BROOKINGS — Jacey Hupp of Huron is one of 10 members of the South Daktoa State University rodeo team, who have qualified to compete at the College National Finals Rodeo.
Hupp, who is a five-time CNFR qualifier, is the 2020-2021 Great Plains Region goat tying champion and her horse, French Fry, was selected as the Horse of the Year. She helped the Jackrabbits claim the Great Plains Region title this season.
“I’ve met my best friends in that yellow vest,” said Hupp. “The memories I’ve made and the people I’ve met have by far been the best part about my rodeo career. The best part about our women’s team is that we can compete against each other yet cheer for each other at the same time. We all know how hard the other works and we celebrate it when we have success.”
Hupp was also selected as the region nominee for the Walt Garrison Award, which is given to a student athlete who is a member of the National Intercollegiate Rodeo Association (NIRA) and demonstrates initiative, loyalty, tenacity, commitment, honesty, perseverance, integrity and leadership, and is an asset to his/her institution, as well as the NIRA. The winner of the $2,500 award will be presented at the CNFR in June.
The College National Finals Rodeo is scheduled for June 13-19 in Casper, Wyo.
