As the International Professional Rodeo Association (IPRA) season charges into summer, several athletes have surged to the top of their respective events with standout performances and growing momentum.
Late June through July marks a pivotal time in the IPRA season, known as the “Summer Run.” This stretch of rodeos presents major opportunities to increase earnings, travel extensively and, most importantly, improve qualification odds for the prestigious International Finals Rodeo (IFR).
In bareback riding, Oklahoma’s Mark J. Kreder leads with more than $20,000 won, setting the pace in a competitive field. A three-time Southern Region champion and 2014 National All-Region champion, Kreder comes from rodeo royalty—his father won the 1986 world title, and his uncle Shawn captured the 2018 championship. In 2025, Kreder is seeking his first IPRA world title.
Bull riding sees Indiana’s Darren Wagler on top, with Massachusetts’ Benjamin Havill close behind. IPRA rookie Elijah Jennings is also making a strong push, currently ranked third overall and leading the rookie standings.
Saddle bronc riding is led by reigning world champion Kody Rinehart of Mississippi, who has already banked more than $20,000. In 2024, Rinehart set a new single-season earnings record of $74,773.93—this year, he’s on pace to challenge his own milestone.
In tie-down roping, South Carolina’s Cynch Whitesell tops the leaderboard with more than $20,000. Georgians Zack Cargle, Hayden Phipps and Marcus Theriot are also in close pursuit, showcasing the state’s dominance in timed events.
Steer wrestling is headed by Tennessee’s Troy Orr, with rookie Colton Brumley of North Carolina close behind. Brumley is also leading the rookie all-around, steer wrestling and tie-down standings—an impressive triple threat.
In barrel racing, rookie Dallas Philen of Georgia holds a narrow lead over Oklahoma’s Brandie Inman. Inman, who recently picked up major checks at the WCRA’s Rodeo Corpus Christi and Women’s Rodeo World Championship, capitalized on co-sanctioned events to climb the standings.
Team roping is led by header Marcus Theriot of Mississippi and heeler Stephen Britnell of Tennessee. Theriot’s presence in multiple events highlights his all-around skill. Britnell, the reigning world champion heeler, has an illustrious career with eight IPRA world titles and 22 IFR qualifications. In 2025, he’s looking to add to that legacy.
Breakaway roping is led by North Carolina’s Grace Toberer, who has earned nearly $18,000. Georgia’s Kolby Whitesell is close behind, setting up a thrilling battle down the stretch.
As the IPRA crosses the halfway mark of the 2025 season, contenders are positioning themselves for a push toward the IFR. With veterans defending their ground and fresh faces rising fast, the race to the championships promises to be one of the most exciting yet.
