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At the Pikes Peak or Bust Rodeo in Colorado Springs, spectators watch in awe as cowboys take on bulls and broncs—but behind the adrenaline and applause is a team that makes it all possible: the Justin Boots Sports Medicine Team.
This group of athletic trainers, physicians, and specialists travels to more than 100 rodeos each year, providing critical care to keep riders in the arena and out of the ER.
“We wouldn't be able to keep going if it wasn't for these guys,” said bareback rider Jade Taton.
The injuries they manage are as intense as the sport itself—dislocated shoulders, torn muscles, even torn pectorals.
“With bareback riding, it's from the wrist to the elbow to the shoulder to the neck,” explained Rick Foster, program manager. “These guys might be riding five or six times in four days. That’s a lot of abuse on the body.”
Kody Lamb, another bareback rider, recalled being pulled from competition after tearing his pec.
“It wasn’t what I wanted to hear, but they were right,” said Lamb. “I needed surgery.”
Because rodeo athletes don’t get paid unless they compete—and still pay to enter—missing a ride means missing income.
“We try to do everything we can to make it safe for them to compete,” said Dr. Jason Mogonye, co-medical director.
Started in the 1980s, the Justin Boots Sports Medicine program has become a trusted source of care for many.
“I've got Jason’s number, Chad’s number… I talk to them regularly,” said Taton.
Whether it’s building custom wrist pads or providing post-ride ice and tape, this crew delivers not just care, but confidence. As Foster put it:
“Every night means ice, bandages, and a little hope.”
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