Stetson Lawrence, a celebrated bull rider, openly discusses the exhilarating highs and devastating lows that come with his chosen profession.
Despite retiring from professional bull riding in 2022 at the age of 35, Lawrence confesses that he was always scared, yet it was his ability to embrace this fear that led to his success. He describes the thrill of controlling his nerves and pushing through, which provided him with an adrenaline rush and a sense of excitement.
What sets bull riding apart from other sports, Lawrence explains, is that it doesn’t end when a whistle blows. Instead, it continues until the rider is out of the arena and clear of danger.
However, Lawrence hasn’t always escaped unscathed. He bears the marks of his encounters with bulls, affectionately referring to the scars on his calves as “two little horseshoes.” These were caused by the dewclaw on the back of a bull’s hoof, a sharp and pointed feature that can rip through skin.
Despite the physical toll, Lawrence recognizes that bull riding is a sport that can also take lives, having witnessed the passing of several friends over the years. He acknowledges the inherent danger in strapping oneself to a 2,000-pound bull, understanding that riders are ultimately at the mercy of these powerful animals.
Yet, even facing his own mortality, Lawrence never considered quitting. He emphasizes that bull riding is a choice he made, fully aware of the risks involved. It’s a line of work he passionately embraces.
Reflecting on the loss of a close friend, Lawrence admires his friend’s dedication to the sport and believes that his friend would want his buddies to continue riding, even in the face of tragedy.
The life and career of Lawrence are the subject of a documentary, Another Eight Seconds, directed by Keith Malloy and presented by 805 Beer. The film delves into Lawrence’s humble beginnings, his Native American heritage, and the rodeo culture that shaped him into a nine-time PBR world finals qualifier.
Another Eight Seconds is available for streaming on YouTube.
