Caleb Smidt got bumped out of the Top 10 because he was unable to compete at the NFR because of a positive COVID-19 test. Now, the tie-down roper will still have a chance to show his skills against the world’s best because offered a spot in RFD-TV’s The American.
Smidt and barrel racer Dona Kay Rule, who also tested positive at the Wrangler NFR, were offered exemptions for 2021 and now, they both will both have the choice of advancing straight to the finals or attempting to qualify through the semi-finals. Smidt has already earned a spot in the semis.
Smidt has won two Gold Buckles and competed at the NFR six times. However, he has never nodded his head for $1 million, which may be a factor in him opting to go through the semi-finals.
“It (getting the call for his exemption) was an honor,” he said. “We dang sure got some thinking to do.”
RELATED:
Ticket Information for RFD-TV’s The American
Shad Mayfield On How Winning RFD-TV’s The American Changed His Life
Past Champions of RFD-TV’s The American