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At this year’s Calgary Stampede, American calf-roper John Douch showcased his remarkable skills, clocking an impressive 7.4 seconds while competing on his trusty steed, a 12-year-old black gelding named Tomcat. This achievement not only secured him a podium finish but also highlighted Douch’s status as one of the world’s leading tie-down calf ropers, currently ranked sixth globally by the Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association.
A Passion for Rodeo
In an interview during the Stampede, the 29-year-old from Huntsville, Texas, expressed his profound love for rodeo and its rich history. “I love rodeo so much, and I love the history of it, so that’s why I stuck with it,” Douch stated. His dedication is evident; he has qualified for the National Finals Rodeo five times and has placed third at the Calgary Stampede’s finals for the past two consecutive years. This year, Douch placed second in his pool, earning $14,500 and later adding $10,000 for another third-place finish in the finals.
Douch’s financial success in the sport has been significant, amassing over $1.3 million in earnings since 2018. His recent performances at the Calgary Stampede have only contributed to this impressive total.
Celebrating Representation
Among the over 200 competitors at the Stampede, Douch stood out not only for his speed but also as one of only two Black cowboys in attendance. In a sport where representation remains crucial, he emphasised the importance of visibility for future generations. “To have the younger kids watch me and be like, ‘He’s African American, I want to be like him when I grow up,’ I think it’s pretty cool,” he remarked.
While the United States has seen a rise in all-Black rodeos and associations, such opportunities are less common in Canada, making Douch’s presence significant. The Canadian Prairies have a storied history of Black cowboys, many of whom migrated from the U.S. in search of a better life during the late 1800s, escaping the pervasive racism of the time.
The Legacy of Black Cowboys in Canada
Despite the historical contributions of Black cowboys in Alberta, there has been a notable decline in representation over the decades. John Ware, one of the most renowned cowboys in Canadian history, established a legacy as a skilled rancher and cowboy after arriving in Alberta in 1882. His story, however, is not unique. Community historian Cheryl Foggo and author Bertrand Bickersteth highlight the importance of acknowledging the collective history of Black cowboys in Alberta.
Ware’s contributions laid a foundation for future generations, yet systemic barriers have often obscured the presence of Black individuals in rodeo culture. Bickersteth notes that while Black cowboys were part of Alberta’s ranching community, their contributions were frequently overlooked in historical records.
The Challenges of Today’s Rodeo Scene
As Douch prepares for the National Finals Rodeo, he reflects on the challenges faced by Black cowboys today. Despite achieving significant milestones, he acknowledges that many talented individuals lack the resources to pursue professional rodeo careers. “Growing up in the South, there’s so many guys that rope good… They just don’t have the funds to get down the road,” he explained.
His aspirations extend beyond his competitive career; Douch hopes to establish a rodeo school to inspire young riders, ensuring that future generations have the tools they need to succeed. With mentors like eight-time world champion Joe Beaver supporting him, Douch aims to pave the way for increased diversity within the sport.
Why it Matters
Douch’s journey underscores the need for greater representation in rodeo, a sport often dominated by a singular narrative. By shining a light on the contributions of Black cowboys and advocating for inclusive opportunities, Douch not only honours the legacy of those who came before him but also inspires a new generation of athletes to pursue their passions. His presence at the Calgary Stampede is a powerful reminder that every cowboy has a story worth telling, and diversity in rodeo enriches the fabric of this cherished tradition.