RODEOHOUSTON® Super Series I Winners Saddle Up For Semifinals
Competitors were at the top of their games on Wednesday, March 2, as they vied for the top four spots in each RODEOHOUSTON® Super Series event.
TIE-DOWN ROPING
John Douch’s experience roping with eight-time world champion tie-down roper Joe Beaver proved valuable as he won his place in the Semifinals.
“Practicing and keeping my body in good condition to prevent soreness helped me end up on top,” said Douch.
Advancing to a Semifinal Round:
- John Douch: Huntsville, Texas – $5,250
- Cody Craig: Wendell, Idaho – $4,000
- Caleb Smidt: Bellville, Texas – $3,000
- Shad Mayfield: Clovis, New Mexico – $3,000
BAREBACK RIDING
Jesse Pope stayed in the top positions during the three rounds of Super Series, clinching the Super Series I Champion.
Advancing to Semifinal Round:
- Jesse Pope: Garnett, Kansas – $7,500
- Clint Laye: Cadogan, Alberta, Canada – $3,875
- Richie Champion: Stevensville, Montana – $3,250
- Tilden Hooper: Fort Worth, Texas – $2,000
TEAM ROPING
Brother-in-law duo Andrew Ward and Buddy Hawkins exhibited a connection that led them to the top.
“We work together so well because we think the same way,” said Hawkins.
Advancing to Semifinal Round:
- Andrew Ward: Edmond, Oklahoma; and Buddy Hawkins: Stephenville, Texas – $11,500
- Tyler Wade: Terrell, Texas; and Trey Yates, Pueblo, Colorado – $10,000
- Chad Masters: Cedar Hill, Tennessee; and Cory Petska: Marana, Arizona – $6,000
- Colby Lovell: Madisonville, Texas; and Shay Carroll: Stephenville, Texas – $5,500
SADDLE BRONC RIDING
Lefty Holman’s focus and determination helped him win Super Series I in Saddle Bronc Riding.
“Preparing months in advance and doing something to better yourself every day helps you win out in the long run,” said Holman.
Advancing to Semifinal Round:
- Lefty Holman: Visalia, California – $4,625
- Layton Green: Meeting Creek, Alberta, Canada – $4,500
- Stetson Wright: Beaver, Utah – $3,500
- Dawson Hay: Visalia, California – $3,000
STEER WRESTLING
Tanner Brunner wrangled his way to the top as he successfully secured his position in the Semifinals.
“It’s a real rush, said Brunner. “The steer is going 30-35 miles per hour and you’re just trying to keep up.”
Advancing to Semifinal Round:
- Tanner Brunner: Ramona, Kansas – $6,750
- Ty Erickson: Helena, Montana – $5,000
- Dakota Eldridge, Elko, Nevada – $3,000
- Jacob Talley, Keatchie, Louisiana — $2,000
BARREL RACING
Reigning world champion Jordan Briggs completed another impactful run on Wednesday night.
“The arena is intimidating and you have to keep your emotions under control because it is a wide open space,” said Briggs.
Advancing to Semifinal Round:
- Jordan Briggs: Tolar, Texas – $7,000
- Dona Kay Rule: Minco, Oklahoma – $6,000
- Jessica Routier: Buffalo, South Dakota – $4,750
- Shelley Morgan: Eustace, Texas – $1,750
BULL RIDING
First time RODEOHOUSTON competitor Ky Hamilton was the only bull-rider to successfully ride all three nights.
“Staying focused and getting the job done makes nights like tonight possible,” said Hamilton.
Advancing to Semifinal Round:
- Ky Hamilton: Bowie, Texas – $5,750
- Bubba Greig: Estherville, Iowa – $5,000
- Josh Frost: Randlett, Utah – $3,000
- Jeff Askey: Eustace, Texas – $1,000
The top four from each event, from each Super Series will advance to a Semifinal Round. The top four from each event in the Semifinal rounds will advance to the RODEOHOUSTON Super Series Championship, Saturday, March 19. The remaining six from each event in the two semifinals will compete in the Wild Card Round, Friday, March 18, where the top two from each event will advance to the Championship. Each event champion will walk away with a $50,000 payout, in addition to previous winnings.
BREAKAWAY ROPING
The first round of Breakaway Roping, a new event at RODEOHOUSTON in 2022, was held Monday, March 1. JJ
Hampton to the win, with a 3.2 second run.
Advancing to the Semifinal Round
- JJ Hampton: Stephenville, Texas – $3,000
- Taylor Munsell: Alva, Oklahoma – $2,000
The Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo promotes agriculture by hosting an annual, family-friendly experience that educates and entertains the public, supports Texas youth, showcases Western heritage and provides year-round educational support within the community. Since its beginning in 1932, the Rodeo has committed more than $550 million to the youth of Texas and education. The 2022 Rodeo continues through March 20. For more information, visit rodeohouston.com and connect with #RODEOHOUSTON online via Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and YouTube for all the latest news.
