LAS VEGAS - The 2024 Wrangler National Finals Rodeo (NFR) culminated in thrilling action, with cowboys and cowgirls vying for the ultimate titles, including world champion gold buckles. The event brought emotional victories, new records, and tightly contested races across various rodeo disciplines.
Among the standout performances of the evening was the battle for the Women's Professional Rodeo Association (WPRA) barrel racing world championship, which came down to the final run. Kassie Mowry clinched the title with a blistering 13.59-second run in Round 10, edging out seasoned competitor Hailey Kinsel, who finished with 13.97 seconds. This victory marked Mowry's first world championship.
“I was first or second no matter what, yes, it was a long 10 minutes,” Mowry said. “But second to Hailey and Sister is still incredible; I was happy either way.” Mowry's triumph was particularly poignant, following her fiancé's tragic passing earlier this year. Her horse, Jarvis, played a pivotal role, motivating her throughout what had been an emotionally challenging season.
With her total NFR earnings at $295,526.02—the highest amount won by any barrel racer—Mowry also secured the RAM Top Gun Award for her stellar performance. “To come out here and do more than I ever thought I could, it’s hard to describe,” she noted.
Meanwhile, Kinsel, who entered the NFR ranked No. 1, displayed remarkable consistency, winning three consecutive rounds before Mowry surged back to claim five victories of her own. Collectively, the two women produced astonishing times, particularly Mowry's exceptional runs of 13.19 and 13.25 seconds—ranking as the second and third fastest times ever recorded in the Thomas & Mack Center.
The men's events also showcased fierce competition. Dean Thompson from Altamont, Utah, claimed his first gold buckle as the 2024 PRCA World Champion bareback rider. He concluded the NFR with an impressive score of 88.5 points on J Bar J's Straight Stick, taking home both the average and world champion titles.
“I got married just a bit ago, and I just lost all my hesitation. I decided to not worry about the end results and just go do my job,” said Thompson, reflecting on his victorious strategy.
Steer wrestling proved equally competitive, with Cash Robb earning the average championship by merely tenths of seconds against Will Lummus. Robb's aggregate time of 43.1 seconds made him the standout rookie at the finals, ending 2024 ranked No. 3.
On the heels of this gripping conclusion, J.D. Struxness emerged as the 2024 World Champion for steer wrestling, narrowly defeating Lummus by $1,507. The pressure of such close standings underscored the intensity of the NFR.
Team roping witnessed Tyler Wade and Wesley Thorp defending their title as champions after nerve-wracking performances. “This is pretty special. Jake told me when we left (for the NFR) he had never won it,” Clint Summers reflected on his team’s goal accomplishment.
Wyatt Casper, also crowned 2024 average champion, expressed immense pride after securing 853 points over ten rounds, edging out Damian Brennan. Casper's win was significant, but it was Ryder Wright who became the latest World Champion of saddle bronc riding, earning his third gold buckle along with setting a new single season earnings record of $479,957.
Notably, tie-down rophen Riley Webb made history as well. Not only did he successfully tie all ten calves with remarkable speed, but he also secured his second consecutive championship with total season earnings hitting $475,214.04.
The list of champions continued with Josh Frost, who captured his world title by riding perfectly during the finals. Frost completed seven rides, totalizing 580 points, presenting noteworthy claims to the average championship as well.
The closing ceremony of the NFR also celebrated Shad Mayfield, who triumphed as the 2024 PRCA All-Around Champion, winning by the narrow margin of $675 to highlight how competitive this year's event truly was.
“It has been the best year of my life. Congratulations to all the newly crowned World Champions!” exclaimed the event announcer, enveloping the vibrant atmosphere of this historic rodeo.
The 2024 Wrangler National Finals Rodeo defined excitement and competition, elevasting the sport and its athletes. From heartwarming victories to nail-biting moments, each participant brought their passion, proving why the rodeo holds such significance across the nation.
