Returning Champions Plentiful

We're hours away from the first performance, and several of last year's champions are returning to defend their titles. The all-around cowboy (Cameron Hopper-Craig) and cowgirl (Raley Mae Radomske) are back. Ten of last year's 14 event champions have a chance to repeat.

Hopper-Craig can become the second male in the history of the National High School Finals Rodeo to win the all-around twice. Wyoming's John King completed the feat in 1970 and 1971. Five females have claimed multiple all-around titles.

Defending Champions

All-Around Cowboy: Hopper-Craig, Nevada
All-Around Cowgirl: Radomske, Washington
Barrel Racing: Ceri McCaffery, Kansas
Breakaway Roping: Cadee Tew, Montana
Bull Riding: Riker Carter, Idaho
Girls Cutting: Radomske, Washington
Goat Tying: Bobbi Grann, North Dakota
Pole Bending: Darby Shope, Louisiana
Saddle Bronc Riding: Spencer Wright, Utah
Steer Wrestling: Riley Duvall, Oklahoma

For those of you interested in the culture and legacy of rodeo, check out this historical account from the NHSFR Web site.