Blackfoot native Brady Oleson had to unexpectedly retire after sustaining an injury during the Camping World PBR Team Series Gambler Days event at the Moody Center in Austin, Texas, in August.
Oleson, riding for the reigning champion Texas Rattlers, was up against Fast Flow in an Aug. 23 match versus the Kansas City Outlaws.
When the gate opened, the bull charged out with Oleson riding, but it quickly dropped its front end while kicking its rear forcefully. Oleson was thrown over the bull’s head and landed headfirst in the dirt. The 28-year-old tried to stand but collapsed as the bull was brought under control.
The crowd fell silent as medical personnel entered to assist. Oleson was stretchered out and taken to Dell Seton Medical Center, where he underwent imaging tests and was kept under observation.
Oleson returned to cheer on his team at their Aug. 25 match, wearing a neck brace. Imaging results confirmed his bull-riding career was over, which Oleson shared on Instagram on Aug. 26.
“Last weekend in Austin, Texas, I had a little accident and ended up tearing some ligaments in my neck along my C3 C4,” Oleson posted. “Thank you all for the messages and prayers! I undergo surgery this week to have my neck fused. Unfortunately, they’ve informed me that my bull riding career has come to an end.”
Oleson’s sudden career-ending injury is the latest in a series of challenges the South Dakotan has faced. Injuries and addiction were obstacles he constantly overcame, but this injury was insurmountable.
Oleson was pivotal to the Texas Rattlers’ surprise championship run in the 2023 PBR Team Series, where he went 9 for 19 (47 percent).
He finished his career with a 40 for 138 (28 percent) record on the premier series, winning one event in Tucson, Arizona, in 2023. Oleson began his PBR career in 2014, competing in various tours before making his Unleash The Beast debut in 2018.
In 2018, Oleson was close to becoming a regular on the Premier Series Tour, but wrist surgery derailed that goal. His struggles continued, and shoulder surgery was needed to help him regain form.
“After the injuries and surgeries, I kind of fell into a dark place and used alcohol frequently,” Oleson said in a 2022 interview with PBR.com. “Financially, things started falling apart, and I struggled badly.
I was always out of control, especially with alcohol. After my first beer, I couldn’t stop. To function, I needed alcohol. When it was time to pull my life together, I was too far gone. People were fed up with me, and I was too, but I couldn’t quit.”
Oleson checked into a 60-day treatment program at Renaissance Treatment Ranch in Logan, Utah, and joined a sober house, working with others on their mental health and addiction.
After completing the program, Oleson returned to professional bull riding in December 2021 at a TPD event in Klamath Falls, Oregon, following a nearly two-year break.
Oleson rejoined the Velocity Tour on January 15, 2022, at the Portland Classic, winning the event and securing a spot on Unleash The Beast. He finished second at the Spokane Classic and was drafted by the Texas Rattlers in the third round in May.
“Brady retires a Champion,” said Texas Rattlers GM Chad Blankenship in an interview with PBR.com. “A key player since our inception, his rides helped us remain undefeated at home and win the 2023 PBR Team Series Championship. But it’s his spirit, work ethic, and team love that make him a lifelong Texas Rattler.”
Oleson’s impact as a teammate was equally valued as his skills as a rider.
“Brady has spent a lot of time injured, but even then, he contributes in big ways,” said Rattlers Hall of Fame head coach Cody Lambert. “He makes all appearances and steps up when needed, unlike many riders. He’s a true leader and always puts the team first.”
While Oleson’s bull-riding career has ended, he will be remembered for his resilience and cowboy spirit.
“It’s a tough moment in my life, but I’m grateful it wasn’t worse, and I can still walk,” Oleson said. “Thank God for the blessings and the amazing life I’ve had!”
