Wharton County Junior College Rodeo Team members Thomas Willard of Caldwell and Amy Ohrt of Victoria have qualified for the College National Finals Rodeo, scheduled for June 15-21 in Casper, Wyo.
WHARTON, TEXAS – Two Wharton County Junior College Rodeo Team members have qualified for the “Super Bowl” of college rodeo. Amy Ohrt of Victoria and Thomas Willard of Caldwell will both compete at the College National Finals Rodeo (CNFR), held from June 15-21 in Casper, Wyo.
“Qualifying for the CNFR from the Southern Region is a great accomplishment,” said WCJC Rodeo Coach Sean Amestoy. “It is one of the toughest regions in the nation. We are very proud of Amy and Thomas and look forward to each of them representing WCJC well at the CNFR.”
Ohrt captured the National Intercollegiate Rodeo Association (NIRA) Southern Region Women's Reserve All-Around Cowgirl title by placing in all three women's events throughout the year. She placed in six out of 10 rodeos, including winning All-Around titles at the Panola, McNeese, Southwest Texas College, Northeast Texas CC, Trinity Valley CC and Wharton County Junior College rodeos. The sophomore will compete at this year’s CNFR in Breakaway Roping and Barrel Racing.
In the Bull Riding event, Willard captured the NIRA Southern Region Reserve Champion Bull Riding title. Willard placed in several events throughout the season, including Championships at East Texas A&M University and Northeast Texas Community College.
The freshman cowboy persevered through several injuries to secure his spot at the CNFR.
The CNFR is the premier rodeo event of the year. The week-long event features NIRA qualifiers from 11 regions across the U.S. and culminates in determining the national champion teams and individuals.
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