Every summer, the Ogden Pioneer Days Rodeo gathers large crowds. Founded in 1934 to lift spirits during the depression, the rodeo is now celebrating its 91st anniversary. The Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association Hall of Fame event revives and celebrates Utah’s western pioneer heritage.
Under the hats and beneath the boots lies the reality of rodeo sports. Rodeo athletes face numerous risks, from life-threatening injuries to unpredictable animal behavior. This reality keeps medical professionals on the sidelines alert.
“As a spectator, you never even think twice after the injury happens,” PRN Certified Athletic Trainer Bronwyn Manning said.
It was Manning’s first day on the sidelines providing care for athletes, but she was already struck by how unpredictable the injuries could be.
Manning was joined by fellow Intermountain Health Care provider Tara Riley, a physical therapist, as part of the coordinated team to provide care during the rodeo.
For Riley, the care goes beyond emergency response; prevention and recovery are also important.
“If the riders get hurt — let’s hope they don’t — or if they need anything prior or after their runs, if they need a massage, if they need anything looked at or worked on … that’s what I’m here for,” Riley said.
For some rodeo athletes, the toll on their bodies is severe.
“During my first year at the rodeo, we had a concussion, so that wasn’t too bad. But I’ve heard some stories about people who deglove their fingers, break femurs, dislocate their elbows, shoulders, all sorts of stuff,” Riley said.
Safety concerns do not always come from inside the arena.
“Weather is a big concern. We’re always watching the weather. Of course, today (July 19) is not a big deal, but yesterday, we were worried about lightning,” Kevin Pickett, an Ogden City Police Officer, said.
As a rain or shine event, Ogden Pioneer Days Rodeo continues no matter the weather. This can pose challenges for contestants and livestock. Rainy conditions could cause the arena to become slick and muddy, increasing the risks of falls. Utah’s dry, hot weather raises concerns about dehydration and heat exhaustion.
Throughout its history, the Ogden Pioneer Days Rodeo has not seen many severe injuries, with reported incidents being of riders thrown from livestock and treated for minor trauma. That record extends to even the smallest of contestants.
Each night before the main events, young contestants participate in various pre-rodeo activities. Among the popular events is mutton busting, where kids ages 5 to 8 compete to ride a sheep for as long as possible.
Safety remains a top priority in the junior events. Helmets are required, and rodeo organizers are vigilant in maintaining safety guidelines that are age-appropriate.
Although precautions are taken, moments of medical emergency do arise. The Standard Examiner reported that on July 20, 2022, Rylan Wright of Midway was injured when his head collided with a bull’s during the bull riding competition. He remained motionless on the arena dirt, while medical professionals examined him. Wright eventually stood and walked out of the arena on his own, a reassurance to spectators.
For more information about the Ogden Pioneer Days Rodeo, visit ogdenpioneerdays.com.
