Clay County’s Bronc Woody Rides for Glory at National Junior High Finals Rodeo

Photo from the Clay County Schools Facebook page.

Clay County, NC — Local fans, saddle up and get ready to cheer on one of our own! Rising freshman Bronc Woody is representing Clay County Schools on the national stage this week at the 2026 National Junior High Finals Rodeo (NJHFR) in Guthrie, Oklahoma.

Bronc is competing in the bull riding championship at the prestigious Lazy E Arena, where more than 1,000 of the top junior high rodeo athletes from across the United States and beyond are battling for national titles from June 21–27.

His ride is scheduled to be broadcast on The Cowboy Channel this Tuesday night (June 23) and Thursday morning (June 25). Be sure to tune in, show your support, and cheer loudly as Bronc takes on some of the toughest competition in the country.

This is a tremendous opportunity for a young athlete from our mountain community to shine on a big stage. Bull riding demands courage, skill, balance, and determination — qualities that Bronc has already demonstrated to earn his spot at the NJHFR.

Clay County Schools and the entire community are proud to back this rising star. Whether you’re watching from home, at the local feed store, or gathered with friends, let’s rally behind Bronc Woody and show the nation what Western North Carolina grit looks like.