By Derek Beck | Your Ag Network
The Territorial Rodeo Update tipped its hat to tradition this week, rolling out a special “Territory Edition” that puts the spotlight squarely back on the cowboys and cowgirls from the show’s original seven-state footprint.
Broadcast across more than 60 radio stations and streamed online, the weekly program revisited its roots by highlighting the top three competitors from “the Territory” in each major rodeo event — a nod to the athletes who helped build the show’s identity.
“Let’s light this candle,” host Derek Beck said as the countdown began.
Bareback Riding
Leading the way among Territory riders is Buffalo, Wyoming’s Cole Reiner, currently ranked seventh in the world standings. Colorado’s Keenan Hayes sits 14th, while Kansas standout Jess Pope holds down the 16th spot.
Steer Wrestling (Bulldogging)
In the event Beck proudly dubbed “Bulldoggin,” Eli Lord of Sturgis, South Dakota leads the Territory contingent at 16th in the world. Seth Peterson of Minot, North Dakota follows in 28th, with Missouri’s Mason Couch close behind.
Team Roping
On the heading side, Kellan Johnson of Casper, Wyoming tops the Territory group at 16th, followed by Nebraska’s Jhett Trenary (22nd) and South Dakota’s Logan Olson (27th).
On the heeling side, the Territory shows serious strength. Wyoming’s Carson Johnson ranks fifth in the world, with Colorado’s Trey Yates sixth. South Dakota’s Levi Lord, a National Finals Rodeo qualifier, sits 17th.
Saddle Bronc Riding
Brody Wells of Powell, Wyoming leads the Territory in seventh place globally. Kansas cowboy Weston Patterson is 16th, and Iowa’s Riggin Smith checks in at 24th.
Tie-Down Roping
Missouri’s Tom Crouse continues to shine, ranked fourth in the world. Kansas roper Luke Potter sits 26th, while Nebraska’s Riley Pruitt, a 2025 NFR qualifier, is 32nd but gaining momentum with entries at Rodeo Houston and Rodeo Austin.
Barrel Racing
While Texas competitors currently dominate the standings, the Territory still boasts notable names. South Dakota legend Lisa Lockhart ranks 22nd, followed by North Dakota’s Molly Otto (35th) and Colorado’s Laralee Ward (41st).
Bull Riding
Bull riding remains a stronghold for the Territory. Luke “The Cowboy Kid” Mackey of Ignacio, Colorado has surged to No. 1 in the world. South Dakota’s Mason Moody sits second, while Wyoming’s Hayden Welsh is fifth. Kansas cowboy Colton Byram earned an honorable mention at seventh.
A Return Worth Celebrating
The “Territory Edition” marks a return to the show’s original mission — elevating regional talent on a national stage.
From rising stars to seasoned veterans, the athletes highlighted this week underscore the depth and grit that define rodeo across the Great Plains and beyond.
The Territorial Rodeo Update is sponsored by Sioux Steel Company and can be heard on radio stations across the Midwest and online at RodeoTRU.com.
Beck hinted that more “Territory Edition” features are on the horizon.
“We’ll do another update next month,” he said. “I love these Territory editions.”