Chase Hawks Rough Stock Weekend marks 30 years as NFR cowboys return to compete

The Chase Hawks Rough Stock Weekend celebrated its 30th year Dec. 19–20, bringing in multiple contestants fresh off appearances at the Wrangler National Finals Rodeo.

The rodeo is coined the “Unofficial Day 11 of the NFR,” giving cowboys another chance to chase a win before the holidays. Only the top 20 cowboys are invited to go head to head with stock from the PRCA’s top contractors, creating an atmosphere buzzing with excitement and elite talent. After a week of rest, many NFR cowboys return ready for another adrenaline rush — either to keep riding high or to prove themselves after a tough 10 days in Las Vegas.

The event featured the three rough stock disciplines: bareback riding, saddle bronc riding and bull riding. All proceeds from the rodeo benefit the Chase Hawks Memorial Association Crisis Fund, which provides financial assistance to families and individuals in need across South Central Montana and Northern Wyoming.

Garrett Shadbolt left the NFR just a week earlier after finishing the 2025 season 11th in the world standings. He was matched with Sankey Pro Rodeo & Phenom Genetics’ Mustard, a horse averaging an 86.79 score during the 2025 season. As Shadbolt prepared to ride, R.C. Landingham and Mason Stuller held the lead with matching 86-point rides. At the end of the eight seconds, Shadbolt edged into first place with an 86.5-point ride, clinching the win by half a point.

The eldest of the well-known Wright brothers, Rusty Wright, may have taken a seat in the stands during the 2025 Wrangler National Finals Rodeo, but he proved his drive and passion remain on full display heading into the 2026 season. Wright opened his year with an 88-point ride aboard Miss Valley from Powder River Rodeo, earning the saddle bronc victory.

Dustin Boquet also checked off a bucket-list win, squaring off against Sankey Pro Rodeo & Phenom Genetics’ Blitz for an 85.5-point score.