Meet our World Champion Ranch Bronc Rider

Meet Travis Yutzie!

Travis Yutzie is from Ione, Oregon. He is the WSRRA National Finals Champion Ranch Bronc Rider. Please meet, Travis.

2014 WSRRA World Champion Ranch Bronc Rider
Travis and his daughter, 2014 WSRRA Queen,  Jenna Taylor

How long have you been a WSRRA Contestant?

I have been a WSRRA Contestant for 5 Years.  

When did you first become interested in rodeos and what attracted you to them?

I have been interested in Rodeo since I was big enough to sit on a horse.  The exciting fast paced action is what drew me to Rodeo.

Describe your early rodeo experiences, first as an observer and then as a participant.

I grew up observing from the stands until I was a sophomore in high school.  I started out competing as a Team Roper, then moved to Bareback and Saddle Bronc riding and Bullfighting.  In 2006, I was introduced to Ranch Bronc Riding.

What do you like most and least (or your best and worst experiences) about participating in rodeos and WHY?

The best experience in Rodeo is winning the 2014 WSRRA World Champion Ranch Bronc Riding Title. The worst experience is a toss up. As a junior in High School, I got bucked off a bareback horse and fractured vertebrae in my back. When I was 22, I broke four ribs fighting bulls at a High School Rodeo, during a bad hang up.  At the 2011 WSRRA Finals, I got bucked off in the second round.

What training and/or skills are essential for rodeo participation?

Rodeo requires good physical shape and a positive mind.  Knowing your job, being prepared through practice and putting the practice to work when you arrive at a competition.  Be the best you can be and enjoy what you do.

What are your specific achievements, accomplishments and recognitions (honors, awards) in rodeo?

I am a 5 time WSRRA NFR Qualifier. I qualified as the year end High Point Bronc Rider three times. I qualified the other two years as second and third.  I am the 2014 WSRRA World Champion. I also have numerous other victories along the way.

Travis and his fiance', Glenda

What are your future plans concerning rodeo?

My future plans in Rodeo are to continue helping build the WSRRA to the next level. This includes educating people on who we are and what we are about and passing on encouragement and knowledge to the younger up and coming contestants.

Tell me a little about yourself. 

I am a General Construction Contractor in Oregon and Washington. I have an awesome fiancé Sweet Momma Glenda, and 5 kids that give me gray hairs. I start colts and I rope whenever I have the opportunity.

What has made you successful at riding ranch broncs?

My success comes from the ability given to me by our Maker Jesus Christ. Being able to keep a positive and determined mind set has been possible because I have a great support system of Family and Friends.

Anything else you might want to add?

Life in general and Rodeo life has been a long road of ups and downs. Everything happens for a reason. Build on the good and learn from the bad. Stay positive.

Travis Yutzie at the 2014 WSRRA NFR

On behalf of the Western States Ranch Rodeo Association, I would like to say Congratulations Travis! Thank you for all you do for our association. ~Naomi Loomis

THANK YOU to our WSRRA NATIONAL SPONSORS!!