11 year old cowboy Holden Atkinson got his start mutton busting in Okotoks and learned saddle broncing in High River, but now he's headed off to Las Vegas, after qualifying for the second time, to the Junior National Finals Rodeo.

Holden's mom Risa, says the young cowboy is excited for his trip in December and has kept a pretty busy schedule throughout the year.

"Holden is really excited, he's worked really hard all year, he's been in rodeos all over Alberta and even competed in Montana."

Holden is the only Canadian kid to qualify for three of the junior rodeo events at the JNFR this year, including: mini bareback, saddle bronc and bull riding.

He'll be looking to follow last year's success, where he was the Reserve Junior World Saddle Bronc Champion for 2017's Vegas event.

On October 27 2018, Holden won the mini bronc riding and steer riding events at the High River Junior Rodeo.

Risa says she grateful that Holden was able to grow up in a small town environment that has allowed his talents to flourish.

"Just about two years ago he was lucky enough to have a chance in High River. They had some clinics to learn mini bronc riding, he loved it, and took off from there. He's just lucky to grow up in an area that has had some great cowboys that have come out of High River, Black Diamond, Longview and Nanton, it's a really great opportunity for these kids."

Holden will be heading out on Tuesday, December 4 and the junior events kicking off on Thursday, December 6.