When it comes to rough stock rodeo competitions, knowledge can be the game-changer between a mediocre ride and a winning performance. Cowboys often exchange tips about what they’ve experienced or observed, helping their peers from the Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association (PRCA) prepare for their next match. Insights like which way a bull or horse might buck or its general behavior can be crucial.
Yet, for Orin Larsen, sometimes less is more. The bareback rider from Inglis, Manitoba, took a different approach during the short round of the Snake River Stampede in Nampa, Idaho. He decided to enter his matchup with Cervi Championship Rodeo’s R.
Watson’s Prairie Fire without extensive information, relying instead on a few positive comments from friends. “I honestly didn’t have any idea. I missed all the winter rodeos due to injury, so I didn’t really see much of anything as far as horses go,” Larsen explained. “I didn’t really know much, but everyone I talked to seemed really, really high on that horse. It was pretty sweet that it worked out.”
Despite the uncertainty, Larsen’s decision paid off. He delivered a stellar 90-point ride in the finals, resulting in an average score of 173.5 points on two heads. This impressive performance secured him the title of the Snake River Stampede champion, edging out Tilden Hooper, who scored 172 points.
Larsen’s victory came with a prize of $6,047, which is a significant boost toward his goal of qualifying for the Wrangler National Finals Rodeo (NFR) for the 10th consecutive year. Before the weekend’s event, he was ranked 20th in the PRCA World Standings with over $56,000 in earnings for the season.
The win is particularly notable given Larsen’s challenging season. He faced several setbacks after injuring his knee at last year’s NFR, which he aggravated at the San Diego Rodeo in January. A subsequent groin injury at RodeoHouston further complicated his season, forcing him to rest extensively. Larsen didn’t resume competing until mid-April, putting him behind in the race for Las Vegas.
However, since his return, Larsen has been steadily making up for lost time, inching back into the top 20. With more high-stakes events coming up, he remains optimistic about continuing his climb.
“I’m just trying to stay healthy, that’s kind of been the main thing,” Larsen said. “I’ve got a really, really good team behind me. Obviously, I’ve got a family that gives me a ton of support and all that. It’s been working out, and God’s looking after me. We’re on the up-and-up.”
Read More: Boise State Adds Washington State Player of the Year Carter Kuchenbuch to 2025 Class!
In addition to Larsen’s success, the Snake River Stampede featured impressive performances across various rodeo events:
- Steer Wrestling: Rowdy Parrott claimed the title with a total aggregate time of 11.6 seconds on three runs, earning $7,823.
- Team Roping: Tanner Tomlinson and Patrick Smith teamed up for a winning aggregate time of 12.8 seconds on three runs, each taking home $9,417.
- Saddle Bronc Riding: Thayne Elshere narrowly defeated Ryder Wright to win with a total of 175.5 points on two runs, securing $8,382 in prize money.
- Tie-Down Roping: Cole Clemons completed his three runs in a total of 23.3 seconds, winning the championship and $9,729.
- Barrel Racing: Dona Kay Rule finished her two runs in a combined 31.43 seconds, capturing the title and $12,256 in earnings.
- Breakaway Roping: Josie Conner won with a combined time of 3.8 seconds on two runs, earning $5,103, narrowly beating Maddy Deerman, who finished in 3.9 seconds.
- Bull Riding: T.J. Gray covered both bulls he faced, earning 174 points and $11,041 to win the title.
Overall, the Snake River Stampede showcased the grit and determination of rodeo competitors, with each event delivering thrilling performances and memorable moments.
