ProRodeo Sports News - October 27, 2023

COWBOY GRILLE WITH TANNER BARTH

Ira Dickinson, 23, wasted no time making his name known during his Permit season in 2023. The Rock Springs, Wyo., saddle bronc rider finished atop the leaderboard in the PRCA Permit | Standings with $55,885. His biggest payday came at the Greeley (Colo.) Stampede, where he finished second in the average and pocketed $6,216. Dickinson plans to compete on his Permit again in 2024 as he attends his final year of college at Tarleton State.

IRA DICKINSON

How’d you get your start in rodeo? Ira: I’m a sixth-generation rancher. My dad and grandpa both rodeoed as well. I grew up following my dad around and watching him compete at big rodeos like Cheyenne (Wyo.). I wanted to be just like him and all the guys he competed against. I wanted to rodeo from a young age. When did you know you could make a career out of the sport of rodeo? Ira: Ryder Wright had a quote at the Finals a couple years ago. The person interviewing him asked, ‘when did you perfect the sport of bronc riding?’ I’m right there with the statement he made. He said, ‘I haven’t

perfected anything, I’m just trying to ride the next one better than the last one.’ A lot of these guys aren’t saying they made it, they are just trying to do better than the time before on every horse. Why did you decide saddle bronc riding would be your event? Ira: That’s definitely because of my dad, he rode saddle broncs. I also grew up watching the Etbauers and guys like Dan Mortensen ride. In my opinion, it’s the most cowboy event in rodeo. That’s why I wanted to pursue it and follow in my dad’s footsteps. Who’s someone you look up to in the sport of rodeo? Ira: I did my undergraduate degree at Oklahoma Panhandle State University, so Robert Etbauer has always meant a lot to me. He was my coach and a good friend. Then guys like Billy Etbauer, Zeke Thurston, and Isaac Diaz are up there as well. What’s one rodeo you want to win before your career is over? Ira: It would have to be between Cheyenne (Wyo.) and Calgary. Those are legendary rodeos and the guys you see win at those are usually the ones going on to win world titles. What have your learned while on your PRCA Permit? Ira: I’ve learned that the power of having a positive attitude and counting your blessings is huge. There’s a lot of people out there that want to do this for a living and can’t. So, it’s important to never take it for granted and count your blessings. You really have to lean on your faith as well. What’s your most memorable moment this season? Ira: This might sound funny, but I’m not really about wins or buckles for that matter. One of

my most memorable moments was just having the opportunity to travel with my buddies up and down the road. Bailey Small, Shea Fournier, Isaac Richard, and Gus Gaillard are my traveling partners. I’m more of a joy and a journey type of guy. What’s your favorite restaurant? Ira: I’d probably have to go with Applebee’s. I’m usually looking for whatever is the cheapest if we’re being honest. Do you have a favorite candy? Ira: I don’t really eat much candy, so let’s put trail mix down. I don’t know if that qualifies, but that’s usually what I’m snacking on. What was the make and model of the first vehicle you drove? Ira: The first vehicle that I ever owned was a 1970 Ford. What’s your favorite TV show or series? Ira: It would probably have to be either Friends or M*A*S*H . What’s your favorite holiday? Ira: Christmas would have to be my favorite holiday because of the faith basis around it. It also brings family and friends together. Those are some of my fondest memories. What type of music do you like listening to? Ira: I listen to pretty much any type of music, but I tend to lean toward older country, soul music, and 80s pop. I like to throw on a little Billy Joel as well from time to time. What do you enjoy doing in your downtime from rodeo? Ira: Whenever I’m home, my family and I are constantly trying to grow our ranch and preserve that legacy. Then I like to stay in the gym as well. That allows me to stay ready, stay healthy, and looking forward to another rodeoing opportunity.

ProRodeo Sports News 10/27/2023

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