Walla Walla, WA – Mitchell Devine, from Birchwood, Wisconsin, was the lucky recipient of the National Intercollegiate Rodeo Association’s 2016 Ram Truck award. Devine is a student at the University of Wisconsin-River Falls.
The drawing was held at the National Intercollegiate Rodeo Association’s national office the morning of April 21st. The NIRA’s Commissioner, Roger Walters, and the entire national office staff witnessed the drawing. Commissioner Walters delivered the good news to Mr. Devine, immediately following the drawing.
Devine said, “I was traveling to a college rodeo in South Dakota and checked my voicemail, I thought, ‘there is no way I could have been so lucky to be drawn’.” Devine called the NIRA Commissioner back and asked him multiple times if it was indeed true that he had won the truck. He said, “Out of the thousands of NIRA card holders, how was I fortunate enough to be drawn, the one, lonely, bull rider from Wisconsin!”
Devine is studying agriculture studies with a minor in animal science. He plans to work in the beef cattle industry after graduation. “People need to know where their beef comes from,” said Devine. He would also love to work in promoting rodeo through the NIRA, PBR, or Professional Rodeo.
“This is truly a blessing, ever since October 2015, I have been in a rut, just struggling to find my place in life. I’m a strong believer in God and his power. I also believe he has put me through a test and this was my reward. I’m so thankful for this opportunity and will never forget it,” stated Devine.
Devine will pick up his new Ram 2500 truck during the College National Finals Rodeo in Casper, Wyoming. The truck presentation will take place on Saturday, June 19th in the CNFR arena.
NIRA Commissioner, Roger Walters said, “This is the best part of my job.”