It was an odd set of circumstances that brought us back in, but once in we decided to attempt to produce one of the best ropings of the year and lay down some major memories for you while we try a few new ideas. One big roping a year allows us the opportunity to showcase new ideas (like the chute) that could possibly add a little new excitement or interest for the roping world.
I believe that roping as an industry has not been presented in its proper standing within the horse industry. Clearly we are not trying to recreate or duplicate Reno, OKC or any other roping atmosphere in the country. What I want to do is push the envelope and draw a spotlight on our sport for just one day each year that is strong enough to pull national attention inside and outside the roping world. I think you ropers deserve to have the stands packed, and deserve the attention that millions of dollars would be bringing in any other discipline other than team roping. So how can we do that?
Our plan is to produce a roping spectacular to showcase the excitement of our sport! This will be attempted at a much different level than we have tried before and will be costly. We want to focus a very small window of time in awarding the money for all the short rounds on one day. Saturday will be the “Big Show,” when we will award two million dollars in a matter of a few hours. We haven’t scheduled every minute of every day, but at 1 pm Saturday, Dec. 13th the short rounds of all three of our Finales will begin. There will be other activities added to our show that will add interest or bring viewers to our sport. I hope to develop a payoff celebration that is very different. This would allow all of the winners to celebrate with other contestants and enjoy food, cocktails and maybe a little entertainment during the awards presentation.
Saturday’s “Grand Finale” may well turn out to be a special day in the World of Team Roping every year. If not, then back to the drawing board. I know you hate change and hate it when I talk like this, but I am convinced that better packaging is the way to give all of you a more memorable experience, and to make the World Series of Team Roping a spectacle interesting to all western enthusiasts!
