranch-raised Brahmacross cows on 1,600 acres of deeded lands in the westcentral hills of alberta. northcott produced his first rodeo July 1, 1967, in carsland, alberta. He picked up his canadian Professional rodeo association membership in 1972 and became a Prca member in 1975. northcott rodeo sent a saddle bronc to the 2011 Wrangler nFr. Harvey northcott passed away in September 2010 and the firm is now run by his wife, Eileen.
JS rodeo LLc
Stock contractors: John E.S. Smith and Dr. J. Patrick Johnson
LOCATION: cascade, Mont. NOTABLE STOCK: Let’s Play, tied for top bareback horse of the Dodge national circuit Finals rodeo, 2008. BACKGROUND: Smith has been raising bucking horses since he was very young and competed in saddle bronc riding for more than 20 years, qualifying for the Wrangler nFr in 1990 and 1991. Smith won a canadian saddle bronc riding championship in 1988. He is partnered with rancher Dr. J. Patrick Johnson, who has been in the rodeo business since the 1970s. JS rodeo sent a bareback horse to the 2011 Wrangler nFr. WEBSITE: www.JSrodeo.com.
Honeycutt rodeo
Stock contractors: Roy, Jerry and Scott Honeycutt
LOCATION: alamosa, colo. BACKGROUND: roy Honeycutt, a former Prca competitor, uses knowledge he has acquired through the years to produce fair competition and expand Prorodeo’s scope and reach. Based in alamosa, colo., Honeycutt continues the traditions of his father-in-law, Walter alsbaugh, who passed along his legacy of wisdom in stock contracting and breeding award-winning bucking horses. Four generations of the Honeycutt rodeo family create quality family-oriented rodeo entertainment with award-winning bucking stock, top contract personnel and dynamic music. Honeycutt rodeo sent a bucking bull to the Wrangler nFr in 2011.
kesler championship rodeo
Stock contractor: Duane Kesler
LOCATION: Helena, Mont., and McGrath, alberta. BUCKING STOCK OF THE YEAR: cool alley, Prca Bareback Horse of the Year, 2001, Prca Saddle Bronc Horse of the Year, 2004, tied in 2008; alley Ways, Prca Bareback Horse of the Year, 2002, 2004. OTHER NOTABLE LIVESTOCK: kesler’s cover Girl teamed with Wes Stevenson for a Prca-record 94-point ride at the 2002 Summer tour Finale in Dallas. BACKGROUND: In 1995, Duane kesler took over the company started by his grandfather, reg kesler, in 1950. In 2011, kesler championship rodeo sent three bareback horses and three saddle broncs to the Wrangler nFr.
J Bar J Inc.
Stock contractors: Mark “Sparky” and Marlene Dreesen
LOCATION: circle, Mont. NOTABLE LIVESTOCK: Perennial Wrangler nFr bucking horse nightjacket, who had 16 offspring bucking at the 2010 nFr, where he was retired; 1999 Great Lakes circuit Bull of the Year Stone cold; Prca world champion bucking horses, including 2005’s real Deal of Pete carr and Stace Smith Pro rodeos, who was ranch-raised on J Bar J land. BACKGROUND: Sparky Dreesen was a Prca bareback rider in the Badlands circuit. He and Marlene got started in the rodeo business in the mid-1980s when they bought out Harlan Gunville of Eagle Butte, S.D., and started producing high school and amateur rodeos. In December 2008, they merged with Jim and Maggie Zinser’s J Bar J ranch to form J Bar J Inc., and the Zinsers have since retired from the business. J Bar J sent six bareback horses and six saddle broncs to the 2011 Wrangler nFr.
kesler rodeo
Stock contractor: Greg Kesler
LOCATION: Helena, Mont., and Lethbridge, alberta. BUCKING STOCK OF THE YEAR: saddle broncs Painted Smile, 2001-03; Skoal’s alley cat, 1988. OTHER NOTABLE LIVESTOCK: Saddle bronc country cat, top saddle bronc, Wrangler nFr, 2006. BACKGROUND: as the son of the late stock contractor reg kesler, Greg kesler was reared in the rodeo industry. “My dad started his business in 1950 and I branched out into my own in 1974,” said kesler, who runs 375 head of horses, 125 bulls and a large beef herd on six sections of land 14 miles south of Lethbridge, alberta. kesler has competed in all rodeo events except bull riding. kesler’s family-operated stock contracting company produces about 15 rodeos a year. kesler rodeos sent four bareback horses and one saddle bronc to the 2011 Wrangler nFr.
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Stock contractors
Stock contractor: Errol Klein
(continued) klein Brothers Pro rodeo LLc MJM rodeos
LOCATION: clinton, La. NOTABLE LIVESTOCK: cochise, top bull, Wrangler nFr, 2007. BACKGROUND: klein & Sons rodeo was started in 1970 as circle k rodeo by Dan klein. His son, Errol, is the primary stock contractor, chute boss and arena director. Errol’s brothers, roy “Boo” and Dan Jr., are pickup men. now named klein Brothers Pro rodeo, the company has progressed through the ranks, producing Little Britches, high school and college rodeos, as well as providing stock for professional rodeos since the company began. the klein family joined the Prca and became a professional stock contracting company in 1978. the next year, the company produced 15 rodeos, including two college and two high school rodeos, spanning five states and 700 miles from arkansas to Mississippi. klein Brothers sent a bucking bull to the 2011 Wrangler nFr.
Stock contractors: John and Marty Barnes
korkow rodeos
Stock contractors: Jim and T.J. Korkow
LOCATION: Sutherland and Peterson, Iowa. NOTABLE LIVESTOCK: Saddle bronc Little Stone helped Wade Sundell tie for the win at the 2010 Wrangler Million Dollar tour championship in omaha. neb., two years after helping 2006 World champion chad Ferley to the tour championship there. Brett Stall won the first round of the 2011 ram Great Lakes circuit Finals rodeo on MGM bull Square Box. MJM rodeos horses were high-point winners in three of 10 saddle bronc riding performances at the 2005 Wrangler nFr; Valpo Johnny was selected fourth-best saddle bronc. BACKGROUND: the sons of prominent rodeo producer Bob Barnes, Marty and John began their own stock contracting business in 1984, producing eight rodeos, and also have their own horse-breeding program. John Barnes serves as a Prca stock contractor member on the Prca’s Board of Directors and was livestock superintendent at the 2011 Wrangler nFr, where MJM rodeos had one bucking bull in competition.
LOCATION: Pierre, S.D. BUCKING STOCK OF THE YEAR: Saddle bronc, Slippery, 2006, also top saddle bronc, Wrangler nFr, 2005. NOTABLE LIVESTOCK: Badlands circuit Saddle Bronc of the Year, (tie) Vidalia and Queenie; 2008; Badlands circuit Bull of the Year, Mortachi, 2008. BACKGROUND: korkow rodeos, heading into its 60th year, has a strong breeding program, raising 90 percent of its own bucking stock, and its saddle broncs are in high demand. the korkows produce professional, 4-H, college and high school rodeos. korkow rodeos remains one of only three contracting companies that has had stock chosen for every nFr since it began in 1959. Patriarch Irv korkow was inducted posthumously into the Prorodeo Hall of Fame in 2009, and the WPra selected Jim korkow as its stock contractor of the year in 1996. In 2011, the company sent one bareback horse, six saddle broncs and two bucking bulls to the big show. WEBSITE: www. korkowrodeos.com.
Mo’ Betta rodeo company
Stock contractors: Maury and Nikki Tate
LOCATION: apache, okla. BACKGROUND: this husbandand-wife team has been raising bucking bulls since 2000. Maury has been a Prca tie-down roper for 20 years and was the 1991 Dodge national circuit Finals rodeo tie-down roping champion. When the tates acquired the contract for cody (Wyo.) night rodeo, their business started to grow. the cody night rodeo has also grown through increased contestant appearances, rodeo crowds and contestant payout since they’ve taken over, said Maury tate. the company is also known for its Mo’ Betta line of shirts and for hosting the Mo’ Betta Invitational calf roping and Mo’ Betta celebrity Quail Hunt. Mo’ Betta sent two bucking bulls to the 2011 Wrangler nFr; red river was among the top five bulls of that nFr.
Mosbrucker rodeos Inc.
LOCATION: Mandan, n.D. NOTABLE LIVESTOCK: Silver Moon, on whom 2007 World champion Saddle Bronc rider taos Muncy won the seventh round of the 2007 Wrangler nFr with 87.5 points; War chick, on whom five-time World champion Saddle Bronc rider Billy Etbauer won the eighth round of the 2007 Wrangler nFr with an 88.5; Magic Wars, top bareback horse of the 2007 Wrangler nFr, highlighted by a 91.5-point ride with three-time World champion Will Lowe that won the 10th round and tied the arena record. BACKGROUND: Mosbrucker rodeos has been in the stock contracting business since 1978, turning professional in 2004 and sending two horses to the Wrangler nFr the very next year. their central location means they can supply stock from Pasadena, texas, to ottawa, ontario, to Sisters, ore., to albany, n.Y. cowboys have won money on Mosbrucker stock at major rodeos including the Fort Worth (texas) Stock Show and rodeo; Black Hills Stock Show and rodeo (rapid city, S.D.); Sisters, ore.; cheyenne (Wyo.) Frontier Days; the river city roundup (omaha, neb.); Dodge city (kan.) roundup rodeo; Days of ’76 rodeo (Deadwood, S.D.); Lewiston (Idaho) roundup rodeo; and the Wrangler nFr. Mosbrucker rodeos sent one bareback horse, one saddle bronc and a bull to the 2011 Wrangler nFr; Magic Wars was among the top five bareback horses of that nFr.
Stock contractor: Wally Mosbrucker
Lancaster & Pickett Pro rodeo
Stock contractor: Chad Lancaster
LOCATION: Fairfield, texas. BACKGROUND: chad Lancaster and cullen Pickett formed their partnership in 2002. their livestock performed at the Wrangler nFr in 2005 and 2008-10 and at the Wrangler Prorodeo tour championship in Dallas, 2005-08. Lancaster’s father, ray, has been involved in stock contracting and rodeo production for nearly 30 years. Besides producing top livestock, the company strives to give its crowds a great production. all-american cowgirl chicks, an equestrian drill team, performs at Lancaster & Pickett rodeos throughout texas. In 2011, Lancaster & Pickett Pro rodeo sent three bareback horses and a bucking bull to the Wrangler nFr.
Mid States rodeo
Stock contractor: Van Flaherty
LOCATION: kirksville, Mo. BACKGROUND: John Walter became a Prca stock contractor in 1979 and was named Great Lakes Prorodeo circuit stock contractor of the year in 1985. Mid States rodeo company marked its 39th year in business in 2011. Separately, Van Flaherty, a former Prca roughstock contestant, had started working on his own herd with bloodlines from Zinser stud nightjacket in 1997 and added bucking bulls in 2008, forming the Hi Lo rodeo company. In January 2011, Flaherty bought Mid States from Walter, who continues to advise him; the herd now numbers about 100 horses plus bulls.
new Frontier rodeo
Stock contractors: Jim Crowther and Bronc Rumford
LOCATION: Gypsum, kan. BACKGROUND: In 2009, Jimmy crowther bought rumford rodeo, a three-generation
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stock breeding and contracting family business that produced 10-15 Prca-sanctioned events annually and took part in high school and college rodeos. the company also has produced Wild West shows and rodeos in Finland, France, Venezuela, oman and most recently Spain. new Frontier sent a bucking bull to the 2011 Wrangler nFr.
new West rodeo Productions
Stock contractor: Wade Sankey
LOCATION: roberts, Mont. BACKGROUND: Wade Sankey, the son of long-time stock contractor Ike Sankey, is both a stock contractor and a Prca contestant. new West rodeo sent a saddle bronc to the 2010 Wrangler nFr. WEBSITE: www.newWestrodeo.com.
and John, are a huge part of their family entertainment productions. the Franzens run more than 350 head of horses, 150 head of bulls and 50 head of cows, most of them raised in the “born to buck” breeding program they started 19 years ago. the Franzens produce or lease to 35 rodeos a year. Hank also serves as stock contractor representative for the rncFr. Powder river sent three bareback horses, four saddle broncs and four bucking bulls to the 2011 Wrangler nFr, where Smooth Groove was among the top five bucking bulls.
Pro rodeos Inc.
Stock contractors Terry Walls
LOCATION: Goldthwaite, texas. BACKGROUND: In 2008, J.c. kitaif’s Pro rodeos and terry Walls rodeo company merged to form Pro rodeos Inc., with more than 40 years of rodeo experience from Florida to texas, and Walls now has full ownership of the company. Pro rodeos provides top stock to the major tour rodeos, and the company sent a bucking bull to the 2011 Wrangler nFr.
outlawbuckers rodeo corporation
Stock contractor: Art Peters
LOCATION: Hythe, alberta. BACKGROUND: outlawluckers rodeo sent one bareback horse and one saddle bronc to the 2011 Wrangler nFr.
Painted Pony championship rodeo
Stock contractor: Shawn Graham
LOCATION: Lake Luzerne, n.Y. NOTABLE LIVESTOCK: Partner, 2008 First Frontier circuit Bull of the Year; Misfit, 2008 First Frontier circuit Bareback Horse of the Year; Shasta, 2007 First Frontier Saddle Bronc Horse of the Year. BACKGROUND: after six years in amateur rodeo, Shawn Graham got his Prca stock contractor card in 2006, shortly after purchasing 56-year-old Painted Pony championship rodeo from Jack Mccue. Painted Pony took a saddle bronc and a bucking bull to the Wrangler nFr in 2011 – three years after they became the first new York stock contractor to take a bucking horse to Las Vegas for the big event.
rafter G rodeo company
Stock contractors: Jim and Neal Gay
LOCATION: terrell, texas. BACKGROUND: In 1958, a group of cowboys, including neal Gay (father of eight-time World champion Bull rider Don Gay), Jim Shoulders, Ira akers, Bob Grant, Harry tompkins and D.J. Gaudin, formed the company. Gay also founded Mesquite championship rodeo, formerly Mesquite rodeo company. Gay and Shoulders purchased an old auction barn in 1957, tore it down and built the Mesquite rodeo arena, which opened in 1958. the $6.5 million “Home of the Mesquite championship rodeo” made its successful debut in 1986 and played host to the 2000 Summer tour Finale. In 1999, Gay sold the Mesquite championship rodeo complex and changed the name of his rodeo company to rafter G. In 2011, rafter G rodeo sent one bareback horse, two saddle broncs and two bucking bulls to the Wrangler nFr.
Pickett Pro rodeo
Stock contractor: Cullen Pickett
LOCATION: Fairfield, texas. NOTABLE STOCK: Former owner Jay austin bred and raised classic Pro rodeo’s bareback horse cimarron, on whom Bobby Mote scored 85.5 in round 7 of the 2010 Wrangler nFr – cimarron’s second trip to the Big Show. BACKGROUND: Jay austin, a three-time DncFr contender who went to the Dodge Southeastern circuit Finals rodeo 16 times, bought Gold Buckle rodeo from Mark “Sparky” Dreesen and Dr. Bruce Fink in March 2010 and renamed it coyote Pro rodeo. Prca stock contractor cullen Pickett bought coyote Pro rodeo in 2011 and renamed it Pickett Pro rodeo. Pickett had purchased J Bar J’s prize stud nightjacket for the Lancaster and Pickett firm in 2009 not long after Jim and Margaret Zinser sold that firm to Sparky and Marlene Dreesen. In 2011, Pickett married the Dreesens’ daughter amanda.
rafter H rodeo Livestock company
Stock contractor: Dell Hall
LOCATION: Hulbert, okla. BUCKING STOCK OF THE YEAR: Saddle bronc alibi, 1983; bull no. 105, 1981, 1984; Skoal’s king kong, 1998. BACKGROUND: Dell Hall has been in the stock contracting business since 1961 and a member of the Prca since 1976. as a former contestant in both riding and timed events, Hall knows that the stock draw can make or break a contestant. rafter H rodeo is a family-run operation on a ranch 10 miles northwest of tahlequah, okla. Dell’s wife, Betty, is a Prca timer, while his daughter, Shelley, is a Prca secretary. rafter H rodeo sent two saddle broncs and five bulls to the 2011 Wrangler nFr, where Spade was named one of the top five saddle broncs that year.
Powder river rodeo LLc
Stock contractors: Hank, Lori and John Franzen
LOCATION: riverton, Wyo. BUCKING STOCK OF THE YEAR: Bareback horse khadafy Skoal, 1990, 1995-96, will be inducted Into Prorodeo Hall of Fame, 2012; saddle bronc Miss congeniality, 2005, 2007, top three, 2008; reserve champion bareback Skoal’s Frontier, 1991. BACKGROUND: Hank Franzen, a Prca Gold card member, began in the Prca stock contracting business in 1986 after spending all his life in rodeo arenas. He and his wife, Lori, started the company on their own. In those 25 years, they have earned 148 “top stock” awards, including Dodge national circuit Finals rodeo and circuit awards. the Franzens’ children, Jill
robinson Pro rodeo LLc
Stock contractor: Jeff Robinson
LOCATION: Mars Hill, n.c. BUCKING STOCK OF THE YEAR: bulls Buckeye, 2009; after Party, 2010. BACKGROUND: In early 2008, Harlan robertson, of Southwick robertson rodeo company, purchased Silverado rodeo company from 1981 World Steer Wrestling champion and 16-time Wrangler nFr qualifier Byron Walker. In January 2011, robertson sold Silverado to Jeff robinson of Mars Hill, n.c, who renamed it robinson Pro rodeo. the company sent four bucking bulls to the 2011 Wrangler nFr.
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Stock contractors
Stock contractor: Lee Rosser
(continued) him sensitive to the needs of the cowboys and their point rosser rodeo company
LOCATION: Wheatland, calif. NOTABLE LIVESTOCK: Wrangler nFr selections have included Lady red Hawk, Flood Waters, Black Jack, Dirty Water and Hot Water. BACKGROUND: Established in 1994, rosser rodeo is family-owned and -operated. rosser competed in the Prca for more than 18 years in saddle bronc riding, steer wrestling, tie-down roping and team roping. His wife, Bonnie, is a Gold card member and Prca timer, while his son, Levi, is a Prca steer wrestler, roper and pickup man, and his daughter, Linsay, is rodeo coach at otero Junior college in La Junta, colo., where she lives with her husband, fourtime nFr steer wrestler Wade Sumpter. rosser rodeo works extensively with breeding programs for replacement bulls and horses, and it sent a saddle bronc and a bucking bull to the 2011 Wrangler nFr. rosser has been a Prca member since 1966.
of view. He believes that professional rodeo should be fast, fun, family-friendly entertainment. all Sankey horses taken to the Wrangler nFr are raised by Sankey and his wife, roberta; the company sent two bareback horses and a saddle bronc to the 2011 Wrangler nFr. the firm was nominated for Prca Stock contractor of the Year in 2011. WEBSITE: www.SankeyProrodeo.com.
Silver creek Pro rodeo
Stock contractor: Matt Williams
LOCATION: cambridge, kan. BACKGROUND: after being inactive in rodeo stock contracting for 12 years, rex Walker combined forces with longtime friend and rodeo producer Jerome robinson to form Western trails rodeo, and Prca stock contractor Joe Simon later became involved with the company, which ran 1,200 head of horses on two colorado ranches. In early 2012, Matt Williams and several partners purchased Western trails rodeo and renamed it Silver creek Pro rodeo.
Salt river rodeo company LLc
Stock contractor: Skip Beeler
LOCATION: Mayer, ariz. NOTABLE LIVESTOCK: Primetime, top bull of the Wrangler nFr, 2001; son out of time, Wrangler nFr, 2005. BACKGROUND: Skip Beeler became a Prca bullfighter in 1978, working many top rodeos. after retiring from bullfighting in 1984, he teamed with two partners to build a successful concrete and framing company in the Phoenix area. as that company matured, Beeler ventured into farming and ranching. In 1994, he started breeding bucking bulls and returned to the rodeo industry as a stock contractor. In 2006-07, he served as president of the turquoise circuit; in 2008, he was elected to the Prca’s Stock contractor Executive council. Salt river owns 150 head of horses – 100 bucking horses, the rest brood mares and colts – and 150 head of bulls, 40 bucking today and the rest calves in the breeding program. Salt river rodeo sent a bucking bull to the 2011 Wrangler nFr.
Silver Spurs club Inc.
Stock contractor: Steve Whaley
LOCATION: kenansville, Fla. BACKGROUND: the Silver Spurs club’s first full-dress rodeo was held July 4, 1944, and it has been a yearly event since. an annual February rodeo was added in 1951, and the club celebrated the production of its 100th rodeo in February 1998. It continues to produce rodeos every February and June. the club also provides the stock for rodeos in okeechobee, Fla., in March and September. the famous Silver Spurs Quadrille has performed at every rodeo produced by the club. WEBSITE: www.SilverSpursrodeo.com.
Slash t rodeo company
Stock contractor: Pat O’Maley
LOCATION: Gooding, Idaho. NOTABLE LIVESTOCK: Bull Snake Eater, who in 2003 paired with terry Don West for a 95-point ride, the second-highest Wrangler nFr score ever; Desperado, top bareback horse of the Wilderness circuit Finals rodeo, 2007-08; Gone Wild, top bareback horse of the Wilderness circuit Finals rodeo, 2006. BACKGROUND: Pat o’Maley got into stock contracting in 1981, and joined the Prca in 2002 when he bought out Gilbert rodeo company and renamed it Slash t rodeo company after he and his wife, Juanita, decided to trade their stock cow operation for a life in rodeo. Pat o’Maley, a former champion bull rider, has served as stock contractor director for the Wilderness circuit board for several years. the company supplies livestock to more than 25 rodeos each year.
Sammy catalena rodeo company
Stock contractor: Sammy Catalena
LOCATION: kurten, texas. BACKGROUND: Sammy catalena has been involved in rodeo his entire life, and became a Prca stock contractor in 1987. Before starting his stock contracting business from scratch in the mid1970s, catalena competed in youth, college and amateur rodeos. catalena’s wife, carolyn, and their three sons handle many of the responsibilities of the rodeo business. “We strive through the years to continually upgrade our bucking stock and keep the best timed-event cattle possible,” Sammy catalena has said. He has more than 2,500 acres of ranch land for his 215 head of horses and 60 head of bulls.
Smith, Harper & Morgan rodeo
General manager: Rorey Lemmel
LOCATION: athens, texas. BUCKING STOCK OF THE YEAR: Bareback horse real Deal, 2005. BACKGROUND: Stace Smith, a stock contractor since 1995, became owner of Smith, Harper & Morgan in 2004. Harper and Morgan had been producing rodeos since 1965 and had been stock contractors since 1983. Harlan robertson joined the firm in 2010. Smith, Harper & Morgan rodeo sent one bareback horse, three saddle broncs and five bucking bulls to the 2011 Wrangler nFr.
Sankey rodeo company
Stock contractor: Ike Sankey
LOCATION: Joliet, Mont. BUCKING STOCK OF THE YEAR: Saddle broncs Skitso Skoal, 1994, 1997; Skoal’s Wild card, 1998; Surprise Party Skoal (tie), 2000. OTHER NOTABLE LIVESTOCK: Show Biz, Dodge Montana circuit Finals rodeo Saddle Bronc Horse of the Year, 2008; Gus, Dodge Montana circuit Finals rodeo Bareback Horse of the Year, 2008; William, no. 2 Prca Bareback Horse of the Year, 1996-97, no. 3 in 2006. BACKGROUND: Ike Sankey started rodeo competition in 1969 and has stayed involved in the sport since then, getting his stock contracting card in 1978 with his father, Bud. Ike Sankey qualified four consecutive times for the national Finals rodeo (1975-78). In 1978, he qualified in two events – bareback riding and saddle bronc riding. His evolution from competitor to producer makes
Southwick’s rocky Mountain rodeo company
Stock contractors: Glenn Southwick and Jerry Dorenkamp
LOCATION: Jay Em, Wyo., and Madill, okla. BUCKING STOCK OF THE YEAR: Bull Biloxi Blues, 2006.
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BACKGROUND: Glenn Southwick has been involved in rodeo since his youth, when he was a bull rider. For the past 20 years, he has been contracting stock for rodeos at all levels, and he has been a Prca member since 1998. Southwick’s sent a bareback horse, two saddle broncs and a bucking bull to the 2011 Wrangler nFr.
Stace Smith Pro rodeos
Stock contractor: Stace Smith
LOCATION: athens, texas. BUCKING STOCK OF THE YEAR: Bull Hurricane, 2001. OTHER NOTABLE LIVESTOCK: Saddle bronc horse Big Jet finished third for stock of the year and third for Wrangler nFr top stock, 2005. BACKGROUND: a Prca stock contractor since 1995, Stace Smith has made a name for himself by sending stock to the Wrangler nFr every year since 1999. the owner of a telecommunications construction company, Smith also stays busy building his bull and bucking horse breeding program. He was named Prca Stock contractor of the Year eight consecutive years, 2004-11, and twice earned the Prca’s remuda award for best pen of bucking horses in 2004-05. He sent two bareback horses and five saddle broncs to the 2011 Wrangler nFr.
continued success is credited to outstanding production in the arena as well as raising top-quality bucking horses and bulls through a longstanding breeding program. their father, Harry Vold, has been in the rodeo business for more than 50 years and is a member of the Prorodeo Hall of Fame, and Doug Vold was inducted into the canadian Prorodeo Hall of Fame in 2005. Dona Vold-Larsen produced “a tribute to chris Ledoux,” voted 2005 Small Indoor rodeo of the Year. triple V rodeo, the Women’s Professional rodeo association’s 2008 Stock contractor of the Year, sent stock to the Wrangler nFr every year from 2000-08 and one bull to the 2010 Wrangler nFr.
Universal rodeos LLc
Stock contractor: Mark Johnson
LOCATION: Jackson, Mo. BACKGROUND: Johnson started producing amateur rodeos in 1994 and became a Prca stock contractor in 2005. He operates a 300-acre ranch in Jackson, Mo., with a herd of 80 horses and 55 bulls. Universal sent a bull to the 2010 Wrangler nFr.
Wayne Vold rodeo company
Stock contractor: Wayne Vold
LOCATION: High river and De Winton, alberta. BUCKING STOCK OF THE YEAR: Saddle bronc try Me, 1984. OTHER NOTABLE LIVESTOCK: awesome, top bareback horse, Wrangler nFr, 2005, 2007. BACKGROUND: Wayne Vold is a son of Harry Vold, one of the Prca’s most highly regarded stock contractors and a member of its Prorodeo Hall of Fame. Wayne Vold got into the business in 1965 through a partnership with his father, and the liaison continues today. Father and son often work together to supply stock for a rodeo, even though Wayne locates his string in alberta and Harry’s home base is avondale, colo. they also join forces on a breeding program that produces bucking stock for both firms; Wayne Vold raises about 75 percent of his livestock. He has sung the canadian national anthem several times at the Wrangler nFr, and sent a bareback horse and four saddle broncs to the 2011 Wrangler nFr.
Sutton rodeos Inc.
Stock contractors: Jim and Steve Sutton
LOCATION: onida, S.D. BUCKING STOCK OF THE YEAR: Saddle bronc Deep Water, 1979; bareback horse tombstone, 1985. BACKGROUND: Jim’s father, James H. Sutton – a Prorodeo Hall of Fame member – produced his first rodeo on the home ranch in 1926. Sutton rodeos was formed in the late 1960s, and with 80 years of rodeo experience, the Sutton tradition continues. Jim’s son, Steve, is co-owner and has worked as a pickup man at the nFr in three decades (1978, 1981, 1986, 1993, 1995). the Suttons raise 90 percent of their breeding horses. Sutton rodeos produced nFr openings in 1995 and 1996, and Jim started the Wrangler Bullfights in 1981 in rapid city, S.D. Jim’s wife Julie is in charge of publicity and advance promotion, and is a Prca timer, as is Steve’s wife, kim. In the family’s fifth generation, Steve and kim’s daughter, amy, is a Prca timer; one son, Brent, is a Prca contestant and pickup man, and their youngest son, Brice, was a state high school rodeo finalist. Sutton rodeos sent a bareback horse, two saddle broncs and a bucking bull to the 2011 Wrangler nFr. WEBSITE: www.Suttonrodeo.com.
Western rodeos Inc.
Stock contractor: Dan M. Russell
three Hills rodeo Inc.
Stock contractor: David Morehead
LOCATION: Bernard, Iowa. BACKGROUND: the stock contracting and production company has been in existence since 1986 and features award-winning livestock and quality production. the ranching operation features a bucking horse and bull breeding program with superior genetics as well as a commercial cow/calf herd and registered Quarter Horses and paints. three Hills rodeo sent three bareback horses, three saddle broncs and two bucking bulls to the Wrangler nFr in 2011; Mama Mia was among the top five bareback horses at that nFr. Morehead serves on the Prca’s Stock contractor Executive council.
LOCATION: Lotus, calif. BUCKING STOCK OF THE YEAR: Bulls Skoal’s Pacific Bell, 1988-90; copenhagen rocky, 1992; Grasshopper, 1993. BACKGROUND: Dan H. russell bought the company in 1963 to start a hobby, a place for him to buck vast numbers of bulls raised on his ranches in nevada, Wyoming and california. Son Dan M. russell became sole owner when he bought out his father, keeping Western rodeos a family business. through hard work in securing some of the best stock on the West coast, as well as a successful breeding program with semen the russells started collecting in the late 1980s, Western rodeos has become one of the strongest contracting businesses in rodeo. they sent a bucking bull to the 2011 Wrangler nFr. WEBSITE: www.Westernrodeos.com.
Wild card rodeo company
Stock contractors: Tom Reeves
LOCATION: Eastland, texas. BACKGROUND: In 2007, tom reeves, 2001 World champion Saddle Bronc rider, started his Prca stock contracting career with the founding of Wild card rodeo. reeves also served as college rodeo coach at ranger (texas) college, where he led the men’s team to the national team title in 2007. charles Pat Halverson is also associated with Wild card rodeo company. Wild card sent a saddle bronc and four bucking bulls to the 2011 Wrangler nFr; another bull was selected but unable to attend.
triple V rodeo company
Stock contractors: Darce Vold, Dona Vold-Larsen, Doug Vold
LOCATION: De Winton, alberta; Pueblo West, colo.; casper, Wyo. NOTABLE STOCK: Q, Mountain States circuit Bull of the Year, 2006-08, Dodge national circuit Finals rodeo Bull of the Year, 2008. BACKGROUND: known for having produced many top rodeos in the past, this three-sibling partnership formed triple V rodeo in March 2005. their
2012 Prca MEDIa GUIDE
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Stock contractorS