Jan Swan Wood: Champions named in a variety of events, NIRA Alumni, AQHA deadlines

We got a little snow here last night and it’s sure welcome moisture. The cows and calves are worked and we’re ready for some mud around here. Had a good time working the cattle as we had good help and did some laughing. The little grandsons were here, so they got to be out there with their Mom and Dad and watch. The two-year-old spent quite a bit of time horseback, so he was pretty excited about that. Having those little guys ride along is priceless. I treasure those times as they’ll be grown up way too soon.

Justin Lawrence, Alzada, Montana won the NRCHA Snaffle Bit Futurity Open Hackamore class at Reno, NV, on Sept. 28. Riding Bettin Yer Smart, a five-year-old stallion owned by Deb Brown and Larry Licking, Camp Crook, SD, I believe, he scored a 438.5. Lawrence has had the roan stallion since he was a yearling so the victory is super sweet for Justin. Bettin Yer Smart is by Smart Little Lena and out of Bet Yer Boons by Peptoboonsmal.

Webbs Famous Fame was named South Dakota Bred Two Year Old Champion of the Year. The filly is by High On Corona and out of Famous Kelly and is owned by Butch Webb, Isabel, SD.

Sutton Rodeo’s Chuckalator was named Saddle Bronc of the Year in the PRCA. The eight-year-old has come on strong in the past few years. The honor was voted on by the top 20 saddle bronc riders.

The Headless Horseman Halloween themed barrel race will be held Nov. 3-4 in Bowman, ND, at the All Seasons Arena. There are costume contests besides barrels, so it’s a fun time for all. For more info call Barb Williams 605-210-0379 or Ashley Alderson 701-206-0350 or email at saddleupeventservices@hotmail.com.

Thoroughbred racing’s Breeders Cup races will be held Nov. 2-3. I always enjoy watching the races with the best of the best in each division. The Breeders Cup Classic will be the last race run on Saturday, Nov. 3.

NIRA Alumni will have a “Winter Gathering” on Thursday, Dec. 13, at the South Point Hotel and Casino, Monteray Bay Room in Las Vegas. Held during the finals, they are hoping to draw a good crowd of alumni and anyone else who was ever associated with college rodeo. Call Sharon Adams at 602-268-5874 or Butch Bratsky at 406-855-1542, or go to the web page at http://www.collegerodeoalumni.com.

The AQHA’s deadline for registering a horse 36 months or older is coming up in December. They’ve reduced the fee to $300 for members, which is a savings of around $700. If you have a good horse that is without papers due to them never getting sent in, get with it. You’ll never have a better opportunity than now.

The AQHA stallion breeding reports are due on or before Nov. 30. You can do this online if you prefer.

Well, this must be the shortest circle I’ve ever ridden here, but due to circumstances I wouldn’t wish on anyone, I’m going to call it a day. This stomach flu bug isn’t a fun one at all. I’m going to begin wearing a surgical mask and gloves when I go out in public.

Have a good week and send me your items you want to share in here. I’m always happy to tell folks about your upcoming events.