Beyond the Buckle: When Rodeo’s Toughest Need a Helping Hand

The roar of the crowd, the dust swirling, the eight seconds that define a life—this is the world of professional rodeo. But behind the glory and the grit lies a stark reality: one wrong move can change everything. These athletes, the epitome of courage and resilience, risk it all for the thrill of the ride. Yet, unlike their counterparts in other professional sports, they often lack a safety net. That’s where the Justin Cowboy Crisis Fund steps in, not as a handout, but as a lifeline.

Imagine the sudden halt of a career, the mounting medical bills, the uncertainty of the future. This is the reality many rodeo athletes face after a serious injury. The JCCF, born from the partnership of Justin Boots, the PRCA, and the WPRA, understands this struggle intimately. They’ve been there, providing crucial financial assistance to countless cowboys and cowgirls, ensuring they can focus on recovery, not crushing debt.

It’s more than just money; it’s a sense of community. It’s knowing that even when you’re down, you’re not out. The JCCF, alongside the dedicated Justin Sports medicine Team, is a testament to the unwavering spirit of rodeo, proving that even in the toughest moments, a helping hand can make all the difference.

JCCF relies on the rodeo community to help support injured rodeo athletes when they need it most. Your participation makes a real difference in the lives of cowboys and cowgirls facing hardships.

Wondering how to get involved?

Join us on March 8 at WestWorld @rodeoscottsdale for a special Justin Cowboy Crisis Fund (JCCF) fundraiser! 🏆🐎

For over three decades, the JCCF, born from the partnership of Justin Boots, the PRCA, and the WPRA, has been the unwavering force behind rodeo’s injured athletes. They’ve provided nearly $9.5 million in critical financial assistance to over 1500 injured athletes, ensuring that these courageous individuals can access the medical care they desperately need and focus on their recovery. And here’s the best part: 100% of your donation goes directly to the athletes. Every single dollar fuels their comeback.

“I was in a horse accident and broke my back and fractured four ribs. The money JCCF sent was a huge blessing to me and my family. It definitely relieved some of the burden. Thank you, JCCF.”

– Becki Mask, Barrel Racer

Don’t just watch the action; be a part of it! Be a hero to the heroes of rodeo! Your tax deductible donation, no matter the size, directly supports these athletes, allowing them to return to the arena, stronger and more determined than ever. Donate to the Justin Cowboy Crisis Fund today and ignite their comeback!

A huge thank you to Rodeo Scottsdale for hosting this event and supporting the JCCF mission! Let’s come together to give back to the sport we love. 💙

Last Updated on 03/20/2025 by Jodi Erpelding

About the Author:

Jodi Erpelding

Biography:

I grew up on a Midwest farm with dirt under my fingernails and the sound of wind rustling through cornfields. My childhood was all about 4H – raising pigs and horses, learning to bake and sew, and discovering the magic of transforming a garden into jars of summer sunshine. Those years taught me the value of hard work, the thrill of seeing a project through to the end, and the simple joy of creating something beautiful. A country girl with a need for speed and a thirst for adventure. Maybe that's why I love the feeling of wind in my hair – whether I'm cruising down a dusty road on my Harley or tackling a mountain trail on my trusty mountain bike. Some of my earliest memories of rodeo are watching my father compete at small local events. That's also where my love for country music comes in – long car rides listening to 8 tracks. The lyrics and melodies always spoke to my soul. These days, you'll find me cheering on the cowboys and cowgirls at rodeos, two-stepping to my favorite bands, belting out a country tune at a concert or sharing stories and laughter with friends around a bonfire. When I'm not soaking up the country life and getting my boots dirty, I'm a nurse, caring for folks in my community. Follow along for more stories from the heart of rodeo and country life!

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