“ONE HORSE. EIGHT CNFR’S. ENDLESS IMPACT” A LEGEND IN THE GOAT TYPING ARENA

You don’t just ride into legendary status — you earn it, one run at a time. While the College National Finals Rodeo welcomes rising talent every year, one name keeps coming back: Bucky. With eight CNFR appearances under his cinch, this seasoned goat-tying pony has become more than just a competitor — he’s a symbol of consistency, grit, and enduring greatness. His record speaks volumes about the heart and tenacity of a true rodeo legend.

Owned by three-time NFR Breakaway Roping qualifier, Rickie (Engesser) Fanning, Bucky is no ordinary goat-tying horse. At 27 years old, this gritty grade buckskin still possesses more try than most horses half his age. Though he’s dabbled in breakaway roping over the years, it’s in the goat-tying arena where Bucky truly made his mark. Fanning and Bucky claimed a third-place national finish at the CNFR in 2017 — one of Fanning’s four goat-tying qualifications during her college rodeo career.

“Honestly, he’s a total character,” Fanning says with a laugh. “He’s got a big personality — a little ornery at times, with just enough attitude to keep things interesting. But when it’s time to go to work, he gives you everything he’s got. Every single run, he shows up with heart, grit, and absolute consistency. He’s the most honest horse I’ve ever swung a leg over. Bucky’s just one cool dude.”

– Rickie (Engesser) Fanning

As Fanning shifted her focus to breakaway roping at the professional level, Bucky still had the heart — and hunger — to be under the arena lights. Wanting him to keep doing what he loved, Fanning graciously handed the reins to Cashae McGee of Black Hills State University. For four consecutive years, Bucky carried McGee to the CNFR, bringing his total to eight trips competing in the dirt with the best of the best.

“Bucky has plenty of attitude and isn’t shy about showing it,” McGee says. “He can be bossy and pushy, but beneath that tough exterior lies a big heart and unwavering loyalty. He’s one of the most dependable horses you’ll ever meet. Even when I was injured, he just knew and kept the run smooth and steady for me. What he’s given me goes far beyond any buckle—the opportunities he’s brought into my rodeo career have shaped who I am and will forever be a part of my story.”

– Cashae McGee

If you know Bucky, you know there’s nothing quite like him. Big crowds, bright lights, and loud music fuel his fire. Bucky insists on a victory lap after every run, kicking up his heels while arena workers scramble to catch him. That independent streak is part of his charm — he calls the shots and won’t be caught until he’s good and ready. It’s a trademark of his legendary status, reminding everyone that he’s not just any pony, but a true icon in the arena.

Bucky has earned every bit of praise, every victory lap, and every round of applause both in the arena and throughout the rodeo world. As an eight-time CNFR qualifier, he has proven himself a legend in the goat-tying arena. The opportunities, lessons, and memories he has given Rickie Fanning and Cashae McGee are priceless — leaving an indelible mark on their hearts and in the history of the sport. Bucky’s legacy is more than just records and accolades; it’s the spirit and passion he brings to every run, inspiring all who have had the privilege to ride beside him.