NFR Round 7: Graham Brothers Rope in Record-Fast 3.5 Seconds as Gibson-Stillwell Scores Breakthrough Barrel Racing Win

Round 7 of the 2025 Wrangler National Finals Rodeo delivered some of the most electrifying performances of the week, with Canadian team ropers Dawson and Dillon Graham roping their way into the record books and first-time qualifier Hayle Gibson-Stillwell dominating the barrel racing arena with a career-making victory.

The energy inside the Thomas & Mack Center in Las Vegas was electric on Military Night as both rising stars and seasoned contenders delivered world-class runs.

Graham Brothers Rope Their Way to a Blazing 3.5-Second Win

Dawson and Dillon Graham of Wainwright, Alberta stunned spectators with a lightning-fast 3.5-second team roping run—one of the quickest of the entire 2025 NFR. Their flawless timing and precision earned them $36,668 each, bringing their event earnings to nearly $100,000 per man through seven rounds.

The brothers, making their first NFR appearance together, already won earlier in the week. Wednesday’s Round 7 victory marks their second round win, solidifying their status as breakout contenders on rodeo’s biggest stage.

The Canadian duo qualified in the No. 10 position with $131,934 in combined season earnings but have quickly proven they belong among the elite. Their success highlights the growing strength of Canadian competitors in professional rodeo events traditionally dominated by American teams.

Gibson-Stillwell Captures Her First NFR Barrel Racing Victory

Barrel racer Hayle Gibson-Stillwell delivered one of Round 7’s most emotional wins. Riding her homebred mare Piper, the first-time NFR competitor posted a stunning 13.45-second run—claiming her first-ever NFR round victory and earning $33,687.

Gibson-Stillwell entered the NFR ranked No. 12 in the WPRA standings with $140,032. Her breakthrough performance now positions her as a legitimate contender for a championship push despite her rookie status.

Her strong run marks a defining moment in her debut NFR appearance and showcases the competitive depth of this year’s barrel racing field.

Round 7 Results Across Major Events

Military Night Adds Meaning to a High-Stakes Round

Round 7 coincided with Military Night, honoring service members and veterans whose deep-rooted legacy shapes rodeo culture across North America. The emotional atmosphere inspired several memorable performances and heightened competitive stakes.

With only four rounds left, athletes now face mounting pressure to climb the world standings and maximize their payout potential. For the Graham brothers and Gibson-Stillwell, Round 7 could be a turning point that propels them toward championship contention.

What’s Next for These Rising NFR Stars?

The Graham brothers enter the final stretch with major momentum and continued round-winning capability. If they maintain their consistency, they could crack the top of the team roping standings before the NFR concludes.

For Gibson-Stillwell, her Round 7 victory establishes her as one of the most exciting new faces in the sport. As she rides into the final rounds, she has a chance to challenge more seasoned competitors and potentially chase her first NFR average title.

Fans can expect the final rounds to deliver more high-paced excitement as athletes push to finish the 2025 National Finals Rodeo at the top of their game.