Beaver named the fans’ favorite

Monday, Dec. 11, 2000 | 10:43 a.m.

Capping a highly successful return trip to the National Finals Rodeo, personable Texas cowboy Joe Beaver joined a prominent list of athletes when he was honored as the 2000 Original Coors Fans' Favorite Cowboy Sunday during the closing ceremony at the Thomas & Mack.

Rodeo fans in attendance during the first six performances of this year's event selected the 15-time NFR calf roping qualifier to the prestigious award.

Beaver becomes one of 17 cowboys who have received the honor, which is presented annually by Original Coors, a major sponsor of the Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association.

Jim Sabia, Original Coors brand director, presented Beaver a $5,000 bonus check during the post-NFR ceremony held on the arena floor after the final go-round.

Beaver, who captured his third World Champion All-Around Cowboy title Sunday, also received a replica trophy of the Original Coors Fan's Favorite Cowboy bronze sculpture. Beaver's name will be added to the perpetual bronze sculpture, which will be permanently on display at the Pro Rodeo Hall of Fame in Colorado Springs, Colo.

"What a wonderful comeback season this has been for me and this award is just an awesome way to end the year," Beaver said. "I accept this award from Original Coors with humility to think of all the other great cowboys who have won it and with gratitude to the fans who would think this much of me."