Bareback rider Bradlee Miller, who made his RodeoHouston debut last year, said the paychecks from the total payout increase to $2.5 million during the upcoming season would change a competitor’s year.
RodeoHouston announced Thursday its four first place finishers will now receive $65,000, up from the $50,000 they received last year. Second and third place finishers will also see increases. According to Katelyn Scates, Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo director of sports and event presentations, athletes in every event can earn $281,500 over the 20-day period. These events include tie-down roping, bareback riding, team roping, saddle bronc riding, steer wresting, barrel racing, breakaway roping and bull riding. “It’s always been one of the biggest rodeos and biggest paying rodeos of your year,” Miller said. “But with that increase, it definitely moves it up the ladder, and it makes you that much more grateful to have a chance at it.” Miller, a Huntsville native, calls…..