At this year’s Calgary Stampede, spectators witnessed an exhilarating display of rodeo prowess as American calf-roper John Douch, riding his 12-year-old horse Tomcat, clocked an impressive 7.4 seconds to tie a calf during the competition. This remarkable performance not only secured him a place in the finals but also highlighted the importance of representation in a sport steeped in tradition. As one of the fastest in the business, Douch is currently ranked sixth in the world by the Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association and has qualified for the National Finals Rodeo five consecutive times.
A Passion for Rodeo
During an interview in Calgary, Douch expressed his deep appreciation for the sport. “I love rodeo so much, and I love the history of it, so that’s why I stuck with it,” he said. The 29-year-old from Huntsville, Texas, has made a name for himself on the rodeo circuit, finishing third in the Stampede finals for two consecutive years and earning $24,500 this year alone.
Douch’s journey reflects the evolving landscape of rodeo, where he stands out not only for his skill but also as one of only two Black cowboys competing at the Stampede among over 200 participants from various countries. “To have younger kids watch me and think, ‘He’s African American, I want to be like him when I grow up,’ I think it’s pretty cool,” he remarked, underlining the significance of visibility in a predominantly white sport.
The Legacy of Black Cowboys in Canada
While Black cowboys have a rich history in Canada, their presence in contemporary rodeos remains limited. Many Black cowboys migrated from the U.S. to Canada in the late 1800s to escape racism and seek new opportunities. The contributions of these individuals have often gone unrecognised in mainstream narratives. Calgary-based author and scholar Bertrand Bickersteth highlighted the long-standing yet under-documented presence of Black cowboys in Alberta’s ranching history.
Among the notable figures is John Ware, a cowboy of African descent who made significant contributions to Alberta’s ranching community in the late 19th century. “He gets credited for being one of the inspirations for the Calgary Stampede,” Bickersteth explained. Ware, who escaped enslavement in the U.S., became a celebrated rancher in Alberta, demonstrating the vital role that Black cowboys have played in shaping Canadian rodeo culture.
The Challenges of Representation
Despite the historical significance of Black cowboys, the current landscape of rodeo in Canada lacks formal platforms for Black competitors. While the U.S. has embraced initiatives like the Bill Pickett Invitational Rodeo to celebrate Black culture in the sport, Canada has yet to establish similar programmes. “Rodeo in Canada is similar to stories I was told as a girl about how Black people didn’t belong in hockey,” said community historian Cheryl Foggo. She emphasised that barriers still exist, preventing greater participation of Black individuals in rodeo activities.
Douch hopes to see change in this area. He aspires to open a rodeo school in the future, aiming to provide opportunities for aspiring cowboys from all backgrounds. “If you win a lot of money here, it’ll help you in the world standards to get to the National Finals Rodeo,” he stated, emphasising the importance of financial support for competitors.
Why it Matters
The story of John Douch and the legacy of Black cowboys in Alberta serves as a powerful reminder of the need for diversity and representation in all areas of sport. As more individuals like Douch step into the spotlight, they pave the way for future generations to pursue their dreams in the rodeo arena. This evolution not only enriches the cultural tapestry of rodeo but also challenges long-standing racial barriers, inspiring a new wave of young athletes to embrace their heritage and pursue their passions. The Calgary Stampede, with its storied history and vibrant community, stands as a platform where these narratives can flourish, ensuring that the contributions of all cowboys are celebrated and recognised.