Tehama - The Magazine

18 TEHAMA - THE MAGAZINE, October 2014 Champion. "I got better the way you do in any sport, by repetition. It takes practice to get the rhythm and form down. Once you get the basics down, it takes concentration not to make any mistakes." Brewer began participating in the sport at a young age, first in amateur rodeo competitions and later in the professional rodeo circuit. His brother Jerry also competes professionally. "A lot of people can rope. It's figuring out how to win," said Brewer. "The Brewer Roping Arena helps cowboys get the practice they need to be at the top of their game." Mike's oldest brother, Kenny, managed the arena for the first ten years until he was critically injured in an equine accident. Mike has managed the facility and its events since 1971, earning the nickname "Jus Brewer" for his management style. "I keep things simple," explained Brewer. "I don't use computers to manage the competitions. We do things old school around here and it works." What also works is Brewer's business model focused on setting and keeping expectations. "We've kept people coming to the arena for the past 50 years by continually changing what we do to keep it fun," said Brewer. "The other reason we are successful is we are consistent. We start on time, have decent steers, ensure fair competitions and keep the gates open." Each week, 20 to 30 people participate in the Arena's Monday night practices. On Wednesdays, 80 to 100 teams participate in 3 for $10 team roping competitions with jackpots. To keep it interesting, there is a different series and theme each month with coveted prizes such as buckles and saddles. When it rains, Brewer rents out the covered arena at the Tehama District Fairground or other venue to hold the weekly competitions and other scheduled events. In addition to weekly events, the Arena hosts four annual roping competitions commemorating New Year's Eve, the KF Brewer Memorial, the Arena's Anniversary and the Tehama County Round Up.

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