This week’s episode of The Rundown centers on the BFA $uper$takes, the debut of the Freshman Slot Race, updates across the Derby, and the ongoing recovery of breakaway roper Anita Ellis. We also cover the WPRA Pro Elite Stallion Auction, which closes November 30 at 6 p.m. MST at wprapesi.com.
WPRA Pro Elite Stallion Auction
Bidding closes November 30 at 6 p.m. MST, and with dozens of top stallions available, this year’s lineup offers early Christmas-shopping opportunities for breeders looking ahead to 2025 and beyond.
Update on Anita Ellis
Brandon Ellis has continued sharing progress reports on Anita’s recovery, and her improvement this week has been significant. In Thursday’s update, he shared: “She walked today without a walker — just the PT holding her arm. She’s tracking conversations, staying awake longer, and actually engaging with us.” When asked if she remembers visualizing her goals, Anita didn’t hesitate: “Yes. I’ve already seen myself healed and back on my horse. I’m not worried about it.”
Fundraisers continue across the industry, including stallion auction offerings and events hosted by Xtreme Barrel Racing and Kim Smith Tiedowns. The family has launched a verified GoFundMe managed by Trent VanTassell for those wishing to contribute.
BFA $uper$takes
Sixty 3-year-olds took their first shot at futurity competition in the $uper$takes, running for a $100,000 first-place prize in the highest-stakes debut of the year. The field paid 12 places deep and highlighted a new wave of pedigrees entering the futurity ranks.
Jordan Harrell won the $100,000 title aboard OE Bachelor Pad for Leslie and Jason Willis with a 15.419. The gelding is by Flingin Roses and out of FC Strait Cajun. The win marks the fourth $uper$takes victory connected to Leslie Willis, who previously won the event in 2007, 2019 and 2021.
Additional top earners included:
• $35,000 – GBA Buckin Epic, Jamey Hunt
• $23,000 – TJR Let It Rock, Elaina McKinney
• $15,000 – Tornado Lane, Brandi Zimmer
• $14,000 – LD Lemons N Lace, Jolene Montgomery
• $12,000 – BR Will She B Famus, Chris Coffee
• $11,000 – Chasin Tres Cans, Joy Wargo
• $10,000 – Winners Chase Cans, Kelsey Treharne
The first-year Freshman Slot Race showcased 4-year-olds preparing for their futurity year in 2026. Ceri Ward topped the race on Flingin Goodbyes with a 15.599 for $28,000.
Derby
One round of the Derby ran before weather delays. Kaylee Weaver and French Bling N Kandy led the round with a 15.294 worth $3,553. Pete Oen and UX Google It were reserve. Weaver also won the High Roller sidepot. Lori Wooten and TJR Stinson N Stoli picked up the 2D win.
For full rundowns and deeper analysis, listen to this week’s episode of The Rundown on BarrelRacing.com.