New Documentary Goes Behind the Scenes of Calf Ropers' Journeys to the NFR

Follow calf ropers as they compete for one of the 15 coveted spots at the 2023 National Finals Rodeo in this must-watch documentary by Cole Harris.

Hillary Maybery for SI Rodeo Daily

"Journey to the NFR" is a documentary by Cole Harris that follows calf ropers as they compete to secure one of the 15 coveted spots at the 2023 National Finals Rodeo (NFR). 

Harris, who is the cousin of five-time NFR qualifying calf roper Ty Harris, has done an excellent job of showcasing the sport with dynamic shots and personal interviews with the cowboys. 

The film takes the viewers on a journey through the highs and lows of professional rodeo and provides unique insights into the hectic traveling involved in this sport.

Harris has mapped out the routes taken during Cowboy Christmas, which involves racing through airport security, hoping to make the late-night flight and seeing other cowboy hats in the crowd. 

Ty Harris broke the timed event, single event, and overall earnings record set by Trevor Brazile in 2011, earning $40,561 over the seven days of competition. 

"There have been gold buckles won and lost by dollars. Every run matters, every second matters, every run matters," says Harris in the documentary.

"Journey to the NFR" also highlights the younger generation of calf ropers, including Shad Mayfield and Riley Webb who have already shattered records early in their careers. 

In 2022, Mayfield set the regular season earnings record with $203,508. In 2023, Webb won his first PRCA World Championship in record-breaking fashion with $452,852, shattering Mayfield's previous record.

This documentary is a must-watch for rodeo competitors, fans, and anyone curious about the sport. Harris has done an exceptional job of portraying professional athletes, and the documentary is sure to give you chills and keep you on the edge of your seat.