Shane Hanchey jumped from fifth to third in the world standings after an impressive first-round time of 7.6 seconds.
The 2013 PRCA Tie-down Roping World Champion is off to a good start but knows there is a lot of work left to be done.
“It feels good. It’s important to get off on the right foot. It’s such a long rodeo. Going for 10 days, it seems like if it doesn’t go perfect the first couple rounds you get to panicking. I’ve been fortunate to have good luck in the past in the first round. This builds a lot of confidence and momentum for me, and I’m looking forward to it the next nine nights.”
Hanchey is competing in his 10th NFR of his career and knows he needs to stay focused on what he can control.
“I didn’t watch many other runs. When (Taylor Santos) recorded a time of 8.1 (seconds), I thought if I went a little faster than him, I’d win some good money.”
With that 8.1 second run, Santos secured second place and over $20,000 on day one.
There was plenty of movement in the world standings, with a new number one atop the rankings.
Tie-Down Roping World Rankings (NFR money in parentheses)
1. Haven Meged - $145,532 ($25,653)
2. Caleb Smidt - $141,899 ($10,000)
3. Shane Hanchey - $138,427 ($36,230)
4. Taylor Santos - $132,137 ($30,730)
5. Tyson Durfey - $131,762 ($18,844)