story by Michele Toberer
At 13 years old, Lane Leeper has already marked earning world champion titles off of his bucket list. The Leon, Iowa cowboy has competed in the International Miniature Rodeo Association for two years, and this past January he left the Lazy E Arena in Guthrie, Oklahoma as the 2019 IMFR Saddle Bronc and Bareback Pony Champion. This success came just after winning the Junior Rough Stock Association World Champion title in Saddle Bronc riding in Las Vegas the month before. “I love riding rough stock, there is nothing like the thrill and adrenaline of riding bulls and bucking horses.”
Being behind the chutes is quite natural for Lane, as he has grown up watching his dad, Andrew Leeper, ride saddle bronc horses. Andrew, a self-employed farmer, started riding broncs in high school, and was happy to share the knowledge he has on the sport with his son as Lane started riding himself four years ago. Lane’s mom, Kala Leeper, is employed through the Iowa State University Extension and Outreach program and is happy to see her son achieving his goals and dreams. Lane’s younger sister, Landi, is 10 years old and competes in barrel racing, pole bending, and goat tying. They will be adding Landi to the IMRA family this season as she joins the association for the first time. “We’re excited that there is a rodeo company, XXXX, just north of us that is going to be holding IMRA sanctioned events, so it will be a lot closer for us to qualify for the IMRA finals this year; we have been traveling to Oklahoma to qualify.”
Lane is starting the 8th grade at Decatur Community School, and he has played football, baseball, and wrestled for the school’s team the past two years. His favorite subject is social studies. Although he is a well-rounded young teenager, his main focus is rodeo. “I would like to be a professional rodeo athlete one day and make a living riding bulls, broncs, and bucking horses.”
“My dad has helped me so much with my riding, he’s taught me a lot.” Lane looks up to other professionals like Tim O’Connell, Wade Sundell, and Riggin Smith. “I respect Tim and Wade because of their drive to come back after injuries and do whatever it takes to compete and win. Riggin rodeoed with my dad for a long time and he is really cool and has helped me a bunch.” Lane has a bucking machine that he practices on at home, and he likes to stand on a ball to improve his balance as well.
Going to the IMRA finals has been a lot of fun for Lane, as he gets to see friends from all over the country at the event. He has enjoyed competing in the short rounds during the International Finals Rodeo and loves the energy of the packed house there watching the show. “It’s really cool riding in the IMRA, they offer great opportunities for us kids. I’m really hoping to be able to repeat my titles at the finals this year!”
