It was an oppressive 100 degrees on August 1st for the Champions Ride Match Rodeo. The heat may have kept some guests away, but those who braved it were treated to a great show celebrating the Match's 70th anniversary.
A Salute to America
In honor of America's 250th anniversary, the rodeo committee chose a patriotic theme for the day. The Grand Entry opened with President Teddy Roosevelt and the Rough Riders charging into the arena. Roosevelt, portrayed by well-known historical performer Joe Weigand, addressed the crowd, praising everyone who has helped make the United States a great country and honoring veterans and those currently serving in the armed forces for their sacrifice.
Jaylynn Hicks, Miss Rodeo North Dakota, presented the American flag, while twenty-seven members of the Knights of Columbus 4th Degree raised their swords in salute as the National Anthem was sung.
The Saddle Bronc Match
With the ceremony complete, the first horse burst from the chutes and the saddle bronc match was underway. At the end of the first round, two cowboys tied for the lead: Chase Brooks and Gus Gaillard, each scoring 88.5 points. The scores stayed tight throughout the pack, with Tanner Butner, Shorty Garrett, Sage Newman, Waitley Sharon, and Rusty Wright all posting 87.5 points, and Q Taylor, Cash Wilson, and Ryder Wright close behind at 87 points each.
Honors at Intermission
Intermission brought several special recognitions. Glee Nett, Executive Director of the Children's Western Wish Foundation, presented gifts to the 2026 Honorary Rodeo Ranch Hand, including a special Bible, an autographed cowboy hat, and a quilt. Each year, the Foundation honors someone who embodies a love of rodeo and the western way of life.
Special guest Shawn Davis was also in attendance. A two-time Match champion (1962 and 1964), Davis was a three-time World Champion Saddle Bronc Rider, served as NFR General Manager for 33 years, and is a past president of the PRCA. Throughout the performance, he shared stories from his career and reflected on how rodeo, and the PRCA, evolved into the Las Vegas showcase it is today.
The day also celebrated milestones closer to home, honoring HOTR employees who have worked here for thirty years or more. Several of these longtime employees rode in on a wagon, recognized for their dedication and commitment to helping children.
And the Champion Is...
After two rounds, Q Taylor was crowned the 2026 Champion, scoring 87 points aboard Dakota Rodeo's Smarty Pants and 92 points on J Bar J's Shady Jacket, for a total of 179 points on two head.
The Match's broncs were supplied by several PRCA stock contractors, including J Bar J Rodeo, Big Bucks ProRodeo, Dakota Rodeo, Burch Rodeo Co., and Pickett Pro Rodeo. The Best Bronc Award went to J Bar J Rodeo's Fringe Jacket (694), accepted by Sparky Dreesan.
Save the Date
Plans are already underway for the 2027 Champions Ride Match, set for August 7th. Mark your calendars today!
