Rocker Steiner Shines in Round 1 of the 2023 Wrangler NFR

The 2023 Wrangler National Finals Rodeo presented by Teton Ridge kicked off Dec. 8 with an exhilarating Round 1.

Right out of the chute, the world's finest bareback riders displayed their immense talent and skill, giving it their all to attain high scores and emerge victorious in the round.

Among the top 15 competitors, three remarkable rookies stood out, including the currently top-ranked Keenan Hayes, who has had an exceptional year, shattering earnings records along the way.

Rocker Steiner kicked off his second NFR with a remarkable ride, scoring an impressive 87 points. Coincidentally, it also marked his father's birthday. After being bucked off in Round 1 last year, Steiner made a stunning comeback this year, celebrating his dad's special day with a win. Steiner's performance earned him a whopping $30,706 and the well-deserved go-round buckle.

Clayton Biglow secured second place with an impressive 85.5-point ride, earning him a substantial prize of $24,267.

The reigning world champion, Jess Pope, took hold of third place with an impressive 85-point ride, falling just half a point behind Biglow. Pope's performance earned him a well-earned purse of $18,324.

In a surprising twist of events, four contestants - Richmond Champion, Keenan Hayes, Leighton Berry, and Jayco Roper - tied for the fourth-place spot, each scoring an impressive 83.5 points. Each of them walked away with a prize of $6,438.

All 15 bronc riders successfully completed their rides in Round 1, positioning themselves strongly in the race for the average title.

2023 Wrangler National Finals Rodeo - Round 1 Bareback Riding Results

1. Rocker Steiner, 87 points $30,706.41
2. Clayton Biglow, 85.5 points $24,267.97
3. Jess Pope, 85 points $18,324.97
4. Richmond Champion, 83.5 points, $6,438
5. Keenan Hayes, 83.5 points, $6,438
6. Leighton Berry, 83.5 points, $6,438
7. Jayco Roper, 83.5 points, $6,438
8. Mason Clements, 83 points
9. Jacob Lees, 82.5 points
10. Tanner Aus, 82 points
11. Tim O'Connell, 80.5 points
12. Cole Reiner, 80 points
13. Kade Sonnier, 79.5 points 
14. Orin Larson, 78.5 points
15. Dean Thompson, 77.5 points