Arcadia, Florida had so many entries they created a special section. Not only has the rodeo seen a major increase in entries, but also a big bump in total payout.
The increased pay brought the best in the World to Florida, and the scores reflect that.
In Bareback Riding Jess Pope, who is coming off his first career NFR qualification, posted the top score with an 89 point ride.
Remey Parrott, brother of NFR Qualifier Rowdy Parrott, stopped the clock at 4 seconds flat to take the lead in Steer Wrestling.
Cody Snow and Wesley Thorp are back in a big way. Their debut back together was an impressive one with the duo stopping the clock at an arena record 4.1 seconds, one of two teams to do so in Team Roping. In 2019 Wesley Thorp won a World Title, and the team won the Average at the NFR. Jake Orman and Brye Crites also posted a 4.1-second run to tie for first place.
Wyatt Casper was one of two Cowboys to post an 89.5 point saddle bronc ride, and he did it on a horse he is familiar with. Casper rode Miss Elliott who he also rode at the 8 round of The American where he won $600,000. Cody DeMoss also went the full 8 for an 89.5 point ride.
Kelly Brunner is looking to make her second career NFR and this weekend will be a big step in that direction as she currently sits in first place thanks to a 16.51-second run.
In Bull Riding, it was Chase Dougherty who posted an 87 point ride and now sits in first place.