At this year’s Calgary Stampede, American calf roper John Douch captured the spotlight with a breathtaking performance that left audiences in awe. Riding his trusty 12-year-old gelding, Tomcat, Douch executed a flawless roping technique, finishing the round in an impressive 7.4 seconds. As one of the fastest competitors in the sport, Douch has qualified for the National Finals Rodeo five consecutive times and currently ranks sixth globally according to the Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association.
A Passion for Rodeo
In an interview in Calgary, the 29-year-old from Huntsville, Texas expressed his deep affection for the sport. “I love rodeo so much, and I love the history of it, so that’s why I stuck with it,” he shared. Douch’s recent achievements at the Stampede further solidified his prowess, as he earned $14,500 for advancing to the finals, where he secured a third-place finish, adding another $10,000 to his earnings.
Since 2018, Douch has amassed more than $1.3 million on the professional rodeo circuit, with this year’s Calgary Stampede contributing significantly to that total. His popularity is not just due to his skill; he has also become a beloved figure among fans, frequently stopping to pose for photographs and sign autographs.
Breaking Barriers in Rodeo
Douch stands out not only for his talent but also as one of only two Black cowboys competing at the Stampede, which featured over 200 participants from Canada, the U.S., Mexico, and Australia. He emphasised the importance of representation in rodeo, particularly for younger 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 all-Black rodeos are gaining traction in the U.S., similar initiatives are still scarce in Canada. Historically, the Canadian Prairies have been home to many skilled Black cowboys, who migrated from the U.S. in the late 1800s seeking refuge from racism and the promise of a better life. However, as the cowboy era waned, the visibility of Black cowboys diminished, leading to the rarity of their representation in modern rodeos.
A Rich History of Black Cowboys
The Calgary Stampede has its roots in the early 1900s, originally created as a showcase for ranching skills and cowboy culture. Bertrand Bickersteth, a Calgary author and scholar, highlights the nostalgia for this lifestyle, which many people now only associate with the romanticised version of cowboys in popular culture. “What happens is now we want to sort of capture this nostalgia, this livelihood or this lifestyle that most people were not familiar with when the cowboys were actually out on the frontier by themselves,” he explained.
One influential figure in Canadian cowboy history is John Ware, a Black rancher who became renowned for his exceptional skills. After escaping enslavement in the U.S., Ware moved to Alberta in 1882 and became a notable member of the ranching community. His legacy is a testament to the significant yet often overlooked contributions of Black cowboys in Canadian history.
Cheryl Foggo, a Calgary historian and author, emphasises the need to acknowledge that Ware was part of a larger community of Black settlers in Alberta. “He was by no means the first or only Black person here,” she stated, highlighting the collective impact of Black cowboys on the industry.
Contemporary Challenges and Future Aspirations
Despite the historical presence of Black cowboys, modern rodeo culture in Canada still lacks diversity. Douch noted the barriers that exist, particularly for aspiring Black cowboys who may not have the financial means to pursue their dreams. He is determined to change this narrative by establishing a rodeo school in the future, aimed at helping others reach their full potential in the sport.
As Douch prepares for the National Finals Rodeo, which he describes as “like the Super Bowl of football, but just rodeo,” he reflects on the importance of visibility and mentorship in fostering a more inclusive environment. “Growing up in the South, there are so many guys that rope good, or do everything and have been good. They just don’t have the funds to get down the road,” he explained.
With the support of mentors like eight-time world champion Joe Beaver, Douch is committed to paving the way for future generations of Black cowboys.
Why it Matters
The story of John Douch and the legacy of Black cowboys in Canada are crucial for understanding the broader narrative of inclusivity within sports. Douch’s achievements not only highlight the exceptional talent present in rodeo but also serve as an inspiration for future generations, demonstrating that barriers can be broken. His presence at the Calgary Stampede is a reminder of the rich history and ongoing journey of representation in a sport that has historically sidelined minority voices. As rodeo culture continues to evolve, fostering diversity and inclusion will be essential in ensuring that all aspiring cowboys, regardless of their background, feel welcomed and valued in the arena.
