Heard About the Jackpots?
Jordan Muncy Taton

Goodwell, Okla. — What's all the noise about the rodeo jackpots? Ever wonder what actually takes place? The Oklahoma Panhandle State University rodeo team weekly jackpots were created by Coach Craig Latham with many reasons in mind.

The jackpots give the feel of an "actual" rodeo, instead of just practice. How? Well instead of just practicing, jackpot participants put up an entry fee (just like at the real rodeo), and compete for the prize money. This makes college student athletes really want to win!

In addition to the chance at prize money, jackpots help add pressure and competition, much like an actual rodeo. Instead of just practice, jackpots give that "in-game-fierce" feel, and it also feeds the competitive side of participants. Getting used to competition and pressure situations is key to becoming a successful rodeo competitor. In all rodeo events, many key components are not controlled, such as the draw of stock in the rough stock events, roping events, as well as steer wrestling and goat tying. What about the barrel racing? The ground conditions can sometimes be treacherous and very dangerous, or costly to rider's time. Because of these variables, being able to adapt to any situation with that added pressure helps all competitors, which is another reason these jackpots are so great.

It is said that competitors rise to the level at which they compete. So why not make it the highest level possible? That is just the case for the OPSU rodeo teams. Competing in the Central Plains Region, arguably the most competitive of collegiate rodeo regions, Aggie members must rise to excellence at the rodeos. The jackpots help build the competition level. In addition, the great thing about the jackpots is that they are not just for OPSU rodeo team members. Jackpots are open, which means anyone and everyone, of all ages, are eligible to enter.

If you are interested in testing your luck, or just want to see what the Aggie rodeo team has to offer, head over to the Doc Gardner Memorial Rodeo Arena just off Highway 54 on the north end of Goodwell. Nearly every week night some form of jackpot is going on. Tuesday kicks off the week at 3 p.m. with the roughstock events. Long time OPSU supporter Alan McCloy brings the toughest bucking horses every week, giving contestants an opportunity at becoming the best riders. Events include bareback riding, saddle bronc riding, and bull riding. Also on Tuesday nights, several timed-events take place. Breakaway roping and calf roping, where entrants get a chance to rope 3 calves as well as barrel racing, which offers riders 3 runs. Wednesday at 5 p.m. starts with goat tying, a two-head match, followed by steer wrestling and team roping, the only event that both men and women can enter. Jackpot fees range from $10 to $20, and there is no admission charge to watch some of the best rodeo talent in the area.