The second night of UTM’s spring rodeo included some excellent rides but also paid tribute to the UTM Rodeo teams’ late teammate, Wyatt Cole.
Friday night of the rodeo, which is typically not the largest crowd, was standing-room only, with many fans sitting in the aisles. The energy in the Ned McWherter Ag Pavilion was electric.
To start off the rodeo, the 4-H riding team circled the arena and danced while Carrie Underwood’s song “See You Again” played.
The 4-H girls held the Christian flag and cantered around the arena while the crowd stood and removed their hats. The room was filled with students and community members there to honor Cole.
Also in remembrance of Cole, fans and students were encouraged to wear orange to show their support. The packed house was more than half orange showing the true support that UTM fans have for the rodeo team.
Additionally, when the UTM Rodeo Team rode into the arena to kick the night off, Chase Thrasher, Cole’s roping partner and friend, rode in with Wyatt Cole’s horse saddled up and displaying his vest.
The events on Friday night were identical to Thursday night in structure.
UTM’s rodeo proved difficult, with many riders not receiving any score at all, and with no riders moving into any of the first-place spots.
However, several riders moved into top ten spots, which allows them to compete in Saturday night’s rodeo. On Saturday, top ten riders from each event compete for the top spots.
John Thornton and Brian Affolter are calling the Rodeo on WUTM’s 90.3 The Hawk on Saturday evening between 7:30 p.m. and 9:30 p.m. for those who are unable to make it out to the pavilion.
