Long Time NFR Fan – Jenny Aisenbrey

By Patrick Everson

Back in 1991, Jenny Aisenbrey attended the Wrangler National Finals Rodeo for the first time. Thirty-three years later – at the spry age of 100 years old – Aisenbrey is finishing off another 10-round run as a fan in Las Vegas.

“I came out in 1991, and I’ve been hooked ever since. My first ticket was $18,” Aisenbrey said with a laugh. “Now, it’s $90 for the same seat.”

But she’ll gladly pay it. After that 1991 trip, it was a few years before Aisenbrey returned from her hometown of New Town, N.D. But in 1998, she and her family secured season tickets, so she’s been here every year since.

The main reason she keeps returning is pretty simple.

“Because I love it. The atmosphere, the whole thing. It’s a wonderful show,” she said while taking in Friday night’s ninth go-round at the Thomas & Mack Center.

In particular, Aisenbrey enjoys the tie-down roping, for a reason that was rather interesting.

“Because of Joe Beaver,” Aisenbrey said with perhaps a little gleam in her eye, if you know that I mean.

Still, long after Beaver hung up his rope, Aisenbrey continues to enjoy the latest rodeo cowboys and cowgirls.

“I like it all. The barrel racers, the bareback riders, they’re all good,” she said. “And I hope each night that the bulls don’t hurt the boys.”

There certainly aren’t too many fans who can say they’ve attended 27 Wrangler NFRs, and very few if any still doing so at 100 years old. Aisenbrey recognizes it as a blessing.

“Oh yes, I’m very grateful. There’s nothing like being at the NFR,” Aisenbrey said, noting she didn’t necessarily expect to still be attending this event, at the century mark of her life. “No, but I look forward to it every year. I plan on coming back next year.”

Based on her enthusiasm and energy during Friday’s Grand Entry and the bareback riding, it’s a pretty safe bet that Aisenbrey will be back at 101, for the Wrangler NFR’s 40^th anniversary run in Las Vegas.

“It all depends on the guy upstairs.”

I’d say He’s rooting for her.