RFD-TV’s THE AMERICAN 2015 Presented by Polaris RANGER

On March 1, 2015, male and female western athletes from around the world will gather at the AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas, for the chance to compete in the second annual rodeo known as “The AMERICAN.” The event will be sponsored by the Polaris Industries, renowned provider of off-road vehicles. RFD-TV plans on broadcasting the competition.

The American Difference

Attending spectators and off-site viewers have the chance to watch cowboys and cowgirls demonstrating their skills in seven traditional rodeo events ranging from saddle bronc riding, tie-down roping and steer wrestling to barrel racing and bull riding. However, there are a couple of unique differences.
With $2 million dollars at stake, The American offers the most lucrative payout of all western sporting events.

The grand prize winner alone walks away with a minimal and staggering amount of $1 million. Winners of individual categories also walk away with $100,000 plus a prize package worth nearly $30,000.

The package includes a Bohlin buckle, a Browning rifle, a customized Cactus saddle and a Polaris Ranger. Second place winners receive $25,000. Qualifiers winning their event also share a $1 million side pot.

The second unique aspect involves the participants themselves. Athletes deemed the crème of the crop by the committee receive a personal invitation to participate in The American. Representing the top 10 athletes in each field, the contestants are not required to pay entry fees. Any other interested western sports athletes may also compete pending placement in two initial qualifying rounds. At a location of personal choice, athletes compete in the events of their choosing during round one. Top point winners qualify and continue the process. The semi-finals involve an elimination rodeo on February 20 through 22, 2015, at the Fort Worth Stockyards at the Cowtown Coliseum.

The American Rodeo represents the third and final round. The one day rodeo requires that all contestants compete in their event during round one.

The top 4 competitors in each event then progress to the ShootOut round. The Champion and Reserve Champion are then determined in the finals.

2014 Results

Scoring a total of 90 points, bareback rider, Richmond Champion, was last year’s rodeo winner. Hailing from Woodlands, Texas the 22 year-old Champion made history. He was the only qualifier from among 46 competitors to win his event.

Unfortunately, due to recent injuries and subsequent surgeries, bareback rider, Wes Stevenson and bull rider, Shane Proctor could not accept the invitation to participate in this year’s competition. Both continue recovering.

Follow Cowboy Lifestyle Network for all the highlights of this year’s The AMERICAN.