It is the time of year when all the cow trails seem to lead to Las Vegas, as the annual National Finals Rodeo opened Thursday night. There is more than $6.1 million in prize money during the 10-day run at the Thomas & Mack Center, home of the UNLV Runnin’ Rebels. Texan Trevor Brazile has the most chips going to the gambling town, with nearly $248,000 to lead the all-around standings. As the leader in the team roping and all-around races, the 36-year-old has a chance to match Guy Allen’s 18 gold buckles.
“I’m having a blast,” said Brazile, who is going for his 10th all-around title. “As long as I’m making a living and enjoying what I do, why would I quit?”
Colorado cowboys who are up high enough in the standings to qualify for the NFR include: Josh Peek, Pueblo, fifth in the all-around but well behind Brazile; Wade Sumpter, Fowler, second in steer wrestling and just $10,420 behind leader Ethen Thouvenell of California; Cody Samora, Cortez, eighth in bull riding; and Cody Colletti, Pueblo, 11th in bareback riding.
