Two-time NFR qualifier Stan Branco is charging toward a third trip to Las Vegas — and he’s doing it with a fresh horsepower advantage. Sitting No. 17 in the PRCA World Standings, Branco banked over $17,000 last weekend alone, closing in fast on the coveted Top 15 as the summer run gains steam.
What’s fueling his momentum? A new horse he bought just two months ago.
“I didn’t even plan on rodeoing this year,” Branco admitted. “I figured I’d take him to a few rodeos to season him, but now plans are kind of changing.”
Despite only nine trips in the arena as a steer wrestling horse, the new mount is already proving to be a game-changer. Branco picked up the win at the Silver State Stampede ($4,690), finished third at the Snake River Stampede (13.7 on 3 for over $8,000), and claimed a fourth-place check at the Old Santa Ynez Rodeo.
With more than $870,000 in career earnings, Branco’s back in the mix this season.