The Three Rivers College rodeo team competed at the College National Finals with the men’s team finishing 46th with 50 points. The women’s team did not place as a team among 35 schools. However, head coach Chad Phipps was still impressed with his team’s efforts.

The finals consisted of nine events, including Saddle Bronc Riding, Bareback Riding, Bull Riding, Tie Down Roping, Steer Wrestling, Team Roping, Barrel Racing, Breakaway Roping, and Goat Tying.

“We had an outstanding week as far as the way they competed,” said Rodeo head coach Chad Phipps. “The one thing I want to say is we didn’t draw the best stock in the saddleback riding.”

Not long ago, the rodeo team suffered damage to their facility when a tornado rolled through Poplar Bluff. However, it didn’t affect the team’s ability to practice or compete.

“It didn’t tear us up where we can’t be there,” Phipps said. “As far as our place goes, we’ve got it all back up and going. There are some repairs that need to be done, and there’s still some stuff undecided on what they’re going to redo or not. But, we’ve got it all back up and operational.”

At the competition, Phipps talked about specific athletes who stood out.

“Ross [Price] rode exceptional,” he said. “Same as Lennon [Cook]. He was really good the last few rounds. When you’re riding bulls, you’re losing a lot more than you win. It’s not a good system, and that’s what makes it a great event. You learn how to overcome all the losses to get back to winning again. He handled it well for his first time on a big stage like that.”

Phipps mentioned the team is still in the process of recruiting more athletes to the program.

“We’ve got some locals that are coming, but we’re still going to be out there this summer,” he added.

The team’s next competition will be September.

“We start the third week in September,” Phipps said. “We’ll start at Missouri Valley.”

Prior to their Missouri Valley event, there will be another competition.

“What’s next for us is going to be Sept. 6,” Phipps added. “That’s the Battle of the Bulls in Poplar Bluff. That’s along with recruitment and putting bull riding together that we’ve been doing the last couple of years. There’s some changes made to it this year where it’s going to be even better.”

Alex Martin - Daily American Republic