First-time National Finals Rodeo qualifier Beau Cooper is gearing up for Round 1 in the Thomas and Mack and expresses his mix of excitement and nerves alongside his mentor, 13-time NFR Tie-Down Roper Shane Hanchey, at the NFR Tailgate Party.
“It’s pretty cool to be here and to be here with Shane, he kind of got my whole career kick started for me and has brought me under his wing so to be here with him and to take on ten days in Vegas is a dream come true.” Cooper said.
Hanchey and Cooper touch on the special bond the two have created as Cooper began roping at a young age after attending multiple clinics put on by Hanchey.
“It’s really special for me, he came to two of my roping clinics in Alberta when he was just a little bitty guy and so for this to be my first “student” to make the National Finals was pretty special for me.” Hanchey said.
Cooper’s 2023 season is one he will never forget as he captured a huge win in his home country of Canada at the Calgary Stampede. With a strong Canadian presence at this year’s NFR, Cooper will be competing in the same arena as his cousin, World Champion Saddle Bronc Rider Zeke Thurston.
Cooper is looking forward to making his first run inside the legendary Thomas and Mack and is set up for success with a great support system as he enters into his first NFR at No. 11 in the World Standings.
