When I developed Rodeo Media Relations, I had been covering the sport for the largest newspaper in Oklahoma.

I had purchased a new SUV in 2002, and it quickly became my rodeo wagon. I drove many miles across the red dirt-lined highways to tell cowboy tales to the periodical’s readers. That vehicle became an identifiable piece of me more than a decade ago.

Enter Tate Branch Auto Group of southeastern New Mexico, which has dealerships in Artesia, Carlsbad and Hobbs. Rodeo Media Relations and TwisTed Rodeo have a new rodeo wagon, and it’s even more identifiable to what we do in promoting the sport of rodeo and its people.

The 2014 Dodge Durango is outfitted with an amazing wrap that proudly displays all the great things Tate Branch Auto Group has to offer. For instance, any rodeo association member should check out the savings possible through any of the Tate Branch dealerships. On top of that is Warranty Forever, a Tate Branch Auto Group exclusive warranty that covers the drive train of any vehicle purchased at one of our dealerships that has less than 75,000 miles.

The Tate Branch Auto Group “Riding for the Brand” team includes some of the greatest cowboys in the game, most of whom have New Mexico ties – two-time world champion saddle bronc rider Taos Muncy; tie-down roping brothers Clint and Clif Cooper; their father, eight-time world champ Roy Cooper; steer roper Marty Jones; and team roping twins Jake and Jim Ross Cooper.

That’s a boatload of talent, and I’m proud to be part of the “Riding for the Brand” team. I’m excited to have them tag along the rodeo trail with me as I continue to tell cowboy tales.