Burleson’s Rutherford to compete at College National Finals Rodeo for McNeese State

Burleson’s Chad Rutherford is among four McNeese State University rodeo team members who have earned spots in the 68th College National Finals Rodeo scheduled June 12-18 in Casper, Wyo.

Joining Rutherford, who will compete in bareback riding, are Mia Manzanares, in breakaway roping, goat tying and all-around cowgirl; Alex Edmonds, in bareback riding and Matthew Frey in team roping [heeler].

Rutherford is making his third appearance while the other three are making their first appearances at the CNFR.
In bareback riding, Rutherford is nationally ranked No. 18, while both the men’s and women’s rodeo teams are ranked in the top 25 in the nation by the National Intercollegiate Rodeo Association.

In the Region, Rutherford won the bareback riding championship,

McNeese intercollegiate rodeo began in 1947 and this is the 25th consecutive year that McNeese has sent students to the national championship finals.

The NIRA crowns both individual event and team champions. Over 400 students from more than 100 universities and colleges will compete at this year’s competition.