Gila River Rodeo Representatives Make Their Mark at the 50th Anniversary INFR
October 23, 2026
Devyn Dennison
Gila River Indian News
LAS VEGAS, Nev. — The Indian National Finals Rodeo (INFR) celebrated 50 years of Indian rodeo at the South Point Hotel, Casino & Spa in Las Vegas, Nevada, October 13–17, 2026. The historic event brought together top competitors from across Indian Country, celebrating generations of rodeo tradition and the communities that continue to shape the sport.
Representing the Gila River Indian Community were saddle bronc rider Jalen Joaquin, breakaway roper Savannah Joe, and longtime rodeo secretary Penny Mix. Each made their mark during the milestone event, both inside and outside the arena.
Jalen Joaquin: Carrying on a Cowboy Legacy
A third-generation cowboy from Sacaton’s District 4, Jalen Joaquin is the son of Fay Yesk and Albert Joaquin, who is from the Santa Rosa District of the Tohono O’odham Nation. His family’s ranching and rodeo traditions have shaped his passion for saddle bronc riding and his pride in representing both tribal communities.
Jalen captured the INFR Saddle Bronc World Championship in 2017 and returned in 2026 for his seventh qualification. Throughout the season, he competed in five INFR-affiliated rodeos across Arizona, placing in four and earning a position among the top 24 contestants in the tour standings.
For Jalen, competing at the INFR is an experience unlike any other.
“You have never lived until you’ve been in a packed house with people just screaming, wanting you to do your best. There’s no better feeling than that.”
Jalen finished eighth in the saddle bronc average standings at this year’s finals, expressing gratitude to his family and the rodeo fans who supported him.
Beyond his accomplishments, Jalen hopes to encourage the next generation of bronc riders in Sacaton. He credits his parents for instilling strong values and reminds young cowboys that learning from others is part of becoming a better competitor.
“Don’t be afraid to ask for help. There’s a lot of opportunity in rodeo, as long as you love the sport.”
Penny Mix & Savannah Joe: A Mother-Daughter Duo
From the rodeo office to the breakaway roping box, Penny Mix and her daughter Savannah Joe know how to stay busy. While Penny keeps rodeo operations moving behind the scenes, Savannah is horseback, chasing calves and making competitive runs.
Penny is the daughter of Gary Mix, a well-known cattleman from District 4. She has built her own reputation as a respected rodeo secretary, handling contestant entries, draws, judges’ sheets, records, and payouts at rodeos across the country.
With more than a decade of experience, Penny was selected to lead secretary training at the 2026 INFR, sharing her knowledge and encouraging others to become involved in the important work behind the sport.
Her daughter Savannah, known as “SJ,” grew up around rodeos, horses, and the competitors she admired. Now a third-generation cowgirl and four-time INFR qualifier, she continues to balance competing with helping her mother in the rodeo office.
“My mom has it down. She’s been doing it for 10 to 15 years,” Savannah shared. “I just go and compete and then go back to the office and assist in any way I can.”
Their busy season included rodeos throughout Arizona and trips to Calgary, Oklahoma, Montana, North Dakota, and South Dakota. Savannah secured her INFR qualification by winning the Ladies Breakaway Roping at Pine Ridge Rodeo in South Dakota.
At the finals, Savannah placed third in the short go-round and eighth in the average standings, adding another accomplishment to her growing rodeo career.
Whether handling payouts, chasing calves, or riding broncs, Jalen, Penny, and Savannah proudly represent the Gila River Indian Community. Their dedication reflects the family traditions, hard work, and community pride that continue to carry Indian rodeo into its next 50 years.