Tuf Cooper Confirmed as a "Big Gun" for the NRCHA Big Guns in Cowtown

The National Reigned Cow Horse Association (NRCHA) has been a major part of the reigned cow horse community for more that 50 years, offering support to athletes within the field. With over 45 members supported annually through scholarships from this foundation, the NRCHA strives to help support and build the next generation of rodeo.

One of the ways they continue to do this is through the inaugural Big Guns in Cowtown, scheduled for October 21, 2026, at the historic Cowtown Coliseum. This is a truly historic event, as it is the first time an NRCHA event will be held in Cowtown, and the first time this event has happened. With a grand total of $30,000 in prize money and $40,000 in donations to athlete-chosen charities, this event is sure to make a lasting impact on everyone involved. The only question raised by this is who will be competing.

For the Big Guns in Cowtown, professional NRCHA athletes will be paired with Western athletes to compete for the grand prize. This allows younger athletes to learn alongside the best of the best in their sport, gaining invaluable wisdom and experience. The NRCHA professionals, or the “Big Guns,” are happy to share their wisdom and experience to help support the next generation of rodeo, and the organization shares a clear excitement and gratitude for the “Big Guns” who have been confirmed as competitors.

Since the initial announcement of the Big Guns in Cowtown, reigning and roping fans have been asking who they will see in the Coliseum. Over the past few weeks, the official announcements have begun to be made, and it’s easily become clear that this will not be an event to forget. Some of rodeo’s biggest names are slotted for this event, making fans and athletes understandably excited to see these “Big Guns” work alongside their favorite young athletes.

One of the most notable names confirmed as a “Big Gun” is 4-time World Champion, Tuf Cooper. This Texas cowboy has been making headlines his entire career, with 16 NFR qualifications to go along with his 4 World Champion titles. After an early end to his 2025 season due to injury, he came back swinging and has been performing exceptionally well. This cowboy is sure to bring some extensive wisdom to the event and is a great choice for the “Big Guns” team.

Some of the other confirmed “Big Guns” include 2-time World Champion Shad Mayfield, WPRA All-Around Champion Sarah Angelone, and 4-time WPRA World Champion Barrel Racer Hailey Kinsel. These cowboys and cowgirls are truly the best of the best and are sure to make a great competition at this event.

Overall, the NRCHA are excited to move forward to the Big Guns in Cowtown competition this fall, and their mission to prepare and support the next generation of Rodeo will surely be fulfilled through the support and instruction of these spectacular athletes.