In the high-stakes world of professional rodeo, the partnership between a seasoned veteran and a rising star can lead to extraordinary outcomes. Such was the case at the 2024 San Angelo Stock Show and Rodeo, where the dynamic duo of Shay Dixon Carroll and Jace Helton clinched the team roping title with a combined time of 13.9 seconds on three steers. This remarkable achievement not only showcased their individual talents but also highlighted the power of collaboration between experience and youthful vigor.
A Fusion of Experience and Youth
Shay Dixon Carroll, a three-time National Finals Rodeo (NFR) qualifier at 33, brings a wealth of experience to the arena. His deep understanding of the sport and strategic acumen have made him a formidable competitor over the years. In contrast, 21-year-old Jace Helton, a student at Weatherford College, is a burgeoning talent eager to make his mark. Despite still being on his Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association (PRCA) permit, Helton’s prowess was evident when he secured the 2022 College National Finals Rodeo (CNFR) championship as a heeler. Their partnership at San Angelo marked their inaugural ProRodeo collaboration, setting the stage for a compelling narrative of mentorship and ambition.
Strategic Mastery in San Angelo
The San Angelo Rodeo is renowned for its challenging format, demanding both precision and adaptability from its contestants. Carroll and Helton’s journey began on April 2, 2024, during the slack rounds. Their initial run, clocking in at 5.3 seconds, placed them outside the immediate payout brackets. Recognizing the need for a more aggressive approach, the duo recalibrated their strategy for the second round. Their decision paid off handsomely as they delivered a blistering 4.1-second run, propelling them into contention and setting the stage for a high-stakes final.
The culmination of their efforts was realized on April 19, 2024, during the finals. Entering as the fifth-highest qualifiers with a cumulative time of 9.4 seconds on two steers, the pressure was palpable. Their final steer presented unexpected challenges, starting slower than anticipated. Demonstrating adaptability, Carroll adjusted his approach mid-run, shortening his loop to accommodate the steer’s pace. This quick thinking, combined with Helton’s seamless heeling, resulted in a 4.5-second run. Their aggregate time of 13.9 seconds on three steers ultimately secured them the championship, earning each cowboy $8,582 in prize money.
Equine Partners: The Unsung Heroes
Central to Carroll and Helton’s success are their exceptional equine partners. Carroll’s mount, “Sparks In The Bud,” affectionately known as “Chris,” is a 10-year-old buckskin with a compelling backstory. Initially acquired from Steve and Trish Greenberg as a 4-year-old, Chris was intended as a leisure horse for Carroll’s grandmother due to soundness concerns. Remarkably, after a two-year respite, Chris regained his vigor, prompting Carroll’s grandmother to return him, believing his potential was better suited for competitive arenas. Since then, Chris has been instrumental in Carroll’s major competitions, including The American Rodeo and the Bob Feist Invitational (BFI), proving his versatility across various setups.
Helton’s partner, “CSR Pepto Play,” nicknamed “Dracula,” is a 13-year-old gelding known for his exceptional responsiveness and adaptability. Despite initial challenges in fast-paced environments like San Angelo, Dracula’s recent performances have showcased significant improvement, a testament to Helton’s dedicated training and their growing synergy. Helton praises Dracula’s consistency, noting, “He’s really talented and never really takes your throw away.”
Looking Ahead: Aspirations and Future Endeavors
The triumph at San Angelo serves as a pivotal milestone for both cowboys. For Helton, amassing $18,010.11 thus far in the season, the focus remains on maximizing his earnings during his permit year, with aspirations to qualify for the PRCA Permit Finals. A strong performance there could secure him a coveted spot at the 2025 RodeoHouston, setting a solid foundation for his rookie year. Carroll, on the other hand, adopts a more fluid approach, allowing his horse’s condition and performance to dictate his participation in upcoming major events. He emphasizes the importance of having a reliable equine partner, stating, “I think as long as my horse is working good… I just need to go to the big ones.”
The 2024 San Angelo Stock Show and Rodeo not only highlighted the exceptional talents of Shay Carroll and Jace Helton but also underscored the significance of strategic planning, adaptability, and the profound bond between cowboys and their horses. Their story is a testament to the rewards of hard work, collaboration, and the relentless pursuit of excellence in the rodeo arena.