The South Georgia State College (SGSC) Rodeo Club is building momentum on the collegiate rodeo circuit, making its first-ever appearance at the Missouri Valley College (MVC) Rodeo in Marshall, Missouri, before heading south to compete in the University of West Alabama (UWA) Rodeo Showdown in Livingston, Alabama.
At Missouri Valley, SGSC student-athletes entered the arena for the first time in program history, marking a milestone for the Hawks Rodeo Club. Representing SGSC were Makenna Walsh and Claisyn Crampton in Barrel Racing and Lane Crews in Bull Riding. Lane made it to the final round on Saturday night of the competition with 76 points after his inaugural ride.
Following Missouri, the Hawks traveled to Livingston, Alabama, where they competed in the UWA Rodeo Showdown. During Thursday performance, Lainey Posey competed in the breakaway roping. On Friday, Makenna Walsh, Haley Redden, Destinee Golding, and Lainey Posey competed in the barrel racing event. Later that evening, Claisyn Crampton ran barrels in the Friday Night Performance, while Lane Crews represented SGSC in bull riding during the performance events.
“Making our debut at Missouri Valley and then competing at UWA was a huge step forward for our team,” said SGSC Rodeo Coach Danny Varnadore. “Our student-athletes continue to work hard, gain experience, and proudly represent South Georgia State College in and out of the arena.”
The new SGSC Rodeo Club has quickly gained traction and recognition as part of the Ozark Region of the National Intercollegiate Rodeo Association (NIRA). Competing across state lines provides SGSC athletes with opportunities to sharpen their skills while showcasing the grit and determination of Hawk Nation.
For more information about the SGSC Rodeo Club or to make a donation for the program, visit www.sgsc.edu or contact Coach Danny Varnadore at danny.varnadore@sgsc.edu.