January 2012
Hello all! Sorry for the down time in not updating my website. I really
haven't been on top of it like I want to. So, here we go first off let
me thank everyone that have sent cards, called, and continue to check on
Jenna and I after the loss of our son Brody. It is by far the hardest
thing we've ever been through and we continue to try to deal with it
every day. I can tell you something for sure when a tragedy like this
occurs you're reminded who you're friends are! I am truly blessed to have
a number of great friends that were literally with me from the time of
my loss till they felt I was ok to b left and it was only then that they
went to their home or quit calling me every day and for this I can't
thank u enough.
Now, let's start with the fall, I was really proud of my
second son Reno Gonzales for stepping up and roping feet good enough to
get us qualified for the CPRA finals in Texas. The CPRA is an armature
rodeo association in Texas that's comparable to most circuits in the
PRCA. I'm proud to say it's one of the toughest rodeo associations there
is and many past and present PRCA cowboys that compete in the rodeos. We
started roping together after labor day and Reno just missed qualified
for tiedown roping as well. At the finals in October we won the 1rst go
2nd in the second round and won the average! Congrats to the tiedown
average and year end champ my friend Fred Whitfield, he really looked
good and I wouldn't give out all 15 numbers at the nor in 2012 without
putting his name on one!! I was lucky enough to b able to work the
Indian National Finals again in Las Vegas in November, calling the
timed events like I saw them, and it was a real good rodeo again with
great Indian contestants competing in 6 grounds. The world champs are
crowned at the INFR and the INFR is also where I kicked off my new
campaign Bold Enough to Wear Blue!! It's our new fight I picked to raise
awareness and money for the education and prevention of diabetes. If u
are a rodeo, cutting, barrel racing or roping event organizer contact us
if u are interested in being a part of our fight.
I want to make
mention of the roping fiesta match in San Angelo TX. For those of u that
don't know what it is, they have an invitational roping each year w a
feature match pitting one named roper against another forming head-on 12
calf match. It's been going on for probably 50 yrs. The reason i bring
this up is some of the best ropers in the world such as Jim Bob Altizer,
Dean Oliver, Roy Cooper myself, Fred Whitfield and more have mixed it
up in that cold, muddy, pasture size arena. But, none of us have won as
many matches there as the amazing Cody Ohl. Once again this year he
withstood the challenge and came out victorious. If u haven't had the
experience of seeing in person CO rope a match u have no idea what u
have missed. I have roped about 50 match calf ropings and seen hundreds
more and I've never seen anyone rope a match like this guy. He's
completely a maniac in a match , by that I mean he ropes them like they
are just one header or a small jackpot, as if they are a day off in
roping and they are quite the opposite. They are stressful hard on
unphysical and require all the attention u can give them. My hat is off
to him and his match roping ability.
How bout the national
finals rodeo, some really good roping there. In the tie down roping
congrats to my buddy Matt Shizowa on winning the average and bout
$105,000 and to Tuff Cooper on his first world championship . I am
really proud that 5 of my past clinic guys were at the NFR roping. I've
been lucky enough to watch their roping go from clinic roping to NFR
material. Congrats to the Larry Solomon family and I say family because
the whole family has worked to get one of the boys to the NFR and Cory
just happened to b the first one. He is a good kid and roped great at
the finals , his first of many. Ryan Jarrett showed everybody that each
individual has to do what works best for him to win. When he had the
guts to string from the belt instead of putting string in his mouth, he
showed that doesn't matter how u win just that u don't do like everybody
else just cause. He feels he doesn't miss string as many and with bout
$90,000 at the NFR I guess he showed the nay sayers and I'm proud oh him
form that. In the team roping what about that Turtle Powell and Jhet
Johnson , they did a great job of roping at the NFR. I will say that the
steers were a little challenging but guess what some of the headers
figured out how to catch them. I once again got the chance to do the
commentating on GAC for the NFR and really enjoy doing that. I
really thought GAC was a good fit for rodeo and tv.Thanks for all the
feedback u guys have given me on our telecast.
Now on to our new year, I
have to start by saying how proud I am of my# 1 student Wyatt Imus.
Hen started roping w me bout a year ago and had never roped or tied down
a calf, only had team roped some at that time. We started working on
roping tying and foot work with the hope of competing at the jr high
rodeos and just may be being bottom of the pack competitors. Guess what
happens when you work extra hard and listen to someone that knows and is
there to advance your roping, u get suppressing results. He has placed
in one or more events at every jr high rodeo as well as winning places
at other jackpots and jr rodeos.Not only do my clinics continue to
produce winners in the team roping, tiedown roping and breakaway roping
but I've had numerous private lesson ropers jump up in their individual
standings. This is what I've put all the time and effort into my
teaching methods for and it is like I'm winning all the time.
Right now
I'm working full out on my 3 rd annual Joe Beaver Jr Super Stars Roping
to b held Easter weekend April 6-7-8 in Salado TX. This year we've added
a special roping on sat night. Brody's Champions Shootout will b held.
It will consist of the average winner and fastest time in the 16-19
tiedown roping of my roping, Barry Burk, Roy Cooper, Rising Stars roping.
It will b a shootout format eliminating the slowest time each go round .
There will b no fees for them and it will pay $750 for first and $350
for second. We will use the same format and arena set up as we've used
the past 2 years as it seems tom run smooth that way. Hope to see
y'all there. I will do my best to keep this up dated better this year and
remember " Stay focused and don't b scared "
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June 2011
Joe Beaver Endorsement for http://www.orthosurgeons.com/
When it gets to the point of no return, whether you are an athlete, mechanic, or a housewife you will know it is that time. Time for what you ask? Joint replacement! When that time came for me, I researched every avenue possible and 3 names kept popping up in conversation and in articles, so I decided to go with Dr. William Hefley, and boy what a great move that was. I have had a lot of very successful surgeries from two very good friends and very well known doctors, but this was different. This was going to be hip replacement due to a totally worn out joint. When I contacted Dr. Hefley and his staff they really made me feel comfortable about my hip replacement. I live in Texas and he is in Little Rock, AR. No problem! They made it so easy for me to have surgery 8 hours away. First, after receiving my MRI scan and X-rays and confirming that a hip replacement was needed, he set up appointments for me at his office, the local internal medicine doctor, and the hospital all in one day with surgery to follow the very next day. His surgery center is the most home feeling place you could ever be for a hospital procedure. It is small, quiet, has a great nursing staff and you really feel like they care about you. Dr. Hefley not only gave me my life back, but he reassured me that I had made the right decision in choosing Little Rock with his personal care and concern.
I'm an 8 time world champion rodeo cowboy and when you can't move anymore it is scary! Our whole life is about how fast you move and being able to perform at your best. Since my surgery I feel as good as I did in 2006 when I was the all around cowboy, high money winner, at the National Finals Rodeo in Las Vegas. My rodeo career is winding down and my roping clinics have taken precedence. I do some 25 a year all over the US, Canada, Dominican Republic, Brazil, and New Zealand and produce roping events as well. Without the good fortune of meeting Dr. William Hefley, none of this would be happening. I was unable to walk, sleep, ride, or be myself until I had my hip replacement. With that being said, there is only one place to go for joint replacement surgery! OrthoSurgeons! Let Dr. Hefley and his associates fix you up!
Sincerely,
Joe Beaver, 8-time World Champion
End of May Thoughts from Joe B.
Hey guys! How's the Spring and this early Summer treating you? Let's start out with the PRCA standings! How about that Clint Cooper? Wow! What a start he got. He's really been roping well! An old friend of mine once told me, "You know why good horses are expensive? Because they are damn well worth it!" He's riding possibly the best horse in "the biz" and he has certainly focused himself on winning! Congrats to one of my boys, former roping student Shane Hanchey for winning Rodeo Houston! Also a shout out to Noah Lassa for winning the Wisconsin High School Calf Roping Championship and to Colton Bounds and Chase Jones for winning the Wisconsin High School Team Roping Championship. Colton and Chase also place in the top 15 at Nationals!
These guys are all products of Joe Beaver Roping Schools. I'm really proud of all my students’ success. It is great to see them get to the top of their games and do so well. I've got a load of boys and girls holding their own at their individual state finals at the Jr. High and High School levels as well as the College levels! Good luck to all of you and remember all you can do is score and rope good. Let the windfall where it may. This year I will do 25 clinics around the US and abroad and believe me when I say that I enjoy every minute of it! I've really been seeing some impressive ropers and have the opportunity to be involved with some amazing people! It's great to have the opportunity to go back to some of these places year after year and watch the improvements in my students.
Speaking of a tough young ropers...this year's 2nd Annual JB Superstars Roping was phenomenal. WOW. The roping and goat tying was something to see! There were 12-year old boys tying them in 10 seconds, 13-year old girls were 1.6 in the breakaway and in the 16-19 year old goat tying there were 7 second runs everywhere! The goat tying is absolutely crazy and if you haven't watched it in the last few years, you are in for a surprise. Girls 13-15 were typing in 6 and 7's and in the 16-19 year olds, they start getting off when they cross the timer. If you blink, you will miss the tie! That's what it is all about - competing tough, winning and showing the effort it takes in make it inside the arena and outside in the arena of life.
I've really got some great sponsors who allow me to make my Jr. roping such a great success. These amazing people allow the kids to rope for their entry fees and prizes, making the prize money bigger than ever! Thank you so much! Words can't express my appreciation. We are already planning for the 3rd Annual in 2012 so mark your calendars for Easter weekend.
How about the price of calves? Whew! Really appreciate the days of $1 a pound and diesel? Yeah...how can floor sweepings cost more than the gas that’s made from the good stuff? I bring this up because as you go to the rodeos and jackpots it has already cost someone quite a bit so be prepared and give yourself a chance to win if possible. Have your horse ready, equipment checked and yourself ready to try your best to do well. Win, lose or draw if you try your hardest everybody will be happy with the outcome. Remember that you will only get out of something what you put into it. I think of that when I consider my Jr. Roping. I have such a great support crew! Most of these people have been with me in one way or another for over 20 years. And I've added some people over the years...I can't say enough about these people. Jenna, Brody B., Mike Arnold, Buckwheat W., Claver Tate, Tim Fryar, Shane Winkler, Tim Erickson, Draper Foster, Sam Webber, Clay Rathkamp, Lance and Sunny Broesche, Seth Broesche, Tammy, Pam, Dave Brock, LeeAnn and Bobby Flores, Mary Jane Meyer, Sutton Eddings, Anne Dollary, Mack Bradford, Dudley Barker and I know I am leaving someone off this list...but there were so many people who helped make the event such a success...thanks to all of you! Also, a big thanks to Billy Pipes for letting us use the Wildfire Arena and make the changes I needed.
Before I close I want to send out my thought and prayers to two families who are very dear to me. I've stayed with Jerry and Donna Thames since I was 16 years old. Their sons Kyle and Chad have been friends of mine since I was 12 years old. In April, we lost Chad in a pasture accident working cows. Please remember the Thames family in their time of sorrow. We also lost a dear young man, Reagan Walker (Byron and Mary's pride and joy) to a car accident. I've been in a whole lot of planes, trucks, cabs...in alot of motels and to alot of rodeos with Byron and I know he's really going to miss his boy. So please keep them in your prayers as well. We will be honoring these two great guys at the 2012 Jr. Roping.
Sorry I've been a little behind in keeping you up to date. It has been really busy...horses, clinics, ropings, tv stuff, etc...Be sure to visit www.ropingwithjoebeaver.com. We are always adding new tidbits and tips to help keep your roping sharp. Happy Trails, Joe B.
November 1st, 2010 This morning marks the opening of the JBRoping website at RopingWithJoeBeaver.com at 9am CST. If you are interested in roping this is the website for you. It includes tons of videos in categories such as Calf Roping, Instructional, Mistakes, Team Roping, and more. In addition it includes forums, articles, blogs, pictures and much much more. The primary focus is to teach you to improve your roping, but even if you are just a roping fan you will find plenty of interest.Come join in the fun! http://www.ropingwithjoebeaver.com October 4th, 2010 Well here it is another sumer is passed. My clinics were really great this year, thanks to everybody that believes in me enough to let me hlp them rope. We went to some new places this year, and some of the same old places and all was good. I seem to be doing more small private clinics which is a great way to get quality time if you choose to learn that way. With the rodeo season coming to an end, the top 15 in each event is set. Looking the list , I am proud four former students are representing us well this year. I can honestly say I have taught entirely different types of ropers, Scott Kormos, smallest in the field runs close & ties fast. Jerrod Hoffstetter the biggest in the field reaches & doesn’t beat himself. Then there is roping Ryan Jarrett who does it all very well. There is young Shane Hanchee, what a year he has had, he has roped his way into a chance for a Gold Buckle. I know he appreciates the horse flesh provided by Buck Daniels and trained by his brother Jason. The first time he came to my clinic he could not look over a calf, much less flank one but he never accepted the possibility of not succeeding.Speaking of winners coming through my clinics Congratulations to Dalton Richards NHSRA AllAround Cowboy & Calf Roping Champion as well as the NJHSRA Calf Roping Champion Case Jones. We also had the North Dakota HS Breakaway Champ, way to go Teddy. We also went to Canada this year and had the Alberta HS Champion Calf Roper Logan Byrd. Don’t forget upcoming clinics 8X Arena Huntsville, TX Nov 26-27 Yadkinville, NC Dec18-19 Okeechobee, FL Dec 29-30.Another acomplishment of a student, Morgan Grant made the Canadian Finals in the calf roping and just missed making the steer wrestling finals. It has taken him alot of hard work and dedication to get him to where he is, from where he started 5 years ago. He has become an accomplished roper & bull dogger. Good luck to you at the CFR!Big thanks goes out to MCCoys for all they do for the youth in rodeo. If you have seen McCoys Muttin Bustin at the THSRA finals or a County Fair near you, you can see how involved they are. I really enjoyed the opportunity to get to work with the great Bob Fiest at the Worlds Greatest Roper in Reno. Russell Cordoza was the C hampion and he put on quite a show heading, heeling and calf roping. It also looks like I will be working with Ray Champ at the Indian National Finals Rodeo in Las Vegas Nov 8 – 13 .I hope you got a chance to watch Mesquite Championship Rodeo on Fox Sports. A big thanks to Stace Smith and Rory Lemmel for allowing me to do the commentating for the telecasts.When December rolls around I will be doing the telecasts for WNFR and National Finals Tonight at the Gold Coast Casino Showroom every night after the WNFR, which can be found on the Gold Coast Website every night for NFR updates & personal interviews with contestants & families.With the top 15 on the books for calf roping and heading. What about the two sets of three brother making it to the NFR. I know Roy Coopers and Dennis Tryans buttons have to got be popping. What an accomplishment for Clint, Cliff & Tuff all making in the calf roping. Travis, Clay, & Brady in the heading.I have been promising the perfect practice roping & tying dummies, they will be available at the NFR TRADE SHOWS and JoeBeaver.com. Also check the new feeders from Pre-Vent Feeders. A big thank you to Heelomatic and Prevent Feeders. We will talk again next month. Do not forget my Jr Roping in Salado, TX Easter Weekend April 21-24 2011. May 3rd, 2010 We are a week away from Mother’s Day! Don’t forget who turns out calves, washes your clothes, drives, covers hot checks, etc….before you get old enough to do it yourself. Be sure and take her out to eat, give her some flowers or do something to show your appreciation for all she does!Thanks to all my sponsors that made Salado such a great success. We had about 400 entries from about 8 different states. Without great sponsors and a great staff, you can’t make a roping on that level work. To all the sponsors that stepped up and went the distance with me on this first annual event, I thank you and I can tell you that the ropers really benefited! I truly appreciate all that you did!To Lanham Mangold and Steven Perry, thanks for the great set of calves. To my saddle sponsors, Martin Saddlery, Todd Slone Saddles, Master Saddles, Twister Saddles and Cowboy Saddlery: Thank you very much! Thank you to Cantrell Quarter Horses for their donation: the High Point Winner received a registered colt! Thanks to Wild West – Sherry Gonzales for making the beautiful buckles and spurs. What a great bunch of prizes! Mark your calendars for Easter next year! Tell all your regions and youth associations! Same time every year from now on! Thanks to Billy Pipes for such a great facility and thanks to John Rosanky for helping me get everything done the way I wanted it. Thanks to Darren Chick for all his time and effort and thanks to Debbie Chick for helping me get through the goat tying…and we will have it again next year!The reunion was a fun day. We will have it again as well…it will start later next year to give everyone a chance to get there. The reunion roping was fun for us to see the guys that have made such progress.. Such a variety of kids and old timers and all in between. Thanks to you who came out to my Dad’s Memorial Roping in Edna. I really appreciate everyone getting together putting that on….Shane, Buck, Trey, Shavauna, Sutton, Frank, Steve Kolle and everyone who helped. Next year we will co-approve TSPRA so the old-timers ropings will count! Check with your local papers. What a nice facility – thanks to David Egg for pulling that off. We just finished with the 7th Annual Super Star Shoot Out in New Waverly. Hunter Herrin was the champ this year and Houston Hutto won 2nd. The proceeds went to the Blake Sandel Foundation..super kid…in his memory and for his foundation. If you haven’t been to Bryon Gardners place…you should get over there for the next event….great set up and roping…always have the top guys. I am sure the latest Shoot Out will be available to watch soon from Rodeo Video. Thanks to Hunter, Houston, Justin, Scott, Adam, Ace, Jeff and Blair!What about the Houston rodeo!? What about Stran on the $50,000…??? Stran had a tough Winter and was in a bind and it got him in the position he needed to be. And Trevor…$1,000 off without the Houston win. Goes to show the winter he’s had. Glad to see Fred Whitfield come back. Got $45,000 won and has a great chance to come back and maybe win another gold buckle. Hanchey is roping good….Corey Soloman is too….and Ace Slone….another wave of Texas Ropers coming in and taking over. Hey you calf roping fans and young guys, you need to pay attention to what has been happening lately. Match Ropings……they are coming back: Think about what we’ve seen lately…Justin Maass and Jeff Chapman
Justin Maass and Fred Whitfield
Trevor and Fred Whitfield…Don’t forget that we all roped our matches coming along. Don’t be too proud to put your money up and take your roping to the next level to get your roping consistent. Everyone loves a good match.The schools have been great. We started in Kansas and then went to Montana…then on to Wisconson and Vegas. The next stop was Mollala, Oregon and then headed to NY and Canada and then Colorado, Utah and North Dakota. We will start back in the Fall…..with VA, AL, TX, FL….and of course, more private lessons. I have to tell you….in Salado, EVERY short round had some of my kids from the schools. I don’t want to brag, but we must be doing something right!!! Thanks to Barry and Cheryl Burk. I’m glad Barry is feeling and looking better and on the rebound. I can tell you that Jenna and I have a true appreciation for the work that goes into the work that goes into the Jr. Roping now. He always told me it was a 6 mo. job for a 4 day roping and I thought he was crazy…yeah, well …he was right. Thanks to Jenna and Sunny for hanging in and getting through the first annual hurricane weekend! Sunny really stepped up as Shavauna was caring for family members and we all really appreciated it!Again, thanks to all of you who were a part of the First Annual Joe Beaver Jr. Superstars Roping. I believe that talent needs a place to go where they can compete against the best in their age group from all over the country. We will continue to improve if we went to get tougher. Thanks to all our sponsors and friends who made this possible!Looking forward to watching the summer play out!Happy Trails, Joe B. February 20th, 2010 Well…here we are in the middle of the building rodeo season. It’s been three months since my hip surgery and I think I am just now getting back to where I am feeling comfortable competitively. Some things take a little longer as you get older. Did I just say that? Thank you Dr. Bill Hefley! We’ve got Houston coming up soon, so I am looking forward to that!I have to mention the tour rodeos..looks like most of them will be back to back 2 headers…thanks to those who are using their heads on the scheduling in regard to concerns for expenses. My roping in Salado is approaching fast…WOW! Talk about a ton of work. My hat is off to Barry Burke for doing his for 25 years.. Most people don’t realize how much of a commitment putting on that type of roping is. I have a new respect for what all goes into it…that is for sure!. Don’t forget the reunion roping part of the roping. It will be a blast to see everyone. Have had a ton of interest in the goat tying. Thanks Chick! That was a great idea!Great things going on in the standings….Trevor has now tied Ty’s record…I predict he will win at least 5 more before he retires. His calf roping has been really sharp these past few years.
Just goes to show: Parents don’t be scared of those older horse. Put your kid on a good solid older horse…they know the game! Have made some great matches lately with horse sales. If you need good horses, give me a call. Was nice to see my Domican friends: Alamanzor, Beatrice and Neil and Carolina. They stayed and visited for a bit and we sent a good horse home with them….Schools start up in April: coast to coast this year. I’m trying to get everywhere I can. If you are interested in doing a school or setting up private lessons, just give me a call! Thanks to the Bloomer family for taking care of Jenna after her wreck in Belton. Scary to be in Rapid City, South Dakota and get a phone call like the one I got,. Is great to have family like the Bloomer’s! They really took care of us!Brody has been riding cutting horses and keeping up with his school work – we are very proud of him. My Mom is doing great! Thanks to those of you who continue to call and check on her! Sure glad we have Cindy Farris helping us out at the shop. What an amazing talent she is! Consider Frame Works…They will make you look like a star!Thanks to all my amazing sponsors for keeping me going! Lots of events coming up: my Dad’s Memorial Roping, the Jr. and Reunion Roping and the Shootout / Bash in New Waverly….a little something for everyone!Talk to you soon! Happy Trails!!! Joe B. January 13th, 2010 The doctor has released me and I am looking forward to going to the buildings…Team Roping with Arky Rogers!!!I am getting more and more excited about the 1st Annual Jr. Superstars & Reunion Roping in Salado April 1-4! We’ve added a lot of schools so be sure and check to see when we will be in your area. As always – call me to book your private lesson!More News to Come Soon! October 25th, 2009 Just a short note to let you know that my surgery went well and my recovery is underway! Thanks to all who have checked on me and wished me well and to those who are keeping up with my progress! Special thanks to Dr. Hefley for a great job! I am the new and improved (and maybe bionic)…Joe B. I am at an amazing surgical center in Little Rock, AR. I’ve never seen anything like it and the care I have gotten from the staff here has been unbelieveable. If you ever need anything done…this is definitely the place to be!!We will talk soon. Happy Trails! March 9th, 2009 Here it is … March and the buildings are over. I haven’t quite gotten the start I wanted, but Barry Burk once told me that the guy that ropes the best wins the most and the game isn’t over. The calf roping is going to go rodeo by rodeo and I will just have to see how my hip holds up. If I feel like I can be competitive and win I will go…If it looks like I am turning into a punching bag, I will have to step back and just team rope….which is okay. I’ve had an unbelievable run in the calf roping and now I would like to be considered a serious threat in the team roping…not just a guy who is entered. My heart will always be in the sport of calf roping…and I will continue to be involved regardless of whether I am entered roping somewhere every day or not. I will continue to rope, just not competitively unless I can win. Injuries take their toll and I don’t want to be just going to be going… I will continue to work hard at my schools, private lessons and calf horse business as well as continue to work to take my team roping to the next level. Brody finished the 2008 year with a bang by winning a go-around and placing in the final round at the World Finals in Amarillo, TX. I am very proud of the way he has started the New Year. He continues to work hard and is currently in the top ten in the Non-Pro. It is hard to believe that he got his first check only 2 ½ years ago. I want to extend a big “hats off” to his Mom for being his driver, #1 horse care person, etc. It allows me to rest much better at night. The schools are up and running for this year. Check your area and see when we will be near you. If you don’t see something close, give me a call and I would be happy to try to arrange a school near you or private lessons!Happy Trails! Joe B. January 6th, 2009 First of all, we hope everyone had a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. How ’bout an unpredictable National Finals! I thought the bareback riding was the best it’s been in years – no days off for the guys this finals. You want to be a saddle bronc rider??? – just watch for 10 days out there and it will change your mind for sure. Hats off to my hero Billy Etbauer for making a run at it at 45 years old. Don’t count him out for next year either. In the bull riding, hometown rookie Douglas Duncan kept Huntsville on the map while I wasn’t there!. I sure was impressed with the talent in the bull riding. I saw a lot of young guys that were trying until they hit the ground. It was good to see for the event and professional rodeo. In the steer wrestling, Luke Branquino caught all 10 to earn the average win and a Gold Buckle. How about those two horses – Jessy and Willy – $400,000 won in ten days on them. Are these the horses to ride at the NFR – ya think? In the calf roping, a lead is never a lead until it is finished. Josh Peek went in with a substantial lead and wound up way behind the pack at the end of ten days. That is Vegas – there is 15 guys there and no one is there by accident. You think Tuf Cooper is carrying the name on – he’s not! He’s making his OWN name. What a National Finals – congrats on stepping up to the plate and making the big hit. Trevor Brazile was one calf away from having a chance at the Gold Buckle, but a knee injury in the 9th round chilled his chances in the 10th. It is hard to win there when you are sound much less when you are hurt. But what does a champion do when he is hurt? He gives 110% and tries to win – that’s what Trevor did. Stran Smith overcame many obstacles to achieve his ultimate dream of a Gold Buckle. This goes to show that you should never quit when you are sick or hurt…that second chance just might pay off! Matt Sherwood and Randon Adams roped consistently and used the momentum they carried into the NFR to win the Gold Buckle. Lindsey Sears and Martha – how can you beat these two…one can run the barrels and one can ride! I think they call that lucky. ha ha…I’d call that talent on both sides. It was great fun watching those two go at it every night. I really enjoy commentating on ESPN. It is my ultimate goal to make the telecast more enjoyable for those who have never watched a rodeo before and those who don’t understand – as well as those who are great fans of rodeo. If you got a chance to catch our show (National Finals Tonight) after the rodeo at the Gold Coast, I hope you enjoyed it. It is great fun and Don Gay, Dan Miller and Bob Tallman are the best guys in the world to work with! Thanks to all my guys that came on the show for me and to the sponsors that made the show possible. Keep a watch out for Extreme Home Makeover….Rodeo Edition! Trevor Brazile and I had the unique opportunity to work with Johnny from the show to design a “Rodeo Room” for a little boy in Fort Worth. What a blast that was! Thanks to everyone who made that possible. It was good to see my friend Jim Pickens from Grey’s Anatomy at the rodeo. He is a true fan and real supporter of rodeo. Most people don’t realize that he ropes …..what a super guy he is!Thanks to Dan Stark and Boyd Gaming for hosting the Miss Rodeo America Dinner. It was incredible to meet such intelligent and beautiful women from across our Rodeo Country! Thank you so much for the experience. To all those that came by my autograph sessions, thanks for stopping by! It is always great to see you!Thanks to everyone who had schools in 2008 – Janet Erickson in MT, Vaughn Turner in TX, Louis Watts, Jr. in MS, Mark Boardman in MO, Scott Lipscomb in VA, Buck Daniels in FL….and my private lessons folks!!!!
This past year was a tough year and I didn’t get to do as many schools as in years before, but am going to try to continue to do my best to get to your area as soon as possible – for those of you who are calling and e-mailing expressing interest! I’m ready for the fresh start that 2009 is bringing us! My goal this year is to make the NFR in both events. As you know, 2007 was filled with health issues and 2008 was spent taking care of my family while we dealt with some difficult times. To my sponsors – I can’t thank you enough for your support. It is my goal to promote you in every way I can….whether I am rodeoing or not. I believe in your products and services and am proud to have you on my team. As I talk to you now, I am at home for a few days and my crew - Jenna and Brody are on the road to the Cuttings……..I wish Brody the best of luck this year. He is swimming in deep waters as he has stepped up to the Non-Pro division. I believe he has the potential to be a successful rider as he has accomplished alot in a short (2 years) period of time. On November 17, 2006, he won his first check for $76. In 2007 and 2008, he made the Amatuer Finals in Amarillo, TX – Wow!My mom made made a wonderful recovery with her hip and is doing well. She is already packing her bags for trips to Amarillo and Vegas this year. She continues to support me and my family – Jenna at the shop and Brody on the road. I’m ready for 2009 – I’ve got two good calf horses and two good head horses and a great partner – Bobby Harris! So, until next time, if you see a Bloomer trailer with “Beaver” on it…it is me or Brody! We are on the road and will be talking to you soon!!Happy Trails, God Bless our Country and our New Leader! Joe B. November 20th, 2008 Hello to All!Don’t forget to check out the Florida school at Buck Daniel’s great facility – it will be the last one of the year! The schools have been great. Thanks to all of you guys and gals who have helped make the schools such a success. Next to winning, there is nothing like seeing the results of a good school. I am always impressed when I have return students and have the opportunity to see their progress. It is almost National Finals time and I’m back in the television booth. As most of you know, rodeoing this year was next to impossible for me but you do what you have to do when you have to do it – family always comes first. 2009 looks like it may be my year to run at it again! I have a great new calf horse that really fits thanks to Will LaDuke and a new head horse thanks to Chuck Doebbler and Kenny Wood. Too many years of competing and surgeries makes it even more important to have a horse that fits the way I rope now. I also have a great partner lined up – Bobby Harris (big money is cracking back out for the finals)! I want to take this opportunity to sincerely thank my family, my friends and my sponsors who continue to stand by me through some tough times in the past couple of years. Even times when I could not compete they’ve never left me and I want them to know how much that means to me. I might as well hit the road because it looks like I won’t be the only Beaver on the road as my son Brody continues to have such great success at such an early point in his cutting career. I am really proud of the way he studies the sport and continues to work hard. He got a late start, but his ambition continues to push him up the ladder. I am also proud of how he is managing to juggle the sport along with his school work and taking care of his obligations at home. It is tough for kids these days to stay on a positive track that leads them down the path to success. He seems to be doing incredibly well – in spite of being my son (ha ha) They say the apple doesn’t fall far from the tree. Maybe the wind will help this apple…..He and Jenna have been having great fun and obvious success, so I’m going to keep letting them do it their way. Thanks to Sherry Allen at the shop, Jenna is able to be gone to help Brody and me out on the road. The National Finals Rodeo is around the corner. The calf roping and team roping may have some new champions or some repeat champions? It looks to me like Speedy Williams is going to be hard to beat in that building after his big win at Dallas. Who am I kidding – Speedy is ALWAYS hard to beat! Josh Peek looks to be in the driver’s seat in the calf roping and I’m glad to see that the $50,000 win in Houston was only a part of what he has accomplished this year. He’s won another $100,000 plus to go with it. I’m thinking he can rope! I believe Luke Branquino riding Willy this year will be a favorite pick in the Steer Wrestling. It is sure something to see so many family members at the NFR this year….following in the footsteps of their fathers before them. Special congrats to the Greg Cassidy in Canada – it must be a great feeling to know that there are three Steer Wrestling Championships in your family. Cody, Curtis and Greg – hats off to you guys up there! And don’t forget Willy – he’s a champion Cassidy too!Be sure to come see me at the NFR – I’ve got autograph sessions at Cowboy Christmas and the Sands all week – also don’t forget the NFR Tonight Show each night at 11:00 at the Gold Coast. I have the privilege of working with Don Gay and Dan Miller again this year. What a great time we had last year. Be sure and come see us. Looks like our Spring line up will take us to Connecticut, California, Oregon, Montana and South Dakota. In the Fall, we are looking at Mississippi, Missouri, Florida, Texas, and Ohio ……. the list goes on!We’ve been kicking it around the past few years, but it looks like the Joe Beaver Junior Championship Roping will get cranked up in 2010. Easter or Labor Day Weekend – we will let you know as we get all the details worked out. We are also looking at having a Reunion Roping. If you have been to one of my roping schools or private lessons or went to one of my dad’s in the last 25 years, you are invited! What do you think?? Let me know your thoughts on that! And what do you think about my website – isn’t it as good as anyone’s on the web. Shout out to my good friend Shavauna for all her hard work….even though I don’t get her all the info she needs in a very timely manner, she makes so much happen! Happy Trails, Keep Reachin, Joe B. March 21st, 2008 Hello! Well, I just flew in from Jackson, Mississippi from the NCHA Eastern National Championships where I experienced one of the more proud moments of my life. I watched my 17 year old son, Brody win the 10,000 Amatuer on Lorrens I Lee! http://www.nchacutting.com/ What an experience…he had such an impressive week. It is been unbelieveable not only to watch him enjoy this sport, but become a dominate player. After watching him at the finals in Amarillo and seeing him become the Reserve Champ. in his division in Houston, I am just overwhelmed. Can you tell?I’ve been great! As I mentioned on the Home Page, I am making a run at the 2008 NFR. I love commentating, but guess what I love more?! I’ve got money won in both events and that is pretty good “for me” this early in the year. .. I hated to see Brad Culpepper go home, but he has kids and I certainly understand him wanting to be home with them. Mike Beers and I are roping together at the rodeos out West and it should make for a great Spring! Mike Arnold is heading out with the horses tomorrow night and I will be flying out soon to join them. Fortunately, we’ve got Mike A’s black horse back in the game. He got kicked at the finals – kind of a freak thing, but we’ve been exercising / swimming him and he’s ready to go. Another exciting event of late…Mike A. won the Ft. Worth Horse Show on my Mom’s horse. I don’t know who was more proud – her or Mike. Mike couldn’t wait to give her the blue ribbon. I can guarantee you that it is on her wall now. As you know, my schedule last year allowed for a lot of schools and private lessons. I know that the time I need to make all the rodeos this year will not allow me to book all of the dates I did last year, but you know me….I’m sure going to try. Be sure to start watching the School Schedule closely as we have several booked and are getting ready to begin posting. If I don’t get to your area this year, stay in touch with me and I will get there as soon as I can. I am booking some private schools in between, so give me a call and maybe we can schedule something. I just had a group of guys come in from Canada and I’ve got a group of guys coming in from Panama soon. Jenna is doing great. Her shop is as busy as ever and we have really enjoyed sharing the excitement of Brody’s success! What a wonderful son we have! We are so proud. My mom is doing wonderful. She’s had the chance to come watch me, Brody and Mike quite a bit the past few months and has been having a blast going to visit our longtime friends Carl and Kay. Be sure to visit the Sponsor page and check out the products and services of the wonderful folks who believe in and support me! I couldn’t do it without them!Mark your calendars for the Joe Beaver Super Star Shootout on May 10th at 7 pm in New Waverly TX. New Waverly is just South of Huntsville and I have teamed up with Bryon Gardner and the B& R Bash to put on what will be the Event of the Season! I’ve got commitments (short of a possible last minute schedule change) from 8 guys’s…Some say these guys can rope..I’ll let you be the judge…Trevor Brazile, Blair Burk, Ricky Canton, Houston Hutto, Justin Maass, Cody Ohl, Fred Whitfield and yours truly…An Autograph Session with the Stars will be available after the roping. Your $5 donation at the gate will be greatly appreciated. Proceeds from the roping will benefit the Sunshine Kids and the New Waverly Volunteer Fire Department. http://www.sunshinekids.org/Come meet some of the Sunshine Kids and allow them to brighten your day! When we started talking about doing this, I remembered that Shavauna’s little brother was one of the first Sunshine Kids at M.D. Anderson in Houston when the organization first started in the early 80s. Jacob Slott leads the fire department as Chief and will be onhand with his guys to build support for their organization. I know that these are wonderful causes – so, come on out, enjoy the roping, eat some BBQ, meet some folks and have some fun! Directions to Arena: End of Stewart Road. Approximately 3 miles West of I-45 off of FM 1374. (New Waverly, TX – just South of Huntsville)Any questions? 2008 Shootout Flyer Call: Joe Beaver @ 979-777-6946
Buckwheat Willrich @ 936-661-5253
Shavauna Morgenroth @ 936-524-0338 or info@joebeaver.com
Terry Winfrey @ 936-661-9460
To all my new friends down South on the Islands, thank you for generosity and the opportunity to see rodeo through your eyes. Keep up all the hard work and you can bet that I will be back soon! Thanks to all of you who continue to support me and the sport that I love. It is such a great feeling to have such a wonderful support team. Your calls, e-mails, and acts of kindness are certainly appreciated. It pleases me that I am at a point in my career where I am able to give back. I’ve gotten more involved with the Make-A Wish Program this year and I cannot express to you what an honor it is to me to be a part of it. I have met some wonderful people and I have become their fans. If you ever have the opportunity to get involved and help make a wish come true, don’t pass up the chance. I love to hear about things that I can do to give back…..Until next time…. Happy Trails, Joe B. P.S. I’ve had several people ask me about breakaway eyes for practicing…
http://www.doubleabreakaway.com/testimonials.html January 24th, 2008 Sorry that it’s been so long since my last update – this is no fault of the webmaster! My time lately has been filled with schools in Australia and New Zealand, taking Brody to his events, and the list goes on….Jenna’s shop is busy and my mom is doing great. Mike is 7 for 7 around the neck, and I’m trying my best not to drive Shavauna crazy. So far, so good, I think. What about the finals? Who would have scripted that ending? Congrats to Trevor for his Triple Crown win. It looked like Cody and Houston had him on the ropes, but Trevor came out the winner. I really enjoyed commentating the rodeo. It really gives you a different perspective and I felt the same as the other 18,000 others when Cody about fell off and Trevor missed. That was the last two things you would have ever expected from these two guys. It was a battle down to the end, but it was really a different kind of finals this year. I continually heard comments throughout the week on all the injuries and guys who just couldn’t be there. Thanks so much to Jeff Meadors, Butch Knowles and Don Gay for allowing me to work with them. It was a great experience and I had alot of fun. I’m certainly not opposed to doing it again in the future…BUT this year, I’d just as soon be in the arena. I’ve got great calf horses (Murphy and Luther) and a wonderful parter (Brad Culpepper) who I have great confidence can get me there. My sponsors continue to support me and I don’t know that I could ask for a better group of people on my team. AND what about that Walt Woodard? 26 years later he comes back and wins the World Championship again. Perserverence combined with talent and experience – now that is a true winner!For those of you who didn’t get a chance to see us out there. The National Finals Tonight Show was awesome. We had some great guests and I really enjoyed working with Don Gay, Dan Miller, Boyd P. and Bob Tallman! Thanks to everyone who came to the show!Also – I really enjoyed our recent trip to Australia and New Zealand. We had the opportunity to meet alot of new people that I’m so proud to call my new friends. Seeing the growth of our sport in other countries always excites me! I’ve received quite a few e-mails over the last month or so that I promise I will be reading and responding to over the next week. Keep track of our schools as we are getting ready to begin a review of the dates to see what we can make work this year. Thanks to all of you who worked so hard last year to make so many of the schools happen. I got to more places and got to see more people than I ever have before. I do have a more hectic schedule this year as my goal is to be roping at the finals, but I will make every effort to get where I can. If I miss you this year, let’s talk about next year! Any of you who are interested in horses, please get in touch with me. 979-777-6946 I’ve got some pretty good ones that you may consider! I will try to do a better job of keeping in touch. At almost $4 a minute to call back to the states from where I was, I can just bet that most of you understand… Also, for those of you complaining about the price of diesel, you will be happy to know those folks over there pay way more than us……..Take care and we’ll talk soon.Happy Trails, Joe B. November 6th, 2007 Hey guys! It’s that time again! WNFR 2008 – can you believe it? It seems like the year has just flown by. I’m so honored and excited – they’ve asked me to commentate the timed events in Vegas again this year. I was sure hoping they would. It’s something I really enjoy doing. My goal is to help people understand the timed events better so that they can appreciate the race for the championship and all that really goes into it. Speaking of the “race” – looks like my buddy Cody Ohl is definitely back after winning the San Angelo Fiesta Match Roping. He’s headed to Dallas and then onto Vegas, but I don’t think anyone is going to lie down just because he’s back. I think that Trevor, Blair, Houston, Matt S. and a few others may have something to say about that! A big congrats to my friend, Trevor for winning the Steer Roping Championship again as that is an event he truly dominates. Looks like he’s got one championship down and two more to go for the “Triple Crown”. Let’s see the run for the money these other guys give him! Should be some good watching! As many of you know (with my injury) this has been a different kind of year for me. In the past, as time would allow, I’ve enjoyed putting on a few roping schools and doing some private lessons. BUT, this year I’ve had the opportunity take my instructing to a higher level. With the help of 5-time NFR Qualifier (and 7-time Sierra Circuit Winner), Mike Arnold, I’ve been able to have more schools than ever. I’ve been able to go some places I’ve not been in awhile and schedule schools in places I’ve never dreamed of going. It has been so wonderful to be able to actually get to know people who seem to know us so well. And the talent out there is just incredible – I’ve seen more talent this year than I think ever. It seems like there are 3-4 people at each school that really stand out. I am sure that I will be seeing their names again. I can’t tell you how much I’ve enjoyed all the schools and private lessons this past year. Speaking of schools in new places: I am sure looking forward to going to Australia at the end of the year and then onto the land of the Kiwi cowboys in New Zealand! This is the opportunity of a lifetime. It really seems like interest in the sport of roping is coming to a new level (everywhere) – particularly the calf roping. A special thanks to guys like Lanham Mangold and the USCRA and the many other associations who are working so hard to promote the sport. What they are doing is not easy and they should be commended for trying so hard. I am really enjoying seeing the progress – such as letting the younger kids tie down and all the roping opportunities for the girls. Those aren’t things we’ve seen in the past and I think it is making a real difference. Something else I am really coming to enjoy…..I get a lot of calls from people looking for horses and have discovered that I seem to have a talent for fitting people and horses together. I’m not much on horse traders as those folks don’t seem to care about anything other than making a buck, but if you are looking for something particular, give me a chance. I would love to try and help. I’ve made some pretty good matches this year and look forward to more. Brody is doing just great with his cutting and team roping. He works hard at it and I’m so proud. I’ve really enjoyed being his “driver” this year….although THAT has been a little “interesting” for me….but I wouldn’t trade the time with him and my family this year for anything. I was thinking the other day. I saw Brody take his first step, say his first word, and rope two feet for the first time ….all at a rodeo! Okay…I’ve danced all around it – YES, I’m roping again. I haven’t really competed much since Calgary. I’ve just been practicing some at the house and at the schools…..UNTIL last week at the Quarter Horse Congress in Ohio. Mike and I went up there and that is the best I’ve felt roping since Vegas last year. I placed in two rounds and won 3rd in the average. I tied two calves in 8 and one in 7 on Mike’s good black horse. By the way, way to go Mike on the “good black horse”!!!! He won 3rd for “calf horse of the year”. I told everybody what a great horse he would be 3 years ago and Mike and I seemed to be the only ones that believed it. Apparently we were right. By the way….THIS isn’t the first good horse Mike has had – go figure. If you can make it out to Vegas, come see me – I’ll be there all week. Be sure to stop by Martin Saddlery and check out the new Joe Beaver saddles. We’ve put a lot of time and effort into these saddles and I think you will be pleasantly surprised at the finished product. I’m proud to say that we’ve got a saddle that properly fits a horse, is comfortable, good looking and affordable. There are so many saddles out there that seem to miss one or more of those marks. Also! Be sure to get your NEW “Tough Enough to Wear to Pink” t-shirt this year. They are the new design and all the proceeds go directly to the TETWP campaign. I want to extend a big thanks to Karl Stressman and all the good folks at Wrangler for staying behind such an important cause and taking it to the next level! Thank you from the bottom of my heart. Thanks also to Texas Pneumatic Tools, Inc. - Carl and Kay Evans for coming on board as my newest Sponsor. They’ve been great friends of my family for years. I’m so proud to have them on my team. Special thanks to McCoy’s Building Supply …especially Brian McCoy and Cliff Mulanax for all they have done to support me. I look forward to working with “McCoy’s”. They have it all – any farm and ranch supplies you could ever need…feeders, panels, etc. Check them out! And let me go ahead and tip my hat to Bill Fick at Hillcrest Ford Lincoln Mercury in Huntsville, Texas. THEY ARE YOUR TRUE RODEO VEHICLE CONNECTION. I challenge you to tell me how many dealerships will send their best folks (Allen Carpentier and Buckwheat Willrich) to deliver you a brand new truck six states away because your current truck wasn’t performing the way it should. Trust me, they care. I don’t know of anyone who runs a service department like Allen and Rene Carpentier. I’ve seen them take a vehicle in after hours and work through the night to be sure it was back on the road the next morning. If you need anything, you can always count on them. And of course, you can ALWAYS count on Buckwheat. I can tell you that most of us going down the road have known this for years. I want to sincerely thank everyone at Hillcrest for all they do for my family and my extended rodeo family. Thanks to Steve D. and Roger at 3-D. The Joe Beaver Tack line should be out in January 2008. They have all you need in the way of leather goods…belts, breast collars, etc. AND a special thanks to Steve for Ilee – WHAT A GREAT HORSE! Thanks also to Randy and Kim Bloomer at Bloomer Trailers. I think they have outdone themselves for sure this time. I am really looking forward to getting my new trailer and showing it off! Don’t forget the Twisted X Boots – lace up or slip on. They are great to rope in – light as a tennis shoe but their performance will surprise you. If this last part has sounded like a commercial, bear with me….I really appreciate all of my sponsors and everything that they do for me. I know that I can’t mention everyone, but a special thanks to all of you (you know who you are) who continue to support me and the sport I love. Vegas should be fun. My mom is looking forward to coming out. My family and I love seeing all of our friends. Oh, and one last note – be sure to ask me about the Outback Steakhouse giveaways when you see me out there. If you are like me, you don’t want to miss a chance at a free steak. Thanks so much to Outback Steakhouse for their sponsorship and their involvement in Rodeo. That’s all for now! Happy Trails, Joe B September 26th, 2007 Well, here we are in September and this year has just flown by. I’ve really been working on my roping and tying since the last time I wrote and my hip is finally healing. I’m feeling the best I’ve felt in a long time. Although a bone spur was missed during the procedure in San Francisco, I must say that I’m still glad that I had it done. I still have some pain, but I can definitely feel the difference. I’ve been going to a few ropings and rodeos and have even tied a few in 7 (seconds) so, obviously whatever I’m doing is working. The horse business has been really busy – there are a lot of really nice horses out there. I’ve found there are a lot of people who can show and sell horses, but it takes a good eye and a real understanding of people and horses to make a good match. What fits me might not fit someone else and vice versa…. Everything matters – rider skill, roper skill, horse ability, etc. It makes me feel really good when someone comes back to me and says something like “’ole Peanut’ was the best horse I could have ever had to learn on, but now I’m really to go to that next level. Do you have something that might fit me now?” Those are good matches!I’ve really enjoyed the opportunity to have so many schools this year and the demand for private lessons seems to be growing. It is such a good feeling to see the results and to be a part of the student’s accomplishments. I’m headed out to Memphis, TN after lunch. I’m taking Jenna and Brody to a Cutting there and then onto Nancy, Kentucky for a roping school. Andrea C. has been working hard to get that one together and I’m looking forward to it. Brody is really doing well with his Cutting. I’m so proud of him. He’s been working hard with quite a few people who really have an understanding of the sport. I must say that I’m learning a lot too. The scoring system is all judged – very different from my events and what I’m used to. How about the race for the Calf Roping Championship? What a different finals it will be this year – no Joe B., no Fred W., no Ryan J……Cody is coming back from shoulder surgery…I sure wouldn’t count him out…Trevor looks like the Favorite, but Houston is sure hanging tight. Trevor is such an athlete and definitely has some momentum going. Houston has tons of talent and should be thirsty for a win since he hasn’t been to Vegas in awhile…I guess we will just have to wait and see… The process is underway for making a decision on who will commentate the National Finals Rodeo. I love doing it and I’ve made sure that my name is in the hat. There are some who say I’m pretty good at it. If there is anyone out there who has any influence….I sure would like to do it again this year! Regardless of the outcome, I will be in Vegas, so stop by my sponsor’s booths and say hello! Hats off to Lanham for bringing back open roping to the USCRA…I have to agree with him. There should be an open roping for people to watch. Check into it – it’s really neat the way he’s doing it – all ropings advertised in “Loops Magazine” will count toward the standings. What a great idea! Also, Big Al….keep up with the GREAT commentaries! I would like to thank my great friends Kendra Santos and Shavauna Morgenroth: Kendra S. did a great article in the Spin to Win Magazine…Thanks so much Kendra – you always call it exactly like it is – and with style! Shavauna created and manages my website / e-mails…she assists with promotions, schools, etc. Thanks Shavauna for all you do to keep all this going. One final note, I’ve had a number of e-mails in regard to the schools and private lessons and how old is too old to learn. My answer is this: If you want to learn, contact me. Ask anyone who has been to my school. While I teach quite a few Jr. High, High School and College age students, many of my students do not fall into that age bracket. My students are individuals of all ages and all walks of life. If you are a beginner or are just trying to get to that next level, don’t let something like age get in your way! Look at me…they said I’d be done years ago… Don’t ever let anybody tell you that you can’t do something! For those of you with kids, talk to Kendra Santos, she can tell you first hand…the lessons pay off!Also, thanks to those of you who stay in contact with my mom. She loves the calls and the visits and is doing well. I just got back from another great visit with her. Till we meet again, Happy Trails, Joe B. September 1st, 2007 Hey guys,It’s been a great summer – a little different than I’m used to, but still great. The Dominican Republic was a beautiful place to be – I made some great friends and we had a great school. We will definitely be going back! I am so proud of my son Brody. He made the Texas High School Finals in the Cutting. We had a great time there. He won 4th in the first round, but lost his cow the second time out. Sometimes that just happens. For the short amount of time he’s been involved in this sport, it is just amazing for me to watch him. Did I mention that I was proud?I started trying to rope the last week of June to get ready for Calgary. I couldn’t miss that one. I had some success there as I placed in 3 of 4 rounds. My hip still wasn’t feeling good though….is just hard to get into position. I am having to retrain myself on my tying so that I can make it all come together again. It was fun to watch the Cutting at Calgary. We spent some time with Don and Cathy Boone and Faron Hightower. If you can believe this, Brody rode one of Don and Cathy’s horses and ended up as Reserve Champion Youth! This was really special for him, as Don put Brody on his first cutting horse only in November 2006!I’m hanging in there and working really hard on my tying. I’ve been going to the big invitational ropings and I am learning to be a great driver for Brody – going to more cuttings! Still have a lot of schools to do this fall including Australia in December for the holidays. I’m really looking forward to that. Some things you may want to check out: 3-D is about to introduce the Joe Beaver Tack Line. I’m really happy with this line. It is high quality and nice looking tack at affordable prices. I’ve had a lot of feedback from the new Outback sponsorship, be sure to support those who support rodeo…eat at Outback! 08 Fords at Hillcrest Ford in Huntsville, TX – talk to Bill or Buckwheat. They won’t let you down and they will deliver to just about anywhere!The new Wranglers – I love the fit and they are good looking jeans!Tahitian Noni – Horse Essentials – it’s as good for horses as humans!Call Doc Currie for all your vet needs – Two world champs (myself and Fred) can’t be wrong! Happy Trails, Joe B. April 19th, 2007 It’s been awhile since I’ve posted last and I’m sorry about that. I’ve been a little unsure of what direction things were going to take after my hip surgery and I couldn’t give anyone a plan until I was sure of what it was myself….. My hip surgery went well. They anticipated my recovery time being 3-4 months, so Houston was going to be my comeback. I roped at Houston and felt some pain in my hip, so I went back to the doctor. My doctors are now telling me that there will be about a 6-8 month recovery period for as much work as they did. They removed two bone spurs, 5 bone chips and did a labrium repair. Basically, they did a shoulder surgery on my hip. I’ve got some money won at the tour rodeos in the team roping with my partner, Nicky Simmons, so I will see how this summer goes at the tour rodeos if I can get healed up. It would be easy to be frustrated, but I know that if I’m healed up at my age I can win. If I am hurt, I am not capable of giving it 100% – and we all know that I never accept less than 100%. One thing that I’m looking forward to is that I’ve had two of the best calf horses that I’ve had in a long time. I also have two great head horses and a great partner! So, all I have to do is get healed up and I will be ready! I’ve had two schools this spring and they went really well. Meridian, Mississippi was an extremely nice facility and I had some great kids to work with. Lodi, California – what a beautiful place to have a school! Russ Bigelo and the Rice’s were nice enough to let us use their wonderful place and it was great to see everyone – particularly, the students who returned. It is always nice to watch their progress from school to school. May will take me to the Dominican Republic to see if we can advance roping in that area. I’ve been doing a lot of private lessons and will be home at least for the next 60 days, so if you want to book a school or talk to me about private lessons (your place or mine), now is your chance! I am making plans to be at Barry Burks Junior Roping and then at Gonzales at the Texas Junior High Finals on May 30th. In addition, I’m looking forward to taking my son, Brody to the Texas High School Finals in Abilene in June. He made it in the Boys Cutting from Region 7. I’m as excited as he is and our family is looking forward to enjoying that week!I want to thank all of my sponsors who continue to allow me to do what I love to do and support the sport that I love. I also want to welcome my new sponsor 3-D Belts! I am looking forward to working with them. Thanks to all of you – my family, my friends, and my fans! I sincerely appreciate all of your support! Happy Trails! Joe B.Senior TYRA and YRA Boys – Don’t forget about filing out your Walter Beaver Memorial Scholarship forms. Be sure to e-mail info@joebeaver.com if you don’t have the paperwork. January 1st, 2007 Pendleton, ORMy year needed a big boost and I sure got it at Pendleton. For those of you who don’t know, the arena is grass and I’m not a huge fan of it. I’m not complaining though because it all worked out just great. I rode Mike Arnold’s black horse in the Calf Roping to win the rodeo. My new partner, Nick Simmons and I won the Team Roping and that secured the All-Around title for me. I’m on top of the world. I’m just thrilled with my new partner Nicky. What a great guy he is! He’s smart, he pays attention and takes care of business – and he’s a roping little Okie! We have a chance to make the NFR and this win will sure help!I’m headed to Victoria to see my parents. My dad isn’t doing well and my mom is hanging in there. These are difficult times and I’m glad to take them some great news. I appreciate all the calls to my mom and dad – and to me from you! Don’t stop! They really mean a lot in times like these!Albuquerque, NM I got a new calf horse, Murphy from Barry Burk. He’s a little bigger horse than I’m used to, but I sure like him. He’s easy to get along with and reminds me a lot of Cody’s horse, Luke. He actually works about the same. Cody has just been on fire here lately – unbeatable…probably roping better than ever. I just like to stay close to him because I know if I do, I’m going to win something!My first calf was outstanding and I tied him in about 7. My second calf was terrible but, I was still about 10 on him. That sure makes me like Murphy – I can handle either situation on him. I needed to make the short round in the Team Roping so I can make it to Omaha to the Tour Finals and sure enough Nicky pulled off a shot and let me make it. Unfortunately Nicky and I started roping together late and he doesn’t have enough points to go to Omaha, but he sure got me there and I really appreciate it. I got by my calf in the short go and won second and Murphy paid off again. Man I love that horse. Nicky and I won 4th in the Team Roping and suddenly my chances to make the NFR in two events are front and center. I am thrilled!El Paso, TXI had a great week in El Paso. Tied a calf in about 7 and I’m so pleased my new horse, Murphy. He’s sure working out and I am sure appreciative that Barry let me have him. Nicky and I did what we could on the steers we drew (they weren’t that great) and ended up placing in a round and won 3rd in the average. It’s near the end of September now and I’m driving all night to Victoria to see my parents. My dad isn’t doing very well and it seems that these all night trips really give me an opportunity to reflect. I’m so thankful for my family, all my friends and all the good (and bad) times we’ve had. It is the nights like tonight when I realize how valuable it all is and how fortunate I am. I’m going to stay in Victoria for a few days before going to Omaha. I’m also looking forward to going to watch my son, Brody ride cutting horses at Don and Cathy Boone’s house. Don Boone, Faron Hightower and Mitch Farris have really been helping him a lot. I sure appreciate them. Brody took an interest in cutting and started riding only about a month ago and really seems to like it. He rides well and the sport seems to really fit him. He’s gone to some of the high school cuttings. He’s placed a few times – no first places yet, but he’s only starting out and Jenna and I are so proud of him. This is something that I’ve always wanted to do and I’m glad that Brody is getting the opportunity….it looks so cool to me! I’ve got some really good friends who train and ride like Don, Faron, and Keith Barnet that I’ve always admired. Omaha, NEI ended up staying in Victoria an extra day and then headed to the airport, running late of course. I just didn’t want to leave my mom and dad. Traffic was horrible and we had to change a flat in the rain. We finally got there and the line for security was about 73 miles long (it sure seemed like it anyway) but we got in with about 20 minutes to spare. It was really nice for me, Jenna and Brody to go together to a rodeo where we could spend some time and not have to travel all over for that week. Omaha is a really pretty place to hang out. I roped with Jhett Johnson since Nicky couldn’t go. My hopes were high because doing well at Omaha would do well for my chances at the NFR. Jhett’s a great guy and a good roper and we did well in the semifinals. In the finals, we came back to split the Championship with Matt Sherwood and Walt Woodard. Suddenly I’m in the top ten in the Team Roping and only $30,000 from winning a World Championship! You just never know.San Bernidino, CAI left Omaha on Sunday to head to San Bernidino. My goal was to go out there and help Nicky make the finals. Unfortunately that didn’t go well. I did win third in the calf roping, but now I’m headed home to be with my dad. After California / WacoMy flight hit the ground in Houston at 6:30am and I got a rental car to head to my parents in Victoria. I got there about 8:00 am. My dad isn’t doing well and I’m not sure Waco is going to happen for me this week. I want to go help Nicky, but things sure don’t look good at home. Jenna took my rig and horses to Waco and I drove the rental car up there for the first round on Tuesday morning. We roped and I didn’t do a good job. We were about 6 on the first one and I missed the second one. I left my calf horse in Waco and drove back to Victoria in the rental car to be with my mom and dad. I went back to Waco the next morning for slack. My first calf was pretty strong and I was about 10 on him and came back and was 8.2 on my next one and won 3rd. I’m headed back to Victoria. Things aren’t well with my dad. Sunny Backstrom, a secretary for all the big rodeos got me traded to the end for my 3rd calf in Waco. I’ve know her for over 20 years. She is a good lady and I sure appreciated that of her. For those of you who have lost a parent, you know what I’m going through…. This is one of the most devastating things that could ever happen to anyone. My dad kept telling me that this is the way that things are supposed to be – I’m supposed to bury him, not him bury me. About the middle of the week, a lot of people gathered at the house – friends like Buckwheat, Mike Arnold, Lewis McFaddin and Milo Abercrombie – all those guys that have always been such close friends over the years…those guys that have meant so much to my family and specifically, so much to my dad. Good friends were there – guys like Matt Prichard and all those boys that my dad helped rope and raise through out the years. Jenna and Brody were with me and the family was all together. We left it in God’s hands that evening. My dad passed away. Buckwheat came in late that night, and then Shavauna and then for the rest of that week, it was just a house full of family and special friends. He fought a long hard battle and the end had finally come. It was hard to let him go.RopingI’ve never had much bother my roping until my dad’s health began to deteriorate and I was struggling. About the middle of August I had to go home and regroup. I just couldn’t focus. Once I got my mom a little help and knew that I had made things as comfortable for them as I could, I went back to work because I had a job to do. That job was to make the NFR. I owed it to myself, my family, my sponsors, to my fans – to everyone who depended on me. Waco, TX – Friday NightThe short go was Saturday and I needed to do something here to help Nicky in the third round. My dad is gone, the funeral is over and I needed to focus for Nicky. We ended up with a no time – my fault. Not good. I won third in the short round and second in the average in the Calf Roping. That didn’t help Nicky. Billings, MTI didn’t do well in the calf roping. I didn’t draw a good calf and I just didn’t rope well, but Nicky and I did manage to win second in the second round.Fort Collins, CO This is one of the last big rodeos of the year and Nicky and I won second in the Team Roping and that really helped us out – it really got Nicky up there close to the top 15. I’m going home for a few days. We have Kansas City coming up and two in South Dakota and then I’m home for awhile. Kansas CityThe calf roping went well – I placed in the second round, won the short round and ended up doing well in the average. I really like Murphy. In the Team Roping, I didn’t do well. I probably cost Nicky a trip to the NFR. In the first round I stuck it on a steer to probably win the go and my horse stumbled and I didn’t have a good dally and lost my rope. I will have to live with that. It is not a good feeling to let someone down. Nicky is a great guy and a good roper and we were both trying to win and I was trying my hardest to get him to the finals. I don’t know what is going to happen now. South DakotaWe placed in the Team Roping at both rodeos (Rapid City and Brookings). I took my young horse (Hawk) that I got from my dad to these rodeos. He’s probably one of the nicest young horses that I’ve ever ridden. At his first big rodeo, I won 5th in the calf roping. I know my dad was smiling down on me that night! It was a great feeling. I’m headed home to see my family. NovemberI’ve got a lot of stuff going on the next few weeks. I have some private lessons scheduled to teach, a roping school in North Carolina and the Tour Finale in Dallas (Team Roping with Jhett Johnson). Thanksgiving is also coming up and I have my two-day school that starts the day after Thanksgiving. My house is a big gathering spot during the Thanksgiving holiday. A lot of people come from way off to spend Thanksgiving with us. My friend Mick from Australia is coming – he doesn’t know really what Thanksgiving is, but we are sure going to show him. All my family and close friends will be there – usually about 30 people. We take the time to reflect on what the day means and spend time together and then we go to work……for the school the next day. The arena has to be set up, calves gathered, and all that has to be done to prepare. My rig and horses will leave on the second day / Saturday of my school headed to Las Vegas for the NFR. I will fly out on Sunday for an opportunity to help get the calves ready on Monday and the steers ready on Tuesday. It’s been awhile since I’ve put my efforts into two events and making it to the finals in both. I think that the time I spent regrouping at the end of the summer was a huge help. I really had a chance to get my mind right. I knew my dad was not doing well, but I couldn’t do anything about that. My dad always said that we should try to change the things that need changing that we can, but that we have to live with what we can not change. You just have to make the best of it sometimes. He was sure right. I owed it to my dad and my mom to give it 110%. My mom loves going to the NFR and is looking forward to going this year. She really deserves that trip. When I left Victoria, TX at the end of August, I knew that I had to make the NFR in both events. Sometimes you just have to reach inside yourself regardless of what is going on around you. I preach that to my son, Brody, at my roping schools and even to my friends. You have to give things 100% – its mind over matter. There are some things that you just have to do to make things better. Never say never! It will be fun to be at the finals this year. I’ll be taking my brown head horse, my old horse, Turbo and my new calf horse, Murphy. I appreciate all of your support and you keeping up with me. I will update again after Dallas and then will look forward to updating during the NFR from Las Vegas. Hopefully I will see many of you there. I’ve got autograph sessions each day at the Cowboy Christmas and have tons of opportunities to see everyone! Come by and say hello! I’m headed to Victoria to have lunch with my mom. You know how your mom always stands behind you through thick and thin and right or wrong? I’m going to take my mom to lunch to let her know how much I appreciate her always sticking with me. Happy Thanksgiving to you and your family! Happy Trails, Joe B.
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