If the short round of the 2026 Reno Rodeo was any indication of the level of competition expected within the WPRA over the next month of rodeos, then fans are in for a real treat. Both barrel racing and breakaway roping events had a good mix of newcomers and veterans all bringing the heat in Nevada.
When the dust settled on both events it was two veterans of the game winning the Reno Rodeo for the first time in their careers. After narrowly missing the winner’s circle the last two years, seven-time NFR qualifier Emily Beisel secured her first set of Reno Rodeo spurs after landing atop the barrel racing leaderboard.
Beisel, of Weatherford, Oklahoma, had been the bridesmaid the last two years behind four-time world champion Hailey Kinsel and Sister but this was Beisel and Chewy’s year. Riding Teasin Dat Guy, the 10-year-old palomino owned by 4M Ranch, the duo finished with a total time of 50.74 on three runs, improving on their time for 2025 which was 51.12 on three runs.
“I was on a mission to get this win for Chewy as she is such a special mare and we have been so close the last two years,” said Beisel, in front of the sold-out crowd. “I’m just so grateful, what an incredible animal. Thank you, Reno, she obviously loves it here. She loves running for this crowd.”…