Rankin McMillian, a 14-year-old Sabinal student, ropes a calf off 15-year-old bay roan Nick during state rodeo finals on May 24 in Gonzales.

(Photo courtesy of Jennings Photography) Rankin McMillian, a 14-year-old from Sabinal, is headed to a world championship rodeo, where he'll compete against about 1,200 contestants later this month.

McMillian earned a spot in the 21st National Junior High Finals Rodeo after placing fourth in tie-down roping May 24-30 at the state competition in Gonzales.