NTCC athletes hold their own at CNFR

Pictured is Dustin Jackson, who is currently in the running for the national title in Team Roping at the CNFR.



† † † The Northeast Texas Community College Eagles Rodeo Team is making a great showing at the College National Finals Rodeo (CNFR) in Casper, Wyoming this week.



† † † After the first three go-rounds, NTCC's Dustin Jackson has secured a spot in the short round and is currently in fourth place in average for Team Roping (header). His heeling parter for the finals is Corey Hendrick of Wharton County College. Jackson's NTCC teammate, Zack Bocco, was originally slated to be his partner.



† † † "Unfortunately there was a mixup and we found out at the last minute that Zack wouldn't be able to compete. The fact that Dustin has done so well in the finals with a new roping partner is amazing. I am thrilled with his performance and can't wait for the short round," NTCC Head Rodeo Coach, CJ Mohl, said.



† † † Mohl said that Jackson is also sitting at fifth or sixth place in the All-Around Cowboy standings for the finals. His performance in the short round will determine where he ends up. Only the top 12 athletes from each event advance to the short round competition. Jackson just missed the short round in Bareback Riding as he finished up 13th in the average.



† † † Kolt Henderson also has a chance to make the short round in the Tie Down Roping event. He had solid runs in the first two go-rounds and will make his third run tonight.



† † † "I think Kolt has a very good chance to advance. He has been consistent in the first two rounds and is not far behind the top 12 at this point," Mohl said.



† † † Chelsie Willhoite also competed for NTCC in the Breakaway Roping event. She missed her calf in the first two go-rounds and would have won the third go-round, but broke the barrier.



† † † "Chelsie has had a tough finals, but it has been a good experience for her. She had a great season and we are proud of her for making it this far," Mohl said.



† † † The final short round performance will be held on Saturday night. Rodeo fans can follow results at www.cnfr.com. The CNFR will be broadcast on ESPNU in August. For more information about NTCC Rodeo, visit www.ntcceagles.com.