The 2025 installment of the Jr. Ironman competition during Cinch Timed Event Championship week saw first-time qualifier James Mann take Round 1 in 43.8 seconds across four events and earn $750.
“I think I got lucky in the heading when I fished it on after almost splitting the horns,” Mann said. “But I had Kyle Lockett behind me, and he’s great help to have.”
WATCH CTEC 2025 on Roping.com.
The California native and reigning World Championship Junior Rodeo champion Mann posted a strong appearance in his two best events, tie-down roping and steer wrestling. This helped him overcome a leg in the heeling portion to nose ahead of the other nine competitors and earn the $750 Round 1 win.
“I didn’t know what to expect coming into this,” Mann (19) said. “But it was just fun being here. Being out there in (the Lazy E Arena) where the Ironmen compete—and to come out leading it on the first day? It’s all pretty cool!”
A special team of horses helped Mann along the way.
“My tie-down horse is named Tyrone,” Mann said. “He’s 22 years old, and he means the world to me. I’ve been roping on him since I was probably 12, and he’s really taken me through my entire roping career. He got hurt a few years back, and that’s when I realized how truly special he was. Then I have my head horse, Buzz. My dad trained him, and he’s pretty high up there on the special list.”
A relatively new heel horse, and a dogging horse of Riley Duvall’s helped compete Mann’s team in the challenging Lazy E setup. Mann’s younger sister, and both of his parents were in attendance.
“My sister’s been here helping me with everything,” Mann said. “It means the world to have her here, and my whole family.”
Round 2 of the Jr. Ironman competition kicks off at 5 p.m. CST on Feb. 28, 2025 and will be streamed free and live on Roping.com.
Jr. Ironman 2025 Round 1 results
- James Mann, 43.8 seconds on four, $750
- Jake Holmes, 44.3, $250
- Kreece Dearing, 56.8
- Wyatt Williams, 60.9
- Luke Tippmann, 68.3
