BULLARD, Texas — A Bullard native is in Las Vegas this week competing in the Yeti Junior World Finals rodeo.
Dylan Ouzts is a high school senior at Brook Hill School in Bullard entering the arena against 33 other Novice Saddle Bronc riders for the chance to win over $1 million in cash and prize payouts, which includes a Montana Silversmiths championship buckle. Dylan said he is entering Wrangler Rodeo Area confident as he seeks to claim his win for Brook Hill and East Texas.
"I haven't got nervous yet, but I'm sure when it comes to Friday, when I first ride, then the nerves will start to hit me," he said. "But I'm trying to stay calm and just remember to have fun, and remember why I'm here and who let me come here, and just have a good time."
Dylan has been competing in rodeos since the sixth grade, and he began riding broncos when he was a freshman in high school. He said he has the support of the community behind him as he saddles up in the upcoming competition.
"When I left school yesterday, everybody was telling me 'good luck,'" Dylan said. "They're super supportive. And I just want to bring back that championship title."
Dylan said rodeo has changed his life, giving him a reason to get up and stay active.
"I'm always looking forward to going to the next rodeo. And if I'm not rodeoing for a while, I'm always looking forward to it," Dylan said. "I wish I was riding right now. I mean, I just love it. I wouldn't give it up for the world. So I'm always, constantly looking forward to riding."
Dylan thanked his mentors, family and supporters as he enters the area.
"I just want to say thank you, like a massive thank you for all the support and all the help," Dylan said. "I wouldn't be here if it wasn't for everybody else. I didn't do this by myself, by any means. Thank you to all my sponsors, Athens Tractor Team, Cavender's, Smarty, R. Watson, Rock and Roll Denim, just for all the help they've given me, and I'm just so thankful to have all them on my team."
Dylan will compete on Dec. 6 and 8, and in the championship round on Dec. 9. The rodeo airs live on the Cowboy Channel or through the NFR app.
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