Rusty Wright is a five-time National Finals Rodeo saddle bronc rider whose 2024 season was plauged by injuries. As he heads into 2025, one of his first success stories is claiming the top spot at the American East Regional Semi-Finals to earn his way to Globe Life Field.
“You can’t ask for much more than what that horse gave me, he felt outstanding. You could see it at the end there, I was a little bit excited,” Wright said.
Wright’s comeback year is already off to a hot start. One thing he can attribute to his success is a healthy mental state that has him enjoying riding broncs more than he ever has.
“I’m hungry. I’ve been sitting out on the sidelines watching my brothers win all the money for so long. I’m ready, I’m ready to get a little taste of it,” he said.
With the likes of Sage Newman, Dawson Hay and more finishing in the Top 5 just behind Wright, the competition in professional saddle bronc riding is at an all time high.
A broken leg in 2022 and then a groin injury at Reno Rodeo are part of little things that added up for Wright but he is back and fully ready to get back to it.
“God’s got a plan for me and I think it’s all falling into place right now. I’ve just got to keep staying back, lifting on me rein, setting my feet and I think things are just going to keep coming together for me. I’m really excited about this year,” Wright said.
The American Rodeo is coming up in April and Wright’s hunger is all he needs to keep the fire burning.
