In The Arena


Bob Feist

The big talk outside of the arena these days is the move of the Wrangler National Finals Rodeo to Texas for the year of 2020. The main reason for this move is that the restrictions in Las Vegas were going to make things very difficult to happen as they have in the past. We have all had many changes in our lives this past year and this is one for the record book.

For the first time in its 52 years, Ropers Sports News will be combining the November and December issues due to COVID-19 and the cancellation of so many events. Thank you to all of our loyal advertisers and subscribers for your support during this unusual year. There is a strong possiblity that the January-February issues will also be combined before we get back to our monthly schedule starting with the March 2021 issue.

It continues to be a messed up year with all of the COVID restrictions holding back businesses and travel. I’d say that the roping industry has fared quite well in spite of it all and barrel racing tends to be over the top in entries at jackpots as well as rodeos. Many PRCA rodeos in the central part of the U.S. have gone on with their rodeos as planned and have had great participation from contestants, sponsors and fans. I hope that all of them will have great outcomes with no repercussions after they are over.

While beginning my column, I wanted to start by thanking all of you who took the time to either call or contact me during my recovery after my stroke and surgery. All is going well and I am back to riding my mountain bike, golfing, and working around the ranch. I was very blessed to have caught the warning signs early and get proper medical attention. It is not a good time to be going to a doctor’s office let alone a hospital for surgery. So far, so good and hopefully the follow-up visits will be easier. Again, thanks to the roping family for all of the correspondence this past six weeks.