The American Rodeo is one of the most prestigious events the sport has to offer. Held annually since 2014, the rodeo is all set to be back for the 11th edition in two months, inviting the finest of the community. However, getting to the stages of the contest doesn’t come easy. Qualifying events and fierce battles arrive early to fetch the best in the field.

The path to The American Rodeo witnesses nearly 90+ events, providing a wider ground for athletes to make their way up. But the role of the ultimate deciding showcase is taken up by The American Contender Tournament; hosting the regional semi-finals and finals. And as the athletes arrived for a marvel at the Las Vegas semi-finals, Barrel Racing stood to find its potential champion.

Lisa Zachoda shines through the regional semi-finals

From the 11th of January to the 13th of 2024, the days were dedicated to The American Contender Tournament on the rodeo calendar. The event, being the most lucrative one-day payday in rodeo with $1 Million at stake, welcomed athletes on the top of the standings.

The Canadian rising star, Lisa Zachoda rose above in the barrel racing to clinch the semi-final win. “No time to stop and smell the roses for Lisa Zachoda,” Teton Ridge wrote on Instagram, following the victory.

“The Canadian cowgirl tops the competition to take home the top spot in the West Regional Semi-Finals to advance to the finals on Saturday evening in Las Vegas,” it further reported.

With impressive results on board, Lisa becomes one of the top 10 athletes in regionals to advance to the regional finals. Upon continuing the momentum, the Cowgirl holds a chance to get her hands on $10,000 prize money and a further chance at $1 million on Jan 20th at ATC finals. With Lisa’s previous results to the backing, the victor holds a favorable chance.

The victor’s rodeo trail

In 2021, Lisa Zachoda recorded the fastest time of the Canadian Finals Rodeo with 14.163 on board. The following year, she contested at Teton Ridge Barrel Racing to place 4th and earn $3,551. Early last year, during one of the events leading up to Regional semifinals, the rising star placed in the top 10, gaining a needed lead. But it was in November that Lisa earned a spot in the same.

Also Read: How Can Rodeo Keep the Cowboy Spirit Alive in a Changing World?

“So proud of Junior clocking sub-14 second runs in all four rounds,” she exclaimed on Instagram. The duo finished in the top 5 four times out of 10 to make it to the awaited rodeo. Now with stellar backing, Lisa will look to continue the momentum.

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