Wrangler Rodeo: CNFR Recap
Casper, WY – The Wrangler Rodeo Team finished off the 2025-26 season at the College National Finals Rodeo this past week bringing home three Top 11 finishes including an Individual National Championship.
The Wranglers had three qualify for the 2026 CNFR this year, Toby Deudney in Bareback Riding, Molly Harper in Barrel Racing, and Hayden Welsh in Bull Riding. All three put together solid performances in the long rounds to get themselves into the Top 12 and qualify for the Finals.
"I am very proud of all three of these individuals. They are amazing people and athletes and it was a joy to watch them compete at the highest level in our sport" said Head Rodeo Coach Tom Kelly.
Saturday Night, the Wranglers came out with their best. Toby Deudney put together another solid performance in the Bareback to finish 11th. Molly Harper and her horse Bobby made their third consecutive run under 14 seconds and ended up sixth in the final standings in the Barrel Racing.
"Toby was outstanding in the first round and did everything he could with the next two horses he drew to get himself into the finals," said Kelly. "Molly and Bobby were tremendous in their first trip to Casper. They are looking forward to getting back to the Ford Wyoming Center next year."
In the final event of the evening, Hayden Welsh capped off his impressive two-years of Bull Riding at Odessa College. The Wyoming native was the last ride of the evening and it was well worth the wait as Hayden scored an 88.25-point ride to claim the 2026 CNFR Bull Riding National Championship.
"Hayden is an amazing athlete, it's been a privilege to coach him and see his drive, dedication and success of these past two years. The sky is the limit for Hayden."
As a men's two-man team, Odessa finished with 360 points in 13th place. This was the highest finish at the CNFR since 2014. Hayden's national championship in Bull Riding is the first for OC since Ryan Gray in Bareback in 2004.
Congratulations to Toby Deudeny, Molly Harper, Hayden Welsh, Coach Tom Kelly, and the entire Wrangler Rodeo Team on a great 2025-26 season.