As the final lights dim on the winter run of big indoor rodeos, a different kind of spotlight is beginning to glow across the country.
Outdoors.
Across the Plains and beyond, warmer temperatures are ushering in the return of rodeo’s most authentic stage — open-air arenas, dusty boots and packed hometown grandstands. It’s a seasonal shift that signals more than just a change in scenery. It’s where rodeo culture thrives, and where local communities feel the economic ripple effect.
From county fairgrounds to major stops on the Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association trail, every ticket sold, every gallon of fuel burned and every post-rodeo meal contributes to the small-town economies that help sustain the sport.
With just five months remaining to qualify for the National Finals Rodeo in Las Vegas, the pressure is mounting — and the leaderboard is tightening.
Bareback Riding
Bradlee Miller holds the top spot, but the race is anything but settled. Rocker Steiner and Wacey Schalla sit within $5,000 of the lead. Jacob Lees and Jess Pope round out a competitive top five.
Steer Wrestling
Holden Myers maintains a comfortable lead in the bulldogging standings, ahead of Tyler Waguespack, Stetson Jorgensen and Mike McGinn. Bridger Anderson currently sits fifth.
Team Roping — Headers
Korbin Rice leads the header standings, followed by Kaleb Driggers, Jake Smith, Dustin Egusquiza and Derrick Begay.
Team Roping — Heelers
Cooper Freeman holds a commanding $40,000 lead. Junior Nogueira remains in second, with Douglas Rich, J.C. Flake and Trent Vaught completing the top five.
Saddle Bronc Riding
The Wright name continues to dominate, with Stetson Wright and Rusty Wright sitting first and second. Kade Bruno, Wyatt Casper and Damian Brennan are in pursuit.
Tie-Down Roping
Riley Webb continues his dominant run atop the standings. Kincade Henry, Shane Hanchey, Brushton Minton and Haven Meged round out the top five.
Barrel Racing
It’s Kassie Mowry versus the field right now. LaTricia Duke, Hailey Kinsel, Emily Beisel and Hayle Gibson-Stillwell continue to chase.
Bull Riding
Jake Gardner remains No. 1, but the pressure is building from Tristen Hutchings and Stetson Wright in second and third. Hayden Welsh and Mason Moody hold spots four and five.
The current stretch of the season could prove pivotal, with major payouts still on the table. The San Angelo Rodeo’s Chute-Out continues this weekend, offering competitors a chance to make significant moves in the standings.
Looking ahead, rodeo fans in western Nebraska will have a major event to circle on the calendar. The Indian National Finals Rodeo’s “Adrenaline Rush” makes its only Midwest stop in North Platte at the end of May, bringing elite competition and a unique cultural showcase to the region.
For continued updates, standings and weekly breakdowns, follow Territorial Rodeo Update on Facebook.