Haylee Taylor

In sports it’s easy to see from a young age when an athlete has the “it” factor. The skill is there, the work ethic is present, and no moment is too big. The sport of rodeo is no different.

Riley Webb set the ProRodeo world on fire during his first season as a PRCA cardholder. The Denton, Texas, tie-down roper not only captured the Resistol Rookie of the Year title but made his debut at the Wrangler National Finals Rodeo. He went on to finish 10th in the PRCA | RAM World Standings with $188,597.

As impressive as his rookie season was on the ProRodeo circuit, his second go around on the sport’s biggest stage has been even better. With over a month left to go in the season, Webb has earned $218,400, which surpasses tie-down roper Shad Mayfield’s record of $203,508 for the most money won in a single regular season before the NFR in the event. Mayfield set the mark in 2022.

“You always want to set high goals and do the best you can,” said Webb, 19. “That was a goal in the back of my mind, but obviously the main goal is to win a world title. All of that will take care of itself if you set your goals high enough and continue working hard.”

Webb has himself in a prime position to do just that in 2023. As of Aug. 16, he sits No. 1 in the PRCA | RAM World Standings with $218,400. A season ago, during Mayfield’s record year he was sharing the rig with none other than Riley Webb. He said it’s no surprise to him the success the young tie-down roper has seen so far this season.

“We all knew this was coming for Riley,” said Mayfield. “He’s a talented roper and he’s always won on every level he’s competed in. It’s no lucky deal this year. He’s a winner and he always has been.”

Webb kicked off 2023 in one of the best ways possible, on top, as champion of the National Western Stock Show & Rodeo in Denver. That began what many would call a historic winter run. In a two-month stretch from Jan. 20 – March 25, he pocketed $94,429 with key wins in Houston and Abilene, Texas.

“It seemed like I was placing just about everywhere this winter and winning Houston was definitely a big chunk of change,” Webb said. “For a while it felt like nothing could go wrong, but if I’m being honest, I’d say a lot of my success this season has been because of my horses. I wouldn’t be where I am this season without Boots.”

There will be more on Webb’s record-breaking season in the Aug. 18 digital edition of the ProRodeo Sports News.

Courtesy of PRCA

The National Finals Rodeo (NFR) is gearing up to be an exceptionally competitive and entertaining rodeo spectacle. Set in Las Vegas, this year’s NFR spans from December 3rd to the 12th, promising nightly rodeo events that will captivate audiences. The world’s top cowboys will don their boots and challenge each other for the coveted world championship titles in their respective events. Whether you’re tuning in to the NFR live streaming on the internet or you’re fortunate enough to hold tickets, it’s essential to be well-informed about NFR ticket FAQs.

What is the Cost of NFR Tickets?

The pricing for 2022 Wrangler NFR tickets is as follows:

• Balcony: Individual $73, Season $730, 4pk $292, 6pk $438
• Plaza: Individual $102, Season $1020
• Gold Buckle: Individual $300, Season $3000 (*Please note that these prices represent the face value of the tickets.)

When is the Season Ticket Renewal Period?

The ticket renewal period takes place annually between February and April. Invoices are dispatched in February and are due in April. If you haven’t received your NFR Ticket Invoice by mid-March, we recommend reaching out to the Las Vegas Events Ticket Office. It’s important to note that Season Tickets do not renew automatically; it is the ticket holders’ responsibility to contact the LVE ticket office if they haven’t received their invoice.

When Are Tickets Mailed Out?

Tickets are typically mailed out in early October each year. If you haven’t received your tickets by October 15th, we advise you to promptly get in touch with the Las Vegas Events Ticket Office.

How Are Season Tickets Mailed?

Season Tickets are dispatched via FedEx. However, if your current address on file with the Las Vegas Events Ticket Office is a P.O. Box, your tickets will be sent through the United States Postal Service. Canadian accounts will also be shipped via USPS. While no signature is required upon ticket delivery, each ticket does come with a tracking number for your convenience.

What If My NFR Tickets Are Lost or Damaged? Can I Still Attend the Event?

In case your NFR tickets have been misplaced or damaged, there’s a solution. Las Vegas Events can provide reprints of your ticket(s), but it’s important to follow the proper procedure. To initiate the reprint process, the Account Holder should get in touch with the Las Vegas Events Ticket Office and complete the NFR Ticket Reprint Form provided below. Please note that there is a charge associated with the reprinting of NFR Tickets.

What Is the NFR Ticket Policy?

The NFR Ticket Policy serves as a comprehensive guide to all NFR Ticketing policies and processes. This policy document also includes important forms like the “Change of Information Form” and the Transfer & Will Form. If you have any inquiries or require clarification regarding the NFR Ticket Policy, do not hesitate to reach out to the Las Vegas Events Ticket Office for assistance.

How Can I Update My Season Ticket Account’s Address and Contact Information?

To update the details associated with your season ticket account, the account holder(s) of record must complete and sign the Change of Information (COI) Form. Las Vegas Events requires all listed account holders of record to individually complete and sign the COI Form for it to be considered valid. Each season ticket account can have a maximum of two (2) account holders of record. If you are the sole account holder of record and wish to include an immediate family member, defined as a living spouse or child in accordance with the NFR Ticket Policy, you can do so by completing the designated section of the COI form. Las Vegas Events primarily communicates via email, so it’s crucial to keep your email address up to date to ensure you receive important notifications.

Who Can I Transfer or Will My NFR Season Tickets To?

NFR season tickets are eligible for transfer or bequeathing only to immediate family members. This policy also extends to adding a second name as an account holder of record. Immediate family members, as per the NFR Ticket Policy, are defined as living spouses or children. A maximum of two (2) individuals may be listed as account holders of record at any given time.

What Is the Distinction Between Transferring and Bequeathing My NFR Season Tickets?

The process of transferring NFR season tickets involves the Account Holder(s) of record relinquishing all rights to their tickets immediately upon the receipt of the requisite documentation by the LVE ticket office. On the other hand, when NFR season tickets are being willed, the Account Holder(s) of record are indicating who should assume control of the account in the event something happens to the Account Holder(s) of record. It’s important to note that executing a Will or Living Will is not a prerequisite for willing your NFR tickets through the LVE ticket office. In both cases, whether transferring or willing NFR season tickets, the individual taking over the account must be an immediate family member, such as a spouse or child. To ensure the acceptance of the Transfer & Will Form by Las Vegas Events, all listed account holders of record must complete and sign the form.

At What Age Does a Child Require a Ticket?

Children aged three (3) and under do not need a ticket as long as they are capable of sitting on the parent or guardian’s lap during the event.

I Am Not a Season Ticket Holder. How Can I Purchase Tickets?

If you are not a season ticket holder and are not interested in becoming one, there are three preferred methods for purchasing NFR Tickets:

1. Purchase tickets through www.UNLVtickets.com.
2. Visit the Thomas & Mack Center Box Office.
3. Utilize the Official NFR On-Site Ticket Exchange booth located at Cowboy Christmas.
4. Explore the Official NFR Online Ticket Exchange for additional options.

What Is the Official Wrangler NFR VIP Hospitality?

Prepare to immerse yourself in all the excitement at the Official NFR VIP Hospitality inside the Thomas & Mack Center. As an NFR insider, you’ll enjoy early entry into the arena, where a delightful buffet, an open bar, photo opportunities, meet-and-greets with former world champions, and more await you! The Official Wrangler NFR VIP Hospitality opens its doors three (3) hours prior to the event and is exclusively available for Performance 9 and Performance 10.

How Can I Purchase Tickets for the Official Wrangler NFR VIP Hospitality?

Tickets for the Official Wrangler NFR VIP Hospitality can be acquired in two ways:

1. Purchase tickets alongside rodeo tickets (for Performance 9 and 10 only).
2. Buy tickets as a standalone item.

To purchase tickets for the Official Wrangler NFR VIP Hospitality, please visit PrimeSport.com.

How Can I Buy Tickets Using the Official NFR Online Ticket Exchange?

To purchase tickets using the Official NFR Online Ticket Exchange, please refer to the NFR Online Ticket Exchange Buyer’s Guide available at www.primesport.com/About/NFR.

Saddle bronc riding, deeply entrenched in rodeo’s heritage, traces its origins to the ranches of the American West in the 1800s. Cowboys honed their skills by competing against each other, showcasing their mastery in taming untrained horses. Although strength and skill are essential, many rodeo cowboys regard saddle bronc riding as the most challenging event due to its intricate technicalities. Join us as we delve into the world of ProRodeo‘s most demanding discipline with Parker Kempfer, the Southeastern Circuit Finals year-end saddle bronc champion!

Embarking on a Rodeo Journey

Nearly two decades ago, a young Parker Kempfer perched on the bucking chutes at the original Silver Spurs Arena, gazing in awe at the fearless rough stock cowboys who graced the arena. As he grew, so did his love and admiration for the sport. Parker’s family, including his father, George, and Uncle Doug, immersed themselves in rodeo, hauling bucking bulls to various events across the state. Although his mother initially restricted his rodeo involvement, Parker eventually found his calling as a champion saddle bronc rider.

Parker’s journey officially began during his senior year of high school when the first bronc burst from the chute. Parker recalled, “My mom couldn’t say no anymore.” Determined, he cinched up a borrowed saddle and nodded for the chute gate to open at a bronc riding school. Subsequently, he took on broncs in Kenansville for two consecutive days. A retired Silver Spurs Rodeo bronc named “Little Man” introduced him to the Florida High School Rodeo Association, leading to qualifications for the National High School Rodeo finals and a scholarship to Texas Tech University in Lubbock, Texas. After his freshman year, Parker transferred to Sam Houston State University to pursue better opportunities in saddle bronc riding, encountering different practice broncs and more amateur rodeos along the way.

Despite his growing interest in saddle bronc riding, Parker continued to exclusively play football, aiming to avoid jeopardizing the team if he got injured. As a football player, he honed the mental and physical preparation that served him well in rodeo.

The Interplay of Knowledge and Confidence

Parker learned that knowledge and confidence were inextricably linked. The more he acquired of one, the better he rode. Struggling to find the winning formula for qualified rides, he sought advice, switched to a slightly larger saddle, and dedicated time to practicing on the spur board. These efforts reflected in his improved riding skills.

Chasing the Dream of a Gold Buckle

Earning a gold buckle, or any buckle, in rodeo is a monumental undertaking. It necessitates substantial investments of time, travel, and unwavering determination. Throughout the year, fans can follow Parker’s journey as he competes at renowned rodeos like Cheyenne Frontier Days, Pendleton Round-Up, San Antonio Stock Show and Rodeo, and his hometown rodeo, the Silver Spurs in Kissimmee, Florida.

One of Parker’s most memorable rides occurred during his junior year of college at the College National Finals Rodeo in Casper, Wyoming. Although he was bucked off Happy Valley of Vold Rodeo Company, a second chance awaited in Prescott, Arizona. Facing Happy Valley again, Parker successfully held onto the bronc for the full ride. However, officials disqualified him for failing to mark out. Despite leaving without a score, this experience marked a pivotal turning point in Parker’s rodeo career, boosting his confidence for a successful summer run.

In January 2021, Parker ventured to Davie, Florida, to compete at the Southeastern Circuit Finals. Despite facing challenges, he secured the title of Southeastern Circuit year-end saddle bronc champion by going 2-for-2. This achievement earned him a coveted qualification to the RAM National Circuit Finals Rodeo on April 9 and 10.

Distinctive Features of the RAM National Circuit Finals Rodeo

The RAM National Circuit Finals Rodeo, held at Osceola Heritage Park in Kissimmee, stands out among PRCA-sanctioned rodeos due to its substantial prize money. Only the event winner and year-end champion from the regional circuit finals qualify for this prestigious event. Contestants from across the United States compete in seven traditional rodeo events, creating an extraordinary spectacle for rodeo enthusiasts nationwide.

The RAM National Circuit Finals Rodeo is a culmination of Parker’s rodeo dreams, set in the same location where his love for rodeo first ignited—Kissimmee, Florida. Will you be present at OHP to witness the making of rodeo history?

In less than a fortnight, the highly anticipated semi-finals of RFD-TV’s The American Rodeo will kick off. The action begins on February 25 and will continue through to March 5.

Set against the backdrop of AT&T Stadium, The American Rodeo is scheduled for March 6-7. Similar to last year, all contenders who make it to the semi-finals will proudly wear a distinctive yellow armband.

This prestigious event boasts an impressive lineup of rodeo legends, each vying for the coveted $1 million prize. Among the contenders are renowned names like Will Lowe, Spencer Wright, Cort Scheer, Jess Lockwood, Levi Simpson, Brady Minor, Luke Branquinho, Tyson Durfey, JJ Hampton, and Amberleigh Moore. They will all have to earn their spot in their respective events through rigorous qualification processes.

Related: All of ProRodeo’s Top 10 in the World Have Accepted Their Invitations to The American Rodeo Finals at AT&T Stadium