story by Laramie Dearing
Success serves those who put in the work and upcoming rodeo star, Riggen Hughes, proves that statement to be true. Son of Flint and Kellie Hughes, this 18 year old rough stock rider calls Kempner, Texas home. Riggen undoubtedly fulfills his goal-oriented reputation.
“Rodeo blends family tradition and my culture in a way that has built lifetime friendships for generations. My father’s most important relationships were born in rodeo and I can only hope that I will also give that foundation to my children in the future. Enjoying rodeo is so much more than being able to compete but to be able to make memories and share experiences with those around you…. Rodeo is priceless.” Riggen has discovered his blossoming love for rodeo through his roots. That’s exactly why he has thrived in competition and executed it all with a humble attitude.
“I have been blessed to have experienced many accomplishments in bull riding; National Qualifier in the Texas High School Rodeo Association 2020, 10 time Short Go Qualifier for the Youth Bull Riders World Finals, American Junior Rodeo Association – World Champion Bull Rider 2020, National Finals Rodeo Champion Bull Rider 2020 & 2019, Central Texas Youth Rodeo Association – Champion Bull Rider 2019, Champion Bull Rider 2021, three time State Qualifier for Region III Texas High School Rodeo Association. My proudest memory was making Nationals for the state of Texas; it was a huge accomplishment as well as winning the world in the American Junior Rodeo Association. I am proud to be able to share these accomplishments with my younger brothers and the youth of rodeo to give them hope that we can all excel in what we love!” It’s no surprise why heads turn when this cowboy bursts out of the chute.
“This is my third year competing in American Junior Rodeo Association. We started up when they started bull riding back up. My father always wanted us to be a part of the American Junior Rodeo Association as it was something he grew up around. I am more than proud to be a part of the American Junior Rodeo Association and got here as soon as I could! I compete in the Texas High School Rodeo Association, American Junior Rodeo Association, Central Texas Youth Rodeo Association, Texas Youth Bull Riders Association, and Texas Youth Rodeo Association.” Gaining his share of accomplishments, he has also gained cherishable memories. “Some of my favorite rodeo memories would have to be being a part of “Exceptional Kids Rodeos”. Being able to give back and see the light in others’ eyes when they get to experience what we get to do every weekend is something that will stay with me forever. I always try to show the kids what it is like to be a bull rider and that giving your all no matter what it is makes everything worthwhile.” Riggen hit the ground seeking honest opulence and has ever since.
“I plan on finishing a degree in Mechanical Engineering and hopefully also Electrical Engineering. The ability to have this type of education and be able to bring this knowledge back to my community and family is my way of telling my family that I was worth all the sacrifices they made with me!” With every new chapter Riggen takes on, he proudly carries his principles. “My faith in God is my most important value. People ask me all the time how I can get on bulls. My only answer is that it is a God given desire that was placed on my heart. Work ethics that I learned from my family and applying that with the desire makes the choice of rodeo stand out as it brings the two together like no other sport! My favorite bible verse is ‘For God so loved the world that He gave His one and only Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life’ John 3:16.”
