Ky Hamilton is a seasoned bull rider. He knows how to have things under control. But mishaps and accidents do happen.
Something similar has happened, putting Hamilton’s recent competition at risk. So what is going on with the rodeo man?
At the 2023 Wrangler National Finals Rodeo (NFR), Ky Hamilton fell from his bull and collided his head with the animal during round 5. He fell from Honeycutt Rodeo’s Bales Hay’s MAGA at the Thomas & Mack Center. Ky lost consciousness and had a concussion. The bull tamer is being monitored at the University Medical Center Trauma Center.
Who Is Ky Hamilton?
Ky Hamilton, hailing from Mackay, Queensland, Australia, has taken the world of professional bull riding by storm.
Since his debut in the Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association (PRCA) in 2019, he has been a formidable force in the sport, earning himself a spot at the prestigious Wrangler National Finals Rodeo (WNFR) on four separate occasions.
In 2023, he entered the WNFR in second place, a testament to his remarkable skills and dedication.
Hamilton’s journey into the world of bull riding began at the age of twelve when he was captivated by the adrenaline-pumping action of Professional Bull Riding on television.
Growing up in a family deeply rooted in rodeo activities in Australia, he was destined for greatness in the sport.
His first venture to the United States was to take part in the esteemed National Junior High School Finals Rodeo. Subsequently, he pursued higher education at Odessa College and Sul Ross State University.
These were all crucial steps in his remarkable journey towards becoming one of the world’s premier bull riders.
Hamilton’s list of accomplishments includes victories at major regular season rodeos such as the La Fiesta De Los Vaqueros (Tucson), San Antonio Rodeo, Redding (California) Rodeo, Rodeo Houston, and Calgary (Alberta) Stampede.
With his unwavering enthusiasm and impressive track record, Ky Hamilton is undoubtedly a rising star in the thrilling world of bull riding. But has a recent injury dimmed his starlight?
What Happened to Ky Hamilton?
The 2023 Wrangler National Finals Rodeo (NFR) took an unexpected turn when Australian bull rider Ky Hamilton encountered a significant setback during Round 5.
The incident unfolded during his ride aboard Honeycutt Rodeo’s Bales Hay’s MAGA at the Thomas & Mack Center.
Dr. Tandy Freeman, the Justin Sportsmedicine team’s medical director, provided insight into the collision’s severity between Ky Hamilton and the bull. The medical professional revealed to ProRodeo:
“Ky and the bull smacked heads against one another. He lost consciousness and had a concussion. He was sent to University Medical Center Trauma Center (in Las Vegas) for evaluation and observation.”
Unfortunately, the aftermath of this dramatic incident forced Ky Hamilton to miss Round 6, scheduled for the following morning.
Dr. Freeman expressed doubts about Hamilton’s readiness for competition that evening, leaving the rodeo community anxiously awaiting updates on his condition and fervently hoping for a swift recovery.
To assess the extent of Ky Hamilton’s injuries, the medical team planned to re-evaluate his condition ahead of Round 7, scheduled for 5:45 p.m.
It remained a challenging moment for Hamilton and his supporters as they held their breath for positive news regarding his participation in the upcoming rounds.
Hamilton’s earnings at this year’s NFR stood at an impressive $147,849, solidifying his PRCA | RAM World Standings lead with a substantial $402,013.
His outstanding performances included an impressive 89-point ride on Bridwell Pro Rodeos’ Fred in Round 4 and an 86.5-point ride aboard Cervi Championship Rodeo’s Vitalix Theodore in Round 1 on December 8.
Additionally, he maintained his lead in the NFR average with 341 points in four head, placing him ahead of the competition.
News of Ky Hamilton’s injury resonated far beyond the rodeo community, drawing attention from various sources. Before this unexpected mishap, Hamilton had been enjoying a remarkable run at the 2023 Wrangler NFR.
However, Ky Hamilton isn’t the only rodeo star facing adversity at the NFR.
Stetson Wright, who had already clinched the all-around world title, encountered a lingering right hamstring injury that required surgery after the 10-day event.
Despite his injury, Wright led the all-around standings by more than $284,000 over second-place Nelson Wyatt.
Wright, hailing from Beaver, Utah, faced multiple setbacks during the NFR, falling during his saddle bronc runs on Saturday and Friday, which caused him to miss his bull riding runs as well.
Dr. Tandy Freeman confirmed he was out of the competition, and a doctor’s release was submitted for the remaining eight rounds.
Wright’s remarkable achievements include winning the past four all-around titles, being a two-time champion in bull riding (2020, 2022), and securing the 2021 world champion title in saddle bronc.
As fans, fellow riders, and the broader community await updates on Ky Hamilton’s and Stetson Wright’s conditions, the rodeo world collectively hopes for swift recoveries for these talented cowboys.
When do you think Ky Hamilton can make a comeback? Would it be too late by then?
Let us know your thoughts in the comments below.
Source: ProRodeo
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