The matchup to watch in the Finals of the 2021 Clovis Rodeo was seven-time NFR qualifier and 2021 American Rodeo Bareback Riding Champion against the legendary horse Virgil from C5 Rodeo.
It did not disappoint as Hooper rode for 90.5 points to win the rodeo, take home close to $9,000 and extend his lead in the PRCA World Standings.
“You know, right there that horse gets started and that riggin’ is moving a lot, it’s floating through the air and getting up there,” he said. “But man, when it gets to dropping out of there it feels like if you don’t get your feet set, he’s going to throw you out of the arena.”
“I had it started the way I wanted. Your start is so important when they are bucking that hard, because it’s not like you’re going to get a chance to catch back up.”
Hooper has been on Virgil four times now and said the most recent trip was the best he’s had on him. Hooper also noted Virgil looked and felt bigger than the previous three times he rode him.