The Score from The Team Roping Journal

The rope horse world is about to get another financial boost.In this episode, host Chelsea Shaffer is joined by Melanie Smith, founder of Solo Select, and Clay Logan, event producer, to unpack the brand-new Solo Select Stallion Incentive Futurity — launching with a jaw-dropping $465,000 payout in its inaugural year.They cover everything you need to know before entries close on September 21:How to enter — with or without a breedingWhy stallion owners stepped up in a big wayWhat makes this event different from every otherThe judging format, cattle selection, and short-round clean-slate setupWhy this isn’t just an elite event — it’s built to lift the whole industryWhether you’re already entered or just roping curious, this episode breaks it all down before the gates open in Hamilton, Texas, October 1–2.

When the gavel dropped on a $1.7 million sale at the Old West Futurity Rope Horse Sale in Heber City, Utah, Steve Friskup fought back tears. He'd sold horses before for $1.5 million, but Crosby Ray Von broke every record he'd ever set. Some 48 hours after the sale, we caught up with Friskup as he'd had time to process the significance of the moment and what it means for the horse industry as a whole. ---This episode is presented by Fast Back Ropes. For close to thirty years Fast Back Ropes has been developing best selling ropes by listening to its customers. Fast Back offers a variety of ropes with a size, weight and style to fit every team roper. 

Kory Koontz qualified for 22 Wrangler National Finals Rodeos, won the NFR average title in 1997 and won every major jackpot along the way. But when he stepped away from professional rodeo—after seasoning iconic reacher Dustin Egusquiza—Koontz found himself re-creating his life from the ground up, learning how to budget and to manage a teaching business, all while starting life with his new wife. Along the way, Koontz learned some valuable lessons that he shares in this week's episode of The Score. ---This week's episode of The Score is presented by Fast Back Ropes' Hombre. Fast Back Ropes is thrilled to unveil its latest innovation in roping technology: the Hombre. After rigorous testing by Fast Back endorsees over the past year, the Hombre is set to redefine performance expectations in team roping.A four-strand crafted with a core, the Hombre stands out with its vibrant orange color, ensuring exceptional visibility in any arena. Its smaller diameter and rough exterior are meticulously designed to enhance grip, making it ideal for swift and precise maneuvers around the saddle horn."The Hombre represents a significant advancement in our team rope lineup," said Coy Upchurch, General Manager at Fast Back Ropes. "It offers a relaxed feel combined with superior functionality that ropers of all levels will appreciate. Our endorsees have given it high praise during testing."Available in both head and heel variations, the Hombre head rope spans 31 feet and is offered in XX-Soft, X-Soft, Soft, and MS lays. Meanwhile, the 35-foot heel rope options include Soft, MS, Medium, and HM lays. This versatility ensures that every roper can find a Hombre rope suited to their specific needs."The Hombre is designed to meet the demands of competitive ropers who seek precision and reliability," added Upchurch. "We're excited to bring this game-changing rope to market and anticipate it will make waves in the roping community."The Hombre will be available for purchase at retail locations starting September 1st, marking a new era in team roping technology. For more information about the Hombre and Fast Back Ropes' complete product offerings, visit fastbackropes.com.

It was a weekend for the "underdogs" with teams outside the Top 15 raking in and climbing in the PRCA world standings.Tanner Tomlinson and Patrick Smith have been fighting tooth and nail to climb in the standings, and they’ve landed themselves both at 21st in the world after a $14,064-a-man weekend. Tomlinson and Smith won the Farm-City Pro Rodeo in Hermiston, Oregon, picking up $10,101 each. They won $2,546 a man for second at the Lea County PRCA Rodeo in Lovington, New Mexico, and $1,417 a man for eighth in Logan, Utah, at the Cache County Fair and Rodeo. On this episode of The Short Score, Tomlinson briefly talks about their weekend, how they’re climbing in the standings and their mentality going into the last few weeks of the 2024 season.The Short Score also breaks down some other big winners over the Aug. 7-11, weekend.Episode presented by Roping.comRoping.com is the online training resource for team ropers. In addition to thousands of videos and exclusive roping films in your back pocket, members get private access to World Champion coaches like Jake Barnes, Clay O’Brien Cooper, Matt Sherwood, 26-time World Champion Trevor Brazile, and more every day. Take advantage of step-by-step tutorials, run critiques, private members-only Facebook group, live video demos and other benefits. Join now for only $29.95/month. MORE FROM THE SCOREJoJo LeMond: On Going Home & Starting OverThe Short Score: Old West Part 2The Short Score: From Utah to CheyenneHow to Market Your Rope Horses with Elite Equine PromotionsThe Short Score: From the NFR Open to Salinas

JoJo LeMond roped at four National Finals Rodeos before heading back to his family ranch in Andrews, Texas, to raise his kids with his wife, Blair. But the move home wasn't sunshine and rainbows for LeMond, and he's as real as it gets with how he made the transition out of full-time rodeo and into life as a cutting horse trainer. ---This episode is presented by Gold Buckle Horse Sales. Gold Buckle Horse Sale has come up with a process to take the guesswork out of finding the right horse and allowing both buyer and seller to find the perfect match with confidence. Each horse consigned through Gold Buckle Sales is professionally photographed, videoed and demoed by a professional Gold Buckle Pro. Visit www.goldbucklehorsesale.com.

Leaving the box flat not only affects your start, it also plays a role in setting up the entire run. If your horse is squatting, their skewed balance can get you off balance. In this bonus Roping.com tips episode of The Short Score, Trevor Brazilegives three tips for leaving the box flat.Riding the famous stallion The Darkk Side, Brazile explains what leaving flat means in the box, and how he uses his body to stay with the horse from the corner to the steer. He talks through the problems created by squatting in the corner, and Brazile talks about how to eliminate squatting in the corner in the box, tooBecome a Better Roper:Roping.com is the online training resource for team ropers. In addition to thousands of videos and exclusive roping films in your back pocket, members get private access to World Champion coaches like Jake Barnes, Clay O’Brien Cooper, Matt Sherwood, 26-time World Champion Trevor Brazile, and more every day. Take advantage of step-by-step tutorials, run critiques, private members-only Facebook group, live video demos and other benefits. Join now for only $29.95/month. MORE FROM THE SCOREThe Short Score: Old West Part 2The Short Score: From Utah to CheyenneHow to Market Your Rope Horses with Elite Equine PromotionsThe Short Score: From the NFR Open to SalinasWhy Martin Lucero Stepped Away From Rodeo

We're still not over the highest-paying rope horse futurity in history, the ARHFA Old West Rope Horse Futurity.In this final feature of the Old West futurity, The Short Score brings you conversations with Clay Smith and Joseph Harrison after their wins.Clay Smith was the first $100,000 winner of the weekend, taking home the win in the Open Futurity Heading on Lead On. Smith and the 5-year-old gelding won the Open Futurity Heading with a 930.24 on four.Joseph Harrison had the biggest win of the week, not only winning the Open Futurity Heeling on Copperton, but also winning second on Nu One Time Blues and third on CR Better Be Tuff. All in all, between the average and the rounds, Harrison pocketed $168,480.MORE FROM THE SCOREThe Short Score: From Utah to CheyenneHow to Market Your Rope Horses with Elite Equine PromotionsThe Short Score: From the NFR Open to SalinasWhy Martin Lucero Stepped Away From RodeoThe Short Score: A Little Bit of Everything

The Team Roping Journal was all over the place this weekend, from the ARHFA's Old West Rope Horse Futurity in Wallsburg, Utah, to the Cheyenne Frontier Days short round. Miles Baker kicked off a historic weekend at the Old West Rope Horse Futurity, winning $50,000 in the Pre-Futurity Heading Thursday, July 25, on Relentless PYC. Baker talks about the mare they call Nala and why the win means so much to "a kid from Oklahoma."With an 8.3-second run, Hayes Smith and Justin Davis won their first Cheyenne Frontier Days titles, something they've both dreamed of since they were kids. They break down their win and the emotions behind it.MORE FROM THE SCOREHow to Market Your Rope Horses with Elite Equine PromotionsThe Short Score: From the NFR Open to SalinasWhy Martin Lucero Stepped Away From RodeoThe Short Score: A Little Bit of EverythingThe Short Score: Joseph Harrison is the Richest ARHFA RoperIs Jade Corkill *Really* Retired from ProRodeo? (Does Anyone Really Retire from Rodeo?)

Kenzie Mayer of Elite Equine Promotions is a master marketer in the team roping game, and our partners at The Money Barrel Podcast sat down with her to talk through the way the rope horse industry has stepped up their game in horse promotion. With The Money Barrel host Kayla Jones, Kenzie discusses how the rope horse futurity business has impacted marketing and how best to promote your own horses.---Episode presented by Cactus Saddlery. Cactus Saddlery is the industry’s leading saddle makers, with all saddles and strap items handmade in the United states. With 150 years of combined saddle making skills, Cactus Saddlery provides premium saddles, tack, pads and equine accessories designed, developed and ridden by the professionals of our sport. Fit, quality, looks and personalized customer service are the expectations. Cactus Saddlery offers a full line of equine products to satisfy everyone from pleasure riders to professional competitors.

Jake Barnes and Clay O'Brien Cooper won seven world titles and were, inevitably, unbeatable. On today's bonus Roping.com tips episode of the Short Score, Jake and Clay explain how they met and some stories from the road.Become a Better Roper:Roping.com is the online training resource for team ropers. In addition to thousands of videos and exclusive roping films in your back pocket, members get private access to World Champion coaches like Jake Barnes, Matt Sherwood, 26-time World Champion Trevor Brazile, and more every day. Take advantage of step-by-step tutorials, run critiques, private members-only Facebook group, live video demos and other benefits. Join now for only $29.95/month. 

Dustin Egusquiza and Levi Lord raked in $25,263 a man over Cowboy Christmas to bump them both to No. 2 in the world standings with $85,156.12 won on the year.  The Florida and South Dakota natives had their sights set on coming out the top money earners and accomplished that goal—with placings nearly everywhere from starting the run with a strong showing at Prescott, Arizona’s World’s Oldest Rodeo to finishing the week with a win in Basin City, Washington. This is Lord’s best Fourth run to date, but Egusquiza’s been in this position before. In 2021, the five-time NFR header and Travis Graves broke the Cowboy Christmas team roping record with $30,465. When reigning world champs Kaleb Driggers and Junior Nogueira broke that record in 2022, Egusquiza decided he wanted to go for it again.Despite waving it off in St. Paul, Oregon, Egusquiza and Lord had a nice foundation built after cashing in $4,999 a man on borrowed horses in Prescott and $3,973 at the Oakley (Utah) Independence Day Rodeo. Egusquiza and Lord finished first at the Livingston (Montana) Roundup Rodeo, Mandan (North Dakota) Rodeo days and Basin City to put together the richest Cowboy Christmas team roping run this year.Episode presented by Fast Back Ropes. Fast Back Ropes was created in 1995 with a single mission in mind – to build the best rope on the market. That will always be their number one goal. Fast Back believes it’s important to focus on building the best product possible, and treat customers with the respect they deserve. For close to thirty years, Fast Back Ropes has been developing best-selling ropes by listening to their customers. Fast Back offers a variety of ropes with a size, weight and style to fit every team roper. Fast Back’s most recently released rope, the Cure, is the first and only team rope built with a poly core. For every Cure sold, $1 is donated to St. Jude's Children Hospital.

A steer stepping left is not ideal. So, what do you do in that situation? On this bonus Roping.com tips episode of The Short Score, brought to you by Spalding Labs, Dustin Egusquiza and Travis Graves explain their reactions, both physical and mental.About Spalding LabsHave you found a fly-control solution that actually works? Instead of going after the adult flies, this year try stopping them before they hatch with Fly Predators, a preventative approach to fly control. Fly Predators are the all-natural fly control solution used by top professionals because they just work. Fly Predators kill flies before they hatch, meaning they’ll never get a chance to bother you or your horses. Get ahead of the flies this summer—visit spalding-labs.com to order your Fly Predators today or call their team of experts at 877-Kill-Fly (545-5359).

Brothers J.C. and L.J. Yeahquo have spent majority of the 2023 season inside the Top 15. On this episode of The Short Score, we visit with the No. 7 team in the world to take a look into what their first Fourth run inside the Top 15 looks like as they continue to fight the battle for a spot in Vegas.

It's a common question: How hard should you pull in the box to get the start you want? In this bonus Roping.com tips episode of The Short Score, Lane Ivy gives some guidance on rein pressure in the box to get the best go.Become a Better Roper:Roping.com is the online training resource for team ropers. In addition to thousands of videos and exclusive roping films in your back pocket, members get private access to World Champion coaches like Jake Barnes, Matt Sherwood, 26-time World Champion Trevor Brazile, and more every day. Take advantage of step-by-step tutorials, run critiques, private members-only Facebook group, live video demos and other benefits. Join now for only $29.95/month. 

On last week's episode of The Short Score, we introduced you to the No. 3 header in the Resistol Rookie Race, Kolby Krieger. On this episode, we're bringing you his partner–the one and only Rich Skelton. Skelton is the only eight-time world champion heeler in history, and on this episode he talks about his partnership with Krieger, roping with young kids and the potential he sees in the 21-year-old. _____This episode of The Short Score is presented by Gold Buckle Horse Sales. Gold Buckle Horse Sales has come up with a process to take the guesswork out of finding the right horse and allowing both buyer and seller to find the perfect match with confidence. Each horse consigned through the program is professionally photographed,

Join host Chelsea Shaffer as she dives deep into conversation with Jeremy Buhler, the 2016 world champion heeler and current leader of the world standings in 2023. Jeremy shares insights into his remarkable season alongside partner Rhen Richard, his unforgettable world championship night in 2016 with Levi Simpson, his honest mental game and his pursuit of great young horses in the futurity game.With the 2023 season in full swing, Buhler shares with us the trials, triumphs, and pivotal moments that have shaped his journey thus far. Buhler covers the dynamic partnership and synergy that propels them to the top of the standings.Reflecting on the unforgettable World Championship night in 2016, where he and Levi Simpson clinched the prestigious title, Jeremy invites us into the heart-pounding experience that defined his career. With a play-by-play account, he relives the intense moments, the pressure and the sheer joy of claiming victory on the biggest stage in rodeo.Beyond the physical aspect, Jeremy emphasizes the importance of a strong mental game in rodeo. Drawing from personal experiences, he unveils the strategies and techniques he employs to maintain focus, overcome obstacles and perform at his peak under high-pressure situations. Prepare to be inspired as he shares invaluable insights on mental toughness.--This episode of The Score is presented by ADM Animal Nutrition. ADM’s Forage First® GLO feeds are ultra-premium feeds for your equine partner. Each bag includes GROSTRONG® minerals, Inside Tract™ (a unique supplement to optimize hind gut health), Butyric Acid, Omega Flax™, and Natural-Source Vitamin E, allowing you to feed the BEST. Learn more at admequine.com

Slow cattle have their own important role in training and tuning up horses. In this bonus Roping.com tips episode of The Short Score, Trevor Brazile and Miles Baker explain the role slow cattle play in their training program. Become a Better Roper:Roping.com is the online training resource for team ropers. In addition to thousands of videos and exclusive roping films in your back pocket, members get private access to World Champion coaches like Jake Barnes, Matt Sherwood, 26-time World Champion Trevor Brazile, and more every day. Take advantage of step-by-step tutorials, run critiques, private members-only Facebook group, live video demos and other benefits. Join now for only $29.95/month. 

Kolby Krieger, a 21-year-old originally from Fredricktown, Missouri, was down on his luck and his money when he connected with eight-time World Champion Rich Skelton. The two have since paired up and are hitting the trail. Krieger also currently sits No. 4 in the Resistol Rookie race with $10,204.72 won thus far.On this episode of The Short Score, Lillian Kent, Jr. Western Digital Content Producer for Barrel Racing Magazine, The Team Roping Journal and The Breakaway Roping Journal, caught up with Krieger to talk about his partnership with Skelton and how the year is looking.

Your first swing at a rodeo will differ from your first swing at a jackpot. In this bonus Roping.com tips episode of The Short Score, Nick Sartain explains the difference between his jackpot and rodeo swings. About Nick SartainSartain is a six-time NFR header and the 2009 world champion and NFR average title winner who has a ProRodeo record that speaks for itself. But, in 2018 and 2019, Sartain heeled for more than $250,000 in earnings at the Ariat World Series of Team Roping Finale, the bulk of which came from winning the Ariat #12 in 2018 with Bob Freeman to earn $272,000 for the team. In the Yeti #13 that year, he and Mike Row placed third for a team total of $127,000 and, when he returned in 2019, he placed second with Glen Crane in the AGCO #14.5, worth $136,000.Become a Better Roper:Roping.com is the online training resource for team ropers. In addition to thousands of videos and exclusive roping films in your back pocket, members get private access to World Champion coaches like Jake Barnes, Matt Sherwood, 26-time World Champion Trevor Brazile, and more every day. Take advantage of step-by-step tutorials, run critiques, private members-only Facebook group, live video demos and other benefits. Join now for only $29.95/month. 

Steve Purcella and Steve Northcott battled Matt Tyler and Kory Koontz in the 1996 Mega Match over 30 steers and three score lengths, in a match that helped define a generation of team ropers. But what exactly does Purcella remember about the iconic roping? Find out. --Episode presented by:ADM’s Forage First® GLO feeds are ultra-premium feeds for your equine partner. Each bag includes GROSTRONG® minerals, Inside Tract™ (a unique supplement to optimize hind gut health), Butyric Acid, Omega Flax™, and Natural-Source Vitamin E, allowing you to feed the BEST. Learn more at admequine.com

If you head over to the Great Lakes Circuit, you'll hear a familiar name: Joe Beaver.The 8x world champion claims the Great Lakes Circuit nowadays heading for Levi Pettigrew, and the two had a successful circuit weekend June 9-11. Beaver and Pettigrew were 8.3 in Tarkio, Missouri, to win fifth and $286, 5.0 to win $1,303 for second at Merrill, Wisconsin, and 4.8 to win Hawley, Minnesota, and $954. In this episode of The Short Score, we talk about their runs, their partnership and why the Texan is claiming the Great Lakes Circuit.

It's important in the practice pen to practice at the level you compete. When you're roping at an aggressive, competitive level, you need to try and practice like it in order to keep your horse working right. In this bonus Roping.com tips episode of The Short Score, Patrick Smith explains what it means to rate off your rope and how to achieve it.Become a Better Roper:Roping.com is the online training resource for team ropers. In addition to thousands of videos and exclusive roping films in your back pocket, members get private access to World Champion coaches like Jake Barnes, Matt Sherwood, 26-time World Champion Trevor Brazile, and more every day. Take advantage of step-by-step tutorials, run critiques, private members-only Facebook group, live video demos and other benefits. Join now for only $29.95/month. 

It's officially June, which means the summer run is practically here. On this episode of The Short Score, we caught up with Tanner Tomlinson and Patrick on their win at the Old Fort Days Rodeo in Fort Smith, Arkansas. The pair went 3.7 seconds to both win $3,032.

This episode unearths the raw emotions and untold narratives that transpired after the face-off between Derrick Begay and Cesar de la Cruz and Matt Sherwood and Cory Petska. In the final Mega Match, Begay and de la Cruz went into the last steer tied with Sherwood and Petska, and de la Cruz's emotions ran high. Join us as we explore the reasons behind Cesar de la Cruz's demeanor, unmasking the layers of his personality that fueled his attitude at the time. We dig into the events leading up to that final steer and how things have changed in the 13 years since.As we peel back the curtain on the sport of team roping, we gain a greater understanding of the psychological challenges athletes face and the impact it can have on their performance and relationships within the roping community.Prepare for a thought-provoking and enlightening conversation that not only examines Cesar de la Cruz's behavior but also delves into the larger themes of sportsmanship, redemption and personal growth. This episode of The Score Podcast promises to captivate listeners, whether you're a seasoned roper, a fan of the sport, or simply fascinated by the intricate dynamics of competitive rodeo.--This episode is presented by Fast Back Ropes' Venom. The Venom is an all nylon with core construction. The Venom is bright green for high visibility.Core constructionSmall diameterSnappyGreat bodyShop: https://bit.ly/Venom_FastBackRopes

Missing is hard. It takes you out of the money, and it can make the mental game even harder. BUT when a miss does happen, it's important to get the most out of it.In this bonus Roping.com tips episode of “The Short Score,” Charly Crawford explains the mechanics of how the loop works through each part of the catch and how breaking down a miss the right way can turn into a productive tool to help increase catch percentage. Become a Better Roper:Roping.com is the online training resource for team ropers. In addition to thousands of videos and exclusive roping films in your back pocket, members get private access to World Champion coaches like Jake Barnes, Matt Sherwood, 26-time World Champion Trevor Brazile, and more every day. Take advantage of step-by-step tutorials, run critiques, private members-only Facebook group, live video demos and other benefits. Join now for only $29.95/month. 

Memorial Day Weekend is a special time as we honor those who selflessly sacrificed their lives for our freedoms. It's also a big weekend of jackpotting before the best guys in the world head out for the summer run. On this episode of The Short Score, we go over who won what memorial ropings over the weekend. The weekend started out Friday, May 26, 2023, with the 49th Annual Windy Ryon Memorial near Fort Worth. Clay Smithand Junior Nogueria were 35.36 on five head to take home the Open title.Casey Allen, host of our sister podcast The Breakaway Breakdown, was on-site at the 14th Annual Danny Dietz Memorial Classic in Decatur. She caught up with Tyler Wade and Jake Long, the Twisted X Open champs who roped five head in 30.28 seconds.The weekend continued in Buffalo, Texas, with the Cody NesSmith Memorial Team Roping. Dustin Eguisquiza and Travis Graves took the win with a 28.28. Last but not least, the Priefert Ranch Open Roping kicks off Tuesday, May 30 and will be livestreamed on Roping.com.

When you’re at a roping or rodeo, how do you approach the short round? How do you decide your game plan? In this bonus Roping.com tips episode of “The Short Score,” Roping.com coach and world champion Matt Sherwood explains how to deal with the short round and how to decide what approach to take for the situation.Matt Sherwood is a two-time world champion header whose professional career spans over two decades.Become a Better Roper:Roping.com is the online training resource for team ropers. In addition to thousands of videos and exclusive roping films in your back pocket, members get private access to World Champion coaches like Jake Barnes, Matt Sherwood, 26-time World Champion Trevor Brazile, and more every day. Take advantage of step-by-step tutorials, run critiques, private members-only Facebook group, live video demos and other benefits. 

Denny Gentry paid out $2 million at the inaugural Riata Buckle in 2022, and in 2023, he has plans to pay out half-a-million more. But the money at the roping is only part of the event's impact—the Riata Buckle is raising horse prices and funneling more money into the rope horse business than ever before. In this episode, Gentry reviews what he's learned about the horse industry and talks through the new Proxy and Riata Buckle Bonus Earnings Program. More information on the Riata Buckle.————SPONSOR: ADM’s Forage First® GLO feeds are ultra-premium feeds for your equine partner. Each bag includes GROSTRONG® minerals, Inside Tract™ (a unique supplement to optimize hind gut health), Butyric Acid, Omega Flax™, and Natural-Source Vitamin E, allowing you to feed the BEST. Learn more at admequine.com

On this episode of The Short Score, it's all about the ladies that took home the 2023 Women's Rodeo World Championship Team Roping title, Martha Angelone and Jackie Crawford.The Women's Rodeo World Championship ran from May 14-20 in Fort Worth, Texas, and paid out over $750,000 while crowning World Champions in both the Pro and Challenger classifications in the team roping (Heading and Heeling), breakaway roping and barrel racing. When the dust settled on the team roping, it was all about WPRA world champions Angelone and Crawford, who each took home $60,000 for their win. Angelone also walked away with the 2023 Women’s Rodeo World Championship All Around title. Lillian Kent, Jr. Western Digital Content Producer for Barrel Racing Magazine, The Team Roping Journal and The Breakaway Roping Journal was on site to talk with the champs.

When a heel horse shoulders in, it's important to address the issue quickly. In this bonus Roping.com tips episode of “The Short Score,” Roping.com coach Travis Graves describes how he addresses the problem with his hands and feet and keeps his horse working in his hand through a run.Travis Graves is a 14x NFR heeler and the 2017 NFR Average champion.Become a Better Roper:Roping.com is the online training resource for team ropers. In addition to thousands of videos and exclusive roping films in your back pocket, members get private access to World Champion coaches like Jake Barnes, Matt Sherwood, 26-time World Champion Trevor Brazile, and more every day. Take advantage of step-by-step tutorials, run critiques, private members-only Facebook group, live video demos and other benefits. Join now for only $29.95/month. 

The 2023 WCRA Rodeo Corpus Christi team roping saw fast times, unique pairings and unconventional runs that won. Nonetheless, it had us all watching. On this episode of The Short Score, host Taylor Vollin catches up with the Progressive Round performance winners and the Rodeo Corpus Christi champs after their runs. In the first performance of the Progressive Round, Clay Smith and Jake Long went 4.5 seconds to take the win and move on to the Showdown Round. The young guns Riley Kittle and Jace Helton took the win of the second performance with a 4.41. Lastly,  Nelson Wyatt and Jade Corkill  punched their tickets to the Showdown Round with a 3.86, the fastest time of the week. Kittle and Helton took the Showdown Round win with a 5.21 to continue to the Triple Crown of Rodeo Round. The round got interesting as the college rodeo partners took the final win with a 10.16 after roping a leg.

The mental side of roping is complex enough, but when you add in the stress and thoughts of everyday life outside of the arena, it gets even more difficult.On this bonus Roping.com tips episode of “The Short Score,” Roping.com coach and seven-time world champion Clay O'Brien Cooper discusses how to mentally block out things going on outside the arena.Become a Better Roper:Roping.com is the online training resource for team ropers. In addition to thousands of videos and exclusive roping films in your back pocket, members get private access to World Champion coaches like Jake Barnes, Matt Sherwood, 26-time World Champion Trevor Brazile, and more every day. Take advantage of step-by-step tutorials, run critiques, private members-only Facebook group, live video demos and other benefits. Join now for only $29.95/month. 

It comes as no surprise that the initial episode of The Short Score on the PRCA's new crossfire rule drew a lot of attention. To answer some questions listeners had regarding the rule, we met with Pro Official Harry Rose who has flagged the team roping at the NFR 21 times. We also caught up with 2019 World Champion Heeler Wesley Thorp to go into more detail on the rule proposal and the entire process of getting it approved. Thorp played a significant role in the rewriting and proposal of the new rule and also held a seminar last fall at his house in Texas where judges and contestants came together to work on a solution to the controversial call. --This episode is presented by Purina. Level up your horses’ performance this season with choices from Purina Animal Nutrition. From Purina Ultium Competition Formula to Purina Impact Pro Performance and everything in-between, Purina has the right option for your horse – including supplements like Purina SuperSport Amino Acid Supplement, Purina Amplify High Fat Supplement and Purina Outlast Gastric Support Supplement. There are many choices for optimal nutrition when you choose Purina…all backed by science. Level up your performance this season and put Purina’s research to the test. Ask for Purina at your local feed retailer today.

On this bonus Roping.com tips episode of “The Short Score,” Jake Barnes discusses how important it is to keep your practices intense. Working on yourself and your horses, and using your practice time wisely leads to success. Become a Better Roper:Roping.com is the online training resource for team ropers. In addition to thousands of videos and exclusive roping films in your back pocket, members get private access to World Champion coaches like Jake Barnes, Matt Sherwood, 26-time World Champion Trevor Brazile, and more every day. Take advantage of step-by-step tutorials, run critiques, private members-only Facebook group, live video demos and other benefits. Join now for only $29.95/month. 

The Short Score is back and kicking off covering some recent, hot topics. In this episode, our new host, Taylor Vollin, talks with longtime PRCA Pro Official Chuck Hoss to introduce the PRCA's new crossfire rule that went into effect May 1, 2023.Casey Allen, host of our sister podcast The Breakaway Breakdown, chats with Cole Thomas and Kaden Profili, the 2023 Resistol Rookie Roundup champions.

In this episode, we are thrilled to introduce our new digital editor, Taylor Vollin, to our listeners. As our listeners know, The Team Roping Journal is the leading source of news and information for team ropers and fans of the sport. Taylor Vollin brings a wealth of experience to her new role as digital editor, having studied agricultural communications at Mississippi State University and having grown up rodeoing in California. In this episode, Chelsea and Taylor discuss Taylor's background and how she got started in the Western industry. They also delve into her plans for The Team Roping Journal's digital platform, including new features and initiatives that listeners can look forward to in the coming months.Whether you are a seasoned team roper or just getting started in the sport, you won't want to miss this episode of The Team Roping Journal's Score Podcast. Tune in to hear from our new digital editor, Taylor Vollin, and learn more about what's in store for The Team Roping Journal's digital platform.--This episode is presented by Seen Through Horses. 1 in 4 people experience mental health issues each year. This spring, you can help support mental health awareness and support nonprofit organizations changing lives through horses by joining the second annual Seen Through Horses Campaign! Join us May 1-31, 2023, during Mental Health Awareness Month, for the Seen Through Horses Campaign and together we can make a much-needed difference for mental health globally. To learn more visit horsesformentalhealth.org.

Jim Brinkman, the manager of the Pitzer Ranch in Ericson, Nebraska, has been with the legendary ranch his entire life, and he's played an instrumental role in the ranch's success in the team roping world. He's a seasoned horseman and roper himself and has been involved in every aspect of the ranch's operation, from breeding and raising horses to training and competing on them.In this episode, Brinkman shares his insights on the Pitzer Ranch's history, its breeding program and its focus on producing top-quality performance horses for the team roping and ranch rodeo markets. He also talks about his personal journey in the team roping world and his experiences working with some of the top ropers and trainers in the industry—and how stallion incentives like the Riata Buckle and Royal Crown are reshaping the rope horse game on the heels of the American Rope Horse Futurity Association's explosive growth. In addition to his role at the Pitzer Ranch, Jim is also promoting the upcoming Pitzer Ranch Spring Sale, which is set to take place on April 22. He gives us a sneak peek into what buyers can expect at the sale and highlights some of the standout horses that will be offered.Whether you're a team roper, a rancher or just a horse lover, this episode is sure to provide valuable insights and inspiration. So tune in to The Team Roping Journal's The Score Podcast and join us for a conversation with Jim Brinkman of the Pitzer Ranch.---This episode is presented by 5 Star Equine Products. 5 Star’s exclusive wool, quality and craftsmanship has set the standard in the equine industry. 5 Star’s durability has been proven in the arena, on the ranch, and on the trail.  Custom designs and styles to fit even the toughest of backlines, 5Star has a pad for your horse. And, best of all, all 5 Star Equine products are handcrafted in the USA! Let us take the worry out of keeping your horse comfortable, while you enjoy the ride. Customize your pad at 5StarEquine.com

Host Chelsea Shaffer is on the road this week, so G.R. Schiavino, TRJ's managing editor, filled in on The Score by reading her exceptional work, Heading and Healing. It's the story of Greg Ziel—a medically retired police sergeant from Las Vegas, Nevada—who, after battling PTSD, found team roping as his solace. --This episode is presented by Cactus Ropes. The team at Cactus are ranchers, ropers, rodeo contestants and horse enthusiasts who take pride in blending traditional team rope making artistry with technical innovations to produce the industry’s best equipment.Cactus has had many great individuals influence the team rope making process over the years starting with Cactus Jack, Jacky and Rob Stephenson, Joe Mathews, Barry Berg, and Mike Piland. Clay O’Brien Cooper, Jake Long, Chad Masters, Riley Minor, Matt Sherwood, Nick Sartain, Lari Dee Guy, Hope Thompson, Stran Smith along with many other team ropers, breakaway roper, and tie-down ropers have lent their professional expertise time and time again to help the master rope makers at Cactus hone their craft.One of the greatest opportunities for the Cactus crew was the partnership with the GOAT (Greatest of All Time). For the last decade Trevor Brazile, the King of the Cowboys, has been working with Cactus Ropes to design the best feeling head and heel team ropes on the market. Trevor’s Relentless attention to detail coupled with the team rope design team at Cactus resulted in not only the creation the best selling Relentless line of team ropes and calf ropes, but a positive effect on the quality of all Cactus products, from ropes and sports boots to horse blankets.Today many of the original cast of the Cactus start-up are still pushing the yellow and green every day in the rope shop in Pleasanton, TX. Mike Piland is the head of public relations, Barry is the general manager, and Rob is making sure every team rope is perfectly coiled. The Cactus Crew has stuck together for knocking on thirty years now with no signs of slowing down in the future.

Sunday, April 9th's Select Online Sales will offer the Relentless Remuda's first set of Show Me The Buckles colts out of the program's proven mares, as well as ICSI aspirations out of their legendary mares like Relentless Glory, HA Jackie The Gypsy and A Gypsy Soul. Melanie Smith—founder of Solo Select—talks to The Score Host Chelsea Shaffer about where the rope horse market is in 2023, and how Select Online Sales can help push the rope horse business forward. The sale comes just days after the Riata Buckle announced its proxy horse program, allowing ropers to compete in the 2023 $2.5-million November event if they can prove they've bred to a Riata stallion in 2023 or own a weanling, yearling, 2- or 3-year-old colt by a Riata stallion. Offering some of the premier weanlings in the industry, Easter's weekend's Select Online Sale might just be the least expensive way for anyone to get a shot at roping at the Riata.

Dick Yates qualified for 13 Wrangler National Finals Rodeos, and in his 85 years he's seen team roping go from a second-class, amateur sport to the richest event in all of the Western performance world. And along the way, he's led his family—late wife Jan, son, J.D., daughter Kelly, and grandson, Trey—to become one of team roping's powerhouse dynasties. In this interview from a Roping.com shoot, Yates muses about all the changes he's seen in the sport as its evolved. This episode is presented by 5 Star Equine Comfort Pads. 5 Star’s exclusive wool, quality and craftsmanship has set the standard in the equine industry. 5 Star’s durability has been proven in the arena, on the ranch, and on the trail.  Custom designs and styles to fit even the toughest of backlines, 5Star has a pad for your horse. And, best of all, all 5 Star Equine products are handcrafted in the USA! Let us take the worry out of keeping your horse comfortable, while you enjoy the ride. Customize your pad at 5StarEquine.com

Formally tracking rope horse earnings is a relatively new phenomenon. Before the last 12 months, databases like the American Quarter Horse Association’s QData could only track rope horse earnings at judged shows, where pedigrees were verified by judges to ensure rampant cheating wasn’t fudging the numbers. But in 2022, the AQHA teamed up with the Riata Buckle Stallion Incentive Program to infuse some $2 million into the recorded earnings of rope horses. And, for the first time, the AQHA relied on this magazine’s indexing of the horses the Top 15rode at this year’s Wrangler National Finals Rodeo to funnel another $1.1 million from rodeo’s big show into QData, shifting the all-time earnings list dramatically for team roping horses. But who cares? Why should ropers care if this type of money is tracked on their horses? After all, they’re roping for millions in Las Vegas and Fort Worth, and you can’t ride papers…can you?In this audio edition of this feature article from The Team Roping Journal's February 2023 issue, host Chelsea Shaffer reads the article to keep you in the know. ---The PhD Equine Nutritionists at Purina Animal Nutrition tackle problems using science. And their love of horses keeps them at it until they get it right. Even with the most established feeds, they keep innovating. Even when it takes years of research, they don’t stop until it’s right. They are dedicated to the scientific method, but it can’t capture the feeling of seeing a horse reach their full potential. It takes science and love to help your horses live their best life. Put their research to the test at HorseInnovation.com.

Cody Doescher is the 2023 Cinch Timed Event Champion—10 years after his first appearance at the storied event. In 39 years, Doescher is the first CTEC Champion from Oklahoma, and the win was an emotional one for the all-around hand. This episode is presented by Professional's Choice: From the creators of the original sports medicine boot, Professional’s Choice has released a revolution in leg protection, the 2XCool Sports Medicine Boot. Designed around Cooling, Comfort, and Durability, Professional’s Choice has introduced a light weight, ultra-breathable and completely neoprene-free boot. The 2XCool Sports Medicine boot is lined with a technology advanced fabric from Brrr that combines cooling minerals, active wicking, and rapid drying to create the “Triple Chill Effect” that instantly and continuously draws away heat and moisture. Professional’s Choice2XCool Sports Medicine Boots will keep your horses legs cool, dry, and protected.

For the everyday rope horse buyer, the horse market is loaded with uncertainty. Who can you trust, and how can you find the best horse for your money? Two-time World Champion Matt Sherwood has been in the team roping business nearly 30 years, and he's figured out all of the ways to find the best horses AND how to not find the best horses. He brings that knowledge to his new venture alongside businessman Troy Goeckeritz in Gold Buckle Horse Sales, providing a solution to challenges ropers of every level face when buying or selling.

The 2023 Lone Star Shootout hosted many of the best teams in the sport at the Lone Star Arena in Stephenville, Texas, with underdogs Dalton Turner and Daniel Braman taking the $70,000 win from ninth callback. Casey Allen, host of our sister podcast The Breakdown, was on-site for the coverage for us all weekend, and she caught up with the champs after their watershed win. This episode is presented by Professional's Choice: From the creators of the original sports medicine boot, Professional’s Choice has released a revolution in leg protection, the 2XCool Sports Medicine Boot. Designed around Cooling, Comfort, and Durability, Professional’s Choice has introduced a light weight, ultra-breathable and completely neoprene-free boot. The 2XCool Sports Medicine boot is lined with a technology advanced fabric from Brrr that combines cooling minerals, active wicking, and rapid drying to create the “Triple Chill Effect” that instantly and continuously draws away heat and moisture. Professional’s Choice 2XCool Sports Medicine Boots will keep your horses legs cool, dry, and protected.

South Dakota-native Billy Myers, 36, grew up watching his family's stallion Frenchmans Guy own the breeding game in the barrel racing market, and he saw how a great horse could change the lives of those he touched. With deep roping roots, the Myers family might have been the most excited breeders in the game when rope-horse incentives and futurities took off, giving them a space to promote their stallions—Smooth Guy, Mr Sassy Frenchman, Ima Special Kindaguy, Cowboys Cartel and Lucky Wonder Horse—within the business they truly loved. Billy, who manages the family's breeding operation in the spring, took it a step further and founded the Platinum Medal Futurity with partner Audrey Hart and with the support of Equinety. The event will run over Labor Day Weekend at the Lazy E Arena in Guthrie, Oklahoma, and its designed to highlight multiple levels of futurity horses while bringing together recreational ropers and the pros to build connections within the horse industry. On this episode of 'The Score', Myers sits down with host Chelsea Shaffer at his family's place in Wittman, Arizona, to talk about how he sees the trajectory of the rope horse market and where the Platinum Medal Futurity fits into that mix. This episode is presented by Cactus Ropes, long-time supporter of the growth the rope horse industry is experiencing today. Cactus Ropes has pioneered the rope-making industry for more than 25 years, creating specialized products for ropers of all kinds. They are proud of their history and are pleased to provide you with the highest quality ropes and service.

The Team Roping Journal was at the National Western Stock Show and Rodeo and the Fort Worth Stock Show and Rodeo to catch up with the winners, Clay Smith and Jake Long and Andrew Ward and Buddy Hawkins. In this bonus episode of The Score, Chelsea Shaffer talks to Smith and Long immediately following their NWSS victory lap, while guest host (and host of The Breakdown podcast) Casey Allen caught up with Andrew Ward and Buddy Hawkins after their world-standings-rocking win at Fort Worth. This episode is presented by Roping.com, where Score listeners can use promo code THESCORE15 to save on their memberships to the most jam-packed streaming video site in all of team roping. This year, Roping.com will stream the Lone Star Shootout Feb. 24-26, the Cinch Timed Event Championship, the Danny Dietz Memorial, the Platinum Medal Futurity and the Riata Buckle! Plus, watch thousands of training videos with Trevor Brazile, Miles Baker, Patrick Smith, Clay O'Brien Cooper, Jake Barnes and more!

Trevor Brazile handily won four ropings at the 2023 Royal Crown Roping Futurity in Buckeye, Arizona, riding three horses to those titles. In this episode of The Score, host Chelsea Shaffer talks to Brazile on the grounds after each win, covering the strong points of each horse's performance and what it takes to win on young horses at this level. Plus, Andy Holcomb talks about Fine Vintage Cash, the mare he won the All-Ages heeling aboard, Dakota Kirchenschlager gets REAL about what it takes to make a great horse like Test My Metal and Vaughn Warken gets emotional about what JT Risin Sensation has meant to his family in advance of the Horse Sale at Rancho Rio.This episode is presented by Professional's Choice: From the creators of the original sports medicine boot, Professional’s Choice has released a revolution in leg protection, the 2XCool Sports Medicine Boot. Designed around Cooling, Comfort, and Durability, Professional’s Choice has introduced a light weight, ultra-breathable and completely neoprene-free boot. The 2XCool Sports Medicine boot is lined with a technology advanced fabric from Brrr that combines cooling minerals, active wicking, and rapid drying to create the “Triple Chill Effect” that instantly and continuously draws away heat and moisture. Professional’s Choice2XCool Sports Medicine Boots will keep your horses legs cool, dry, and protected. 

Ty Smith is the horse industry's buyer. He finds the best horses to offer to the public through Solo Select's Online Sales. In this episode of The Score, Smith talks about the horse market from his point of view, including the forces at play driving the market up and the importance of incentives. This episode is presented by Equinety. Equinety offers the Equinety Edge 30 Day Challenge with a Buy One Get One Free introductory offer, where customers can try the product for themselves to see how much their horse can change for the better in 30 days. Visit www.TeamEquinety.com/intro/and use the discount code INTRO30 for free shipping! In addition to the challenge.

Team roping's horse market continues to rise with growth of the rope horse futurity and stallion incentive business. The Riata Buckle, Royal Crown and the American Rope Horse Futurity Association have joined the Ariat World Series of Team Roping and the USTRC in driving the industry forward, and perhaps nobody has had a better view of these market trends than Steve Friskup, principal at Clovis Horse Sales. In Part 1 of our Horse Market Report, Friskup details the effects of the futurity and stallion incentive business on the rope horse industry, with a nuanced view of the market forces at work. This episode is presented by Professional's Choice: From the creators of the original sports medicine boot, Professional’s Choice has released a revolution in leg protection, the 2XCool Sports Medicine Boot. Designed around Cooling, Comfort, and Durability, Professional’s Choice has introduced a light weight, ultra-breathable and completely neoprene-free boot. The 2XCool Sports Medicine boot is lined with a technology advanced fabric from Brrr that combines cooling minerals, active wicking, and rapid drying to create the “Triple Chill Effect” that instantly and continuously draws away heat and moisture. Professional’s Choice 2XCool Sports Medicine Boots will keep your horses legs cool, dry, and protected.

Ice Cube is the horse that Jade Corkill started his rodeo career aboard back when he heeled for Matt Tyler as a rookie, and it's the horse he set the 3.3-second World Record aboard in Round 9 of the 2009 NFR. He died in the summer of 2022, during the short round of the Cheyenne Frontier Days—which Corkill won. While we've written the story before, we've never heard it from Jade's perspective on The Score. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.