October 16, 2015 - Panola College rodeo made a short trip this weekend to Pittsburg, Texas for the 3rd Southern Region rodeo. The rodeo hosted by N.E.T.C.C. was a very fast pace arena with lots of new challenges because of the very small size of the arena. Rodeo arenas, unlike some other sports, may differ in length, width, and ground conditions. Pittsburg’s arena proved to be tough for some, while others seemed to feel right at home.
Canadian native bareback rider, Bailey Plaisier, increased his position in the standings with a 71 point ride. The score was strong enough to win 5th place at NETCC, and move Plaisier to number 9 in the Regional standings. Bailey is one of two bareback riders that have fought their way into the top ten, team mate Kole Chandler, is holding tight the number 6 spot in overall standings.
Laramie Johnson just keeps on coming. The two event cowgirl started the year with a victory and has not let up since. A time of 2.3 seconds in the breakaway event was fast enough for second place at the rodeo, but more importantly moves her to the number one spot in the Southern Region. Laramie is not the only Panola cowgirl in the top ten, Nicole Reeves, is very close behind in the number 6 position.
R.D. Carter, and partner Zach Moore, had a fast run in the team roping with a time of 6.9 seconds. The time was fast enough to win the 8th spot at the rodeo and give them points towards regional standings. The pair has put together some great runs this season, finding themselves just outside the top 10 in the standings at number 11.
Bull rider, Gannon Ivy, has been very consistent this year riding 2 out 3 bulls. The cowboy was 3rd in the region last year, and qualified for the CNFR. Gannon has his eyes on the number one spot this season and another chance at a national title. He is now sitting in the number 3 position in the overall standings.
