Cowboy Stories: Stan Branco

For five generations, the Branco family name has been synonymous in California’s central valley with good horses and top-notch all-around rodeo cowboys. It’s no surprise that Stan Branco, 27, the namesake of his uncle, the late Stan Branco (who roped at the NFR decades ago with his grandfather Dan Branco), has qualified in the steer wrestling at the richest one-day event in rodeo history.

“I feel real fortunate and I am really looking forward to competing at THE AMERICAN,” said Stan Branco. “I think it’s a great format. It provides a really good opportunity for everyone because everyone has a chance to qualify at a variety of events.”

Members of Branco’s rodeo family will be attending THE AMERICAN on March 2 at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas, to cheer him on. “My folks will be there; my mom, Jody, and my dad, Larry, are coming out and my aunt Kathy—they’re all going to be there so that’s going to be a lot of fun.”

Branco counts winning the 2013 Prescott Rodeo among his numerous career highlights. “That’s a real cool rodeo and it was a fun one to get to win,” he said. Born and raised in Chowchilla, Calif., Branco recently relocated to Pilot Point, Texas.

Quick Stats:

Events: Steer Wrestling

Born: 10/13/1986

Age: 28

World Titles Won: 0

Current Residence: Chowchilla, California

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