Jake Vance’s Star is rising with a Little Help from Top Hand Friends
story by Lori O’Harver
At 15 years old, Jake Vance was entering the roping at high school rodeos. A year and a half later, he did what statistically very few timed event contestants do. He swapped ends and started riding saddle broncs. He hasn’t picked up a rope since.
“When I was little, my dad rode bareback horses,” Vance said. “I’ve always been drawn to the bucking chutes and was thrilled to get my chance. I’ve won a handful of non-pro events but the coolest thing I’ve done so far is compete at the National High School Rodeo Association. It was great to go up to Gillette, Wyoming, and get on those really good broncs. I did good at the Texas regionals and have my sights set on doing the same at state. I’m really trying hard to make it back to the nationals.”
“I believe in getting the right help if you want to get started in the bronc riding,” said Vance. “I was real lucky when I met Cort Scheer at a rodeo one day. He took me under his wing and taught me so much. Isaac Diaz has been a great help, too! It’s great when your heroes become your teachers. You don’t want to let them down.”
“The Texas Bronc Riders Association puts a lot of effort into their events. They’re working for better contests, more added money and different levels to win,” Vance said. “I love going to the TBRA sanctioned rodeos.”
Daryl McElroy and the TBRA work relentlessly to make the organization work for contestants and hosting committees.
“We’re excited about the young hot shots coming up through the ranks in the sport,” said McElroy. “It’s easy to tell that this is where the future of bronc riding lies. Jake Vance bought his card earlier this season at the Poteet Strawberry Festival. He’s now sitting third in the A Cut Above Don’t Weaken Tour standings after winning the buckle in Bulverde and is fourth in the overall TBRA standings.”
“We watched him put on a great ride a few weeks ago. His horse bucked into the fence and went down. I’m bailing off the fence heading his direction expecting to have to deal with a hang up when up they bounced, Jake never even missed a lick. He’s a great kid with a world of potential we’re all looking forward to watching thrive.”
