Multiple Emery Spartans found success at the state finals, fighting their way to a slot in the National High School Finals Rodeo. Louie Ivie and his partner Stefan Ramone as well as Hadley and Hayden Cloward will represent team Utah in team roping. McKoy Christiansen will also compete in the reigned cowhorse event for the Utah team.
In addition to the Spartans that will compete nationally, a handful of competitors from Emery High also received numerous scholarships and academic awards. Additionally, nine competitors from Emery High qualified for a chance to participate in the Silver State International Rodeo in Winnemucca, Nev. in early July.
“We had amazing weather all week, including a little shower during the short round, which was amazing considering the crazy rain and hail that was happening all around, us but somehow seemed to miss our little celebration in Heber City,” the team shared on social media. “The short round at state finals is always awesome, but this year was a little extra special for our club as we were able to participate in auctioning off a George Strait autographed guitar to raise money for our own Hadley Cloward and his family as he battles Hodgkin’s Lymphoma.”
Cloward, a recent graduate of Emery High school, was recently diagnosed with Hodgkins Lymphoma. Friends, family and strangers set up an assembly line at the state finals to shave their heads in honor of him. It is estimated that over 100 people got in line for a trim. Cloward is the son of Cory and Shannon Cloward of Castle Dale.
Also at the state finals, rodeo goers showed their support for those suffering diabetes. At the event, people sported blue ensembles to raise awareness for diabetes.
“We were rockin’ our ‘Hardcore Cowboy’ hats and got to participate in Bold Enough to Wear Blue night to raise money for diabetes awareness,” the team continued. “Life is good in our rodeo world right now. We have amazing kids and leaders statewide and we are thrilled to be a part of it.”
The Spartans will travel to the national competition in Rock Springs, Wyo. July 12-18 at the Sweetwater Events Complex.