Magnolia, Ark. Seven Muleriders will head to Casper, Wyoming on June 11 in order to chase their dreams of returning home with the title of a national champion. Out of the 41 team members who make up the SAU Rodeo Team, it is up to these seven to come home with a national championship. Cody Prescott set the bar high during 2009 and won the College National Finals Rodeo (CNFR) in the tie down roping event. These seven have worked hard to see that they follow in his footsteps and bring home another championship for the Muleriders and for themselves as individuals.

The trip to Casper is no easy one, and Rusty Hayes and the rest of the team will embark on a 24 hour drive, 1200 miles, in order to reach the competition. "This is the reward for all the long hours and hard work that these kids have put in. This is their chance to get that title and to prove what their dedication to this craft has accomplished," Hayes stated.

The Muleriders will be represented by 4 members from the women's team and 3 members from the men's team.

Loni Pearce will be competing in the breakaway and goat tye events. Pearce won the goat tying championship and was the All-Around Champion for the Ozark Region during this rodeo season. Loni is a four time CNFR qualifier, which Hayes says is a rare occurrence. Anna Slack, a two time CNFR qualifier, will be competing in the barrel racing event. Hannah Springer will also be representing the women's team in the breakaway roping event. Kellie Hailey will also be competing in the breakaway roping event. Ty Daniel Haller and Seth Driggers will both be competing in the team roping events. Curt Mosley, who is a two time CNFR qualifier, will make his appearance in the calf roping event.

To anyone who is interested in keeping up with the SAU Rodeo Team while they compete at Nationals, go to our Facebook page or follow us on twitter @SAURodeoTeam for updates.