Flathead INFR Tour Rodeo bucks into Polson, MT

By Lailani Upham

The Mission Valley Honor Guard stand at attention during the opening honor song each night. (Lailani Upham photo)

POLSON — “As a tribal business we want to showcase what we can do,” said Pete White – and showcasing the first Indian National Rodeo Finals Rodeo Tour on the Flathead Reservation as one of the best rodeos one has been the rumor circling the town of Polson last month after the three-day Indian cowboy event.

“I’d rather not,” is the look and action of the calf as White wrestles down the animal. (Lailani Upham photo)

Rodeo fans were delivered the promise that the first annual Flathead River Rodeo would be the most entertaining INFR Tour Rodeo of the year – and that it was.

Fans raved in the restaurants, stores, and Facebook that it was the most definite best they have seen in the area and on the INFR tour at that.

One visitor praised, “It is probably one of the best rodeos I’ve been to in Western Montana! Very well put together!”

A bull shows off a high quality stock move during the bull riding competition. (Lailani Upham photo)

Another rodeo fan stated, “Congratulations to the Flathead River Rodeo! I have been to rodeos from here to Timbuktu and this is by far the best one for a long time. Thank you for keeping the contestants and contract help in mind when planning.”

A visitor from out of state was please to have returned to the Flathead Rez for the event stated, “I had a great time! Awesome turnout. The stock was awesome! I look forward to an annual event. I won’t come home for the powwow, but I’ll definitely come home for INFR!”

Calf roper lets it be known – finished the task! (Lailani Upham photo)

Winners for the categories were:
Bareback - Freddy Warbonnet
Steer Wrestling - Rian Conway
Calf Roping - Britt Givens
Saddle Bronc - Marty Hebb
Barrels - Cindy Mussell
Breakaway - Heidi Cuny
Team Roping - Scott Rogers and Clint Harry
Bull Riding - JC Bigknife
Womens All Around - Megan Lunak
Mens All Around - Britt Givens