By RYLAN SPROUL
The Progress

This past weekend, Nov. 8 and 9, the Clark County Fairgrounds came alive with the sound of hooves, cheers and hometown pride as the Moapa Valley High School and Junior High Rodeo brought together youth athletes from across Nevada. Competitors gave it their all in events ranging from barrel racing and goat tying to team roping and bull riding, making for an action-packed weekend full of talent, grit and sportsmanship.

The rodeo kicked off under sunny skies Saturday morning with the grand entry, followed by two full days of fierce competition. Families filled the stands, cheering on contestants who had spent months training and traveling across the state to qualify for this event. The dedication of these young cowboys and cowgirls was on full display, embodying the spirit of rodeo and the values it represents — hard work, respect and perseverance.

Logan Lancaster from Battle Mountain was the High School Boys All Around Cowboy and Rookie of the Rodeo for High School. Quil Philipini from Eureka was named High School Girl All-Around Champion, showcasing outstanding consistency and performance across multiple events. The Rookie All-Around title went to Huntley Byrd from Humboldt County, a promising young competitor who made a strong impression in their first high school rodeo season. Frank Buchanan, from the Eureka Club, was named Junior High School Boy Rodeo All Around, and Moapa Club member Hazel Griffith won the Junior High School Rodeo All Around for the girls. When asked her thoughts about the rodeo, Hazel stated, “That was amazing!” Also named Rookie All Arounds were Truce Tolman from Alamo and Macey Matson from the Elko Club. Athletes received custom awards and recognition for their achievements, earning well-deserved applause from the crowd and fellow competitors.

None of this would be possible without the generous support of local businesses and sponsors. The Moapa Valley Rodeo Club extends heartfelt thanks to each and every sponsor who helped back the athletes and this event. From financial contributions to donated goods and volunteer time, sponsors make it possible for youth rodeo to thrive in Southern Nevada. They also wanted to thank the Clark County tractor crew, the medical team, the judges, announcers, and all the parents who volunteered their time behind the scenes to keep the rodeo running smoothly. The event’s sponsors were All American Builders, Xtreme Stitch & Print, PTI Golf Construction, Pro Concepts, Western States Contracting, AMI Mechanical, Desert Luxury Windows & Doors, Fisk Electric, Marble Express, VT Construction, Rodeo Western Wear, Dannelly Trucking, Sleppy Construction, MC Modern Concepts, 24/7 Heating & AC, PipeWerx Mechanical LLC, Frank & Bonnie Martin, LaRocca Electric, Rafael Construction, Sage Home & Health, True Value, Arms Unlimited, Team Kolhoss Real Estate Advisors, Par 3 Landscape Management, Desert Valley Heating & Cooling, NDX, Whirly Pig Pest Control, Jake Eary Memorial, Pampered Pooches Pet Grooming & Boarding, LDA Development Services, Horizon Trust, Aquatic, The Shop Auto & Diesel Repair, Loop’Em Wild Ropings, BEX, Mike’s Rodeo Trophies, Danielle’s Chocolates & Popcorn, Mesa Valleys Progress, Lukz Trucking, Coopz Fleet Services, Cowboy Trail Rides, LDA Realty and University of Nevada Extension.

As one proud rodeo parent shared, “This community always pulls together when it comes to supporting our youth. Watching these kids work hard, help one another and represent Moapa Valley so well is what it’s all about. Teamwork makes the dreamwork!”

Other rodeo contestants’ parents also reflected on the weekend’s success. Kristen Yardley said, “Can’t say enough great things about the job Moapa Rodeo Club did! Bringing Aaron Jessen in to ensure we had amazing ground, inviting Ruffs BBQ was a huge upgrade, the stock was great, and not having to travel was the best! With such a great facility here in our valley, we just wish we had more opportunities like this at home for our local youth! The time and dedication put in by the many volunteers is so very much appreciated. No better way to raise children than that of a life with rodeo, livestock and agriculture. We are blessed to be surrounded by so many who help us daily to do just that! It was a great weekend spent in the sunshine in our sweet home, Moapa Valley.”

The Moapa Valley Rodeo Club would also like to extend a special thank-you to the Nevada High School Rodeo Association’s state president, secretary and treasurer for their continued support and leadership. Their dedication to keeping youth rodeo strong across the state ensures that young athletes have a place to grow, compete and carry on Western traditions.

With another successful rodeo in the books, the club looks forward to the spring season and seeing these athletes continue to chase their goals — one run, one ride and one roping loop at a time.