Saddle Bronc Riding may feature the best field at the Canadian Finals Rodeo. From NFR qualifiers to former World Champions, it is sure to be a great six performances. Here is a preview of the 12 Bronc riders heading to the CFR.
1. Ben Andersen, $50,357
Ben Andersen enters his fourth CFR with over $50,000 earned on the season but has a tall task ahead of him as he tries to fend off the rest of the field. Andersen will head to Las Vegas in December for his second career NFR in 2023 as well. His season was highlighted by a win at the Calgary Stampede.
2. Zeke Thurston, $48,491
The 2022 World Champion is competing in his ninth CFR and NFR in 2023. Thurston, one of the most decorated athletes across all events is looking to win his second consecutive CFR title and NFR Gold Buckle.
3. Layton Green, $45,637
Green is heading to his eighth career CFR after a season in which he earned $45,637. Green is also heading to the fourth NFR of his career after a stellar season in the PRCA. Green’s Canadian season was highlighted by a win at Wainwright.
4. Lucas Macza, $36,544
Macza put together another strong season in Canadian Pro Rodeo which saw him earn over $36,500. Macza’s big wins came in Gleichen, Coleman, and Kennedy.
5. Kolby Wanchuk, $34,928
Wanchuk enters his fourth CFR in the No. 5 spot after earning just under $35,000 on the season. His season was highlighted by strong showings at the Home on the Range Bronc Match and wins in Lea Park, Dawson Creek, and Bozeman.
6. Dawson Dahm, $31,851
Dahm heads to his third CFR at No. 6 in the standings after a season in which he earned $31,851. While Dahm had a great regular season, he says his biggest win came outside of the arena after getting married.
7. Tyrel Roberts, $25,095
Tyrel Roberts is heading to his third CFR after finishing the season in the No. 7 position. Roberts’ season was highlighted by winning a round at the Tour Finals in Armstrong and making the short round in Wildwood.
8. Leon Fountain, $21,775
Fountain is heading to his first career CFR after earning $21,775 on the season. Fountain had a strong showing at the Calgary Stampede where he won two go-rounds.
9. Kole Ashbacher, $20,691
Ashbacher is heading to his sixth CFR and fourth straight with $20,691 earned on the season. Ashbacher’s strong season peaked with a win at Langley.
10. Logan Hay, $18,129
Hay burst onto the scene in the PRCA last year with a great showing at his first NFR. He is no stranger to the Canadian Finals either with four straight appearances dating back to 2019. While Hay won’t be heading to Las Vegas this December, he is a strong candidate to win the average at the CFR.
11. K’s Thomson, $16,866
Thomson is returning to the Canadian Finals Rodeo for the third time in a row. Thomson suffered a hip injury, but has since healed up and is riding as strong as ever.
12. Ross Griffin, $15,485
Griffin qualified in the final spot after earning just under $15,500 on the season. The 2023 CFR marks the first of Griffin’s career.
