Published: June 27, 2008 06:03 pm            

Howell headed to Junior High Finals Rodeo

Will Howell, a ninth grade student in Stillwater Junior High School, has qualified for a third consecutive national finals rodeo. He will be traveling to Gallup, N.M., from June 30-July 5, to compete in the Fourth Annual Wrangler Junior High Finals Rodeo (WJHFR) in calf roping and steer wrestling.

Howell is a three-time WJHFR qualifier. “I feel I am better prepared than in previous years,” said Howell.

“Last year I took a young horse that wasn’t really ready yet. This year I’m taking him again but he is more experienced. My physical condition is the best its ever been. It gets pretty hot in the desert, and mentally I know how to win. So, if we can mix a little luck into that combination, things should go our way,” Howell added.

Featuring more than 1,000 contestants from 47 states, Canadian provinces and Australia, the Wrangler Junior High Finals is the world’s largest junior high rodeo. In addition to competing for more than $75,000 in prizes, WJHFR contestants will also be vying for more than $50,000 in college scholarships and the chance to be named the Wrangler Junior High Finals Rodeo Champion.

To earn this title, contestants must finish in the top 15 after two go-rounds of intense competition before advancing on to Saturday’s final championship performance.

To follow Howell at the WJHFR visit the Wrangler Division’s Web site daily for complete results at www.nhsra.org.

        

• Click to discuss this story with other readers on our forums.