Catching Up With PRCA Bull Rider TJ Gray

Momentum can be everything in professional rodeo, and TJ Gray has made the most of his. After a storybook NFR where he won the average and collected nearly $330,000, Gray finished second in the world – a much-needed confidence boost that has carried him to great success this season. He currently sits fifth in the world with $181,207 in season earnings, and is setting himself up to once again be in contention for a World Title in December.

“Last year's success gave me a lot of confidence,” he says. “Being within reach of a world title the last two years lets me know I’m capable of achieving that – all in God's good timing.”

With six years of ProRodeo under his belt, Gray has learned to roll with the punches that each season brings.

“I think every season has its own characteristics and challenges you have to face each year which makes it feel different,” he shares. “Then again, it feels the same because, comically, a lot of the lessons learned each year seem to be relearned the next.”

For Gray, his biggest key to consistency this season has been trusting God’s will, not his own plans. He’s focused on not trying to force an outcome, and not letting the highs get too high or the lows get too low.

Bull riding is as much mental as it is physical, and with such a packed schedule – especially during the summer run – Gray has honed in on his strategy to stay sharp.

“It’s much easier to keep a clear mind during the summer when you have so many rodeos to compete at,” he says. “However, I listen to sports psychology audio books while driving to help keep me sharp.”

Throughout his success this season has been one constant: his wife Kalona. Gray credits her unwavering support and steady presence as one of the biggest reasons he's been able to continue to perform at such a high level.

“The biggest influence on my success this year would have to be my wife. We got married this year and she has been a great teammate to help me through my highs and lows,” he praises.

Gray has won many premier events this year like Ogden Pioneer Days, California Rodeo Salinas, and the Snake River Stampede, but his favorite win by far has been the Reno Rodeo Xtreme Bulls – the title he’s been dreaming of since he was a child.

“It’s one of the best bull ridings of the year and one I’ve wanted to win since I was a kid. Spending most of my time just outside of Reno the last few years made this win extra special.”