10 Ariat Athletes National Finals Rodeo -Bound

By Jennifer Hellickson, Ariat International
Posted Thursday, December 4, 2008

ProRodeo Team Members Poised to Make a Strong Showing Again This Year

Union City, Calif. December 4, 2008 – Although the house usually has an edge in Vegas, it’s a safe bet you’ll see a lot of cowboys walking away winners at this year’s Wrangler National Finals Rodeo (NFR). And 10 of those contenders are Ariat-sponsored athletes, each gunning for a title in the world’s premier rodeo event as it descends upon Sin City from Dec. 4-13, 2008.

Based on season earnings, the top 15 contestants in each event qualify for a shot at the world title. And now rodeo fans have a chance to see some of the cowboys featured in Ariat’s popular “Bring It” campaign in action:

• *Allen Bach – Team Roping (Heeler)
• *Luke Branquinho – Steer Wrestler
• Bradley Harter – Saddle Bronc
• Tammy Key – Barrel Racing
• **Chad Masters – Team Roping (Header)
• Justin McDaniel – Bareback
• Lindsey Sears – Barrel Racing
• Stran Smith – Tie-Down Roping
• Todd Suhn – Steer Wrestler
• Travis Tryan – Team Roping (Header)

Defending World Champion Chad Masters has his sights set on a repeat, and several other Ariat Pro Team NFR qualifiers hold world champion titles and other records at the event. Former World Champion Allen Bach has qualified for NFR an impressive 27 times, Justin McDaniel holds the record for highest scored bareback ride (91.5 points on J Bar J Rodeo’s Delta Ship last year) and both Allen Bach and Chad Masters still share the title of highest earnings for team roping with $98,714 each in 2006.

“It is a thrill to watch these world class athletes compete at the highest level,” says Beth Cross, Ariat’s founder and CEO. “Ariat salutes each ProRodeo team member on their accomplishments this year, and we wish them the best of luck at the 2008 NFR.”

* = Former World Champion

** = Defending World Champion

About Ariat International, Inc.

Ariat International, Inc. is a leading manufacturer of innovative performance equestrian footwear, apparel, handbags and belts. Featuring a patented technology designed to deliver stability, durability and comfort, Ariat pioneered the application of advanced athletic shoe technology into English riding boots and authentic Western boots. Ariat products are sold in a network of retail outlets throughout the world. For more information about Ariat products or for the Ariat retailer nearest you, contact Ariat at 800.899.8141 or visit www.ariat.com.