The Courage to Mutton Bust

G.had his name drawn to get to ride in the Mutton Busting at the Snake River Stampede on Thursday, July 21st 2016.  He was very excited to have a chance to win a pair of 'adjustable' boots (his interpretation hearing someone say 'Justin' Boots).

Feeling like a real rodeo cowboy.

At 6:30 we went down to the locker room to get the flack jacket, helmet, neck brace, and instructions on what to do.  

Mutton Busters getting lined out on what to do once they go out into the arena.  G. is in the cowboy hat.

Waiting for the goat tying event to end.  

G. next in line to go.  

The sheep busted out of the chute and took off towards the other sheep at the far end of the arena.  

He made it about 30 feet out of the chute and came off in a spectacular dive into the arena dirt.  It was a rough night for mutton busting because most of the kids who rode came off pretty quick out of the chute.  There was only one kid who made it to the other end of the arena on his sheep.  

  

In addition to the belt buckles the kids were awarded they also got a red bandanna and a bag full of goodies from a sponsor.  Afterward, G. seemed very pleased with how he did and was only upset about the dirt the sheep kicked into his helmet.  He was very proud that he managed to get a 63 point score on his ride (the winner scored a 74).

Holding up his belt buckle given to him with a handshake from the legendary rodeo clown Leon Coffee. (2015)

Here's his ride from last year.  He came out in second place, one point short of winning the boots.

Stepping outside of our comfort zones is something that is difficult for everyone.  But, outside of one's comfort zone is where true learning and growth take place, and where confidence can bloom.

He didn't win a pair of 'adjustable' boots, but the confidence in himself he gained from doing something hard and a little scary is far more valuable.