Oklahoma bull rider dies after bull riding accident

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  • Rowdy Swanson, a 20-year-old from Duncan tragically passed away after being bucked off of a bull at the Palo Pinto Livestock Association’s PRCA Rodeo in Mineral Wells, Texas. Courtesy photo
    Rowdy Swanson, a 20-year-old from Duncan tragically passed away after being bucked off of a bull at the Palo Pinto Livestock Association’s PRCA Rodeo in Mineral Wells, Texas. Courtesy photo
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Rowdy Lee Swanson, a bull rider from Duncan, Okla. passed away September 17, 2020 shortly after an accident during his bull ride at the Palo Pinto County Livestock Association's PRCA Rodeo in Mineral Wells, Texas.

It was reported that the bull named Gritty, who is owned by Rafter G. Rodeo, was bucked off almost immediately after leaving the shoot. Witnesses said it seemed the bull’s rear legs landed on Swanson full force as soon as he hit the ground.

Even though it seemed like Swanson attempted to get up after the bull landed on him, he was not able to make it far. Paramedics rushed to his aid.

Swanson was a student at Oklahoma State University and was studying animal sciences at the Stillwater campus.

Cody Hollingsworth, the Oklahoma State Rodeo Team coach posted on Twitter about the sad event.

“With a heavy and aching heart, I am saddened to announce that the OSU Rodeo Team has lost one of our own, Rowdy Swanson. He was a big part of our rodeo family and he will be missed immensely. Our thoughts are with the Swanson family at this time,” Hollingsworth posted.

George Taylor, the PRCA CEO also offered condolences in an interview.

“We are deeply saddened by the passing of Rowdy Swanson at the ProRodeo in Mineral Wells, Texas,” Taylor said. “The hearts of the entire rodeo community go out to Rowdy’s family in this tragic time. We will continue to keep Rowdy and his family in our thoughts and prayers.”

Swanson’s death has affected many people, leaving a hole in the lives of the ones he touched. The Palo Pinto County Livestock Association took to Facebook to address the tragedy.

“We are deeply saddened by the passing of Rowdy Swanson following injuries sustained at the Palo Pinto County Livestock Association’s PRCA Pro Rodeo,” said Chairman Scott Fenner. “The entire rodeo committee and our rodeo family extend our heartfelt condolences and deepest sympathies to Rowdy’s mother Venessa, his brother Roper, and his entire family.”