LAS VEGAS — The 2024 Wrangler National Finals Rodeo reached another thrilling height on Friday night, as competitors showcased their skills during Round 9 at the Thomas & Mack Center. With heart-pounding performances across multiple disciplines, the rodeo’s spirit was palpable under the glittering lights of Las Vegas.
One of the standout performances of the night came from Jess Pope, who claimed the top spot in bareback riding with an impressive score of 89.5 points riding Pete Carr Pro Rodeo’s Resistol’s Secrets Out. His ride earned him $33,687 and positioned him as one of the leading competitors as the finals continue. Following behind Pope was Cole Reiner, who scored 86.5 points, taking home $26,624. A tie for third place saw Rocker Steiner, Bradlee Miller, and Richmond Champion each notch 86 points to secure $14,308 each.
Tyler Waguespack tendered another thrilling performance by winning steer wrestling with a quick 3.5 seconds, also earning $33,687. This rapid performance highlighted his skill and strategy, placing him prominently after Round 9. Waguespack’s victory was closely contested by Dakota Eldridge and J.D. Struxness, both scoring 4.0 seconds to earn $23,364 each.
The team roping category didn't disappoint either, as Coleman Proctor and his partner Logan Medlin recorded the quickest time of the night with a stellar 3.8 seconds, giving each competitor $33,687. This remarkable run solidified Proctor's lead position heading toward the championship title as he now sits first among headers with $326,648, overtaking tie-down roper Shad Mayfield.
Proctor’s elation was evident as he expressed his sentiments post-competition, stating, “The reality setting in is what we’ve been always wanting. This is why we work so hard at it. Those moments like tonight when there’s doors opening up and your team’s great enough to step through there.” His passion for rodeo was matched by Medlin, who reflected on the challenges faced throughout the season, mentioning how rewarding it is to see their hard work paying off.
Meanwhile, the saddle bronc competition saw Lefty Holman top the leaderboard with his score of 88.5 points, securing $33,687. Ryder Wright and Statler Wright tied for second place, each earning $23,364 for scoring 86 points.
One of the tightly contested events, barrel racing, concluded with Hailey Kinsel outpacing her competitors for victory with her time of 13.48 seconds, clinching $33,687 and adding to her stellar earnings this season. Following her were Leslie Smalygo and Carlee Otero, who both clocked times of 13.56 seconds for $23,364 each.
Not to be outdone, the bull riding competition had Tyler Bingham taking center stage, finishing first with 88.5 points, netting $37,219. Trevor Reiste closely followed with 87.5 points, earning $30,155, making the evening equally rewarding for cowboys tackling the fierce bulls.
Looking toward the final round, the stakes have never been higher. With just one more opportunity for competitors to solidify their standings, the intensity mounts. Proctor is projected to be crowned the World Champion Header with $337,486.24 should the results hold as they currently stand after Round 9, with Medlin set to finish as World Champion Heeler.
Proctor expressed his views about the final round: “I’m not surprised, I’m just figuring this is part of the process because I know we’ve worked hard enough to put ourselves in this position.” His thoughts resonate with many athletes participating as they prepare for the final showdown of the 2024 NFR.
With tomorrow being the last chance all eyes will be on the Thomas & Mack Center as the excitement peaks for the final round. Spectators and competitors alike eagerly await the crowning of champions, where dreams can be realized or dashed, and the spirit of rodeo will undoubtedly continue to shine bright.
