Cody Jacobs was awarded the Top Hand Award by Pendleton Round-Up President Dennis Hunt Friday night during a celebration at Rodeo Lanes in Pendleton, to honor minor age volunteers.

The Top Hand Award is a new honor in 2011 given to a volunteer under the age of 18 that best demonstrates the spirit of Round-Up with a dependable work ethic and positive attitude. Cody was presented with an exquisite hand-carved Montana Silversmith sterling silver belt buckle with gold bucking horse design and ornate lettering stating “Pendleton Round-Up Top Hand.”

14 year old Cody has worked on both the Livestock Crew and with Hay and Barns for four years. However, prior to that he helped his father, Bob Jacobs, on the Parade Crew by sweeping out the barns. “Cody has been helping out with Round-Up since we moved here.” said Bob.

Early each morning during Round-Up week, Cody helps feed the livestock, which is a job that repeats each afternoon. Soon after the morning feeding Cody assists in sorting the calves and steers for morning slack early in the week, as well as for the rodeo performances Wednesday through Saturday. “He is always ready to work because when he is working, he is where the action is,” stated Round-Up Livestock Director David O’Neill, “he wouldn’t miss that for anything. Cody truly loves the Pendleton Round-Up and takes great pride in being a volunteer”

“My favorite part is running the cows through the alley,” said Cody with a smile, “Now there’s something you don’t get to do every day.” It is widely acknowledged among the Round-Up directors that Cody is always willing to help anyone anytime, doing anything he is requested to do and often gets started even before he is asked. 

Competitive Events Director Bill Quesenberry said, “Cody and his dad are definitely jacks of all trades. Anywhere anyone needs help, these two will get it done.” Cody plans to wear his new buckle proudly.