In 2016 former paramedic Steve Henry began staging bull riding events to raise money for fallen or seriously injured first responders and their families. Providing assistance during an emotionally and often financially difficult time, to date, over a quarter million dollars have been donated to the cause.
HealthOne AirLife Denver’s helicopter touched down in the parking lot at Gilpin County Fairgrounds on Saturday, September 7, an hour and a half before this year’s Buck for the Badge bull riding event was set to begin. Besides getting a peek inside the aircraft without being critically afflicted or injured, it offered an opportunity to meet a few of the everyday heroes that save countless lives. Police officers, sheriffs, ambulance drivers, EMTs, and firefighters were also on hand to meet the people and show their support for their comrades that so selflessly served and paid the ultimate price.
Many of this year’s bull riders knew each other from having competed at previous rodeos. Their comradery equaled that of emergency responders or soldiers that had been through war together. On this day, they would be battling disgruntled bulls with names such as Huckleberry, Snowball, Dirty White Boy, Paleface, Red Dog, Flipper, Rip, and War Dog. If they managed to stay aboard for eight seconds, they received a score from the judges.
The first bull out of the chute was ridden for a score of 73 which landed the cowboy in the money at the end of the day. Much of rodeo clown Eric Myrick’s afternoon was spent tucked inside his metal barrel as the irate bovines took exception to his presence and battered the barrel with their horns. Even equipped with helmets and flak jackets, the riders (or non-riders as the case may be) took their lumps with their presumably incurred medical bills exceeding potential prize money. Bullfighters did their best to distract bulls away from cowboys once they hit the dirt.
Two rounds of bull riding challenged riders and entertained spectators. From there, 11 cowboys qualified for the final round. James Lee Brown demonstrated impeccable form during his ride that scored 81.5 points – good for first place and $954. Iskandar Ocampo wasn’t far behind, registering 77.5 points that earned him second place and $636. Third place finisher Homero Martinez took home $503 with a score of 74.5. Isaac Gutirez and Blaine Kallsen tied for fourth place with their scores of 73. Each of them received $278 in prize money.
If you’d like to make a contribution, go to www.buckforthefallen.org or call 303-589-0682.
