National Finals Rodeo 2025 Showcases Top-Tier Equine Athletes in Las Vegas

The 2025 National Finals Rodeo is underway in Las Vegas. This premier event highlights the world’s best rodeo athletes. That includes the superstar horses behind the cowboys. Four standout horses are making nearly 200 runs across the ten-day competition.

Their performance is crucial for winning world titles and average championships. According to PRCA reports, these equine athletes have their own fan clubs. Their impact on the sport is undeniable and celebrated.

Steer Wrestling Horses Dominate the Arena Dirt

In steer wrestling, horsepower is everything. Three horses are carrying nine of the top fifteen cowboys this week. These same three were top vote-getters for AQHA Horse of the Year.

Their speed and agility allow bulldoggers to chase down steers in seconds. A great horse positions the cowboy perfectly for the catch. This partnership is the foundation of any successful run.

Swamper, Crush, and Banker: A Trio of Power

The brown gelding Swamper, owned by Broom Tree Ranch LLC, is a key player. He is ridden by Will Lummus and Tyler Waguespack. His consistency helps cowboys post fast, winning times.

Crush, a former racehorse, is owned by Ty Erickson. He carries Erickson, Rowdy Parrott, and Stetson Jorgenson. Erickson has climbed to third in the world standings thanks to Crush’s explosive starts.

Banker, owned by Justin Shaffer, is ridden by Tucker Allen and Jesse Brown. Allen sits second in the world standings. The shared use of these elite horses shows the collaborative spirit of the event.

Tie-Down Roping’s Fuzzy Canadian Star

The buckskin gelding Peso is a fan favorite in tie-down roping. Owned by Logan Bird, he carries Ty Harris and Kyle Lucas. Peso’s calm demeanor in the box is vital for ropers.

He allows cowboys to focus solely on their catch and tie. This is his fifth consecutive NFR appearance. His earnings for riders regularly reach six figures at this event alone.

These National Finals Rodeo horses are more than just transportation. They are calculated, athletic partners. Their contribution turns a good run into a gold-buckle-winning performance.

Thought you’d like to know

Q1: What makes a horse great for the National Finals Rodeo?

Great NFR horses combine explosive speed, calm nerves, and consistency. They must perform reliably under immense pressure night after night. This allows their riders to compete at the highest level.

Q2: How are the top rodeo horses selected for awards?

The AQHA Horse of the Year awards are voted on by peers. Recognition is based on annual performance, earnings for riders, and impact at major events like the NFR. It is a prestigious honor in the sport.

Q3: Can one horse be used by multiple cowboys at the NFR?

Yes, it is common for top horses to be ridden by multiple competitors. Owners and hauling partners often share these elite animals. This teamwork is a respected part of rodeo culture.

Q4: What is the financial impact of a top steer wrestling horse?

A top horse can earn hundreds of thousands of dollars for its riders annually. At the NFR alone, a single horse can help win over $100,000. They are invaluable assets to a cowboy’s career.

Q5: Why is Peso the buckskin gelding so famous?

Peso is famous for his consistent dominance in the Thomas & Mack Center arena. His fuzzy appearance and calm nature make him a fan favorite. He has been a key to championships for several top ropers.