Guthrie — The Lazy E Arena has officially announced that tickets are now on sale for the 2026 Cinch Timed Event Championship Presented by Smarty Rodeo (CTEC), set for March 5–7, in Guthrie, Oklahoma. Known as the “Ironman of Rodeo,” the CTEC gathers the most versatile and accomplished allaround cowboys in the sport for three days of unparalleled competition.
The event challenges 25 athletes to excel in five timed events: team roping heading, team roping heeling, tie-down roping, steer wrestling, and steer roping. The event consists of five rounds in three days. Contestants vie for a share of more than $200,000 in prize money, with the winner claiming the prestigious CTEC title and a $100,000 paycheck.
“There’s nothing in rodeo that matches the energy and uniqueness of these three days,” said Lazy E Arena General Manager, Dan Wall. “We’re proud to welcome back 10 CTEC Champions and an incredible 186 combined appearances to one of the most legendary arenas in western sports history.”
The event opens on March 5 with 25 athletes competing through rounds one and two. After these rounds, the five highest aggregates will be eliminated. Competition continues March 6 with rounds three and four, where another five athletes will be cut. The remaining 15 competitors advance to the championship round on Saturday Night on March 7, where they will go head-to-head for the $100,000 grand prize.
Ketch Kelton, earned the top podium spot in 2025 with an aggregate time of 338.6 seconds and took home the $109,000 payday, winning Rounds one, two, and five along the way. Dylan Hancock secured second place in the aggregate with 436.3 seconds and $35,000, highlighted by a thirdplace finish in Round five. Brushton Minton finished third overall with 437.2 seconds and $15,000. Seth Hall placed fourth with 444.9 seconds and $10,000, adding a third-place finish in Round 2 and a strong showing in Round 5.
One of the most decorated champions in event history, 60-yearold K.C. Jones, returns for his 34th appearance. Jones is a five-time CTEC Champion and finished 15th in the 2025 aggregate with 547.5 seconds. His victories span nearly two decades, with titles in 1993, 1996, 1999, 2001, and 2012.
Ten athletes secured their spots in the 2026 Junior Ironman on May 7 by advancing through either the 2025 Cinch World Championship Junior Rodeo or the National Little Britches Rodeo Association. They will compete across three demanding rounds, with the lowest aggregate time earning the $20,000 cash prize.
