Throughout this June rodeo issue, we balance past and present. From our cover story featuring Ty Erickson and his horse, “Crush,” to the energy and miles of the Cowboy Christmas run, these stories reflect the many sides of rodeo today.
Along the way, you’ll spend time with Lee Bland Lee, Dale Brisby and classic cowboy Bob Moorhouse; explore rodeo destinations; and learn about university equine mascots. “Rodeo’s Rougher Days” turns back through archival black-and-white imagery, honoring the photography pioneers who captured the sport in its earliest days.
It’s rodeo time, Western Horseman. Let ‘er buck!
On The Cover
Ty Erickson stands with 2024 Nutrena Steer Wrestling Horse of the Year, Finding Meno, known as “Crush,” owned by Erickson and his wife, Cierra. Photography by Kensie-Darst Todd.
Features
THE NOD BEFORE THE CRUSH
Ty Erickson has ridden great horses, but the one who changed everything came through his own program, shaped by time and knowing when to let a horse be what it is. BY KENSIE-DARST TODD, Page 62
DALE YEAH
In a short time, Dale Brisby has become the most popular social media sensation in the Western industry. That’s no shock to the “world’s greatest bull rider,” ol’ son. BY ROSS HECOX, Page 72
COWBOY CHRISTMAS
The miles, money and mindset of rodeo’s Fourth of July run ranges from careful planning to unforeseen chaos. BY FILIPE MASETTI, Page 80
Contents
Women of the West Lee Bland Lee balances life as a rancher, mother and wife of a National Finals steer roper while supporting her family’s rodeo lifestyle. Page 16
Classic Cowboy A lifetime of cowboying and horsemanship defines Bob Moorhouse’s steady influence on the West. Page 19
How-to A look back at Randy Steffen’s how-to sketches. Page 22
Health A pre-purchase exam helps buyers make informed decisions by offering a clear picture of a horse’s health. Page 25
Real Life Ranch Wife Free horses may not cost a penny, but as one ranch family learns, they often come with surprises. Page 28
Cowboy Cooking Madison Curley shares a sourdough apple fritter recipe inspired by one of her favorite childhood treats. Page 30
From the Lens Before modern gear, rodeo photographers had to earn every shot. Page 33
Western Living Whether in the stands or the arena, find your rodeo style. Page 38
Where are They Now The Real Bird family carries on a century-long bucking horse legacy tied to the Battle of the Little Bighorn and their Crow heritage. Page 40
Rodeo Pick-up man Tyler Kraft builds a standout string of horses, earning multiple American Quarter Horse Association Pickup Horse of the Year honors. Page 45
Cowboy Spirit Across the country, university equine mascots carry on tradition as horses thunder onto the field ahead of kickoff. Page 48
Bucking Horse Blood Saddle bronc 898 Sweet William has become the horse to draw in the International Pro Rodeo Association circuit. Page 53
Arenas Trey Yates reflects on lessons learned from his college rodeo days as he continues to shape his mindset and approach to team roping. Page 56
3 Questions Dustin Murray of Hi Lo ProRodeo remembers his journey from bareback rider to building a rodeo company. Page 58
In Every Issue
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