A pair of East Texas A&M University Rodeo team members look to continue the program’s championship tradition as they compete at the College National Finals Rodeo (CNFR) in Casper, Wyo., from June 14-20.

Historically, the Lion Rodeo program has found plenty of success at the CNFR, with four riders capturing five national titles since 2022.

This year, breakaway ropers Jill White and Carlee Martinez qualified for the CNFR after finishing the season ranked first and second, respectively, in the National Intercollegiate Rodeo Association (NIRA) Southern Region standings. The breakaway roping event was the Lions’ strongest this season, with six Lions ranked in the top 15 in the regional standings.

White, a senior from Singer, La., majoring in Animal Science with a concentration in Pre-Veterinary Medicine, won her event this past season at Panola College and Hill College en route to securing the top ranking in the Southern Region. This was her second consecutive year finishing as the region’s top-ranked breakaway roper and her second appearance at the CNFR.

She would have competed in Casper regardless of her ranking this season, as she also serves as the NIRA Southern Region student director, which earns her a spot in the CNFR. However, she let her skills do the talking and qualified on points.

White, who plans to ride her horse, “Bay,” during the competition, is doing her best to stay focused and come away with a victory.

“I would be lying if I said there isn't any anxiety or excitement going into the CNFR,” White said. “But I'm going to do my best to just keep it chill.”

Martinez, a junior from George West, Texas, majoring in Business Administration, took home the victory at the Texas A&M rodeo in February. She is also making her second appearance at the college finals, but her first as a Lion. She qualified last year while attending Southwest Texas College.

Riding “Peanut,” a horse she has ridden since fifth grade, Martinez said that she's done her best to stay sharp and keep her horse healthy as she heads for Casper.

“I've ridden a few rodeos since the end of the college season, but on different horses,” Martinez said. “I've saved Peanut for the CNFR so she can be rested and perform at her best.”

Each night’s events will be broadcast online on ESPN+ from June 16-20. Learn more about East Texas A&M Rodeo.