Heberger strong at state rodeo

Galena High's Aaron Heberger is in strong contention to qualify for the National High School Rodeo Finals in at least two events.

Heberger, who competes for the Carson-Douglas Rodeo Club, had a strong performance in steer wrestling in his first go-round on Thursday at the Nevada State High School Rodeo Championships in Battle Mountain.

Heberger placed third in 5.710 seconds. Sterling Lambert was first in 5.510 and Brian Heggie was second in 5.690. Douglas High's Keston Denny also placed 10th in 7.700. The top four overall finishers advance to nationals to be held in July in Gillette, Wyo.

Heberger also teamed with Jake Ward to take fifth in team roping in 11.530, but were still well behind the fourth place team of Sterling Lambert and Casey Felton (9.710).

Among other top performers was Carson High's Alyce Kugler who was 10th in girls cutting with 130 points.

Along with steer wrestling, Heberger is also in contention to qualify for nationals in calf roping. While he failed to score in his first go-round, he's still ranked high in the overall standings.

All competitors receive two go-rounds at state. The top 10 qualify for the finals to be held on Sunday. Points awarded in the finals are doubled.

Denny could also finish high in bull riding despite failing to score in his first run. Seven riders were able to post qualifying runs in the first go-round in bull riding.