Mid Plains Community College bull rider Koby Jacobson is making history. The Hawaii native is the only five-time College National Finals Rodeo qualifier in MPCC history, and will likely be the only one ever.
Jacobson was granted an extra year of college rodeo eligibility due to the Covid-19 pandemic. Though he has qualified five times, this will be his fourth trip to the CNFR.
Jacobson secured his fifth qualification by ending up second in the Great Plains Region behind Lathan DeMontigny of North Dakota State University.
“Throughout the season I elevated and grew as I went,” said Jacobson. “It turned out to be a pretty good season all in all.”
He kicked off this year’s college rodeo season freshly recovered from an injury that left him sidelined for eight months. Up until this point, Jacobson has battled injuries at every CNFR he has competed at. This year, however, Jacobson says he is feeling healthy.
“I’ve had injuries there [at the CNFR], and its been tough every time I’ve went,” he said. “I’m feeling healthy this year so I am excited. I have a feeling within myself that I should be in the top five, minimum.”
For Jacobson, bull riding is more than just a sport. It has become a true passion.
“I love riding bulls,” said Jacobson. “The freedom that comes with it is why I love bull riding.”
During his tenure at MPCC, Jacobson obtained multiple associate degrees in diesel mechanics, automotive technology, and is completing an entrepreneurship degree.
The CNFR will take place June 9-15 in Casper, Wyoming at the Ford Wyoming Center.
