Pokes Ride Into Sheridan: Pat Hamilton Memorial Rodeo Preview
The fall rodeo season heats up this weekend as the University of Wyoming Cowboys and Cowgirls head to Sheridan for the Pat Hamilton Memorial Rodeo, hosted at the Sheridan County Fairgrounds from Friday, September 26 through Sunday, September 28. Though the event is organized by Sheridan College, it’s also a key stop in the Central Rocky Mountain Region and part of the 2025–26 NIRA schedule, making it an important weekend for Wyoming’s push toward the College National Finals Rodeo next June in Casper.
Recent Momentum
The Pokes are entering Sheridan with plenty of firepower after a hot start to the season. Earlier this month at Chadron State, Wyoming athletes turned in strong performances across multiple events, setting the tone for what looks to be another competitive year. That success carried into the Central Wyoming College Rodeo in Riverton, where both the Cowboys and Cowgirls walked away as team champions.
Individually, names like Sam Gallagher, Tate Talkington, and Josie Mousel stood out with event wins and all-around titles, while several others added valuable points in steer wrestling, goat tying, team roping, and saddle bronc. Those results have Wyoming sitting near the top of the region early in the fall schedule — and eager to keep climbing.
A Key Test for the Pokes
The Cowboys and Cowgirls enter Sheridan looking to add more points and maintain their spot in the standings. Wyoming closed last season strong, sending both men’s and women’s athletes to nationals, and this year’s roster is already showing the depth and talent to keep that tradition alive.
Sheridan is the perfect stage:
Early-Season Opportunity – A chance for Wyoming athletes to set the tone for the season.
Rivalry Matchup – Programs like Sheridan, Casper, and Gillette will be out to test the Pokes.
Momentum Builder – Strong rides and fast runs here could carry weight when the standings tighten later in the season.
Names to Watch
Wyoming’s roster features athletes ready to shine:
Cian Ahern – A consistent performer who can push for points in roughstock.
Lilly Alsever – A rising Cowgirl to watch in barrel racing and timed events.
Brodie Bates and Alyx Bolton – Part of Wyoming’s deep pool of competitors who can contribute across the board.
Sam Gallagher & Tate Talkington – Both were standout winners in Riverton and will look to keep that momentum rolling.
Josie Mousel – Fresh off an all-around title, she’s one of the Cowgirls to keep an eye on.
For Sheridan College, Christopher Nelson has been making noise in the saddle bronc, while their teams also bring depth in barrel racing, goat tying, team roping, and bareback, making them competitive across the slate of events.
What Fans Should Watch For
All-Around Race – Several Pokes have the versatility to chase all-around titles.
Roughstock vs. Timed Events – Wyoming’s balance across events is a proven strength.
Regional Rivalries – With Sheridan, Casper, and others in the mix, every point will matter in the race to the top of the standings.
Final Thoughts
Slack begins Friday at noon with performances starting that evening at 6:00 p.m., continuing through the weekend. Sheridan brings together the best of the region, and Wyoming will look to seize the moment with strong performances across the board.
The Pat Hamilton Memorial Rodeo isn’t just another date on the calendar — it’s where rivalries intensify, champions rise, and the Pokes get the chance to stake their claim early in the season.
Get ready, Pokes fans. Sheridan is about to see what the Cowboys and Cowgirls are made of. 🤠