Sunday dawned cold in Texas, and nothing suggested that Trey Kimzey would be among the competitors at the Fort Worth Stock Show & Rodeo (FWSSR) ProRodeo Tournament. The rider from Strong City, Oklahoma, was not listed on the official roster scheduled to compete that afternoon.
Despite finishing the 2025 season ranked 28th in the world standings for bull riding, Kimzey was left out of the event due to a simple administrative issue: he missed the entry deadline, even though he met all eligibility requirements.
His only path into the Dickies Arena would be through an unexpected turn of events — the withdrawal of a confirmed competitor.
That opportunity came when a severe winter storm prevented South Dakotan Jeff Bertus from traveling to Fort Worth. As a result, Kimzey was called in at the last minute to fill the open spot, just minutes before the rodeo began.
With four appearances at the National Finals Rodeo (NFR) already on his résumé, Kimzey relied on his experience to stay composed and focused, despite being just 27 years old and facing a sudden opportunity.
In the first round of the tournament’s second performance, he stood out as the only bull rider to record a qualified ride.
Aboard BabaBooey, from Rafter G Rodeo, Kimzey earned $7,400 in prize money and moved into a strong position to secure a spot in the semifinals, as only the top two money earners from each group advance.
