For “amateur” rodeo rivals, the American Rodeo Contender Finals are a crucial event that offers them a chance to move up the rankings. The top five competitors later compete against the top five in the global professional rodeo standings. This is the ultimate event in Western Sports, with eight different rodeo disciplines and an incredible $1 million on the line. The competition is intense.

As the field of 15 competitors shrinks to only 5, the prestige of this elite circuit reaches a new height, preparing fans and enthusiasts alike. Among the cheers, a special shoutout by JB Mauney’s wife was given to London Gorham, a Texas-born celebrity bull rider, bringing her special attention outside the arena.

JB Mauney’s wife praises rodeo champ

An Instagram post was shared by @theamerican.tr featuring a video of teen bull rider London Gorham’s thrilling performance. Accompanied with the caption, “Welcome to the @london.gorham show, y’all. The Texas cowgirl clocks in a 15.08 run as she looks to advance to Abilene to The American Contender Tournament!” PBR Bull Rider JB Mauney’s wife, @samanthalynemauney, commented, “Good job London 🖤,” garnering much attention and capturing the camaraderie and friendship that permeates the rodeo community.

Simply put, Gorham’s career in the rodeo industry is spectacular. Riding winners in 2018, she earned over $40,000 in the semifinals and took home the Chickasaw, OK Qualifier. Riding talent runs in her blood: Her father was PBR Bullfighter Shorty Gorham; her grandfather, 5X World Champion Phil Lyne; her brother, Professional Tie-Down Roper-Tanner Green; and her aunt, WNFR Qualifier Samantha Lyne, all have a strong heritage in rodeo.

Her adventure takes on additional significance as her uncle, JB Mauney, is a five-time American semifinals qualifier and a renowned PBR rider. And entering one of the most prestigious circuits wasn’t even the best thing Gorham had done. At 14, she juggled WCRA competitions and prepared for the Texas Junior High School Rodeo Association State Finals. Apart from London’s remarkable efficiency, another star competed for the million-dollar prize.

Meet another inspiration on the circuit

Breakaway Roper JJ Hampton is a three-time Wrangler NFBR qualifier and has won several world titles in team roping, tie-down roping, and the all-around from 1997 to 2000. Hampton is a 52-year-old woman who embodies passion and willpower. When asked what advice she would give young ladies watching at home or new women entering the sport, Hampton said, “Don’t ever back down and never give up.”

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The final five performances will open the celebrations on Friday, March 8, setting the mood for Saturday, March 9, for the next major event.

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