Nebraska cowboy Garrett Shadbolt will make his inaugural appearance at the Wrangler National Finals Rodeo (NFR) in Las Vegas, Nevada this December.
Shadbolt, a Merriman, Nebraska native, will compete in the bareback riding after finishing 10th in the world standings during the regular season.
After an impressive start, winning second at the Ram National Circuit Finals in January, Shadbolt said he was equipped with the confidence he needed to head into the summer run.
“At least half of riding roughstock or more is your mental game and your confidence,” Shadbolt said. “You won’t ride anything unless you believe you can ride it.”
From the heart of the Nebraska Sandhills, Shadbolt says the support he has received from his home community is second to none.
“The people from this area have really helped me care about what I am doing. It means a lot to be able to put Merriman and the Sandhills on the map at the National Finals Rodeo,” said Shadbolt. “I’m just excited to get on some of the truly special horses that I have been wanting to ride all year.”
The top 15 athletes in each event are set to compete beginning Thursday, December 2, at the Thomas and Mack Center.
Listen to a bonus episode of the Breaking the Barrier podcast hosted by Rebel Sjeklocha to learn more about Shadbolt’s impressive season and NFR qualification.
Season 2 of Breaking the Barrier will officially launch in January 2022.
Listen to more from the Breaking the Barrier Podcast below!
