We attended the Governor's Cup rodeo last Sunday in Sioux Falls. We had good seats with a good view for the events on one end of the action, but not very good for the Tie-Down, Steer Roping, Team Roping, or Break-Away events.
Sunday afternoon marked the final day of the three-day event. The top eight money-winning cowboys and cowgirls in each of the events participated on Sunday,
the opening ceremony with fireworks
bareback rider
another bareback contestant
saddle bronc
break-away (women's event)
South Dakota's famous Lisa Lockhart from Oelrichs SD
she had the best time, but knocked over the third barrel
adding 5 seconds to her time and taking her out of the top 4
she did win $9500+ at this rodeo
some bull riding
The top four contestants in each event then participated in the finals where the first place was awarded $32K, second place $16K, third got $8K and fourth place took $4K. This money was above what they may have already won in the first three go-rounds.
bareback event
saddle bronc
bull riding
bull fighters doing their job to protect the bucked off rider
This photo is to show the number of men (usually) who are in or near the chute helping the cowboy get situated on his horse or bull (rough stock). There were 10 flankmen, two per chute. An official (striped shirt) was also at each chute. Usually, two flankmen lean into the chute from the back, making certain the animal is in position (head up, not leaning on the walls of the chute, keeping the cowboy on the animal if it is bucking, helping to tighten any ropes or straps, etc.). In this photo two men (chute bosses) are in front of the chute to open the gate. They watch for the nod from the rider when he is ready. Sometimes, they also prod the animal away from the gate.
There's usually a guy (often another cowboy/contestant) on the gate helping the rider get ready and helping get the animal in position. Also note the cameraman leaning in from the back getting video of any action in the chute. We have seen horses and bulls rear up and once in awhile lay down in the chute. All those extra people are there to protect the cowboy and the animal. And then there are those standing around getting a good view of the action. Some of them are other contestants. Sometimes they are the parent of the rider.
10 new saddles were awarded after the final event
10 new buckles and trophies were awarded to the winners of the 2025 Governors Cup Champions. The total payout for the 3 days, 4 events was $1,080,314.
2025 Governors Cup is the link if you'd like more information.
