April 18, 2017
NASHVILLE, Tenn (RFD-TV) Rodeo All-Star Weekend was established in 2013 as a platform to highlight the best in the pro rodeo world. Cowboys and cowgirls rode into Denver to compete in three rodeo performances with a chance to win big money and be crowned Rodeo All-Star Champions.
Starting in the bareback riding, it was Seth Hardwick of Wyoming who rode “Southern Comfort” for 87 points to win the title. Hardwick placed in seven rounds at the 2015 Wrangler National Finals Rodeo (WNFR), ending up 3rd in the World Standings. He then suffered a hip injury that kept him sidelined for a year. Now, he’s back to his winning ways.
In the steer wrestling, Justin Thigpen threw down his steer in 7.49 seconds in the Championship Round to earn 1st place. Thigpen is the 2016 International Professional Rodeo Association (IPRA) World Champion All-Around Cowboy, Tie-down Roping World Champion and Heading Team Roping World Champion.
Last year’s champs Clayton Van Aken and Cullen Teller claimed the team roping title again at Rodeo All-Star with a time of 6.71 seconds. At Rodeo All-Star, they run the cattle from the back for the timed events. It’s a unique set-up which is reflected in the times.
In the saddle bronc Clay Elliott won after scoring 87 points on “Music Man.” Elliot is the current Canadian Saddle Bronc Riding Champion. He joined the Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association (PRCA) in 2014 and competed at his first Wrangler National Finals Rodeo this past December.
Missouri cowboy Blake Ash threw his hands up in 9.7 seconds to win the tie-down roping title. Ash received his invitation to Denver after he won the average at the International Finals Rodeo.
In the barrel racing, Ivy Conrado rode “Fames To Blame” to get qualified and then rode “Tibbie” to claim the win after they stopped the clock at 15.490 seconds.
Corey Bailey took first place in the bull riding.
Watch the video above to see winning runs, highlights, and more results from Rodeo All-Star!