Developing a work ethic through high school rodeo, Tyson Salmon, a Stonewall Collegiate student, has been involved in the Manitoba High School Rodeo Association (MHSRA) since 2009.
He has impressed family and friends in becoming an all-around cowboy. As a rough stock competitor he has competed in bull riding, and in timed events — tie-down roping, and team roping. Salmon, who has been riding alone since he was three years old, is hoping to expand into steer wrestling and a new event to high school rodeo — reining cow horse.
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Salmon feels the competition from rodeo focuses on the individual rather than other competitors.
“The MHSRA has allowed myself to have lots of lifelong friendships, develop teamwork and sportsmanship, plus being a confidence booster in my ability to get the task at hand completed,” he said. “Involvement has fuelled the fire within to improve on my horsemanship and riding skills — horseback and on the back of a bull — as the only way to be on top is to practise.”
On top of his busy schedule of school, involvement in an apprenticeship program, roping four to five times per week, and training horses for others, Salmon has earned a number of awards over the years.
“I won team roping one year as a header and the next as a heeler in my junior years, and many high-point year-end awards in bull riding, team roping and junior events,” said Salmon, who hopes to continue his apprenticeship studies in heavy-duty mechanics at a rodeo college upon graduating in 2016.
The son of Sandra and Ray Salmon has represented Manitoba at the Canadian Finals since he started in the MHSRA as a Grade 6 student. He has also won the team-roping championship, along with partner Shelby Gillies of Neepawa, at the 2013 Canadian Finals in Alberta.
Competing with horses that Salmon has put the finishing touches on and developing a bond with high-performing mounts, he has been successful in different venues across Manitoba.
This year Salmon and the rest of the MHSRA membership, will be looking forward to again portraying a cowboy — all-around style.
