Web posted
Monday, January 21, 2008
Leftwich not riding into finals
By ROY GRABER
Winfield Courier Editor
OKLAHOMA CITY -- Rodeo fans may have noticed that for the first time in 10 years, Todd Leftwich failed to qualify for the International Finals Rodeo.
But the Winfield saddle bronc rider's presence was still felt strongly at the IFR this weekend. Leftwich was there as a representative on the International Professional Rodeo Association's governing body.
A year ago, Leftwich was elected by his peers as the saddle bronc riding director on the IPRA board of directors. He just completed his first year of service to a position he reluctantly accepted.
"I kind of couldn't get out of it anymore," Leftwich said with a grin. "But I'm glad I did it. It's been a good experience."
Part of Leftwich's duties at the IFR, held this weekend in Oklahoma City, included selecting the livestock and making sure things were running smoothly behind the chutes.
"I'm there representing the saddle bronc riders. If they have issues, they go to me, and I take it in front of the leadership," Leftwich explained. "You just get to be a go-between between the contractors, the leadership of the organization and the contestants."
Leftwich had a little more time to devote to his leadership role because he spent much of the season out of competition and nursing an injury. Having missed eight months of the 12-month season, Leftwich was unable to crack the top 15 in the standings in order to qualify for the IFR.
He plans to hit the tour hard this year, however, in hopes of making another IFR qualification. He returned to the saddle earlier this month at a rodeo in St. Charles, Mo., and found himself placing in the money.
"I feel as healthy as I should," he said.
And as he returns to competition, he will continue to serve on the board. He was elected for another year.
"I'm looking forward to doing it again this year," Leftwich said.
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