Countless memories, miles traveled and momentous rides all came together to define Morse, Texas, saddle bronc rider Gus Gaillard’s 2025 Resistol Rookie of the Year season.
A chance to write his name in the history books, the Resistol Rookie of the Year is one of the most coveted titles in rodeo — one shot, one year and a milestone many legends have used to launch their careers.
In a tight battle with fellow rookies and friends Ira Dickinson and Bailey Small, Gaillard’s consistency and success at major rodeos–including the Fort Worth Stock Show & Rodeo, California Rodeo Salinas and the World-Famous Miles City Bucking Horse Sale Matched Xtreme Bronc Ride — propelled him to the top of the standings. Earning $94,014 throughout the 2025 season, finishing just shy of qualifying for his first Wrangler National Finals Rodeo.
“This award is bittersweet because I was going against all my friends, and we knew only one of us would get it. It happened to be me, and it’s so exciting. It’s definitely something I’ll get to tell everyone back home about,” Gaillard said.
Gaillard, who has long dreamed of riding under the bright lights of the Thomas & Mack Center, reflected on the significance of the title and how it sets the stage for a future NFR qualification.
“I honestly didn’t set my goal on Rookie of the Year. My goal has always been to make the Finals and win a world title, which I ultimately fell short of this year. But this title was a really special win, and I’m very thankful it happened to me.”
“This win certainly sets me up well for next year. It gives me confidence and is a really special buckle to wear,” the Lone Star State cowboy added.
For the 2024 College National Finals Rodeo champion, success is nothing new. The Tarleton State University alumnus adds the prestigious Resistol Rookie of the Year buckle to an already impressive résumé.
“I’ve been lucky to find a lot of success at every level. Those wins have given me confidence and hopefully prepared me for even bigger and better things ahead.”
But the season’s value can’t be measured in earnings alone. Some of the most important lessons come from the all-night drives, spontaneous hikes and traveling partners who turn into family.
Gaillard, quick to credit his family, friends and sponsors for their support, said this season was different than any before. While he had traveled on a permit, this was his first true full season as a cardholder.
“I’ve learned to keep moving forward. You have to focus on the future and not dwell on the past. This season has taught me to live in the moment a little more,” said Gaillard, who also credited his traveling partner Ryder Sanford for his guidance.
Traveling with Cajun cowboys Sanford and Shea Fournier, Gaillard explored new states, new landscapes and even new hobbies — including picking up tennis during the season.
“We stayed really active, hiking and seeing new places. I even learned to play tennis, thanks to my traveling partners. We had a lot of fun together and kind of became a family,” Gaillard said.
Looking ahead, the newly crowned Resistol Rookie of the Year will be celebrated alongside the next generation of rodeo talent at the Resistol Rookie of the Year Luncheon on Dec. 9 at the South Point Hotel and Casino in Las Vegas.
For Gaillard, the 2026 season is already underway as he reflects on a successful rookie campaign and sets his sights on the goal that started it all — becoming an NFR saddle bronc rider.