Ashbachers enjoy a successful CFR!

By Joan Janzen

Duane Ashbacher of Lazy 2 Rodeo at Hoosier, SK, was awarded Steer Riding Stock Contractor of the year in the 2022 Canadian Finals Rodeo (CFR) in Red Deer, AB on the weekend of November 4th. The professional steer riders vote on the steer riding contractor of the year, and this is the Ashbacher’s fourth consecutive award!

Another member of the Ashbacher family put on a fantastic show in the saddle bronc competition. Duane and Judy’s son, Kole Ashbacher, was up against some close competition. The near-capacity crowd at the Peavey Mart Centrium enjoyed a great show, cheering on the bronc riders.

“Kole had a very successful CFR in Red Deer. He won two rounds, and in the process, set a CFR record score in the saddle bronc during the Friday performance on the saddle bronc horse of the year, Get Smart,” Duane explained. Kole’s score was an incredible 91.75. “The record was broken again on Sunday by Zeke Thurston on the same horse.” Zeke Thurston is from Big Valley.

“Kole finished 2nd in the average and 2nd in Canada,” Duane said. “It was a very successful CFR!”

The Ashbachers are planning to head to Vegas for ten days, beginning December 1st, to watch Kole ride at the National Finals Rodeo. Good luck, Kole, from everyone back home!