For most high school students, life consists of homework, sports, and time with friends. But for Jesse Blenker, a
sophomore at Amherst High School, rodeo is a way of life—one that started before he could even walk.
“I became interested because my mom did it growing up, so she got me into it at a young age—around seven—but I’ve been riding horses since I was two,” Jesse says.
Now, he competes in tie-down roping, steer wrestling, team roping, and bull riding—some of the most intense and physically demanding events in the sport. In these events you get one shot to be great. “Once the score line has been set in timed events it will not be changed,” notes lbwrodeo.com But the danger doesn’t bother him.
“Personally, I don’t mind the danger of bull riding. I see it as more fun than dangerous, but if I do get thoughts of the danger, I usually tell myself to just stay on, and it won’t be a problem,” he said. “My worst injury was probably landing directly on my head or getting stepped on.”
While rodeo is his passion, Jesse has plenty of other interests. When he’s not in the arena, he enjoys riding dirt bikes, snowmobiling, building random things, or working on his business, JB Steel Designs. He’s also an athlete beyond rodeo, playing football and hoping to join the track team after previously playing baseball.
Like any demanding sport, rodeo has its challenges, both physically and financially. Travel costs, especially for longer trips, can add up quickly. And while his dad is always there to support him behind the chutes, his mom is more hesitant. He also looks to God for a lot of his healing and to cope with the stress of his life. He prays often and trusts in the Lord.
“My dad supports me a lot. He always helps me behind the chutes. My mom does support me, but he doesn’t like it that much and wishes I would quit,” he said.
When things get tough, Jesse leans on two key sources of strength: his girlfriend and his faith.
“They are always by my side through everything, and both give me comfort and bring me up when I’m feeling down,” he said. “I’ve recently been getting more religious, and talking to God and reading the Bible helps a lot.”
For those looking to get into rodeo, he offers simple but solid advice.
“Don’t be intimidated by the competition. Many people have practiced for years to get good—myself included. Focus on yourself, make your run as smooth as possible, and practice A LOT.”
With his dedication, passion, and strong support system, Blenker is proving that rodeo isn’t just a sport, it’s a lifestyle. Jesse is a strong, capable and independent person. He is a polite and strong man. One with a very bright future.
