By: Haylie Ramone

Photo courtesy of USU Eastern

The college rodeo season kicked off with a wild start this weekend, as Friday night’s performance was canceled due to extreme rain and lightning. Competition resumed Saturday morning, and the team came ready to win.

Byron Christiansen led the way with an impressive 84-point ride to win the long round in Saddle Bronc. He also placed 5th in the first round of tie-down roping and capped the weekend with a 2nd-place finish in Saddle Bronc riding overall.

In the barrel racing, Saydee Davis claimed the first round win and finished 2nd in the short round, securing 2nd in the average. Stace Gilbert picked up points in team roping, placing 5th in the first round and 5th in the average. Meanwhile, Megan Zunich had a very strong showing in breakaway roping, placing 3rd in both rounds and finishing 3rd in the average.

Despite the weather challenges, it was a great first rodeo of the season, with the team bringing home solid points. Now it’s time to head home, regroup, and gear up for next weekend’s competition at Idaho State University.