Hale finishes sixth in second trip to NFSR

For the second straight year, Snyder resident Garrett Hale travelled to Mulvane, Kansas to compete in the Clem McSpadden National Finals Steer Roping (NFSR).
After winning around $17,000 in 2018, Hale brought home $34,000 in earnings this year.
Hale said he went into the NFSR with a few goals and he was able to accomplish those goals.
“One of my goals was to finish in the average and I did,” he said. “Another one of my goals was to win a go-round and I won a go-round. It was good. I rode my new horse, Gumby, all 10 rounds and he was dang near perfect for me.”
Hale placed in all but four of the 10 rounds and finished sixth in the average with a total time of 113.6 seconds. The highlight of his night, however, included a first place finish in round six.
Hale rode a 10.4 to win the round, netting him just over $9,000.
Hale finished 2019 ranked fifth in the Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association world steer roping standings with over $74,000 in earnings to his name.
Hale said he felt his performance at the NFSR not only capped a great 2019, but will jump-start his 2020 season.
“I actually think it kicked off to a great beginning for next year,” he said. “It gave me some more confidence going into next year. This year ended way better than I thought it would.”
Hale said he plans to compete in an event in January 2020.