The NFR (National Finals Rodeo) is held over 10 days in Las Vegas every December. Events happen all over Vegas, but the NFR itself is held at the Thomas & Mack Center on the campus of the University of Nevada, Las Vegas. SmartPak was setup at the South Point Hotel and Casino where the World Series of Team Roping was being held. If you have never seen team roping, I highly recommend it. This is a timed event that relies on the cooperation and skill of two cowboys and their horses-one is deemed a header, responsible for roping the head of the cattle and the other is the heeler, responsible for roping the heels. During the week of competition, over $11 million in prize money is given out! Who knew it was actually possible to earn money with horses.
In between roping rounds, SmartPaker Jamie and I had amazing SmartPak customers stop by the booth. Customers were excited about our product assortment which included a sampling of our new SmartPak brand Western products. The most popular items were our new SmartPak Laced Barrel Reins, SmartPak SmartCell Western Saddle Pad, and our SmartPak 100% Wool Felt Saddle Pad. Everyone was excited about the quality and the price of these items.
Outside of our new SmartPak tack, customers were intrigued by the Flexineb 2 Portable Equine Nebulizer System. This product is incredible because it easily allows you to administer care to your horse’s airways and lungs. The device generates a fine mist which ensures medication goes directly to the lungs. Plus, it also comes in fun colors like pink and blue.
Once the show was over, we were lucky enough to be invited to several events. Kimes Ranch Jeans was nice enough to invite us to an event they were hosting where we also met up with Team SmartPak riders Matt Mills, Jim and Deanna Searles, and Charlie Cole and Jason Martin. Charlie and Jason were in town to support their horse Slick by Design who ran barrels and ended up winning $74,000!
All I can say is, make sure to add the NFR to your travel plans for next year! The shopping, the events, the people are the best. Hope to see you all there!
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