Canadians make up one-third of saddle bronc riding field at 2021 NFR

Five years ago, Zeke Thurston won his first of two PRCA Saddle Bronc Riding Gold Buckles and since then, rodeo and specifically saddle bronc riding, have been reinvigorated in Canada.

In 2021, No. 4 Dawson Hay, No. 5 Layton Green, No. 6 Thurston, No. 8 Kolby Wanchuk and No. 12 Ben Andersen are all up representing Canada at the 2021 NFR.

“There’s a lot of young bronc riders coming up the line, Canada and Alberta itself are kind of known for bronc riding,” Thurston said. “The mid-2000s, kind of after Roddy (Hay) was done, there wasn’t a lot of top Canadian competitors making the NFR or trying to make the NFR. We kind of have had a lull, but it’s stronger than ever now, especially in the bronc riding game.”

Zeke Thurston was joined by Layton Green and Dawson Hay to discuss their 2021 seasons, the camaraderie among the bronc riders and their thoughts on the NFR returning to Vegas.

RELATED:

Saddle bronc rider Chase Brooks has a chance at best finish of his career in fourth NFR appearance

Full list of 2021 NFR bareback horses, saddle broncs and bulls

Brody Cress talks 2021 season and NFR preparation in The Cowboy Channel Justin Boots Studio



Be a part of the rodeo action by building your Rodeo Picks.
Texas’ own Gus Gaillard is $1 million eligible.
The High Desert Stampede win goes to Hayle Gibson.
Bull rider Jestyn Woodward cashes in in California.
Gus Gaillard holds on to No. 1 in the Rookie Race.
The final leg of the Texas Swing continues.
The first of two Saturday performances in San Angelo is action packed.
Slack is well underway but the first performane in San Angelo is here.