story by Riata Cummings
Monty James Christiansen is the 13-year-old son of Kirk and Mistie Christiansen of Emery, Utah. He loves the small town and close community situated between the Manti-La Sal mountains and the San Rafael desert. He is the youngest of five children and his siblings are McKoy and his wife Katie, Riata and her husband Daniel, Korby and Byron. They spend a lot of time together on the rodeo road, working the ranch, going to wrestling tournaments, hunting, and camping. Monty is a seventh grader at San Rafael Middle School and his favorite classes include science, chorus, and College and Career Awareness. Monty recently sang a solo at the regional honor choir concert and is on the honor roll. He is a versatile athlete and sports fanatic, having more than half a dozen state wrestling titles to his name.
Monty competed in his first rodeo right in his own backyard as one of the mutton busters in the Emery Town Pioneer Days Rodeo, hosted by the Christiansen family. When he dismounted after an impressive ride on the side of the ewe, Monty tipped his hat to the crowd in a Lane Frost salute. Today, Monty competes in the saddle bronc steer riding, bareback steer riding, and bull riding through the Utah Junior High School Rodeo Association. He also ropes and rides on the family ranch. Monty’s favorite horse on the ranch is sorrel gelding named Sackett. The trusty steed practically raised all five of the kids and Monty says, “he is an all-around amazing horse.”
Last year Monty qualified for the Utah Junior High School Finals Rodeo, trading wins with his older brother Byron throughout the season. This year he is competing for the top spot in the state and a ticket to nationals while making memories and having fun. Monty is currently serving as the Utah Junior High School Rodeo Association Student Secretary. So far, he has enjoyed working closely with the state board of directors and being involved in the decision-making process that goes on behind the scenes. He is looking forward to the activities the student officers have planned for state finals. Monty loves the social atmosphere of rodeos and enjoys the opportunities to hang out with his friends from all over the state.
Rodeo has taught Monty how to let go of bad runs or rides and to focus on the next event. He has become a better cowboy and a better sport, learning to never give up or blow things out of proportion. Rodeo has helped him develop a tenacious and determined nature, and he is a firm believer of the power of positive self-talk. Sometimes you must remind yourself that you can do hard things, and Monty is determined to never give up. Monty goes after his goals with a tireless attitude and he hopes to be remembered for his resilience and “stick-to-it-iv-ness.”
Monty’s hero is his dad, and he looks up to Kirk’s knowledge and skill in the arena and on the wrestling mat. Monty would like to thank his Heavenly Father, his parents, siblings, other family, friends and everyone who has helped him become the athlete and person he is today.
