There were some ups and downs for Alberta cowboys on Day Seven of the National Finals Rodeo in Arlington, TX, Wednesday, December 9.

Big Valley saddle bronc rider Zeke Thurston rode to third spot on the night, collecting a cheque for $15,654.

It was the same story for team roper Kolton Schmidt, from Barrhead, who wound up third with partner Hunter Koch.

Ponoka's Levi Simpson had a no-time in team roping, while Donalda's Curtis Cassidy wound up dead last on the night in steer wrestling with a 14.2 second time in the go-round.

It was a huge day for bareback rider Orin Larsen, of Inglis Manitoba, who is a grandson to Dennis and Mayda Wearmouth, who live just outside of Cochrane.

He took first on the day, picking up 90 points and $26,231 riding the Calgary Stampede’s Yippee Kibitz. 

The national finals continue until Saturday.