New Mexico State University’s rodeo team competed at the College National Finals Rodeo in Casper, Wyoming, June 14-20, bringing home many honors.
“With several top 10 finishes at this year’s CNFR, I am very proud of what my team has accomplished,” said Jim Brown, head rodeo coach for NMSU.
Eleven regions compete within the National Intercollegiate Rodeo Association for a shot at a CNFR championship title. Overall, the NMSU men’s team placed 29th out of 53 teams, while the women’s team ranked 27th of 35.
Junior Josh Davison placed seventh in the men’s All Around honors.
“I didn't even realize I was ranked in the All Around but I think it’s awesome,” Davison said. “I worked my tail off just to make it in two events and then to earn points in both is a big pay off.”
Davison said rodeo has taught him determination, how to set goals for himself, and more importantly, how to stay humble in the midst of glory.
“We have a lot of talent coming back this next year and I'm looking forward to it,” Davison said. “As a team, I plan on bringing home a national title.”
The team had many other strong finishes with Sheldon Church placing in tie-down roping, Zoe Billings in breakaway riding, Cody Mirabal and Reno Eddy in team roping and Davison in bull riding.
“As a coach you always want to see wins and championships, but sometimes the chips don’t fall your way,” Brown said. “I have no doubt that Josh Davison, Zoe Billings, Ryan McCauley, Garrett Hendrix and Lucas McKenzie will be back stronger than ever next season. As for the other CNFR qualifiers, seniors Cody Mirabal, Reno Eddy, Sheldon Church, Paeden Underwood and Tyke Kipp, I wish them all the best in their future and want to thank them for their hard work and determination in making NMSU Rodeo Number 1.”