Southern California---No economy woes were going to keep fans from the stands at the 2009 PRCA California Circuit Finals Rodeo held November 20 & 21, in Horsetown USA.
All three performances saw the stands packed with folks from all around the Southern California region. “Even though our sponsorship is down and stock contractor’s prices have increased, we have fought tooth and nail to keep our ticket prices the same,” said Doug Wozny, California Circuit Finals Event Chairman. “Rodeo fans are very loyal, this is an entertainment venue and people in this economy want an escape. We have seen food & beverage purchases go down but all in all, fans are here supporting professional rodeo,” said Wozny.
Fans were treated to a special double-header on Saturday along with a special performance from the Challenged Children’s Rodeo Association. James and Mimi Arzola who have two children in the association, Danny (14) who suffers from Down Syndrome and four year old Robert who is in remission from Stage-4 brain cancer, said this was so special for their family to be a part of. “This is truly a highlight of the rodeo and so humbling at the same time,” said one fan in the audience. Several of the rodeo contestants and Rodeo Queens were on hand to help the buckaroos rope and ride.
Sheena Robbins (pictured) took the third performance in barrel racing with a 16.79 on her horse Shorty. When asked who she would be rooting for besides herself next month at the Wrangler National Finals Rodeo, she said “Danyelle Campbell (pictured), she is a great friend and a fellow Californian!” Robbins is looking forward to riding two futurity horses next season and said “this year was a bit tough dealing with my horses’ abscesses, but we worked through it.”
Hemet’s own Jake Huserik (pictured) gave impressive rides; so much that he took home a nice check and the title of All Around Cowboy. Jake who rides saddle broncs and bulls could not contain his excitement “I am pretty darn happy right now!” Huserik has had a great year and stayed consistent “I have really tried to stay focused on what I want and that is to keep moving up in the standings and qualify for the larger rodeos.” Watch for this up and comer, he has the guts and the heart for rodeo.
Two-time and reigning PRCA World Champion Steer Wrestler Luke Branquinho (pictured with son Cade) has his eyes on the prize for Vegas, but not before taking a nice 4.0 in the third round at the Circuit Finals. “Feeling great, no injuries this season and training hard for NFR” said Branquinho.
Other highlights from 2009 PRCA California Circuit Finals Rodeo include:
Bareback riding average: Tyson Thompson, 236 points on 3 head
Steer Wrestling average: Billy Bugenig 14.2 seconds on 3 head
Team Roping average: Mike Pivetti/Mike Christensen 21.5 seconds on 3 head
Saddle Bronc average: Scott Miller 158 points on 2 head
Tie-down roping average: Jesse Egan 26.1 seconds on 3 head
Barrel racing average: Christina Richman 50.64 seconds on 3 runs
Bull riding average: Jacob Tyner 225 points on 3 head
