By: Julia Dondero
For Wyatt Rogers, the World Champions Rodeo Alliance is more than the opportunity to earn big paydays- it is an opportunity to turn dreams into reality. The 26-year-old Bull Rider from the small, Northeastern Oklahoma town of Hulbert is now a PBR Finals Qualifier and PBR team rider, but he originally got his start in the WCRA.
Rogers has been competing at WCRA Major Rodeos, since the organization’s inception in 2018 and accredits his experiences at WCRA Rodeos to his current success. After completing his Bachelor’s degree (in Sports Management) and his Masters (in Sports Administration) and competing in collegiate rodeo at Southeastern Oklahoma State University, the multi-event cowboy knew he wanted to pursue his passion full-time.
Rogers began his professional rodeo journey competing at PRCA rodeos in both Bull Riding and Steer Wrestling, nominating his runs for WCRA events along the way. In 2019, Rogers qualified and competed at the Windy City Round Up in Chicago and the Titletown Stampede in Green Bay, WI, changing the course of his career.
“Competing on those large stages was huge for me. Those opportunities helped me get my name on the map and I will always be grateful for that exposure” explained Rogers.
Flash forward a few years and the cowboy still has WCRA events on his mind, albeit with the opportunity to now nominate different events. Competing on the PBR Velocity Tour and as a member of the Kansas City Outlaws team, Rogers has the opportunity to nominate these large events. With his goals set to qualifying for Rodeo Carolinas, Rogers explained his plans to use these top-tier nominations to his advantage.
“Nominating these events is so important and can have a large impact on your career. You just have to believe in yourself and nominate it.”
For the Oklahoma native, the future looks bright. After qualifying for the 2023 PBR Finals during his Rookie Year, Rogers now has his sights set on qualifying for his second PBR Finals and Rodeo Carolinas. Rogers expressed his gratitude for the many opportunities provided by the WCRA and PBR over the years.
“Qualifying for my first PBR Finals was truly a dream come true. It is a blessing to watch the sport grow and I can’t wait to see what the future has in store.”
