Most Iconic Back Numbers in Rodeo Released

Legendary Wrangler National Finals Rodeo back numbers released for 2023 contestants.

Alex Cawthon | Oct 24, 2023

Most Iconic Back Numbers in Rodeo Released /

After completion of the annual Professional Rodeo Cowboy's Association audit, the 2023 National Finals Rodeo contestant line up has been finalized.

Contestants work all year to qualify for the NFR, releasing the back numbers as the order of top money earners is highly anticipated, especially for the first-time qualifiers.

During the heat of the regular season, receiving an NFR back number is often what keeps contestants focused on the end goal when they are burnt out and ready to call it quits.

A back number means much more to athletes than just a name tag at an event. Rodeo competitors generally showcase their various back numbers from different rodeos over the years in their home or with their other awards.

The back number symbolizes a milestone reached, it never says how much was won or what was lost, it simply is the recognition of achievement for competitors.

Every cowboy has a story that goes along with the back numbers that hang on the wall. For retired or veteran competitors, it often times is a walk down memory lane to look at all the back numbers they accumulated over the years. Some have more character than others with mud, blood stains, or rips.

In recent years Stetson Wright has worn the coveted number one on his back. The top 10 from this season cover cowboys from many events, rookies and veterans alike. Topping third for a record breaking season is the cowgirl Brittany Pozzi Tonozzi.

Top 10 PRCA Athletes

Stetson Wright, $620,257
Riley Webb, $283,342
Brittany Pozzi Tonozzi, $267,951
Keenan Hayes, $265,896
Ky Hamilton, $254,165
Sage Newman, $247,264
Josh Frost, $236,887
Kade Bruno, $225,259
Zeke Thurston, $221,919
Haven Meged, $209,593

It is a true honor to receive an NFR back number, and a great reminder for contestants at just how hard they worked to achieve a dream.

Published Oct 24, 2023

ALEX CAWTHON

Alex Cawthon is a writer for Sports Illustrated's Rodeo Daily. She is also an accomplished rodeo athlete and business leader driven by the desire to achieve greatness. Born and raised in Rockwall, TX where she learned the importance of family and enjoying the simple things in life. Growing up Alex focused on her academics as well as fine-tuning her abilities as an athlete, which led her to a rodeo scholarship at Tarleton State University. She competed in the National Intercollegiate Rodeo Association (NIRA) in the Southwest Region during her time in college rodeo. In addition to a long list of rodeo accomplishments, Alex’s reputation for excellence as well as her grit and determination garnered awards and high-profile brand deals. When not competing full-time as a rodeo athlete, Alex applies her intense work ethic to thrive in the classroom. She graduated from Tarleton State University with a bachelor's degree in Agribusiness in 2022 and will graduate in December 2023 with a Master's in Business Administration. Now based in Stephenville, Tx, Alex continues to make her mark as she establishes a career in the oil and gas industry. In addition, Alex utilizes her expertise and connections to support the sport she loves, as she joins forces with Sports Illustrated as a writer for their acclaimed feature, Rodeo Daily. Beyond Alex’s accomplishments in and out of the arena, to her core, she is tenacious, focused, and driven. Her deep roots in the Western industry have not only shaped her professional journey, but also instilled an unwavering commitment to tradition, excellence, and innovation.