The professional Rodeo Cowboys Association announced the death of an Oklahoma State University student after being bucked off his mount last Thursday evening which caused him serious injuries.
The tragedy occurred during the Palo Pinto County Livestock Association’s PRCA Rodeo that has taken place in Mineral Wells when the victim, identified as Rowdy Lee Swanson, was bucked off his bull and died.
In a statement, the PRCA CEO George Taylor confirmed the shocking news: “We are deeply saddened by the passing of Rowdy Swanson at the ProRodeo in Mineral Wells, Texas.”
“The heart of the entire rodeo community goes out to Rowdy’s family in this tragic time. We will continue to keep Rowdy and his family in our thoughts and prayers.”
Rowdy’s death was also regretted by the OSU rodeo coach, Cody Hollingsworth: “With a heavy and aching heart, I am saddened to announce that the OSU Rodeo Team has lost one of our own, Rowdy Swanson. He was a big part of our rodeo family and he will be missed immensely,” he wrote on a Twitter post.
A Facebook message from Rodeo Chairman Scott Fenner read: “The entire rodeo committee and our rodeo family extend our heartfelt condolences and deepest sympathies to Rowdy’s mother Vanessa, his brother Roper, and his entire family.”
The 20-year-old athlete who had a PRCA permit has attended the OSU where he was studying animal sciences.
