OSU Rodeo sends three to College National Finals Rodeo
Monday, June 3, 2024
Media Contact: Sophia Fahleson | Digital Communications Specialist | 405-744-7063 | sophia.fahleson@okstate.edu
Three members of the Oklahoma State University Rodeo Team are set to participate in the College National Finals Rodeo, June 9-15, in Casper, Wyoming.
Joby Bush, Kenna McLemore and Lexie Russell will compete against athletes from 11 regions nationwide.
OSU Rodeo concluded its regular season at Oklahoma Panhandle State University in Guymon, Oklahoma, in April.
Joby Bush will represent OSU Rodeo in tie-down roping, ending his senior year as the Central Plains Region reserve champion tie-down roper. Bush said he appreciates the coaching staff and their help in pushing him to succeed in the arena.
“I’m ready to compete,” Bush said. “I’m feeling confident coming off a good spring season and preparing to win a national title in Wyoming. Representing OSU while doing something I love is special to me.”
Kenna McLemore will compete in breakaway roping, ending her freshman year at OSU as the Central Plains Region reserve champion breakaway roper.
“I’m super excited to be going into the college finals as a freshman,” McLemore said. “I know it’s going to be a great experience, and I’m hoping one of us finishes with a national title.”
She said the OSU Rodeo Team has had a positive impact on her life.
“This program has helped me grow as an athlete and a person, and gave me a strong support system,” McLemore said. “I’m looking forward to sharing this experience with my team.”
This year marks the fourth CNFR appearance for Lexie Russell, who will compete in breakaway roping. She is confident in her abilities to compete in Casper and represent OSU Rodeo one final time.
“This year has been all about fun as it is my last one in the black and orange vest,” Russell said. “I’m counting on making four runs in an environment where I have competed before and am comfortable in.”
Russell credits her fourth CNFR qualification to her coaches and teammates and is thankful for a team with a history of excellence.
“I couldn’t have made it without the support from my superstar teammates, like Lariat Larner, Kenna McNeil and Cheyenne Bartling,” Russell said.
Cody Hollingsworth has led the OSU Rodeo Team for 12 years, coaching many athletes to the CNFR.
“Our CNFR qualifiers stepped up this year when there were opportunities to capitalize on their abilities,” he said. “They all rope aggressively and are consistent, and I think that’s exactly what you need to be in that arena.”
The OSU Rodeo Team is part of the university’s Ferguson College of Agriculture. The team has been a member of the National Intercollegiate Rodeo Association since 1948 and competes in the Central Plains Region. For more information, visit rodeo.okstate.edu.