05/08/2026
https://www.facebook.com/share/p/1BtdbDxZXd/?mibextid=wwXIfr
In a record-setting, eye-catching weekend of breakaway roping, the Central Regional Qualifier featured world champions and rising stars all under one roof, each vying for a potentially life-changing berth at The American Championship Weekend.
The historic weekend produced one of the fastest rounds in the sport’s history. Shania Johnston’s 1.29-second run in the Central Regional Redemption Round set the pace as the fastest time of the event — and one of the quickest in American Rodeo history. Across three rounds, 31 runs clocked in under 2.00 seconds, underscoring the rapid progression of the event. Johnston returns Saturday night with a chance to add another standout performance.
When the dust settled, attention turned to the five athletes who outpaced a stacked field to earn their spots on one of rodeo’s biggest stages.
Among them was rising standout Macy Hancock. The Cisco College marketing and advertising student capitalized on the moment, securing her position through the Central Regional Qualifier and setting up one of the biggest opportunities of her young career.
“I’m so excited. It’s such a huge blessing,” Hancock said. “I’m just thankful for the opportunity to even have the chance to rope there.”
A WPRA permit holder, Hancock will now compete alongside many of the sport’s top names as she eyes the $2 million bonus.
“It was such a competitive field of breakaway ropers,” she said. “You had to be on one to even place in the round, so just knowing that I was up there was awesome. It was cool just being there Saturday night and roping in the short round with some of the best.”
In a field defined by speed, Hancock embraced the pace.
“I like going fast — it’s fun,” she said. “There’s so many good girls, and everyone’s trying to be fast. It’s cool to watch and see how the sport is growing.”
Hancock also credited her support system, including her brother, two-time NFR qualifier Dylan Hancock, who joined her in the box during the Oklahoma City finale.
