WPRA Standings: A Complete Guide

WPRA standings are the lifeblood of professional women's rodeo, serving as a crucial measure of success and competition throughout the season.

These standings, meticulously maintained by the Women's Professional Rodeo Association, track the performance and earnings of athletes across various events, from barrel racing to breakaway roping.

Whether you're a seasoned competitor, an aspiring rodeo star, or an avid fan, understanding WPRA standings is essential to fully appreciating the sport's dynamics and following the journey of top performers. I

The Women's Professional Rodeo Association (WPRA) standings are the backbone of competitive rodeo, meticulously tracking the performance and earnings of athletes across various events.

In this comprehensive guide, we'll explore the intricacies of WPRA standings, their significance, and how they shape the rodeo season.

WPRA Standings

The WPRA maintains several types of standings to monitor competitors' performance:

1. Pro Rodeo World Standings: Determine the World Champion Barrel Racer based on money won at WPRA-approved barrel races.

2. Pro Rodeo Breakaway World Standings: Track breakaway ropers' performance.

3. Divisional Circuit Standings: Focus on performances within specific geographic circuits.

4. Pro Rodeo Tour Standings: Monitor performance on the Pro Rodeo Tour.

5. Junior Standings: For younger competitors.

6. Roping Standings: Specific to roping events.

7. WPRA Tour Standings: Track performance across WPRA Tour events.

8. WPRA Resistol Rookie Standings: Monitor first-year competitors.

9. Futurity/Derby Standings: For younger horses in WPRA events.

How WPRA Standings are Calculated and Updated

WPRA standings are primarily based on money won at approved events. They're updated frequently, often multiple times per week during the active season. For example, as of June 18, 2024, the top three in the WPRA Barrel Racing World Standings were:

• Leslie Smalygo ($83,808)

• Wenda Johnson ($77,714)

• Abby Phillips ($66,268)

It's crucial to note that these standings are unofficial and subject to audit until the end of the season.

The WPRA Season and Special Events

The WPRA season typically runs from October 1 to September 30 of the following year. While all WPRA-approved events contribute to the standings, some carry more weight due to their prestige or prize money:

• National Finals Rodeo (NFR): The premier championship event.

• Cowboy Christmas: A period around July 4th with numerous high-stakes rodeos.

• RodeoHouston: Consistently one of the richest rodeos, offering $242,000 in added money for breakaway roping in 2023.

• Calgary Stampede: Ranks second in overall payouts with $1,987,541.

• San Antonio Stock Show & Rodeo: Third overall with $1,538,200 in total payouts.

• Cheyenne Frontier Days: Fourth overall with $1,167,000 in total payouts.

• Fort Worth Stock Show & Rodeo: Sixth overall with $1,079,026 in total payouts.

Historical records show significant winnings at these events. For instance, Lindsay Sears won a record $61,500 at RodeoHouston in 2008.

WPRA Tour Points System

The WPRA Tour uses a point-based system, reflecting a member's seven best results out of 60 qualifying events. Points are allocated on a 15-point scale, with 15 points for 1st place and 1 point for 15th place.

Competing in the WPRA World Finals

The WPRA World Finals have specific requirements:

• Membership status determines eligible events.

• Financial eligibility at entry closing is mandatory.

• Strict entry deadlines and fees apply.

• A dress code is enforced, with a $50 fine for violations.

• Contestants must be ready within 60 seconds of being called.

• Some events have additional qualifications, like the Boot Barn Card Only Race for specific card holders.

Tracking WPRA Rider Performance

To follow a specific rider's performance:

1. Check the WPRA website for updated standings and results.

2. Review individual event results on rodeo websites.

3. Follow riders and the WPRA on social media for real-time updates.

4. Consult the WPRA rulebook for detailed guidelines on standings management.

Auditing the WPRA Standings

The WPRA standings undergo a thorough auditing process:

• Standings are unofficial until the end-of-season audit.

• Members are responsible for tracking their own data (Rule 1.1.3).

• The Procom system is used for entries and standings updates.

• Discrepancies can be addressed through established procedures.

• At season's end, the top 25 competitors receive audited statements of earnings and rodeo count.

• A protest period allows challenges to money won or rodeo count within the top 25.

Importance of Consistent Performance

While high-profile events can significantly impact standings, winning a world championship typically requires consistent high performance across multiple rodeos throughout the season. Success at a single event rarely guarantees a title.

Conclusion

In conclusion, WPRA standings are a dynamic and essential aspect of professional rodeo, reflecting the skill, determination, and success of competitors throughout the season. Understanding these standings provides valuable insight into the exciting world of professional rodeo, from the biggest events to the season-long journey towards championship titles.

Richard Sutherland

RichardSutherland@bitsnspurs.org

Richard is a western lifestyle author for Bits N' Spurs, the weekly newsletter that keeps pace with today's rodeo. His articles are featured on dozens of rodeo and Western related websites and provide a window to the world of cowboy culture.