CALF_News_Oct_Nov_2018

T he Spicer Gripp Memorial Youth Foundation raised enough money this year to present West Texas A&M University $50,000 in scholarship funds. An anonymous donor matched that $50,000 donation, making the total donation $100,000. $100,000 is now available through scholarships to stu- dents pursuing an agricultural degree or participating on the rodeo team at West Texas A&M University. The generous donation is tremen- dously appreciated; however, it should be noted, the humility, the virtue, the com- passion, the core character of the donor, which mirrors that of Spicer Gripp himself. Recognition never held appeal for Spicer Gripp either. Instead, Spicer maintained focus on the need for men- torship and support of young people, especially those living the agricultural lifestyle. Spicer taught leadership, not with disparaging remarks, but by a continuous reinforcement of the positive. Through caring words and warmhearted deeds, Spicer Gripp became a cherished member of the town of Hereford in the Panhandle of Texas and a man worth remembering. An annual event was established in 1994 to honor not just the man, but his altruistic manner. The 24th Annual Spicer Gripp Memorial was definitely a financial success and numer- ous individuals will gain an education, yet, watching the Spirit of Spicer Gripp carry on is the real reward. Junior NFR Open  The Spicer Gripp Memorial has grown to four full days filled with premier roping events, a golf tournament, and a BBQ cookoff. After an intense com- petition, Garrett Dickey and Kayden Little headed toward the winner’s circle to receive their buckles and checks for $2,000 each. Garrett and Kayden roped four steers in 34.43 seconds. Spencer Clements and Kutter Johnson placed second in the average with their time of 35.73 seconds on four steers. They received the spurs and $1,420 each for their efforts. Braxton Hughes picked up two more checks himself. Spencer Clements, who successfully pushed himself further by competing in the Junior NFR Open Roping, headed for Braxton in the #10 Roping winning each of them another check in the amount of $1,270 for their total time of 46.93 seconds. Senior Steer Roping  Those on the other end of the age spec- trum took over the arena on Thursday afternoon. Forty-one contestants filled the roster in the Senior Steer Roping which was sponsored by Panhandle Express, enough to pay six places in the average and six places in the rounds. Marty Jones roped well all afternoon. With a total time of 45.38 seconds on 3 steers, Marty won the Senior Steer Roping and picked up $1,680. Second in the average went to Kim Ziegelgruber for his total time of 49.68 seconds. Kim received a check in the amount of $1,380. John Bland, Invitational Steer Roping Alex Flautt, Ladies’ Breakaway Roping By Stephenie Wolf Contributing Editor Photos by Lone Wolf Photography Spicer Gripp Memorial Roping 2018 40 CALF News • October | November 2018 • www.calfnews.net