There are multiple pathways to qualify for the Kimes Ranch Million Dollar Breakaway:
The top 10 breakaway ropers in the world standings earn automatic qualification to the 25-woman finals field.
The Virtual Rodeo Qualifier (VRQ) is the premier global points-based qualification system. The top 20 competitors on the Kimes VRQ Leaderboard (April 2 - November 2, 2025) earn positions in the semi-finals with no additional entry fees. VRQ Division 1 nomination: $150 (multi-round events). VRQ Division 2 nomination: $75 (single-header events). Athletes earn leaderboard points by nominating at PRCA, UPRA, and IPRA sanctioned rodeos.
15 qualifiers advance from the semi-finals (3 rounds, $750 entry, 70% payback) to join the top 10 world-ranked competitors in the 25-woman finals field.
Multiple rounds with aggregate scoring. Entry: $500 (70% payback). Held December 16 at WestWorld of Scottsdale.
Three qualifying rounds with aggregate results determining advancement.
The 2026 First Chance Qualifier is held December 21, the day after the finals, for early qualification to next year's event.
Top 5 from the Women's Professional Rodeo challenger event qualify.
Additional qualifier positions for athletes ranked 11-15 in world standings.