Mason Clements got off to a hot start at the National Western Stock Show by posting the top-score in the first round after posting an 89.5, just a half-point shy of the arena record.
The event, being held in Denver, has two full rounds followed by the new tournament-style format. Clements will have his second run at the Friday matinee and is hoping for another top ride and a chance to compete in the tournament format.
The competitor’s times and scores are added together and the top 24 advances to one of three semifinals performances that are held on the final Saturday of the show, Jan. 25th. In the semifinals, each athlete starts on an even playing field and the top four in each event advance to Sunday’s championship round. Those 12 contestants will once again start at zero and whoever has the fastest time or highest score will be crowned Denver’s champion.
Clements is looking to bounce back after a disappointing end to the season last year after finishing in 16th place, just one spot out of qualifying for his third Wrangler National Finals Rodeo. He missed a portion of last season due to a knee injury but now that he is healthy, he has lofty goals.
“I feel really good,” Clements said. “I stayed busy all of December and that helped, but I hated missing the finals. I’m excited about how well things are going and plan to be in Las Vegas next December.”