A Calgary Stampede mare has established a new saddle bronc record during Rodeo Houston, shattering the stadium's previous standard.
On Saturday, rider Cody DeMoss of Louisiana had a stellar ride atop the aptly named Stampede Warrior. The ride was rewarded with a score of 94, a mark three points higher than the previous Houston Arena record.
Prior to the ride, DeMoss was aware of Stampede Warrior’s reputation and asked a fellow rider for guidance in how to approach his draw.
“I saw Wade Sundell win The American in Arlington on her earlier in the month,” said DeMoss. “He gave me a few pointers on how much rein to give her and what to expect. When they opened the chutes, I was pretty excited. She’s a powerful bronc. She pulled down hard then up high again. She did everything a bucking horse is meant to do and she feels good doing it. She’s just an outstanding horse.”
A score of 94 is a rare and remarkable achievement in rodeo. The highest score in Canadian pro rodeo history is 95, achieved by bareback rider Davey Shield Jr. atop Grated Coconut, Stampede Warrior’s sire, during the 2005 Calgary Stampede.
The strong showing in Houston is the latest in a string of high-scoring rides for Stampede Warrior during the current Texas rodeo run.
Calgarians may recognize Cody DeMoss’ name as the bronc rider was the 2008 Calgary Stampede champion and finished second in the event during the 2012 Calgary Stampede.
