Cave Creek’s Chantz Stewart Lassos Million-Dollar Opportunity
Writer Joseph J. Airdo // Photography Courtesy of Chantz Stewart
As the autumn sun rises over Cave Creek, Chantz Stewart’s silhouette cuts a determined figure against the rugged landscape. With a rope in hand and fire in her eyes, she’s preparing for a pivotal moment — the first chance qualifier for the inaugural Kimes Ranch Million $ Breakaway.
“When Kimes announced the Million $ Breakaway, I committed to roping seriously again,” Stewart says. “The opportunity to compete for this kind of purse is once in a lifetime.”
Stewart’s journey from her Cave Creek ranch to the glittering arena at WestWorld of Scottsdale embodies the spirit of the modern cowgirl – blending time-honored traditions with groundbreaking opportunities. The Million $ Breakaway, set for Nov. 27–30, isn’t just another rodeo; it’s a seismic shift in the landscape of women’s rodeo.
Amanda Kimes, vice president of Kimes Ranch, explains the event’s significance.
“We wanted to create a premier event to spotlight the fastest-growing event in rodeo, provide a stage as well as an unprecedented prize purse for these elite female athletes, and welcome our hometown community to join in the excitement,” Kimes says.
For Stewart, whose roots in the equestrian world run deep, this event represents more than just a chance at glory.
“Being based out of Cave Creek and Scottsdale is a blessing,” she reflects. “When the weather starts to cool down, this area becomes a mecca for all forms of roping.”
The path to the main event isn’t easy. After Images Arizona’s press deadline, Stewart will have competed in the first chance qualifier in Oklahoma, Oct. 18–20. If she hasn’t secured her spot there, she’ll have one more opportunity at the last chance qualifier in Scottsdale on Nov. 27. Either way, she’s determined to be part of the Million $ Breakaway event in Scottsdale — a 10-round showdown with a million-dollar purse at stake.
“The most challenging aspect of breakaway roping is getting the timing down,” Stewart explains. “It’s a matter of tenths and hundredths of a second that makes the difference between winning and losing.”
As Stewart prepares, the impact of the Million $ Breakaway ripples through the community. Local businesses in Cave Creek and Scottsdale are gearing up for the influx of competitors and spectators, while the event shines a spotlight on the area’s rich Western heritage.
“I believe this event will grow this industry even more in this area,” Stewart says. “It will bring awareness to Breakaway Roping, especially in Scottsdale. I hope it brings attention and gets more women interested so that they can pursue this sport as well.”
Kimes agrees.
“We have three days of thrilling competition followed by a stellar lineup of some of our favorite country artists to entertain after the roping,” she adds. “We hope our Scottsdale community joins us and shares in this monumental event.”
For spectators new to the sport, Stewart offers a primer.
“Breakaway roping is a timed event,” she explains. “It starts when you cross the timeline/barrier and stops when the end of your rope breaks off your saddle horn, and the flagger drops the flag. It’s exciting because when done right, you blink and you’ll miss it.”
In a sport where every second counts, Stewart is ready to make history — one throw at a time.
“Thank you to Kimes Ranch, Matt and Amanda Kimes, for their support of this event,” Stewart says, her gratitude evident. “And most importantly, for giving women the opportunity to compete for life-changing money.”
Kimes Ranch Million $ Breakaway
Nov. 27–30 // See website for schedule of events // WestWorld of Scottsdale // 16601 N. Pima Road, Scottsdale // $35+ // milliondollarbreakaway.com
Comments by Admin