National Intercollegiate Rodeo (NIRA) and the Cenex® brand partner for 2023 Rodeo Season

WALLA WALLA, Wash. Jan. 16, 2023 — The National Intercollegiate Rodeo Association (NIRA) is excited to announce a new partnership with Cenex®, the energy brand of CHS, for the 2023 competitive season.  Cenex provides premium, high-quality refined fuels, lubricants, propane and renewable energy products consumers depend on to power their homes and businesses. With 1,400-plus locally owned and operated convenience stores in 19 states, Cenex is proud to power the connections bringing communities together across the country, including the time-honored tradition of rodeo.

Through this partnership, Cenex will sponsor and promote at the 2023 College National Finals Rodeo (CNFR) as well as supplementary telecast events on ESPN3 and ESPNU.

“The NIRA is thrilled to be partnering with Cenex in 2023. It’s the perfect fit for our industry,” says NIRA Commissioner Jim Dewey Brown. “CHS is owned by farmers and ranchers, and the Cenex brand fuels rural America. We know these are the people that created our sport; and to be celebrating that history through this sponsorship is a wonderful thing.”

As a brand of CHS, a leading global agribusiness owned by farmers, ranchers and cooperatives across the United States, Cenex is committed to empowering projects and programs that build brighter futures in the communities it serves.

“We’re proud to support the next generation of rodeo,” says Matt Mohs, vice president of Cenex refined fuels marketing. “Through this partnership, Cenex continues its dedication to supporting youth sports across rural America and celebrates a sport that’s so deeply rooted in the traditions and values of our farmer owners.”

Cenex has shown its support for youth athletes both on and off the field through partnerships with organizations like the Positive Coaching Alliance and the Minnesota Twins, and has also contributed over $475,000 to philanthropic projects across the country.  

“I am beyond impressed with their commitment to philanthropy. College rodeo is lucky to be sharing the stage with Cenex,” says Commissioner Brown.