Cowboy Up : The History of Bull Riding

Step into the arena and experience the raw courage, grit, and tradition behind one of the world's most dangerous sports in Cowboy Up: The History of Bull Riding. This in-depth chronicle follows bull riding from its roots as an exhibition event at early-day rodeos to its rise as the headline event of modern rodeo and professional competition.

Through decades of change, bull riding evolved from informal contests at county fairs and local rodeos into a global spectacle featuring elite athletes, million-dollar purses, and legendary stock contractors breeding some of the rankest bulls in history. Along the way, readers will meet the fearless men who transformed the sport-pioneers who rode with little protection, champions who became household names, and modern stars who pushed the limits of athleticism and determination.

From legendary matchups to unforgettable eight-second rides, the history of bull riding is filled with moments of triumph, heartbreak, injury, and redemption. Rich with historical detail, larger-than-life personalities, and the enduring values of toughness and perseverance, Cowboy Up captures the spirit of a sport built on nerve, honor, and the willingness to risk everything when the gate swings open. Essential reading for rodeo fans, western historians, and anyone drawn to the timeless challenge of man versus beast.

Gail Woerner was born and raised on a ranch in northeastern Colorado and worked with cattle and broke horses with her grandfather. She has written several books on the history of rodeo, a children's book on rodeo and numerous articles in various western-related magazines and periodicals including magazines in France, Canada and Australia. She also reviews other writer's books several times a year, and continually answers questions about rodeo from e-mail queries from around the globe.Gail is the Chairman of the Rodeo Clown Reunion which is held at various rodeos across the nation and generally has forty retired laugh-getters, bullfighters and barrelmen attend. They don their familiar make-up and costumes and sign autographs and entertain the fans. She also writes a newsletter to numerous retired rodeo clowns and their widows monthly.