History

The western sport of rodeo has a long history in America. However, the United States Team Roping Championships organization was not established until 1989. The ever-growing popularity of the sport necessitated a ratings system that would place a competing cowboy or cowgirl in competitions that were suited to their individual skill ability. The ratings are voted upon by peers and a team of producers. The USTRC set the standards for all team roping events. The United States Team Roping Championships originated in Albuquerque, New Mexico. However, the USTRC eventually relocated to Stephenville in 2000. The organization hosts more than 25 events annually in addition to coordinating and scheduling other associated competitions throughout America. More than $350 million has been awarded by the organization during the course of rodeo events.

CINCH National Finals

The CINCH National Finals are unique in that the event is one of the few rodeos in America that pits male and female competitors against each other in the sport of roping. With $6 million at stake, cowboy and cowgirl western athletes will compete in the United States Team Roping Championships in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. Events begin October 21 and continue through November 1. The 2015 CINCH National Finals rodeo will be held at the Oklahoma State Fairgrounds and competitions are scheduled to start at 8 AM. The finals are open to USTRC members only. The Ak-Chin Indian Community, the Cowboy Lifestyle Network and the Earnhardt Auto Road Team will be on hand to cover the excitement as events unfold.

USTRC Events

The competition begins with preliminaries in an open round involving a five-steer average. The top teams then advance to the Shoot-Out round or to the Short Round and on to advanced Shoot-Out rounds. The Preliminary, Shoot-Out, Gold Plus Shoot-Out and U.S. Open Championships are open to male and female competitors alike.

For Ladies Only

On October 28, western cowgirl athletes compete in the sport known as the Cruel Girl Championship. After averaging scores on four steers, a cowgirl placing first, second or third then receives the entry-fees needed for positions in the Shoot-Out division of their choosing.

The USTRC Century Championships

Held on October 29, this special rodeo event is restricted to contestants aged 50 years or older. Following compilation of a four-steer average, cowboy or cowgirl ropers achieving first, second or third place are then awarded a paid position in the Shoot-Out division of their choice.

2015 USTR Event Calendar and Coverage

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