Not only is NFR a chance for skilled cowboys and cowgirls to gather and compete, but it is also a special time for them to connect with our Golden Champions.
The Golden Cowboys and Cowgirls are each paired with a Champion at the annual banquet where the Champions are outfitted from head-to-toe by our national sponsors Resistol, Wrangler, Justin Boots, Boot Barn, and Montana Silversmiths. The cowboys and cowgirls then take their Champion buddy through a fun and interactive Rodeo Clinic and teach them the fundamentals of Rodeo through child-friendly versions of many events.
The bond that forms between these duos is incredible and lasts beyond the week of NFR. As these kids continue their fight against cancer, their Golden Cowboys and Cowgirls stay in contact to provide support to their Champion. They encourage, they mourn, and they celebrate with the families.
“Seeing those kids and spending time with them changed my outlook and was a bright spot in my day…it reminded me that winning money here wasn’t that big of a deal. There are things a lot more important than money, and I just hope that we could help those kids and their families put their cares behind them for a bit and have some fun.” - Will Lummus, Steer Wrestler