Colton Farquer can tie-down a calf faster than most people tie their shoes.

The Oakdale High sophomore made a statement at the Challenge of Champions Rodeo in Clovis from March 25 to 27 by collecting first place honors among several competitors from nine competing districts in the tie-down roping event.

From the point when a calf was released from its pen, it took just 12.89 and 13.01 seconds (two scoring tries) for Farquer to chase it down on his mount, rope the calf, jump off his horse and tie three legs.

The Mustang honor student was also top-ten in cutting, competed with teammate Tanner Kent in team roping and saw a sharp overall performance in the pinnacle of the state’s high school rodeo circuit.

“Colton is very talented, and he is best in the tie down,” Oakdale prep rodeo advisor Karen Serpa said. “He was the only one who became a champion from our town, and he did a great job.”

Kacey Gookin ended seventh in team roping, but the rest of Oakdale’s five remaining Challenge of Champion qualifiers struggled to find top-10 footing on a muddy weekend with stiff competition.

“They all had a great time,” Serpa said. “They enjoyed it, but sometimes it’s your weekend and sometimes it’s not.”