Robie Hayes, an honor roll student at Brighton High School and part-time Thornton resident, has earned a position on the Colorado State High School Rodeo Team, and will be competing in the 57th Annual National High School Finals Rodeo (NHSFR).

The 16-year-old high school sophomore is one of the top four female high school cutters in the state, and she will compete in that category during NHSFR, which takes place this year at the CAM-PLEX Arena in Gillette, Wyoming from July 18 to July 24, 2005.

A rider since two years of age, Hayes has won six championship buckles in
team penning events over the years, but has only been cutting for one year.
She trains in Lamar, Colorado with nationally renowned cutter and trainer,
Cody Duvall. "Robie is a hardworking, dedicated, sound rider who has come along way in a short amount of time," Duvall said. "Her willingness to learn definitely helps her excel as a cutter." Hayes excels academically as well, maintaining a 3.7 grade point average while also training with her horses. In addition, she holds a part-time job, working approximately 30 hours per week throughout the year.

Featuring more than 1,500 contestants from 40 states, five Canadian
Provinces and Australia, NHSFR is the world's largest rodeo. In addition to
competing for over $125,000 in prizes, all NHSFR contestants have the
opportunity to earn more than $225,000 in college scholarships, as well as
the chance to be named the National High School Rodeo Champion.

To earn this prestigious title, contestants must finish in the top 20 after two
rounds of intense competition. The top 20 then advance to final
championship performances, which will take place on Sunday, July 24.
This year, the Sunday Championship Performance will be televised live
throughout the nation on the Outdoor Life Network as part of the American
Quarter Horse Association's (AQHA) weekly "American Horse" telecast series.

Check local listings for show times.