2016 World Champion Tie-Down Roper Tyson Durfey announced his retirement from rodeo a few years ago due to a string of health issues that required multiple surgeries. The break from competition seemed permanent until this year, when Durfey decided to make a comeback, and what a comeback it’s been.
At 41 years old, the Brock, Texas cowboy faced a steep climb to get back in rodeo shape. He admitted that one of the hardest parts of returning to competition was the simple act of getting back on a horse.
But this past weekend, Durfey backed into the box at the legendary Cheyenne Frontier Days with one goal in mind, winning the Daddy of ’Em All. In just 10.9 seconds, he did exactly that—securing the win and pocketing over $11,500 in the process.
“I feel like God put a cowboy hat on my head, a saddle underneath me, and a rope in my hand for a reason,” Durfey said. “I’m going to use it to motivate, push, and inspire people—no matter where they come from or how old they are.”