FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Casper, WY—On June 15, 2025, the Navajo Technical University Rodeo Team is excited to announce their participation in the College National Finals Rodeo (CNFR) at the Ford Wyoming Center in Casper, WY, from June 15 to 24, 2025.
Isaiah Tom, representing Navajo Technical University and hailing from Vanderwagen, New Mexico, is preparing for the biggest performance of the season. This will be Isaiah’s second time qualifying for the CNFR in the Bareback Riding event. He has been named Athlete of the Week for Central Arizona College in Casa Grande. He also won the 2025 Year-End Bareback Championship in Prescott, Arizona, receiving a custom saddle for placing first in the regional finals rodeo.
Isaiah confidently demonstrated his bareback riding skills on the exciting opening day. He completed round one with a solid performance but faced a challenging turn, resulting in a low score of 60 points. Despite this setback, he showed optimism and determination, confronting the unfortunate experience of being bucked off his horse.
When asked about going head-to-head to become a national champion in bareback riding, Isaiah said, “The Lord gave me a second chance, and I thank him for giving me another opportunity to come here again. This year, I have more confidence in myself than last. And I give my Lord and savior Jesus Christ the praise.”
Isaiah also shared a passage of comfort and encouragement, reminding believers of God’s faithfulness and willingness to be their source of strength and support.
Isaiah would also like to mention a passage from Isaiah 41:10 KJV: “Fear not thou, for I am with thee; be not dismayed; for I am thy God. I will strengthen thee, yea, I will uphold thee with the right hand of my righteousness.”
To conclude the college rodeo season, he captured the long and short go-rounds and was crowned the average champion.
“Before any rodeo starts, we give our respects to the Lord and our Nation. We can do all things through Christ. The sport of rodeo is a lifestyle to most of us, and it feels good to be back in Casper. Isaiah is a blessed Cowboy. I fully support his talent. Working toward a goal all school year and then reaching that goal is a good feeling. Getting to this arena is one thing, but we’ve got a new goal that we’ve set. Time to go to work and stay focused. Thank you to the people who support NTU Rodeo,” said Coach Nicole Pino.
Navajo Technical University’s rodeo program allows students to work as a cohesive team with their livestock and teammates, representing Navajo Technical University with dedication and horsemanship skills. Isaiah is currently working on earning his certificate in our Construction Technology program.
For more information, contact:
Nicole Pino, NTU Rodeo Coach
E: npino@navajotech.edu
P: (505) 387-7385 ext. 1029
