Stetson Wright's Unforgettable First: Dominating NFR Saddle Bronc with a 90.5-Point Masterpiece

You know, there are moments at the National Finals Rodeo that just feel different, etched forever into the fabric of rodeo history. And on a recent night in Las Vegas, Stetson Wright delivered one of those truly unforgettable performances, finally claiming a win in the saddle bronc riding – a feat that, for him, felt long overdue despite his already glittering career.

It was Round 4, and the energy in the Thomas & Mack Center was, as always, absolutely buzzing. But when Stetson Wright's name was called, and he settled onto the back of Powder River Rodeo’s formidable Major Alliance, there was an extra layer of anticipation. Everyone knows Stetson as a multi-time world champion, a guy who's conquered the bull riding and all-around titles with a kind of relentless determination that’s just captivating to watch. Yet, a saddle bronc round win at the NFR? That had, until now, remained just out of reach.

From the moment the chute gate burst open, it was pure poetry in motion. Stetson moved with the horse, a powerful dance of balance, timing, and sheer grit. Major Alliance bucked with all the force and unpredictable rhythm you'd expect from a top-tier NFR animal, but Stetson was right there, spurring flawlessly, his body a seamless extension of the bronc's raw power. When the whistle finally blew, and he dismounted cleanly, you could almost hear the collective exhale and then, the roar. The score flashed, 90.5 points, and the arena erupted. It wasn't just a high score; it was a statement. It was a masterclass.

This wasn't just another win for Stetson; it was a landmark. For years, he’s hinted at and then actively pursued, the dream of becoming a dominant force in all three roughstock events. His focus this year on saddle bronc riding has been deliberate, a testament to his ambition to truly etch his name among the greatest all-around cowboys ever. This 90.5-point ride, his first NFR saddle bronc round buckle, isn't just validation; it's a launchpad.

It’s important to acknowledge, too, that the talent pool in saddle bronc riding at the NFR is absolutely stacked. We saw Stetson’s brother, Ryder Wright, also put up an incredible 90 points, and Dawson Hay wasn't far behind with 88.5 points, showcasing the incredible depth of competition. But on this night, under those bright lights, it was Stetson who shone brightest, proving once again that when it comes to rodeo, the 'Wright way' often means making history.