RUSTON, La. – Southwest Arkansas High School Rodeo Association recently held its year end finals in Ruston, LA. Three local youth competed in this association and represented Bradley County. Wesley George, River Grice, and Erin Chambers. The association is made up of a talented group of cowboys and cowgirls from Arkansas, Oklahoma, Texas, and Louisiana. 

The year end finalists are ranked by their points accumulated in a series of fourteen rodeos throughout the year to determine their back numbers for the finals competition. Wesley George wore back number 35, Erin Chambers back number 39, River Grice back number 59 out of 100 finalists. 

Wesley George finished as Champion in Senior Tie Down, Reserve Champion in Senior Boys Breakaway, and third place Senior Ribbon Roping and Team Roping Header. Wesley was finals round winner for Tie Down Calf Roping and Senior Boys Breakaway and average winner for these events as well. 

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Erin Chambers wrapped up the year with a fifth place rank in Junior Girls Poles, tenth place in Junior Girls Goat Tying, eleventh place Junior Girls Barrel Racing, twelfth place in Junior Girls Breakaway, and eleventh place team roping Heeler. 

River Grice completed the year ranked number six in team roping as a Heeler and eighth in Junior Boys Breakaway. Grice and George have been team roping together for two years. 

The local youth won prizes and money for their hard work including buckles, roping cans, bridles, breast collar, custom halters with lead rope, ropes, hay bag, buckle displays, cooler bag and Stanley mug. Southwest Arkansas High School Rodeo Association awarded prizes totaling over $70,000 along with money for event winnings throughout the year and at the finals rodeo. Rodeo is a sport requiring much work and dedication, but brings a lifetime of memories and friendships.