Photo by High Call Media
Wilson Cattle Co. Rakes in $180,000 with High-Seller at Rancho Rio Horse Sale
The Horse Sale at Rancho Rio, presented by Tito's Handmade Vodka, held its highly anticipated event on Saturday, March 16, 2024, cementing its reputation as the leading invitational rope horse sale in the United States. This premier event, situated in Wickenburg, Ariz., known as the Team Roping Capital of the World, showcased 65 top rope horses, attracting consignors and buyers from across the U.S. and Canada.
The 2024 edition of The Horse Sale at Rancho Rio kicked off with a full team roping preview on Friday, March 15, followed by the auction on Saturday, March 16. The auction was held under the iconic big top tent at Rancho Rio, with renowned auctioneer Steve Friskup leading the proceedings.
One of the highlights of the auction was Lot 8, Rusty Peptoboonsmal (Kiehnes Topboonsmal x YB Last Feather), a 2017 red roan gelding known as "Twizzler," who sold for an impressive $180,000. The buyer, Javier Rodriguez of Las Vegas, Nev., also secured Wilson Cattle Co.'s high-seller from 2023.
"It’s become our habit to bring the very best of our herd to Rancho Rio each year," remarked Wilson Cattle Co., Brooke & Rodey Wilson of Canyon, Texas, in the catalog description. "For that reason, we are excited to have 'Twizzler' here this year. He is a no-nonsense horse who simply wants to work correct every time. 'Twizzler' is a true teammate, making roping as easy as it can be."
Brooke Wilson of Wilson Cattle Co., aboard Lot 8, Rusty Peptoboonsmal "Twizzler" at the Horse Sale at Rancho Rio horse sale preview in Wickenburg, Ariz.
Photo by High Call Media
"Twizzler's" track record speaks for itself. In 2022, "Twizzler" and Brooke had the fast time in the #13.5 and won the #10.5 at the Riata Buckle held at the Lazy E in Guthrie, Okla. "Twizzler" has proven his versatility in various arenas in the Wickenburg area, where he has secured wins and fast times for both high- and low-numbered ropers on both the head and heel side.
The sale of "Twizzler" marks Wilson Cattle Co.'s third consecutive high-seller at The Horse Sale at Rancho Rio presented by Tito's. Their previous high sellers include Sportin Roscoe in 2022 and TRR Kadabra Kat in 2023, demonstrating a consistent commitment to excellence.
Since its inception, The Horse Sale at Rancho Rio has been a significant contributor to the rodeo and performance horse industry. The 2021 edition alone exceeded $2.5 million in sales, with total sales surpassing the million-dollar mark since 2019. Notable figures such as Trevor Brazile, Patrick Smith, and Wilson Cattle Company have all participated, solidifying the event's status as a cornerstone of the equestrian community.
