Cowboys and cowgirls battled for top honors in bareback, steer wrestling, and bull riding. High scores and fast times set the stage for an electrifying competition.
Lake Charles, LA lit up last night with round one of the SW District Fat Stock Show and Rodeo.
This annual tradition draws fans from across Louisiana to cheer on the cowboys and cowgirls as they compete for the number one spots and the champion title. This is the 87th year of the event, and it continues to grow in reputation and in offerings. From a western heritage parade to a high school rock band, there are events of all kinds throughout the weekend.
Round one of the rodeo was full of fast times and sharp runs. Stock contractor Harper & Morgan Rodeo Co. and sub-contractor Brookman Rodeo brought stock full of momentum and energy to challenge the cowboys and cowgirls.
The night started off with the bareback riding event. Westen Chandler took first place with an 83 point ride on Harper & Morgan Rodeo Co’s Grip It N Rip It, showing his ability to withstand the intense bucking.
In second place with a 76 point ride was Connor Griffith, and in third place was Kash Martin with a 71.4 point ride. Fourth place went to Wyatt Williams for a 67 point ride. Those were the only qualified rides of the night.
In the steer wrestling, the first round went to Jude Leonards who had a 4.2 second run and earned a $838 payout. In second place, Ty Neal had a 4.8 second run and earned $628. Third place saw a tie with Myles Neighbors and Chase Pierre with a 4.9 run and a $314 payout each.
The first round of the team roping did not hold any qualified runs but night two promises another good chance for the cowboys to make it up with fast runs and clean catches.
Devon Hay won first place in the saddle bronc riding with an 84 point ride on Harper & Morgan Rodeo Co’s Route 66. Second place was Ryder Sanford with an 80 point ride and third place was a 79.5 point ride for Cooper Lane.
First round of the tie-down roping saw Semaj Collins take first place with an 8.6 second run earning $822. Second place was Guy Raasch with a 9.1 second run taking home $616, and third place being Zack Jongbloed with a 9.2 second run and a $411 payout.
The barrel racers put on a show and Josey Murphy took first place with a 14.24 second run. Just behind her was Brittany Fellows with a 14.29 second run and then Skylar Sutton in third with a 14.66 second run.
The bull riders rounded out the night, with Connor Murnion scoring 87 points on Harper & Morgan Rodeo Co’s Diabolical. Second place was Gavan Hauck with an 84.5 point ride and third place was Jax Mills with an 82.5 point ride.
As LA prepares for the second round, the energy will only continue to build, with times and points increasing. Who will be the next winner and the overall champion? Stay tuned as we all wait to find out.