The 96th Annual Helzapoppin’ PRCA Rodeo concluded Sunday Jan. 26 at the Buckeye Equestrian & Events Centre, delivering thrilling performances by some of the nation’s best rodeo athletes. With more than $50,000 in payouts, the two-day event, presented by ABC Sand & Rock, celebrated Buckeye’s Western heritage with competitive rodeo action and family-friendly fun.
Competition results
All-around cowboy
James Mann clinched the all-around cowboy title, earning $1,133 with standout performances in saddle bronc riding, tie-down roping, and steer wrestling.
Bareback riding
- Evan Betony: 84 points on Salt River Rodeo’s Little Indian, $921
- Daxtyn Feild: 82 points, $691
- Cooper Bennett: 81 points, $461
Steer wrestling
- Tyke Kipp: 4.2 seconds, $1,118
- Rooster Yazzie: 4.4 seconds, $925
- Cody Cabral: 4.5 seconds, $732
Team roping
- Spencer Mitchell & Jason Duby: 4.1 seconds, $1,757 each
- Hayes Smith & Jake Minor: 4.6 seconds, $1,528 each
- Brayden Schmidt & Jaydon Warner: 5.3 seconds, $1,298 each
Saddle Bronc riding
- Levi Mines: 83 points on Salt River Rodeo’s Sally Rand, $1,117
- Ross Griffin: 82 points, $846
- Denton Mars: 79.5 points, $609
Tie-down roping
- (tie) James Mann & Cooper Andersen: 9.1 seconds, $1,133 each
- Joseph Parsons: 9.8 seconds, $813
Barrel racing
- Timber Cote: 16.89 seconds, $2,075 (event’s highest payout)
- Jordynn Knight: 17.11 seconds, $1,763
- Tarryn Lee: 17.13 seconds, $1,452
Bull riding
- Avery Mullins: 84 points on Salt River Rodeo’s Tatonka, $1,992
- Dylan Hice: 81.5 points, $1,545
- Colten Fritzlan: 80 points, $1,161
Highlights
The rodeo brought more than competition, with activities for all ages, a vendor marketplace showcasing Western crafts and food, and engaging specialty acts. Announcers Bob Edmonds and Bryan Frye kept the crowd energized, while bullfighters Cody Escobedo and Jerry Jacobs, alongside rodeo clown Dalton Morris, provided added excitement.
A proud tradition in a modern setting
Since its founding in 1929, the Helzapoppin’ PRCA Rodeo has become a cornerstone of Buckeye’s Western roots. This year marked its debut at the newly upgraded Buckeye Equestrian & Events Centre, featuring improved arena surfaces and enhanced lighting for an exceptional experience.
For full results, visit PRCA Sports News.
This year’s Helzapoppin may have converted a few first-timers into lifelong rodeo fans, preserving the spirit of the American West for generations to come.