Isaiah Tom (left), NTU rodeo coach Nicole Pino, and the talented Hyan Ramos confidently strike a pose outside the NTU campus in Crownpoint, eagerly anticipating their participation in the much-awaited College National Finals Rodeo in Casper, Wyoming.

The Navajo Technical University (NTU) rodeo team is thrilled to announce their participation in the College National Finals Rodeo (CNFR) at the Ford Wyoming Center in Casper, Wyoming, on June 9 – 15, 2024. The team is prepared to demonstrate exceptional skills and dedication during this prestigious event.

Hyan Ramos and Isaiah Tom—from Lake Valley and Gallup, New Mexico, respectively—are NTU’s rodeo team members. These talented individuals have become NTU’s first-ever rough stock contestants and recently qualified for the College National Finals Rodeo in bareback riding. Their exceptional skills and versatility in this sport genuinely make them stand out.

“I am thrilled; we both grew up in the rodeo atmosphere and being able to compete in the finals brings me happiness,” says Isaiah Tom. “I decided to pursue rodeo here because my parents attended NTU, and it feels like the perfect place to be. I want to thank everyone for their support.”

The NTU rodeo team recently participated in the Grand Canyon Regional at the Payson Event Center in Payson, Arizona, on April 27 and 28, 2024. Hyan Ramos secured 2nd place overall with 439 points, while Isaiah Tom claimed 3rd place with 296 points.

Under the guidance of Coach Nicole Pino, the NTU rodeo team has been practicing tirelessly to improve their skills and prepare for a significant event. Coach Pino’s dedication and leadership have been essential in shaping the team’s success. As the team returns to the CNFR arena, Coach Pino expresses her excitement at reuniting with familiar faces and acknowledges the collective effort that led them to this stage.

With work and school, Hyan Ramos balances college rodeo and keeping up with class assignments. “It’s all about being well-organized and determined. Practice whenever you have time,” Hyan says. “I was taught to prioritize my schoolwork over rodeo. I was told rodeo will always be available, but education should come first. We will do our best to represent Navajo Technical University and the Navajo Nation.”

Hyan and Isiah are both pursuing their welding studies at NTU. They are passionate about enhancing their skills and knowledge while caring for their livestock at home. “It’s amazing to see these young guys succeed in their first year of college and CNFR with rough stock. At the beginning of the year, I encouraged them to participate in every rodeo, as I knew their school and grades would not be a problem,” says NTU rodeo coach Nicole Pino. “I want to thank Christopher Storer, the welding instructor at NTU, for supporting both students even on their days off. Hyan is a good listener with an exceptional work ethic, and Isaiah has a strong foundation in rodeo. Both families have a background in rough stock, and I am thrilled for them.”