Contestants cash in on Junior Rodeo

WINDOW ROCK, Ariz. – On June 1, 2010 the Navajo Nation Parks and Recreation played host to the 1st Annual Treaty Day Open Junior Rodeo. Through the dust and wind Carly Jo Sells outshined her peers to take home the All-Around honors, taking the barrel racing (18.676 sec), flag racing (9.85), and finished second in the goat-tying contest (11.1sec).

Caleb Tsosie tamed his Wooly Beast to take home the $102.00 cash prize. Sonny Boy Nez took the Pee Wee barrel-racing event with an average time of 18.274 seconds. The Pee Wee polls earned Justin L. Yazzie a profit of $120.00. Brent Jodie took the Pee Wee Breakaway with a time of 3.90 seconds.

Calf Riding was an added attraction that drew five tough warriors, but only Chrispin Rustin received a score to take home the title. The Pee Wee steer riding event was won by Cody Rustins with a score of 62, which put $200.00 extra dollars in his pocket.

The ladies posted impressive numbers as well. Winter Blossom Chee took home $165.00 in the Sr. Barrels (17.76sec) and $150.00 in the Sr. Poles (22.405 sec). Hannah R. Yazzie wrapped her goat up in 15.48 seconds to take the $135.00 prize. She also claimed the Sr. Girl’s Breakaway prize with a time of 10.17 seconds.

The day concluded with the Sr. Bulls and Sr. Team Roping. Archie Becenti Jr. and Sheridan Yazzie had scores of 62 to share the event title. The Sr. Boys Team Roping resulted in an impressive 11.55 seconds from Eryos Cowboy and Emeric Cowboy.

“What better way to kick-off this new era of Treaty Day Celebrations than with our young cowboys and cowgirls”, said Ray Russell Parks and Recreation Department Manager. “They fought through wind and dust, earning every cent. We should all be proud of their courage”.

Most of the young ones will stick around for the weeklong activities for a chance to see their heroes in action and also to participate in the traditional games taking place daily at 2:30 pm.

For more information, visit www. navajonationfair.com.

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