MPCC men’s rodeo team claims region title at Cornhusker College Rodeo

Lincoln, Neb. – The No. 2 Mid-Plains Community College men’s rodeo team wrapped up the Great Plains Region title following the Cornhusker College Rodeo in Lincoln on Saturday.

“I’m extremely proud of the student-athletes,” said head coach Aukai Kaai. “They worked hard all year, and I am excited for what’s to come at the college finals!” 

The men’s team secured the top spot behind another strong performance from seasoned veterans Kahiwa Augustiro and Jackson Lunn.

Augustiro, a native of Hoʻolehua, Hawaii, notched a second-place finish in bareback and won the average in bull riding to claim back-to-back Great Plains Region all-around titles. He currently rests in fifth place in the nation in the all-around category headed into the College National Finals Rodeo.

Jackson Lunn capped off the regular season in dominant fashion, securing his ninth gold buckle in the bareback event. The Whitecourt, Alberta native is the top bareback rider entering the CNFR in June.

Trace Scarlavai took the short round but finished third in the bull riding event. Scarlavai still managed to claim the Great Plains Region title, joining Eli Higa (second) and Augustiro (third) in an all MPCC podium to close out the season.

Cinch Painter won the long round but finished third in steer wrestling, while Matt Miller snagged a third-place finish in the tie down event.

As added highlights, the MPCC Stampede was named Great Plains Rodeo of the Year and Aukai Kaai was named Great Plains Region Coach of the Year.