Two freshmen from Mesalands Community College Rodeo Team competed at the 2009 College National  Finals Rodeo in Casper, Wyo., on June 14-20, according to a press release from the college.

Freshman bull rider Donnie Frazee placed 22 in bull riding.  “Donnie drew two bulls that were at the Wrangler National Finals Rodeo and was bucked off of both of those bulls,” said Coach C.J. Aragon in the release.

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.

“Donnie rode well all year and we have high expectations for him for next season,” said Aragon, according to the release.

Another freshman Clay Elkins finished 15 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 Aragon.

 “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.

Elkins won the Grand Canyon Region as a freshman and will defiantly be a contender for the title next year, Aragon said in the release.

The Mesalands 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 in 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 in the release.

The Mesalands 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.