The transition is complete: Chance Kelton is an elite steer roper. This weekend marks his third straight qualification to the Clem McSpadden National Finals Steer Roping and equals the number of qualifications he had in all those years as one of the best headers in team roping.

Of course, Kelton still competes in multiple events, and he’s quite handy at it. A regular fixture during the annual Timed Event Championship, the Arizona cowboy truly is one of the greatest all-around hands in the game.

Last November, Kelton placed in three rounds inside this arena, but he left Oklahoma with just $3,500. The year before, Kelton made the most of his first trip to the finale, placing in five rounds, including two go-round victories, en route to the largest payday of the 2009 NFSR.

The 1993 National High School Rodeo Association’s team roping champion, Kelton has proven his merit time and again in a pro career that began in 1994. This weekend is just another notch on his already-worthy belt.