By Phillip Kitts

A new face to the Wrangler National Finals Rodeo makes an impact in round eight.

Tie down roping fans all know his name, but mainstream rodeo fans may have never heard of him. He is a super talent that has been quietly working hard over the last few years and making an impact on the tie down event.

Westyn Hughes is that athlete, a Caldwell, Texas cowboy with lots of youthful spirit and the focus and determination of an old soul. He really made his break back in his junior high days when he started winning rodeos and titles. One of his biggest showings came in Las Vegas in 2017 when he put himself in the mix at the Cinch Chute Out. 2019 was a little rougher for Hughes, he fought some issue with his back but he kept going the best he could and still performed well at a lot of big rodeos.

Then comes 2020, Hughes used his focused tactic of make up time on the ground to put himself into position to qualify for his first National Finals Rodeo. Round eight all his determination paid off for him, Hughes wins round eight with a 7.4 second run and claims his first round winning buckle and hefty paycheck.

Sitting number three in the world Hughes has shown that he is one to keep an eye on, and with two rounds left he very well could line his pockets with a little more get around money. No matter what the outcome keep your eyes out because this young Texas athlete has found his groove and will be one you talk about for years to come.