Ilyssa Riley Shares Her Journey and Preparation to First NFR

Ilyssa Riley is eagerly preparing for her first National Finals Rodeo appearance after cinching the No. 10 position in the WPRA World Standings.

After securing her spot through a successful season, the Texas cowgirl is taking a thoughtful approach to getting not only herself, but her horses ready for their initial run in the Thomas and Mack.

Alongside Riley will be fellow NFR rookie cowgirls Taycie Matthews, Summer Kosel and Paige Jones competing for the first time under the lights of Las Vegas.

As December draws nearer, Riley is determined to make the most of her opportunity and enjoy each moment as she makes her debut.

The 2024 season is complete, here are the full standings
With a payday north of $86,000 for the winner in each event, the importance of the NFR Average was unmatched in 2024
Mowry won the RAM Top Gun Award with nearly $300,000 in Las Vegas
After three straight second place finishes, Frost finally got his moment in 2024
Wright put an exclamation point on his 2024 season with 89.5 points on his final horse
Wade/Thorp were 3.8 as the last pair out to seal their Gold Buckles
Struxness entered Round 10 projected No. 4 and walked out with his first career Gold Buckle
Thompson did just enough to squeak out his first career Gold Buckle