Flying high and impressing the crowd
I rode by first bull at Kowbell Arena in Mansfield, Texas when I was an undergraduate student at The University of Dallas. I have been hooked ever since. I started bull riding when I was 21 years old and am now 27. I have been riding for five years (having taken the 2007 season off to recover from injury). I make my return to the arena in February of 2008.
Bucking out on the dreaded "92 Winchester" bull
I recommend that ANYBODY interest in learning how to ride bulls attend a Sankey Rodeo School. Links to websites run by Sankey Rodeo Schools Some people find the schools pricey, but I guarantee they are worth every dime of what you will spend and then some. If you have already decided that bull riding is something you want to do, it will be a great learning experience. If you haven't quite decided, Sankey Rodeo Schools offers a great opportunity to learn about the sport of bull riding in a structured environment and help you to make an informed decision. Even if you just want to try bull riding for the thrill of it, Sankey Rodeo Schools will help make your dreams a reality. I cannot give them a higher endorsement.
Riding out all 1900 pounds of the Avalanche!
I also get a number of inquiries about the equipment I use, so here are some answers. I am naturally right handed and I also ride right-handed. I use a Brazilian-style bull rope, which is different from a conventional pull rope because it pulls from the opposite side and, in my opinion, gives me a better grip. I do not ride with any fancy spurs or rowels - I use good quality equipment but nothing different from what is conventional. I use B-B Bull Riding Gloves exclusively and ride with a RideRight Vest, Jofa Hockey Helmet, Adidas Shin Guards, and low-profile knee pads for added protection. My bull riding boots are made by Ariat, but for non-bull riding occassions I prefer Lucchesse cowboy boots. My tie down straps, spur straps, and glove tie down are made of nylon instead of leather because nylon does not wear out like leather does, it allows a more custom fit, and it is less expensive. I own a pair of chaps, but find them to be destracting and would really rather not wear them. I urge any rider reading this to keep in mind that what works for some riders does not work for all riders. This is simply a list of what works for me.
Getting ready to ride the legendary Strawberry Wine. I ran out of athletic tape . . .
Finally, I want to address the concerns of some that say it is "unbecoming" for a person in the legal profession to participate in rodeos as well as others that say rodeo is a "cruel" or "barbaric" sport. These people often have no idea what the sport of rodeo is all about and are completely ignorant of why bulls buck and of the purpose rodeo-related items like hot-shots, spurs, and flank straps. Most of the people who are interested in banning rodeo are simply Stalinists who think they have the right to control every aspect of our lives and who think a government run by people just like them knows what is best for all of us. If you are one of these people, my advice is to you is this: MOVE.
Thats about it. Keep an eye on this page for updated pictures, a list of events I will be riding in, and injury reports.