Old sport sprouts new stars

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A new crop of cowboys is sprouting from the ranks of junior high school and college rodeos.

One of these aspiring young cowboys is 19-year-old bullrider Kurt Ferguson from Paddle Prairie, Alta.

The Grade 12 student became involved in the rodeo game at the young age of nine when he attended a boys steer riding school held by Garry Houle, a former bull riding champion.

"My parents are my biggest boosters - they got me interested in the sport, and are always there when I need them," said Ferguson.

Leo and Prissella Ferguson have a farm and ranch in Paddle Prairie. They're the biggest fans of Kurt and his brothers, Leon and Richard, who are also bull riders.

At a recent high school rodeo held in Standoff, Alberta, Richard won the bull riding average, covering two bulls for a total of 136 points.

"This win puts me in about third place in the Alberta High School Rodeo Association (AHSRA) circuit. I want to make it to the National High School Finals in Jolet, Wyoming this year," said Ferguson.

At 5'6 and 150 lbs, the small built Ferguson has set high goals for himself.

"I want to win the High School Nationals, and work towards the Indian Rodeo Cowboy Association iation championships, and hopefully make it to the INFR in Albuquerque, N.M. this coming November."

The ambitious teenager had to slow down early in February after breaking several ribs at a rodeo in Moose Jaw, Saskatchewan.

"I got stepped on and spent about a week in hospital," said Ferguson. "Three weeks later I started riding again but didn't do much. I'm starting to click now and I hope I can just keep on clicking and end up with a great year."