After a year away from competition, 2023 World Champion Bareback Rider Keenan Hayes is making his return to the rodeo arena. The talented rider, who took the 2025 season off to recover from a lingering injury, has already claimed victories at both the Brawley Cattle Call Rodeo and the Helldorado Days Rodeo to kick off his 2026 season.
Hayes’ injury first emerged early in the 2024 season and gradually worsened throughout the year, ultimately peaking during the 2024 National Finals Rodeo. The decision to step back in 2025 allowed him the time needed to fully heal and refocus.
Known as one of the most remarkable talents in bareback riding, Hayes made history in 2023 when he shattered the regular season earnings record and captured the World Championship in his rookie year. With a strong start to 2026, he appears ready to pick up right where he left off, continuing to set new standards in the sport.