East Idaho’s rodeo tradition solidified its reputation at the Idaho State High School Rodeo Finals on Saturday, with Firth native Ryder Wallace securing first place in the bareback riding competition, according to event organizers. The victory contributes to a broader trend of local athletes dominating the annual event, which drew competitors from across the state.
Wallace, a senior at Firth High School, earned a score of 84.5 on his ride, the highest in the bareback category, as reported by the Idaho State High School Rodeo Association. The win marks the third consecutive year that a rider from Firth has claimed top honors in the event, highlighting the community’s enduring influence in rodeo sports. “Firth has always been a hub for rodeo talent,” said local coach and former competitor Mark Thompson. “This win isn’t surprising—it’s a testament to the dedication of our students and the support from the community.”
East Idaho’s Rodeo Legacy Shines at State Finals
The Idaho State High School Rodeo Finals, held annually at the Idaho State Fairgrounds in Boise, featured over 200 competitors in 12 events, including bull riding, steer wrestling, and saddle bronc riding. East Idaho teams accounted for 17 of the 36 individual championship titles, according to data released by the rodeo association. This performance aligns with the region’s historical dominance, as East Idaho schools have won 42% of all state finals titles since 2010.
“The success of East Idaho athletes isn’t just about individual skill—it’s about the infrastructure and culture that supports them,” said Idaho Rodeo Association executive director Laura Bennett. “Local ranches, youth programs, and community events create a pipeline of talent that’s hard to match.”
Ryder Wallace’s Triumph in Bareback Riding
Wallace’s victory in the bareback riding event followed a tight competition. He faced stiff challenges from Boise High School’s Ethan Cole, who finished second with a score of 82.2. Bareback riding requires riders to grip a bucking horse with one hand while mounted on its back, with scores determined by the rider’s form, control, and the horse’s performance. The event is one of the most physically demanding in rodeo, with riders often sustaining injuries due to the high-risk nature of the sport.
Wallace’s win comes after a season of strong performances, including a regional championship title in April. His coach, Thompson, attributed his success to “hours of practice and mental preparation.” The Firth High School rodeo team has won 11 state titles since 2015, according to the Idaho High School Activities Association.
Wallace’s achievement also underscores the growing popularity of rodeo in East Idaho. The region, known for its agricultural roots, has seen a 22% increase in high school rodeo participation since 2018, according to state education department records. “Rodeo is more than a sport here—it’s part of our identity,” said Firth Mayor Sarah Lin. “Every year, we see young people step up and carry the legacy forward.”
Local Talent Dominates with Multiple Top Performances
In addition to Wallace’s victory, East Idaho athletes claimed wins in five other events. Notably, twin sisters from Shelley High School, Emily and Grace Martinez, swept the breakaway roping titles, while Pocatello’s Jake Reynolds secured first place in the steer wrestling. These results reflect a broader trend of regional dominance, with East Idaho schools accounting for 38% of all team championships at the finals this year.
The success of local athletes has also drawn attention from collegiate rodeo programs. Several NCAA Division I schools, including Utah State University and Colorado State University, have recruited East Idaho riders in recent years. “We’re seeing more scholarships awarded to our students than ever before,” said Thompson. “This is a direct result of the hard work and support from the community.”
The Idaho State High School Rodeo Finals concluded on Saturday, with awards ceremony held at the Boise Centre. The event will be followed by the National High School Rodeo Association championships in July, where top performers from across the country will compete. Wallace and other East Idaho athletes are expected to represent the region in the national event, according to the rodeo association.
As the rodeo season shifts toward national competitions, the focus remains on the continued growth of the sport. With East Idaho’s athletes setting the pace, the region’s reputation as a rodeo powerhouse shows no signs of waning.
For more information on the Idaho State High School Rodeo Finals, visit the official website idahorodeo.org. Details about upcoming events and athlete profiles can also be found on the Idaho High School Activities Association’s ihsga.org.
What’s next for East Idaho’s rodeo athletes? The National High School Rodeo Association championships in July will test their skills against competitors from across the country. How will the region’s dominance translate on a national stage? Share your thoughts below and stay tuned for updates.
