Donnie Frazee represented Mesalands Community College at this year’s College National Finals Rodeo.

Clay Elkins finished 15th at this year’s College National Finals Rodeo in Wyoming.

The Mesalands Community College Rodeo Team was well represented at the 2009 College National Finals Rodeo held in Casper, Wyo., June 14-20.  
Two freshmen competed for Mesalands during the six-day event at the Casper Events Center.   
Freshman bull rider Donnie Frazee placed 22nd in the bull riding at the CNFR. “Donnie drew to bulls that were at the Wrangler National Finals Rodeo and bucked off of both of those bulls,” said Coach C.J. Aragon. Frazee finished third in the Grand Canyon Region this year in the bull riding and sixth in the bareback riding.  
“It was exciting. I have never been to an event like this,” said Frazee.
Both Coach Aragon and Frazee are excited about going back next year. “Donnie rode well all year and we have high expectations for him for next season,” said Aragon.
Fellow freshman Clay Elkins finished 15th at the CNFR.  
“Clay had a shot to come back in the top five for the final round, but he broke the barrier on his third steer and that cost him a shot at making the short round,” said Coach Aragon.  
Elkins won the Grand Canyon Region as a freshman and should  be a contender for the title next year.  
“Clay worked real hard this year to get to the CNFR. This summer he is going to a bunch of pro rodeos; he will be even tougher next year,” said Aragon.
The Mesalands Community College Rodeo Team finished third in the Grand Canyon Region this year with the men’s team and in fifth place with the women’s team.  
“I think both of our teams have a shot at competing at the CNFR next year. We have most of our students back and arguably the best recruiting class in the region coming in,” said Aragon.  
Aragon is expecting a team of over 50 students for Mesalands Community College for the 2009-2010 season.
“We really did our homework and recruited a lot of kids that will come in and do well in our program. Our women’s team really improved a lot last year and should continue to improve. We have a great group of rough stock riders coming in and our timed event guys should be tough as well,” said Aragon.
The Mesalands Community College Rodeo Team will kick of the 2009-2010 season at home when they host the first Grand Canyon Regional Rodeo of the year Sept. 18-19 at the Quay County Fairgrounds.
Additional information about the Mesalands’ Rodeo Team can be obtained at 911 South 10h Street in Tucumcari, or at 461-4413, or on the Web at http://www.mesalands.edu/