Local resident Teagan Hodgson set out to become a bull rider at the age of 15. His first milestone was back in 2007, when he earned the most points in the Manitoba Rodeo Cowboys Association Finals' junior bull riding category.
Growing up, Hodgson was surrounded by exceptional bull riders; his father and pro rider Donavan Edwards being two of them.
"If you think you're gonna get hurt, you usually do," said Hodgson. "It's about 90% mental and 10% physical."
Hodgson, who is now 21 year-of-age, finished first place in the Canadian Cowboys' Association Finals Rodeo, which took place at the Evraz Place in Regina, Saskatchewan from Nov. 19-24. He brought home a new saddle, buckle and a total of $3,300 as his winnings.
It was a busy season for the young rider, who rode an average of 3-4 rodeos per week. He was grateful to his fiancée, Katrina Zandee, for all her support leading up to the finals. Hodgson also wanted to thank Dusty Ephrom and Donovan Edwards for their guidance and support.
Hodgson has his heart set on riding in the Canadian Professional Rodeo Association next year; with bigger prize money and greater bragging rights, it's the next big step for the aspiring full-time bull rider.
