Richmond Champion has qualified for his 6th NFR in 2020 and did so in the number seven spot after earning more than $64,000 this season. Champion’s 2020 season was highlighted by winning The Gold Buckle Knockout in Stoneham, Colorado. The event, which was the first of its kind saw the best bareback and saddle bronc riders compete for one last chance to qualify for the NFR.
Champion opened the event with an 89 point ride on Baby Face to take the first round and followed it up with a 90.5 on Ain’t No Angel in the finals.
Overall Champion earned $4,391 at the Knockout and is heading into the NFR with plenty of momentum.
Richmond Champion - 90.5 Points in Stoneham, Colorado
In 2020 Champion also saw a top-five finish in Guymon, Oklahoma where he placed third after an 87 point ride and earned $1,300.
Richmond Champion - 87 Points, Guymon, Oklahoma
Champion also took the crown at the first-ever Riggin Rally. Although the money he won didn’t count towards his PRCA World Standings, Champion was excited to be the first Riggin Rally Champion.
“It helps when you draw good horses. When it’s your day it’s your day,” Champion said following the buckle presentation. “To win the first Riggin Rally, with this bunch of guys and the tight-knit group that we are, it’s a huge honor. I might be more proud of this buckle than anything I have at home.”
Richmond Champion - 90 Points Riggin Rally, Steiner Ranch
Champion will be looking to improve on his impressive 2019 NFR where he finished third in average, earning $108,154. That included a round one win and placing in three other rounds.
Champion’s best finish was in 2017 where he finished in second place after earning more than $268,000. To top that and win his first World Championship he will need a monster 2020 NFR. Tim O’Connell nearly has him doubled in the earnings category.
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