Celebrating a century of PRCA-sanctioned rodeo, the small town of Gooding, Idaho, welcomed some of the sport’s top athletes to the “Beer Worthy” Gooding Pro Rodeo. A humorous tradition, the event’s packed crowds have embraced the “Beer Worthy” ritual, in which fans hold up “Beer Worthy” signs to recognize standout athletes, rides and runs.
A town of just 3,778 people, Gooding once again welcomed the sport’s top athletes to southeastern Idaho, paying out a total of $279,360 and setting the pace for a thrilling remainder of the 2026 PRCA regular season.
In the bareback riding, Leighton Berry emerged victorious with a standout 91-point ride aboard Summit Pro Rodeo’s Game Trail, earning $7,332. Currently ranked seventh in the world, Berry continues to position himself for his fifth NFR qualification.
Steer wrestler Eli Lord stopped the clock in an impressive 3.1 seconds to earn $4,942 and “Beer Worthy” honors.
World champions Kaleb Driggers and Junior Nogueira also found themselves in the winner’s circle, capturing the team roping title with a 4.1-second run. The duo earned $6,038 each at the one-header rodeo.
Ben Andersen’s bubble race will be one that saddle bronc riding fans and athletes alike will have on their radar. Currently ranked 14th in the world, Andersen delivered an 88-point ride aboard Summit Pro Rodeo’s Cowboy Fool to earn the championship and a $7,558 paycheck in Gooding.
Three-time and reigning world champion tie-down roper Riley Webb is in hot pursuit of defending his No. 1 position in the world standings. Webb posted a 7.5-second run to earn $6,712 in Gooding, extending his lead in the 2026 world title race.
Barrel racer Carlee Otero stopped the clock in 16.54 seconds, earning $7,432 and valuable Columbia River Circuit points.
Concluding the “Beer Worthy” bull riding action, bull rider Hudson Bolton marked an impressive 90 points aboard Summit Pro Rodeo’s Howdy Rowdy to earn $7,670 and the title.
With just over a month remaining in the regular season, all eyes are on the top Northwest rodeos and beyond as athletes battle for a coveted spot inside the top 15 and a chance to compete at the 2026 NFR.
