By: Julia Dondero
Tory Johnson took home the championship title in Mill Spring, North Carolina this past October. This winter, he will back into the boxes of the Fabulous Lazy E Area with a second consecutive Triple Crown of Rodeo title on the line. The World Champions Rodeo Alliance (WCRA) will ring in the new year at the iconic Lazy E Arena in Guthrie, Oklahoma January 3-6, 2024.
Johnson, a third-generation cowboy, will look to take home his second consecutive WCRA major win after a commanding performance at Rodeo Carolina. The Oklahoma native stopped the clock with a 3.84-second-run to seal the deal and take home $15,000 in North Carolina.
“Rodeo Carolina had a great atmosphere. I knew I had a chance to win. I was the first out and I knew I just needed to focus on the barrier and do my job. It felt great to set the pace and win” said Johnson.
Johnson, who has been nominating Bill Pickett Invitational Rodeos and PRCA rodeos, and has qualified for WCRA major events since the organization’s start in 2018 expressed his gratitude for the copious opportunities allotted by the association.
“At 38 years old, it’s great to have this level of opportunities to compete at this level alongside everyone. I’m ready for the Stampede At The E, it’s a great opportunity to compete on a large stage” explained Johnson.
Johnson, who grew up as a multi-event cowboy and football player, explained how his athletic background has aided him in his success as a steer wrestler.
“I chose to steer wrestle because it’s similar to football in many ways. I was a safety [in football] and loved making big hits, I’ve always been an adrenaline junkie and steer wrestling feels the same way,” said Johnson.
This January, Johnson will look to write his name in the WCRA history books once again. Currently seeded in the top three of the event, Johnson will look to strike again – this time in his own backyard.
