RodeoChat Interview: 6 Questions with Rex Allen Jones

Good Evening RodeoChat Fans! I hope you all have made it back home safely from the NFR in Las Vegas. Now that most of us are back in our homes trying to stay warm.. I thought I’d share an interview I did with Rex Allen Jones. Rex Allen Jones, is the guy that made the book ” Lecile Harris: Not My First Rodeo ” happen! With that being said, check out my interview with Rex Allen Jones Below:

RodeoChat: You have filmed so many documentary’s in your lifetime.. What made you decide to get into the rodeo industry, and write a book about a rodeo clown by the name of Lecile Harris?

Rex Allen Jones: Compelling characters are always important in film. When I read about Lecile in the newspaper, I was absolutely fascinated by him and knew that his story would provide plenty of humor and drama. The end result can be seen here: http://vimeo.com/51310965

RodeoChat: In Lecile Harris’s book, ” This Ain’t My First Rodeo” you mentioned that you were looking for a new film idea. Did you have any that your “Film” idea would turn into a book? Do you think those film clips will be released into a Lecile Harris movie one day?

Rex Allen Jones: I don’t know if anything from the documentary would make it into a feature film, but we would love for somebody to make one from the book. We have had some preliminary interest for the screenplay rights, so we are keeping our fingers crossed.

RodeoChat: Some writers prefer writing in the summer time vs. the winter time. Do you have any writing superstitions?

Rex Allen Jones: I personally don’t have any writing superstitions. I do find that when I write, I work best in long periods of uninterrupted time. 

RodeoChat: When you were writing the Autobiography about Lecile Harris what was the easiest thing to write about and the hardest?

Rex Allen Jones: The easiest part was just to let Lecile tell the stories and get out of his way. They didn’t need anything from me to be funny, moving, or interesting. The hardest part was taking 60 years worth of his life in rodeo and putting that in the correct chronological order while ensuring that the stories all flowed together for an easy read. I feel like we did a good job on that.

RodeoChat: Besides meeting Lecile Harris at the rodeo in Memphis. Did you get the chance to travel with Lecile to other rodeos around the world? If so, what was one of your favorite rodeo or state you visited?

Rex Allen Jones: My favorite experience thus far has been doing the book tour with Lecile at the National Finals Rodeo in Las Vegas.  I have seen some great events and met many legends of rodeo.

RodeoChat: Now that your done writing the Lecile Harris story. What’s next on your agenda? Another movie or book?

Rex Allen Jones: Lecile and I are kicking around a couple more book ideas, so we hope people will look out for those. In the meantime, they can get a copy of this one from Lecile at one of the many rodeos he works, or on Amazon at the following link: http://amzn.com/0692476962

Paige Gregory

RodeoChat Owner / Founder

http://www.Twitter.com/RodeoChat

http://www.Facebook.com/RodeoChat

http://www.Instagram.com/RodeoChatt

RodeoChat Interview: PRCA Rodeo Clown, Lecile Harris

 

It’s the most wonderful time of the year! We are about 1 hour away from the third round of the Wrangler National Finals Rodeo in Viva Las Vegas! With that being said, I had to interview a rodeo legend that has payed his dues and deserves to have the spotlight shined on him! Here is my interview with 4 x PRCA Rodeo Clown Of The year, and 2007 Inductee of the Pro Rodeo Hall Of Fame…

 

LECILE HARRIS 

LECILE HARRIS: I’m the Official Cover Clown – not cover girl – of the Exhibitor Guide to the Sands Country Christmas!

Question 1: In the beginning of your book it goes from farming, to football, traveling to different schools, wrestling, bull riding, playing in a band, bullfighting and finally rodeo clowning. How did all of those events that you were involved with lead you into being a rodeo clown that you are today?

Lecile Harris:  I realized early picking cotton and chopping corn and hauling hay wasn’t really a great way to make a living.  I love the game of football but after shoulder injury and not really being heavy enough I was not going to be able to play professional football and after a really good  whipping from a battalion champion in the Marines I decided boxing was not the easiest way to go.  
 I started riding bulls but calls I was fascinated with the sport but being 6’5″ my center of balance was just too tall to be a good bull rider and and started watching the clowns, that’s when I fell in love with fighting bulls.

My music career was advancing pretty fast but I realized there was an awful lot of night hours and partying and felt Rodeo was a healthier route to take. 

when I first started doing bullfighting, you also had to do comedy. It was a requirement so it was a natural for me to go into comedy

when I retired from fighting bulls.

Question 2: Back when you started your rodeo clown career.. Was it easier to entertain crowds then OR is it easier to entertain crowds today?

Lecile Harris: Entertaining was a lot harder to learn than fighting bulls,I am still learning every day now. People were no easier to entertain when I first started then they are now it is just a different type of entertainment. 

Question 3: In your book ” Lecile: This Ain’t My First Rodeo ” You had talked about how when you started rodeoing it used to start in the spring time and you went all the way through the summer. You also mentioned that today rodeo is now year around. Do you still pick up a part-time job during the winter times or do you make enough where you don’t have to pick up a part time job and still be able to do what you want to do?

Lecile Harris: Because I have had several businesses that have been successful, a sign business, a printing business a construction company, sandblasting business and now own quite a bit of commercial property that my rodeo career help me finance in the beginning. Fortunately I do not have to have part-time jobs in the winter.

Question 4: What are your thoughts on the rodeo clown industry today? Do you think it’s where it needs to be? Any improvements?

Lecile Harris: Today’s Rodeo clowning is a lot different from the past, a lot having to do with political correctness and a lot to do with today’s entertainment taste. It is a lot more specialized and lucrative, but a lot more expensive to travel. 

Question 5: Question 5: Is there still any rodeos this day where you would like to rodeo clown at that you haven’t before?

Lecile Harris: I have pretty much had the opportunity to work all of the rodeos that l wanted to work.

Question 6: The 2015 National Finals Rodeo are just a couple of days away.. What are your goals / things you would like to accomplish in 2016?

Lecile Harris: I would like to stay healthy, keep working and spend more quality time with my family.

Question 7: You just released a new Autobiography with Rex Allen Jones.. What was it like working with Rex? Since you’ve done a book. Have you ever thought about making a movie about your rodeo clown career?

Lecile Harris: Rex Allen Jones did a short documentary on me and that’s how we met.  We kind of spoke the same language and it was a pleasure working with . Yes, I would certainly entertain an offer for a movie.

If you are a Lecile Harris fan, and plan on attending the 2015 Wrangler National Finals Rodeo below I have posted the times and dates Lecile will be making appearances! Word on the town is that Lecile brought his autobiography with him, and he will be selling and autographing them as well! Be sure to check out Lecile’s NFR schedule below:

Dec 3-5, Thu-Fri-Sat, 10A-2P at Sands Country Christmas.

Dec 6-9, Sun-Mon-Tue-Wed, 10A-2P at Mandalay Bay Cowboy Marketplace.

Dec 10-13, Thu-Fri-Sat-Sun, 10A-2P at Sands Country Christmas.

Lecile, will also be signing at the Bullfighting Championships in the Las Vegas Convention Center.

LECILE HARRIS: Backstage at Live with Luccia with 5x world champion bullfighter Rob Smets and 7x all-around champion cowboy Ty Murray.

As always, if you can’t make it in person to meet Lecile you can always head on over to his user friendly website by clicking the link below:

http://www.lecile.com/

I thank you for taking the time to read my interview with Lecile Harris. I hope you check back often for more interview with some of your favorite rodeo cowboys and cowgirls!

Dream BIG & Knock out the lights

– Paige Gregory

Little Big Horn, MT

chatrodeo@yahoo.com

http://www.Facebook.com/RodeoChat

http://www.Instagram.com/RodeoChatt

http://www.Twitter.com/RodeoChat

RodeoChat Interview: 3 X CPRA Entertainer Of The Year – Dennis Halstead

Good Evening Everyone! Hope you all are having an amazing week! This week, I had the opportunity to interview 3 X CPRA Rodeo Entertainer Of The Year Dennis Halstead on Twitter! We talked about Firefighting, Making the #2 spot on the CRAZIEST Rodeo Wrecks in Canada. Last but not least, the sacrifices Dennis has had to make to chase his dream of making the NFR one day! Pull up a seat, and grab yourself a cold drink. I hope you enjoy my interview with Canadian Prof. Rodeo Clown, Dennis Halstead!

Question 1: How did the whole rodeo clown idea get started?

Dennis Halstead: Was Calgary firefighter full-time and one time 18 years ago rodeo clown never showed up and I did it and from their every thing just grew to what it is today.

Question 2: Wow!! Where was this at? And were you nervous or just all for it?

Dennis Halstead: No to be honest it was kind of natural cause of my personality lol and never dreamed to make a living rodeoing.

Question 3: When rodeos hire you to be there rodeo clown and put on an act.. How do you decide which act to use or come up with?

Dennis Halstead: I have twenty-two acts so I do different acts every night and keep track so if I go back next year I do different acts. The hardest part of our business is coming up with ideas for new acts other guys have not done.

Question 4: What are some of your most popular acts that you do at Rodeos all over the world?

Dennis Halstead: My flying bathtub is my favorite, I have a bathtub that does 40 mph and I jump off ramp and through ring of fire first it all blows up with me and chicken under the hood, you can see it on Youtube. I have a couple great kid acts and always enjoy letting kids be in the show.

Question 5: What happens when you create an idea and you test it for 2 months and another rodeo clown steals your idea?

Dennis Halstead: That’s just something that happens I always look at it as a complement if somebody wants to do something I’ve done. But there’s also the acts you think up and build and try that don’t work but you don’t know till you try.

Question 6: What was the very first Prof. Rodeo you clowned at and are you still doing that rodeo today?

Dennis Halstead: Medicine Hat was first and try to work it when I can but a lot if my rodeos are in the states now. I’m pretty lucky to get to do most of the major rodeos in Canada and also work south and I do about 140 perfs a year.

Question 7: What are some new rodeos/bull ridings you picked up this year that you haven’t rodeo clowned at before?

Dennis Halstead: To make a run at the NFR , you need to stay in the PRCA to get there so 10 months a year I’m on the road. This year Strathmore up here which is one of the biggest , Bremerton Washington , Rapid City , Salt Lake. I move around a lot go no more than 2 years and I’ve been lucky to work big rodeos all over Pendleton last year.

Question 8: A lot of rodeo clowns join different assocs. So Question is – How many assocs. Do you have your cards in this year?

Dennis Halstead: 2 assoc CPRA and PRCA.

Question 9:  How do you handle rodeo clowning in two assocs? Does it ever conflict at all?

Dennis Halstead: No trying to balance my rodeos in Canada and then trying to do the rodeos I need to do in the states is the toughest. But if that’s my hardest part I’m pretty lucky as I’m living a dream doing what I live and love to do.

Question 10: How busy are you this cowboy Christmas vs. Last years Cowboy Christmas?

Dennis Halstead: I’m booked from Feb to end of Nov and my 2016 is almost done, So pretty lucky you have to book almost 2 years a head. So every month is cowboy Christmas for me 🙂

Question 11: If you could give advice to someone who wants to be a rodeo clown.. What would it be and why?

Dennis Halstead: Develop your own style and show it makes you a better rodeo clown and recognized more for it.

Paige Gregory

RodeoChat Owner And Founder

Mesquite, Texas

http://www.Facebook.com/RodeoChat

http://www.Instagram.com/RodeoChatt

http://www.Twitter.com/RodeoChat

RodeoChat Interview: 12 Questions with Professional Bullfighter Judd Napier

Judd Napier, was born and raised in Hawaii. But, One day he woke up and decided that he wanted to move too Colorado and chase his bullfighting dreams. Here is my interview with Judd Napier, and what you can expect from Judd this year down the bullfighting trail..

Question 1: You’re a guy from Hawaii that happens to have Rodeo in your blood. How in the world did that happen?

Judd Napier: Not a lot of people know this, but the western lifestyle is actually a huge part of Hawaii.

Question 2: Wow! I didn’t realize that till now. So what are the huge Western lifestyle events over in Hawaii?

Judd Napier: Along with all your regular rodeo events, we have our “Hawaii’s own” events called Po’o Wai U and Double Mugging.

Question 3: When time came to change locations & chase your bullfighting dreams.. You chose Colorado. Why CO Vs. TX and Ok?

Judd Napier: I’ve always wanted to spend time in CO. God opened up doors for me to be here. I went to school in OK and KS so I had a taste of what was there.

Question 4: How has living in CO helped chase your bullfighting dreams even further?

Judd Napier: It’s almost central. A lot of my rodeos have been either in this state rodeo the states surrounding. Makes for short drives.

Question 5: Don’t you think that if you lived in OK or TX and networked with all the top bullfighters/Rodeos/Bull ridings you’d be farther in your bullfighting career?

Judd Napier: It might help me, but honestly, I put my trust in God above all else. He’s gotten me this far. He’ll get me where i need to be.

Question 6: Very true! You mentioned that you learned a lot from Wacey Munsell. What was it like working with Wacey?

Judd Napier: Me and Wacey went to college together. He’s one reason I got started fighting. I’ve learned a lot from him over the years. Its fun working with guys that fight the same style as you. Makes it look easier.

Question 7: What are some things Wacey Munsell tought you that made you wanna follow his bullfighting footsteps?

Judd Napier: It’s a lot of team work and trust in your partner. Knowing you can rely on each other makes it a blast!

Question 8: What are some of the highlights you have reached so far in your professional bullfighting career?

Judd Napier: In 2013 Weston Rutkowski and I were the top two bullfighters at the stock sale in Vegas. Both receiving a buckle. Also, being invited to the world championship bullfights in Ardmore, OK is a highlight of its own.

Question 9: What’s one thing you struggle with as a bullfighter today that People May not know about?

Judd Napier: Last year during freestyles I fought my head a lot. Preparing yourself mentally is a huge part of what we do in the arena.

Question 10: Which do you prefer.. Freestyle or Protection Match? And why? Lol.

Judd Napier: I love protection, but freestyle has made me so much better. Not a lot of people think it helps, but it does.

Question 11: What are some of your bullfighting/protection matches that you have coming up next?

Judd Napier: I’ll be at Hunter Jones bullfighter on March 21. I’m really looking forward to it!

Question 12: What are your goals for the rest of the year? Anything exciting that we should know about?

Judd Napier: My goal is to win every bullfight I enter this year. Especially the World Championships Bullfights in Ardmore.

Paige Gregory

Owner/Founder, RodeoChat

Cookeville, TN

http://www.Facebook.com/RodeoChat

http://www.Twitter.com/rodeochat

http://www.instagram.com/rodeochatt

RodeoChat Interview: Northwestern Colorado Head Rodeo Coach – Jed Moore

10 Questions With Northwestern Colorado Head Rodeo Coach – Jed Moore

Question 1: Hello Jed! How are you doing this evening?

Jed Moore: Doing great, hoping to spread some information about college and college rodeo!

Question 2: First things first, in 140 Characters or less.. Explain what your job is as a Head College Rodeo Coach.

Jed Moore: I see myself as Mentor, Coach, Boss, Friend. I recruit, train, and try to better all of my athletes in and out of the arena.

Question 3: Loved all the details! So, how did you get this position? Did you have to apply for it or prove it by working rodeos?

Jed Moore: I applied for several head coach jobs, Monticello, AR, Odessa, TX, Sheridan, WY to name a few. CNCC was a great fit, 5yrs ago.

Question 4: That’s great! When you got the job was your college rodeo team at the top of their game or did you have to help build it up?

Jed Moore: Was fortunate enough to get to build the program from the ground up We’ve been blessed by the talent & results we’ve had so far.

Question 5: Could you go into detail more on what you mean by ” Building from the ground up” ?

Jed Moore: There was a run down fairgrounds a community hungry for something to support & no college rodeo here 🙂 we’ve come a LONG WAY!

Question 6: Let’s talk about the fun stuff.. The riders and the roughstock! How does one qualify/enter up a college rodeo team?

Jed Moore: Some teams limit their size, some take all students. There is approximately 150 schools in the USA with college rodeo teams. I recruit athletes from as far as MO, MI, OR, HI, CA, NV, AZ, WY, MT, TX, UT, NE, & of course, right here in beautiful CO! I forgot to add Canada to that list! Can’t forget my northern cowboys and cowgirls eh!?

Question 7: Have you ever thought about adding TN to that list? Lol

Jed Moore: I am ALWAYS looking at rodeo talent if they want to work hard, be pushed, and have a great college experience, CNCC is the place!

Question 8: Who are some of your top Rodeo Cowboys and Cowgirls on your team right now?

Jed Moore: I’ve got a lot of tough cowboys right now! Colby Demo, is currently the number 2 bull rider in the nation in college rodeo! Sophomore Brody Adams was 3rd in the AA & 3rd in the nation at the CNFR last year, he’s a TOUGH competitor in the TD & TR. I’ve got 2 GT sisters that are tearing them up this year! Josie Dawn and her sister Teash.

Question 9: MAIN question is.. What do you look for in an athlete to be on your team? You obviously have good taste and your team members are already making charts.

Jed Moore: The first thing I look at is grades! solid work ethic, arena ability coachability mental toughness, mature Social Media presence.

Question 10: Last question, What is your goal as a whole team for 2015?

Jed Moore: Qualify a team for the CNFR again and bring the SPARTANS their first National Title! We’ve got the depth and spread to do it!

– Paige Gregory –

RodeoChat Owner And Founder

http://www.Twitter.com/RodeoChat

http://www.Facebook.com/RodeoChat

http://www.Instagram.com/RodeoChatt

RodeoChat Interview: PRCA Cowboy – Ty Viers

Photo Credit – Pamela Hynek

Photo sent in by, Ty Viers

12 Questions with PRCA Cowboy, Ty Viers

Question 1: You just walked into the studio to do a radio interview. DJ gives you 140 characters to introduce yourself. Your 140 are?

Ty Viers: Hey everyone how’s it going I’m Ty Viers PRCA cowboy outta the small town of Comstock, Nebraska.

Question 2: You mentioned that you’re a PRCA Cowboy. What’s the definition of a PRCA Cowboy to you?

Ty Viers: Someone who busts their butt as much as they can down the road to achieve their goals in the PRCA. While promoting the sport.

Question 3: Couldn’t agree more! I see that you ride bulls in the PRCA, but is there any other rodeo events that you compete in as well?

Ty Viers: In High School I roped steers and made the National finals as a heeler. I still rope once in awhile when I get the chance to.

Question 4: Very interesting! But, you decided to take the bull riding trail.. Why is that?

Ty Viers: Well when I was Itty Bitty I remember watching the bull riding at the NFR on TV and fell in love with it. And the rest is history!

Question 5: Lol! I like it. So, I’m just curious.. Are you a first generation rodeo cowboy OR does it run in your family?

Ty Viers: It definitely runs in the family. My dad rode bulls in the PRCA for a while, my step dad ropes a lot and rode buckin horses.

Question 6: Nice! So did your family help you become the bull rider you are today or did you attend bull riding schools?

Ty Viers: Well I owe my star to my step dad and the fact that I always rode horses as a kid. Riding bulls is really no different.

Question 7: I noticed that you mentioned the PRCA trail a lot. What made you choose the PRCA trail vs. other bull riding Assocs?

Ty Viers: There’s just something about those yellow buckin chutes and that gold buckle…

Question 8: Can’t blame you there! By the way, you just finished up in Odessa, Texas this past weekend with some NFR qualifiers. How did it go?

Ty Viers: Yep! Just got home yesterday actually. I ended up getting bucked off a good bull from D&H cattle unfortunately.

Question 9: How do you get over a bad weekend of rodeoing? Do you hit up the practice pen an work out your kinks?

Ty Viers: Most times lately I’ll hit up my rodeo coach Dustin Elliott and see what I can learn from him. He’s always got good advice.

Question 10: Wow! That’s awesome! You are one lucky Cowboy to have a coach like Dustin Elliott! What is it like having Dustin as a Rodeo Coach?

Ty Viers: It’s great! Definitely inspiring when you get to hear stories and see pictures of things you see yourself accomplishing.

Question 11: Most Def! What rodeos can we expect to see you competing at next?

Ty Viers: Well I just entered Ft. Worth today and I’ll be in Rapid City, Jackson, MS and Bismark, ND are the upcoming ones!

Question 12: Where can all of the RodeoChat fans keep up with you down the rodeo trail?

Ty Viers: Everyone can keep up with me by liking my Facebook fan page (https://www.facebook.com/Tylerviersathlete?fref=ts) , by following me on Instagram (www.instagram.com/tylerviers95). And of course on Twitter (https://twitter.com/TylerViers_)

Paige Gregory

RodeoChat Owner And Founder

http://www.Twitter.com/rodeochat

http://www.Facebook.com/RodeoChat

http://www.Instagram.com/RodeoChatt

RodeoChat Interview: PBR Bull Rider – Tyler Harr

Photo Credit: PBR

RodeoChat Interview: 12 Questions with Professional Bull Rider – Tyler Harr

Question 1: How did you catch the bug they like to call “bull riding”?

Tyler Harr: My dad rode bulls and I used to look at his old pics. My grandad had cattle and I looked up to both of them.

Question 2: Very cool! So at what age did you actually start getting on calves and into bull riding seriously?

Tyler Harr:  I was 7 when I got on for the first time.

Question 3: You started at age 7, and things kind of took off from there? Or did you try out any other rodeo events as well?

Tyler Harr: I just rode bulls in a few junior rodeo assoc. tried bareback horses one time and calf roping at a little britches.

Question 4: Nice! So before you got on the PBR tour..Did you ride in any other assoc before the PBR or when you were old enough you went Straight to PBR TPDS?

Tyler Harr: I started traveling to naba, nfpb, and BOA’s when I was 16. After turning 18 I started entering PBR but not regular til 2014.

Question 5: Gotcha! So what was the very first PBR event you entered at and what bull were matched up with?

Tyler Harr: LOL. kinda funny it was popular bluff. The bull was brindle Bob of Scott Burris everyone rode him and I fell off.

Question 6: You just picked up a WIN in Springdale this past weekend! Congrats! Care to give us a recap of the event?

Tyler Harr: It was a great event Jeff Lee produces.  I was 86 in the long go and 87 in the short round on king buck owned by bmc bucking bulls. (Click on the link below to watch this winning ride: https://www.facebook.com/pages/Tyler-Harr-Professional-Bull-Rider/551165078328173?fref=ts)

Question 7: And that win kicked you into the BFTS in Tulsa, Okla this coming weekend?

Tyler Harr: Yes it did I got the call today and was pretty stoked!

Question 8: How many times have you rode on the BFTS?

Photo Credit: Andy Gregory – Humps N Horns Bull Riding Magazine

Tyler Harr: Once before after winning the mobile, Al event I was called up to go to billings.

Question 9: What was it like riding on the BFTS for your very first time?

Tyler Harr: It was a dream come true. I froze on the first 2 bulls and got things going the last night but fell off at the whistle. I was really nervous and just clamped Down kinda like my first touring pro drew bulls I should of rode and fell off.

Question 10: When you aren’t riding bulls.. What do you like to do in your free time?

Tyler Harr: I spend time with my wife and daughter on a lake on our place and tend to the cattle we have so there’s not a lot of free time.

Question 11: So what are your plans for the rest of this year, and 2015 with your bull riding career?

Tyler Harr: My goals this year are making the finals and hopefully paying off our land. LOL then becoming a mainstay on tour next year.

Question 12: What’s something totally random about you that would kind of shock everyone?

Tyler Harr: My toes are painted pink…. My lil girl likes to paint my father in law and my toes. LOL

Paige Gregory

RodeoChat Host And Founder

Nashville, TN

Twitter.com/rodeochat

facebook.com/rodeochat

instagram.com/rodeochatt

 

 

 

 

 

RodeoChat Interview: Gary Gilbert – PRCA Steer Wrestler

16 Questions With PRCA Steer Wrestler Gary Gilbert

RodeoChat: How did you get into Steer Wrestling? Was it a rodeo event you grew up on watching as a kid?

Gary Gilbert: Had a friend I grew up with going to Allen goods steer wrestling school. I’m a bigger guy and it seemed to fit me. I rode bulls until I was 13 in little britches and youth rodeos. I can’t really say it was a passion until I got involved. I’m Very competitive and I strive to be the best.

RodeoChat: You mentioned that you went to SW school to help kick-start your career. What all goes on at a SW school?

Gary Gilbert: I actually helped kick off an annual Steer Wrestling school this winter with dean stermer & todd suhn. The school starts as any with fundamentals and practice dummies that show you to learn before live action, little safer. 

RodeoChat: Wow! So when does Dean, and Toff’s Steer wrestling school start and when does it end? Just in case if any other Steer Wrestler’s wanted to attend?

Gary Gilbert: For anyone wanting to attent Dean Stermer and Toff Suhn’s Steer wrestling school next year.. Here are the details: 

December 27-29 3 days of dummies, live cattle, and jumping off horse! The Steer Wrestling school is in Mckinney, TX just north of Dallas, TX!

RodeoChat: Just curious.. Having young motivational instructors helps a lot. But, do y’all think you can make Steer Wrestling as big as Bull Riding one day?

Gary Gilbert: No, I don’t think it can reach the bull riding. As bull riders draw some crowds for the bulls winning by bucking off. However, I think rodeo as a sport can reach what the PBR has done with strong support, marketing & strong leaders.

RodeoChat: Very true! So how did Steer Wrestling go for ya in 2013? And what changes are you making in 2014 to make it to the NFR?

Gary Gilbert: It was Decent. I made the all American finals and Texas circuit finals & placed at both. The largest change i made is with a great friend Dean stermer we’ve both motivated each other to hit the gym more and stay optimistic. Rodeo is very mental. We feel if you want to be a professional we should train like one and push each other. 

RodeoChat: absolutely! So your goal is to make the NFR this year. What rodeos & what kind of method are you taking to make that goal?

Gary Gilbert: Yes it’s a goal! Last year I got caught up in going to every rodeo and ran out of rodeos to count for world standings. Thus this year I’m picking and choosing What I go to in the winter and spring to ensure qualification later in the year. 

RodeoChat: Oh? So how do you know what rodeos to attend that count towards the NFR?

Gary Gilbert: I think everyone has their own theory but You get to count 70 rodeos therefore rodeos with 2 rounds are a plus and if they are 1 round.. They need to pay over $1200 on average as it takes about $60k to make the NFR but that’s my theory and I’m making it work.

RodeoChat: Different strokes for different folks! So.. You had this weekend off to gear up for the trail tomorrow. Where are ya headed next?

Gary Gilbert: I’m headed to San Angelo, TX wed & thurs slack! Friday I fly to FL for dade city and Kissimmee.

RodeoChat: Righto! So gotta ask.. In your Steer Wrestling career what’s the fastest time you’ve gotten a Steer down?

Gary Gilbert: I’ve been 3.2, There’s not a lot of time to think when your any kind of 3 in the steer wrestling.

RodeoChat: Alright, now here’s the tricky question.. Have you had any injuries in your Steer Wrestling career? If so, how many?

Gary Gilbert: I had knee surgery in 2011 tore my ACL MCL & meniscus, that’s pretty much the only injury thus far I’ve been blessed. I rehabbed it hard & listened to Dr’s. I wore a brace 4 a year and haven’t worn one since Working out every day makes it feel sharp.

RodeoChat: Amen! So what kind of horses do you use at Steer Wrestling events? Ex. Paints, Quarter Horses, Roans.. Etc

Gary Gilbert: Majority quarter horses. Steer wrestling horses need to accelerate fast, run hard, & be big enough to carry 200+ lbs on their side.

RodeoChat: Exactly! How many horses do you usually take out on the road with you for Steer Wrestling events?

Gary Gilbert: I actually don’t own a horse Dean Stermer bought my horse when I had knee surgery I ride his or other friends horses. Dean, and I practice a lot together as we both believe in the same thing thus i also get to practice on his horses. Usually there are 2 Steer Wrestling horses and a hazing horse sometimes 3 or 2 of each pending on how long we’re gone & going.

RodeoChat: So you have some fans that wanna keep up with you down the rodeo trail.. What’s the best Social Media site to keep track of you at?

Gary Gilbert: I’d say Twitter. As RodeoChat shares rodeos across the country and i do my best to keep everyone updated and optimistic. 

Gary Gilbert’s Twitter Page: http://www.twitter.com/gilbertgaryc

RodeoChat: Last question.. What’s something totally random about you that nobody knows about?

Gary Gilbert: That’s tough I’m a pretty open person, I give a lot of credit of success to What I’ve lived as my dad passed at 13 and mom at 24. I’ve been Very blessed with great friends Like Dean Stermer and both parents never told me I couldn’t do something. Therefor, I approach life with an I can do attitude. .. “whether you say you can or can’t” You’re right. 

Fan Question from Amber Bentley (@AmberBentleyPR) on Twitter: Going back through, you rode bulls as a kid, why the change to steer wrestling?

Gary Gilbert: My dad passed when I was 13 he hauled me to rodeos. Also I got bigger about the same time so I didn’t rodeo for a bit.

Fan Question from Amber Bentley (@AmberBentleyPR) on Twitter: Sorry. Do you think ones any safer than the other (seems you’ve done well to stay mostly injury free)?

Gary Gilbert: I had success at both. I’d say steer wrestling is safer but i’ve had friends get seriously injured at both.

Paige Gregory

Host and Founder of RodeoChat

http://www.twitter.com/rodeochat

RodeoChat Interview: SRA Bull Rider – Trey Collins

 

21 Questions with SRA Bull Rider Trey Collins

RodeoChat Vocab Lesson Of The Day:

SRA: Southern Rodeo Association ( http://www.srarodeo.com/ )

RodeoChat: Trey, how did you get into Bull Riding?

Trey Collins: I wasn’t raised around it. I always went to rodeos when I was little. After chemo I just wanted to do something outgoing.

RodeoChat: Wow! That’s a pretty big risk to take right after chemo. Did the treatments push you harder for that risk into Bull Riding?

Trey Collins: Yes. Going through that really makes you understand that you don’t live forever. I’m glad I did it though. I love what I do.

RodeoChat: Some of our RodeoChat fans are wondering.. What type of cancer did you have?

Trey Collins: I was diagnosed with testicular cancer at 20 years old.

RodeoChat: Such a young age! When you were in the hospital going through the treatments what motivated you not to give up Bull Riding?

Trey Collins: God only gives his toughest battles to his strongest solders. I was raised to never be afraid to follow your dreams.

RodeoChat: How long have you been riding bulls in Southern Rodeo Assoc. For? Also, do you ride in any other assoc.?

Trey Collins: Only in the sra since the beginning of the 2014 season. But competed in a lot of jackpots around home.

RodeoChat: What’s it like riding on the SRA tour?

Trey Collins: SRA is the oldest rodeo in the south. A lot of history behind it. It’s an honor. There isn’t a nicer group of people.

RodeoChat: You went through some hard times in your life. How did you get over the battle of doing drugs?

Trey Collins: It’s never easy to have to tell your momma you’re battling addiction. Because of her I’m still here.

RodeoChat: Would it be safe to say your mom is your Role model & your biggest fan in the stands?

Trey Collins: Without a doubt! It doesn’t matter if I score a 90 or bo in 2 secs. She always tells me she’s proud of me. I love that woman.

RodeoChat: What are some major accomplishments you’ve had in your bull riding career?

Trey Collins: I covered and won a rodeo close to my house. My whole family was there. I’ve won bigger but hearing them cheer was amazing.

RodeoChat: Right on! Do you remember what rodeo it was at?

Trey Collins: Stampede at the park williamston North Carolina.

RodeoChat: Congrats! Trey, what’s some of your goals for 2014?

Trey Collins: To keep riding earn some more money and get ready to do it all again in 2015. Of course I want a bigger stage for 2015!

RodeoChat: Any new exciting rodeos you’re entering in this year that you haven’t rode in before?

Trey Collins: The old ford rodeo is the world finals of North Carolina. I’m more than excited for that one to come around.

RodeoChat: When is that rodeo?

Trey Collins: February 21-22. Right around the corner

RodeoChat: What’s something totally random about you that nobody else knows?

Trey Collins: Y’all are gonna laugh but I am the biggest Taylor Swift on the earth haha!

RodeoChat: Where can your fans keep up with you down the rodeo trail via social media?

Trey Collins: Either on twitter or Facebook. I’m not a private person and I’ll love to talk to anyone that wants to listen.

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/trey.collins.718?fref=ts

Twitter: https://twitter.com/treycollins424

Fan Question From Mark Coburn (@letitbuck12) on twitter: Hey Trey! I was wandering did you ever get to ride Hey Vern? If so, how was it to ride bull of the year 2013.

Trey Collins: I have not been lucky enough to draw him yet. But I’m hoping that day comes soon.

Fan Question From Mark Coburn (@letitbuck12) on twitter: When I rode I used a lot of rosin, do you like it heavy or light and how do you think that helps you?

Trey Collins: I use a lot also. When I burn my rope I want my glove to hardly not be able to let go of the rope.

Fan Question From Mark Coburn (@letitbuck12) on twitter: Where is home?

Trey Collins: Home is enfield North Carolina. We have 4 stop lights, a hardee’s and two gas stations.

Fan Question From John Ellis (@RodeoTimeEllis) on Twitter: What was the deciding factor that made you say “i want to do this for a living” ?

Trey Collins: My entire life I’ve just bounced all around. Rodeo is the only thing just feels so right to me. I have the best job.

Fan Question From John Ellis (@RodeoTimeEllis) on Twitter: What is your biggest goal you would like to achieve other than a world championship. Because that’s a givin.

Trey Collins: The biggest goal I want is to inspire people. I want them to say I didn’t give up because of you.

Fan Question From John Ellis (@RodeoTimeEllis) on Twitter: If you could do one thing a week to help you career. What would it be?

Trey Collins: Medicine ball drills. They are easy and help your mechanics a lot.

Paige Gregory

Host and Creator – RodeoChat

http://www.Twitter.com/RodeoChat

 

2013 NFR Bullfighter Aaron Ferguson

Aaron Feguson

2013 NFR bullfighter and 2nd Canadian to fight bulls at the NFR

RodeoChat: So congrats on all your success this year! How does it feel to be on your way to your first NFR?

Aaron Ferguson: It’s an awesome feeling! It’s a great honor to be the 2nd Canadian and I couldn’t ask for two better partners.

RodeoChat: How is it working alongside them? Have they been any help to you thus far?

Aaron Ferguson: They’re two of the best to ever tie on cleats, and just fighting with them helps me become a better bullfighter.

RodeoChat: That’s awesome! What exactly made you want to fight bulls? Why not ride them?

Aaron Ferguson: My older brother was a bullfighter so I got an inside look at how awesome the lifestyle was at a really young age.

RodeoChat: What an awesome way to get into it! Did you ever see yourself going as far as you have?

Aaron Ferguson: Honestly, I’ve always known that I would be successful. I just kept working hard at it and fed off the haters.

RodeoChat: That’s an awesome mind-set, what rodeo has been your favorite so far?

Aaron Ferguson: I’ve been lucky to be involved with a lot of great ones, so it has hard to pick just one. The CNFR (College National Finals Rodeo) was a blast though!

RodeoChat: It’s an awesome rodeo! You’re accomplished a lot, whats next for you?

Aaron Ferguson: I am just taking it day by day right now. There’s some rodeos I want but there’s only one on my mind at the moment.

RodeoChat: who is someone you haven’t worked with that you would like to?

Aaron Ferguson: My first time working with Cody Webster will be at the WNFR, so I am really looking forward to that!

RodeoChat: How do you handle moving around the bulls? What does through your mind in those spilt seconds?

Aaron Ferguson: I’ve spent a lot of time around cattle. Matching their moves becomes second nature and if you are thinking it’s probably too late!

RodeoChat: Do you have any sponsors you’d like to give a s/o to??

Aaron Ferguson: I have some great sponsors! http://Kixnbux.com , Wrangler Western, Monte Carlo Resort and Casino and Smithbilt Hats. 

– Paige Gregory & Kayla Reed –

http://www.twitter.com/rodeochat