College rodeo member takes second in nationals

Hailey Finnegan from Laytonville, California and Lady Cougar for the Lassen Community College rodeo team, has finished an amazing season at the College National Finals Rodeo in Casper, Wyoming Thursday, June 13.

Out of 45 contestants nationwide Finnegan with her horse, Beach Cat, finished second place in the 2019 CNFR barrel racing competition.

Finnegan, as well as winning second, was honored with the NIRA Women’s Horse of the Year for 2019.

All the way back in October 2018 Finnegan started strong taking first place in barrel racing at the Lassen College Rodeo in the first rodeo of the Lady Cougars’ season.

At the West Hills College rodeo in March, Finnegan again took first in the barrel racing helping the Lady Cougars land a second place spot in the event overall.

At the Cal Poly Rodeo in April, the Lady Cougars tied for first with University of Nevada – Las Vegas. Finnegan helped lead her team to victory with her first place spot in barrel racing.

As a freshman leading into her sophomore year at Lassen College, Finnegan has already put herself in the spotlight as one of Lassen College’s best wranglers. Her tenacity and ability to win will be a great asset in next year’s group, of riders.

Lady Cougars rodeo Coach Suzanne Williams commented on Haileys role on the team, “Hailey and her horse Beach Cat have a very special connection! They are a great team and have a very bright future ahead of them!”