ROBERTSDALE, Alabama – Kyle Irwin had grand plans to finish out his 2018 season and be home in time for the birth of his daughter.

He had to alter them in a big way.

“When I first found out Randa was pregnant, I developed my plans to have the (National) Finals made by August and be home when the baby comes in mid-September,” said Irwin, a four-time National Finals Rodeo qualifier from Robertsdale, now living in Westville, Flaorida, with his wife and their two children, Tripp and Ellie.

“I flew home Sept. 30, right after I got done with my run in Stephenville (Texas). I got home at 11-something...