The newest event at the NHSFR was all the rage.
One of the biggest buzz words at the National High School Finals Rodeo this year was “cowhorse.” For the first time, reined cow horse was included as an approved event at the NHSFR, held in Rock Springs, Wyoming, July 11–18.
The event boasted 100 entries from many different states, from California to Maryland, as well as riders from Hawaii and Saskatchewan.
“These kids are very talented and we’re excited about the future of this sport,” said Jay Winborn, who as executive director for the National Reined Cow Horse Association was on hand to help facilitate the historic event. “We’ve really garnered a huge interest for cow horses.”
Wyatt Fisher of Nipomo, California, won the event aboard Nu Cash Cutter, an 11-year-old gelding.
“Showing here was a big deal for me,” Fisher said. “I was nervous. This is the biggest event I’ve ever competed in.
“I’ve talked to a lot of kids here who thought this would be boring, and they came out and saw that they get to chase a cow down the fence. A lot of kids thought this would be a good adrenaline rush. So hopefully we’ll have more entries next year.”