Navajo County honors NFR contestant Derrick Begay

<i>Courtesy photo</i><br>
Navajo County Supervisors on Jan. 13 recognized local cowboy Derrick Begay (in the cowboy hat) and his parents Victor and Myrtle for his participation in the 50th Wrangler National Finals Rodeo in team roping in December 2008.

<i>Courtesy photo</i><br> Navajo County Supervisors on Jan. 13 recognized local cowboy Derrick Begay (in the cowboy hat) and his parents Victor and Myrtle for his participation in the 50th Wrangler National Finals Rodeo in team roping in December 2008.

HOLBROOK, Ariz. -Navajo County Supervisor Jesse Thompson recognized local cowboy Derrick Begay on Jan. 13 for his participation in the 50th Wrangler National Finals Rodeo in team roping back in December 2008.

"We're very proud of you," Thompson said. "We're proud of the person you've become. I knew your maternal and paternal grandparents, and we watched you on national TV while they raised the Navajo Nation flag behind you."

Begay is a "header" in the team-roping competition, which means he ropes the head of the cow while teammate and "heeler" Victor Aros ropes the heels.

"I can't remember when I first started roping," Begay said. "I've been doing it a long time."

Begay's parents, Victor and Myrtle said the competition has been good for their son.

"Roping has really inspired a sincere passion in him," said Myrtle Begay. "We've been supportive of this from the beginning."

Victor Begay, a lifelong roper, said roping is in his son's blood.

"I've roped all my life, and it's a great feeling to be a parent and see your kid out there in the arena," he said.

Supervisor Jonathan Nez recognized the Begay family, who accompanied Derrick to the board meeting.

"I want to take a moment to recognize Mr. Begay's parents," Nez said. "This is a great son you've raised."

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