For most young athletes, reaching a national championship level takes years of dedication and competition. For local teenager, Bronc Woody, it took just one year in the rodeo arena to earn a place among the best.
The son of Brett and Karyn Woody, Bronc recently captured the Georgia Junior High School Rodeo Association State Championship in Bull Riding, earning a coveted qualification to compete at the National Junior High Finals Rodeo in Oklahoma. The accomplishment marks a significant milestone for the young cowboy, who only began competing in rodeo events about a year ago.
While his competitive rodeo career may be relatively new, Bronc’s connection to the sport began long before he ever climbed onto a bull. He has spent his entire life around rodeos, attending events since he was born and growing up surrounded by a family deeply rooted in rodeo tradition.
That tradition dates back more than five decades. The Bar-W Rodeo Company was founded in 1973 by Tony Woody, former Sheriff of Clay County. In 2008 Broncs father Brett took over and since then, the family has remained actively involved in the rodeo industry, helping bring the sport to communities throughout the region. Today, Bronc not only competes but also enjoys working behind the scenes at rodeos whenever he gets the opportunity.
When asked if he likes working with the animals, Bronc’s response is simple and straight forward. “Sure,” he said.
According to his mother, Karyn, getting him to help around the barn sometimes requires a little encouragement.
“I can occasionally bribe him into helping me exercise my horses, but not often,” she joked.
Although he spends plenty of time around horses and livestock, Bronc takes his training seriously. To stay in riding shape, he practices regularly using what is known as a “drop barrel” at the family’s barn. The training device helps riders improve their balance, timing and technique while preparing for the challenges of bull riding.
Bronc’s dedication extends beyond the rodeo arena. He will celebrate his 14th birthday on June 25 and will be entering high school as a freshman this fall. In addition to rodeo, he is a multi-sport athlete who participates in baseball, football and cross country. The combination of sports helps him maintain the strength, endurance and mental toughness necessary to compete in one of rodeo’s most demanding events.
Now, Bronc is preparing for the opportunity of a lifetime as he heads to the National Junior High Finals Rodeo, where he will compete against top young riders from across the United States.
Adding to the significance of his accomplishment, Bronc’s performances at the national finals was broadcasted to audiences across the country on The Cowboy Channel, one of the premier networks dedicated to rodeo and western sports. For a young competitor, the chance to perform on a nationally televised stage is an achievement in itself and serves as recognition of the hard work and determination that earned him a place among the nation’s elite junior rodeo athletes.
With a state championship already under his belt and a national spotlight awaiting him, Bronc is proving that dedication, courage and determination can open doors to extraordinary opportunities. As he prepares to represent his family and community. Clay County will undoubtedly be cheering him on every step of the way.