Most people at PHS know Braxton Boyer as a senior student and standout athlete. In addition to his accomplishments on the wrestling mat and football field, Boyer pursues a unique passion outside of school, one that many in the community may not know about.
Inspired by his uncle who used to pursue bull riding, Boyer is a six-year and counting bull rider who has not failed to make a name for himself. Boyer has traveled to Youth Bull Riding World Finals twice, is a 2024 Junior Bull Reserved Champion, 2023 PeeWee Bull Finals Champion and Reserve Champion, 2022 PeeWee Bull Finals Champion and Reserve Champion, and a 2021 Steer Riding Finalist and Reserved Champion.
Although this isn’t your usual after school activity, it demands an excessive amount of time, focus, and dedication to succeed. Training for events often presents challenges, from finding bulls to practice on to keeping a good physical health in order to stay competitive. Every practice ride, every trip to a rodeo, and every moment he spends conditioning his body is just another step forward to mastering his talent in this sport.
Boyer’s dedication to this sport often takes him on the road, traveling to prepare or compete for upcoming events. He usually travels with his step-dad who is constantly supporting him, traveling with him, and providing anything he needs every step of the way.
Boyer says, “I have many goals for this sport. One of my goals is to go back to the World Finals this year but I also would really like to hopefully someday make it to the professional level.”
“This sport has taught me that failure is a part of growth.” Boyer says. He expresses that failing in this sport is something he has had to learn to get used to. He realizes that every moment of failure is a chance to learn from it and improve. Failing is a part of trusting the process and trusting that the process will pay off for a successful outcome.
Boyer also often points out that bull riding is far more demanding than many people seem to realize. “Something I want everyone to know about bull riding is that overall it is a really tough sport.” He goes on to explain that this sport tests both your body and mind, requiring strength, endurance, balance, and a sturdy focus under pressure. Most of all, this isn’t just a sport to Boyer. It’s a love and passion that he continues to pursue.
