Saddle Bronc Riders Made Big Moves in Round 2 at Governor's Cup

The Saddle Bronc Riders had to raise their game if they wanted a chance to win the Governor's Cup during the Cinch Playoffs. The athletes met that challenge and delivered a night full of big results.

SIOUX FALLS, S.D. - The second round of Saddle Bronc Riding at the Governor's Cup forced these athletes to take their rides to the next level.

Competitors on the bubble were looking to secure their trip to the National Finals Rodeo, while the best riders in the world were looking to secure the heavy payday that comes from the Cinch Playoffs.

After a no score in the first round on Thursday night, Sage Newman delivered a big ride that earned him first place on Friday. This not only put him in the money, but also earned him a spot to compete on Saturday night in the average with a chance to win the final round.

Kade Bruno and Stetson Wright stole the show the first two nights, each scoring in the top three spots. This should set up a big showdown on Saturday night if each can get into the final round of four riders.

There was a lot of action for the athletes on the bubble.

Ryder Stanford needed a big weekend and he delivered. Right on the edge of the top 15, he is competing on Saturday with a chance to earn another trip to the NFR after finishing fourth on Friday.

Zeke Thurston is also sticking around for the finals after a lower score on Thursday put him into jeopardy. He was able to do just enough to get into the top-8 and have a chance to win the Governor's Cup.

Cinch Playoffs Governor's Cup Round 2 Saddle Bronc Riding Results

1. Sage Newman, 85.5, $10,000
2. Kade Bruno, 84.5, $6,250
3. Stetson Wright, 84.5, $6,250
4. Ryder Sanford, 83.5, $2,500
5. Damian Brennan, 82.5
6. Dawson Hay, 82
7. Wyatt Casper, 80
8. Sterling Crawley, 79
9. Tanner Butner, 78.5
10. Zeke Thurston, 78.5
11. Ryder Wright, *No Score*
12. Q Taylor, *No Score*

The top eight saddle bronc riders in the average from Thursday and Friday will advance to the clean-slate round.

Average of Round 1 and 2

1. Kade Bruno, 167.5
2. Stetson Wright, 166.5
3. Dawson Hay, 164.5
4. Ryder Sanford, 163.5
5. Sterling Crawley, 160
6. Tanner Butner, 157
7. Zeke Thurston, 156
8. Sage Newman, 85.5

The top four from there will go on to the final round tomorrow. Fifth through eighth place will each earn $2,555 on Saturday.

Final Round Payout

1. $25,000
2. $19,000
3. $12,000
4. $6,000