The Zunti family is a familiar name for rodeo success stories. Mom Twila has seen her share of success in the barrel racing circuit, as has Kaybree Zunti. But in 2019, Ryder Zunti has taken his turn to shine.
Already having won some championship buckles at several rodeo events, 13-year-old, Grade 8 Unity Composite High School student, Ryder Zunti has received word that he has qualified for the National Junior High Finals Rodeo. This event will feature 1,000 contestants from 44 states, five Canadian provinces, Australia and Mexico and is the largest junior high rodeo event. From a press release provided by the Zunti family, “In addition to competing for more than $80,000 in prizes, NJHFR contestants will also be vying for more than $200,000 in college scholarships and the chance to be named a National Junior High Finals Rodeo World Champion.”
Ryder will begin his ride to the championship title on June 23 as part of this Huron, S.D. event. Ryder qualified in chute dogging and small bore rifle shooting.
You can follow his story on the websites www.NHSRA.com daily for complete results.
In addition to qualifying for this National championship, Ryder Zunti recently learned he has qualified for Calgary Stampede junior steer riding event; he is set to compete on July 6th.
It’s lining up to be another exciting, eventful rodeo season for the Zunti family. Ryder is the son of Brent and Twila Zunti, brother of barrel racer Kaybree Zunti.
