With Sept. 30 marking the final day to qualify for the National Finals Rodeo NFR and the Resistol Rookie of the Year award, tie-down roper Cole Clemons finds himself on the verge of achieving both milestones.
Clemons, who currently holds the top spot in the Resistol Rookie Standings, also ranks No. 14 in the PRCA World Standings, putting him within striking distance of an NFR berth.
“I got a lot riding on this week,” Clemons said. “But we’re entered up and ready to finish strong.”
The 20-year-old roper is headed to the prestigious Governor’s Cup in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, for the first time in his career. The event represents a major opportunity for Clemons to solidify his place in the PRCA World Standings and cap off what has already been a breakout season.
“I had some high goals set this year, but it dang sure surprised me being in this position,” Clemons said. “I am just so thankful and blessed to be here. It dang sure makes me smile knowing that I worked at it all year and now I’ve got a chance to complete a dream I’ve had since I was 5-years-old.”
After months of relentless competition, Clemons recently returned home to Lipan, Texas, where he took some much-needed time to rest and refocus. The downtime, spent hog hunting and honing his roping skills, provided a welcome mental break before his final push toward the NFR.
“We’ve been going hard for dang near four months, and I haven’t been home one time, so it was a big relief and cleared the mind for sure to get to go hunting, hang out, and chill for a few days,” Clemons said.
As the clock ticks down toward the critical Sept. 30 cutoff, Clemons remains focused and determined to finish his rookie season on a high note, with an eye on both an NFR debut and the coveted Resistol Rookie of the Year title.
