Myers Wins Overall Rodeo Title With 3.8-Second Ride In Las Vegas

Steer wrestler Rope Myers entered the National Finals Rodeo in fourth place in the world standings.

After Saturday night’s 3.8-second, first-place run, he increased his NFR earnings to $44,345 and won his first overall title.

“I never felt like I had a month that was really exceptional,” said Myers, of Van, Texas. “A lot of cowboys always say, ‘I had a real good February’ or another month. Maybe December is my month.”

Myers’ run was the only one faster than 4 seconds. Chad Bedell of Jensen, Utah, and Todd Boggust of Paynton, Saskatchewan, were second at 4.3.

Myers leads Ote Berry of Checotah, Okla., by $14,915 entering Sunday’s final round. Berry, however, is second in the NFR average which is worth $22,806.

In bull riding, Scott Breding of Edgar, Mont., was knocked unconscious by bucking bull of the year Dodge Bodacious. Breding, who had multiple lacerations, regained consciousness before being transported to a hospital for evaluation.

Australian Troy Dunn scored an 86 for his second NFR go-round victory. Terry West of Henryetta, Okla., was second with an 85.

Jerome Davis of Archdale, N.C., leads the bull riding standings with $99,165. West is second with $98,024.

In saddle bronc riding, Dan Mortensen of Manhattan, Mont., and Dan Etbauer of Goodwell, Okla., tied for first in the round with 81s.

Kay Blandford of Stockdale, Texas, won for the fourth time in nine NFR go-rounds. Blandford, who ran a 14.12, has earned $37,620 to move from 14th to fourth in the world.