by DENVER, Colo. – While a cold front was having its way with Colorado, the rodeo action at the National Western Stock Show was just heating up inside the Denver Coliseum. The packed house didn’t seem to mind the freezing temperatures outside as cowboys and cowgirls from across the country delivered thrilling performances during Wednesday night’s rodeo events.
From bareback bronc riding to barrel racing, the evening showcased some of the top talent in professional rodeo, and the crowd responded with thunderous applause after each high-octane performance. The rough stock events were a particular highlight, with several riders clocking high scores despite the tough competition.
In the saddle bronc competition, Wyoming’s Chase Erickson wowed the judges with an 86.5-point ride aboard a rank bronc named “Whiskey River,” putting him at the top of the leaderboard for the night. Meanwhile, the bull riding event once again proved why it’s a fan favorite, as riders either thrilled the audience with 8-second triumphs or took hard spills to the arena dirt.
On the timed-event side, the team roping duo of Clint Keller and Matt Davis posted the fastest time of the night at 4.3 seconds, drawing loud cheers from fans appreciative of their speed and precision. The barrel racing brought just as much excitement, with Texas rider Jessie Moore cutting a blazing fast time of 14.78 seconds to take the top spot in the standings.
Despite the chill in the air outside, the atmosphere in the coliseum was warm and electric. Families bundled in cowboy hats and boots gathered to cheer on their favorite athletes and enjoy a slice of Colorado’s western heritage.
The National Western Stock Show continues through the weekend, with more rodeo performances, livestock competitions, and special exhibitions still to come. For many, it’s not just an event—it’s a winter tradition, one that brings the spirit of the West alive in the heart of Denver.
