By Parrot Newspaper ‘Once a Cowboy, Always a Cowboy’: Rising Bull Rider, 24, Dies After Tragic Fall at Texas Youth Fair
Dylan Grant remembered as a fearless competitor and beloved son of the rodeo community
Published: April 5, 2025 | By Ricky Awodi
In a heartbreaking turn of events, Dylan Grant, a talented young bull rider from Laramie, Wyoming, tragically lost his life after being thrown from a bull during a competition at the Wharton County Youth Fair in Texas. He was just 24 years old.
The Fatal Ride at Wharton County Youth Fair
On Thursday, April 3, Grant was participating in the second round of the Xtreme Bulls event when he was violently tossed off the bull inside the arena. The Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association (PRCA) confirmed the accident in an official statement.
Emergency responders acted swiftly, stabilizing him in an ambulance before airlifting him to Memorial Hermann-Texas Medical Center in Houston. Despite their efforts, Dylan succumbed to his injuries, as reported by BBC News and ABC 13 Houston.
‘Prayers for Dylan and the Rodeo Family’
Wharton County Sheriff Shannon Srubar spoke to ABC News, offering heartfelt condolences:
> “Prayers are with Dylan Grant, his family, and the entire rodeo community.”
The Wharton County police have not yet issued further comments as of April 5.
A Promising Career Cut Short
Dylan’s passion for bull riding was evident throughout his career. After earning his PRCA permit in 2018, he went on to secure his official PRCA card on February 14, 2024. In that time, he competed in multiple PRORODEO and Xtreme Bulls events, amassing career earnings of $15,710, according to PRCA records.
> “Our thoughts and prayers are with Dylan’s family, friends, and the entire rodeo/bull riding community,” the PRCA shared in tribute.
Remembering Dylan Grant: A Champion On and Off the Bull
Dylan wasn’t just a cowboy in the arena. In 2021, he proudly rode for the University of Wyoming Rodeo Team, securing victories at the Mountain States Circuit Finals Rodeo in Loveland, Colorado.
The university team expressed their sorrow in a heartfelt Facebook post:
> “Dylan was a proud 2023 graduate, earning his degree in Physical Education Teacher Education. He was a champion of life inside and outside of the arena. Once a Cowboy, Always a Cowboy.”
Community Tributes Pour In
The Wharton County Youth Fair also paid homage to Dylan with a photo of him in action, writing:
> “Our sincere condolences to Dylan’s family. Please keep them in your thoughts and prayers.”
Event contributor Kendra Santos mourned the loss of the young athlete, saying:
> “Our rodeo family lost a talented young cowboy.”
A Life of Courage, Gone Too Soon
Dylan Grant’s untimely passing has left a void in the close-knit rodeo world. Known for his determination, grit, and cowboy spirit, he will be remembered not just as an athlete, but as an inspiration to many.
As the rodeo community comes together to honor Dylan’s legacy, his story is a solemn reminder of the risks that come with pursuing passion and the enduring spirit of those who dare to ride.