At just 16 years old, Beau Easton of the Burdekin has made waves in the international bull riding community by securing third place at the World Bull Riding Championship in the United States.
However, despite his impressive accomplishment, the young cowboy remains as humble as ever, according to his mother, Jolene Easton.
“Beau doesn’t like the attention,” Jolene shared. “He’s a man of few words, so if you asked him how it feels, he’d probably just say it was alright.”
While Beau may be modest, his achievement is nothing short of remarkable. Competing in a foreign country for the first time, against unfamiliar bulls and surrounded by new faces, he remained focused and determined. The Easton family, unable to accompany Beau on his overseas journey, watched from home with bated breath.
“He went over with friends, and it was a very new experience for him,” Jolene explained.
“The atmosphere in America was something we’ve never experienced before, but Beau just focused on what he had to do. He listens to music to keep his nerves in check and stays in that mindset – you can’t interrupt him when he’s like that!”
For Beau, bull riding is more than a competitive sport; it’s a lifelong passion that began when he could barely walk. Growing up in rural North Queensland, he’s been around livestock his entire life. His father was a bull rider before him, and Beau naturally followed in his father’s footsteps.
From a young age, he’s displayed a unique style of riding, one that hasn’t been altered even by his time in America.
“He’s got his own way of doing things,” Jolene said.
“Beau rides square on and has a neat, distinctive style. It’s a pleasure to watch him ride.”
Though Beau faced many challenges in America – from unfamiliar stock to competing on foreign soil – he took it all in stride. According to Jolene, Beau is happiest when he’s on the back of a bull, no matter the circumstances.
“He came home after the competition and rode another ten bulls just for the sake of it,” Jolene laughed.
“He’s always been like that – riding bulls is something he loves, and that’s what drives him.”
Back home, Beau’s success has sparked pride across the local bull riding community. Family, friends, and fans have all rallied around him to celebrate his achievement.
“Our hearts were bursting with pride when we watched him compete from home,” Jolene said.
“Everyone wants to shake his hand and congratulate him. He’s been an inspiration to so many kids, and he always takes the time to help them or answer their questions.”
Looking ahead, Beau has no plans to slow down. With more competitions on the horizon, including one in Clermont next month, he’s already setting his sights on next year’s world competition.
“He doesn’t do it for the recognition; he does it for the love of the sport,” Jolene said.
“We’re really proud of him, and we’re just excited to see what he does next.”
For Beau Easton, the journey to the top of the bull riding world has only just begun.
16 years old, Beau Easton secures third place at the World Bull Riding Championship in the United States. Photo sourced: Facebook