The 2024 National Finals Rodeo (NFR) at the Thomas & Mack Center in Las Vegas, Nevada, continued igniting excitement as it reached the pivotal Round 9 on Friday, December 13, 2024. Dubbed the "Witching Hour" by many rodeo fans, this round’s significance was amplified by its occurrence on Friday the 13th—a date often associated with superstition. With only one round left to determine the champions, every point mattered more than ever.
This year’s NFR has already proven to be tightly contested, with many races too close to call as competitors vie for the prestigious title of World Champion. The spotlight of Round 9 fell on the bareback riding, steer wrestling, barrel racing, and bull riding results, among others, showcasing some fierce talent.
Bareback Riding Highlights
Jess Pope stood out with his outstanding performance, scoring 89.5 points on Pete Carr Pro Rodeo’s Resistol’s Secrets Out, securing the round win and pocketing $33,687. Close behind were Cole Reiner with 86.5 points and tied competitors Rocker Steiner, Bradlee Miller, and Richmond Champion, who each earned 86 points. Included among the round's remarkable performances, Dean Thompson managed 85.5 points, marking him seventh among top competitors.
The Average leaders witnessed Cole Franks leading the pack with 766.5 points on nine head, closely followed by Dean Thompson and Keenan Hayes, marking the top three contenders so far at the NFR.
Steer Wrestling Showdown
Tyler Waguespack dominated the steer wrestling event, clocking 3.5 seconds to take the round win and $33,687. His time was closely matched by Dakota Eldridge and J.D. Struxness, both finishing with impressive 4.0 seconds. This competition did not come without struggle, as some competitors significantly struggled with tougher cattle this year, eleving the tension of the event.
Rowdy Parrott continues to maintain his lead on the NFR Average, with 38.3 seconds on nine head, highlighting his consistency and skill.
Team Roping and Saddle Bronc Riding
Not to be outdone, the team roping event witnessed Coleman Proctor and Logan Medlin executing fast runs at 3.8 seconds, landing them at the top of the round. Their victory also netted them $33,687 each, emphasizing the high stakes of each event as team ropers strive for the coveted title and prize money.
Meanwhile, lefty Holman thrilled the crowd with his 88.5-point ride on Championship Pro Rodeo’s Tickled Pink, netting him the top round score and leaving the competition trailing behind him. Ryder Wright and Statler Wright tied for second place, each scoring 86.
Barrel Racing Drama
The barrel racing competition brought its own share of drama. Hailey Kinsel swept the night with her impressive run of 13.48 seconds, reinforcing her reputation as one of the sport's leading competitors. This victory also pushed her back to the lead position in the World Standings, were only about $11,000 separates her from Kassie Mowry, who experienced disappointment after hitting two barrels tonight.
Carlee Otero's performance was also noteworthy; she earned second with 13.56 seconds, highlighting her consistent performance throughout the finals. Andrea Busby, who placed fourth with 13.58 seconds, continues her pursuit to break the NFR Average record.
Bull Riding Brilliance
Wrapping up the night’s events was Tyler Bingham, who rode Hell Yeah Roscoe from Corey and Lange Rodeo to victory, scoring 88.5 points and winning $37,219. His win was particularly significant as it marked his first round victory during this year’s finals, placing him solidly among the top riders.
Trevor Reiste and Wacey Schalla followed closely behind, demonstrating the tight competition this year with scores of 87.5 and 83.5 points, respectively.
Looking Ahead
The excitement is palpable as competitors head toward the final round of the NFR. With so much at stake and many events still up for grabs, fans and participants alike are on the edge of their seats. Will Kinsel maintain her lead? Can Bingham secure his position as the bull riding champion? The answers will soon be revealed, ensuring this year's National Finals Rodeo remains unforgettable.
For now, the focus stays on the final performances as the best rodeo athletes finish out their year under the bright lights of Las Vegas, where legends are made and history is written.
