Rodeo star Bray Armes returns to the arena, inspired by his children

Bray Armes, a three-time National Finals Rodeo (NFR) qualifier, returned to the rodeo scene Thursday night at the Big Spring Cowboy Reunion and Rodeo, where he posted an impressive 4.0-second run to take the lead in steer wrestling.

Armes’ return to the rodeo was driven not only by his own love for the sport but also by the competitive spirit of his children, Breely and Drake, who have been following in his footsteps.

The Family Tradition in Rodeo

Bray Armes, 43, and his wife, Neally, have always been involved in rodeo, and it’s clear that the passion runs deep in their family. Their children have been following in their footsteps and have found early success in the sport.

While Bray’s son, Drake, is too young to compete in ProRodeo just yet, his competitive nature is already evident. Drake has even encouraged his father to try for another NFR appearance, motivated by his father’s accomplishments and the fact that Bray has never won a round buckle despite winning the NFR average.

“I told him, ‘No, I’ve got to finish raising you first,’” Bray said, acknowledging that family comes first for him.

Bray Armes is no stranger to success in the rodeo world. In 2013, he won the prestigious NFR average, a title that many rodeo competitors strive for. While winning the average is a huge accomplishment, winning a round buckle at the NFR remains a goal for Bray, and it’s a dream his son believes he can achieve.

A Focus on Perfection in Steer Wrestling

Bray’s performance during the opening night of the Big Spring Cowboy Reunion and Rodeo showed that, even after years away from the competition, he’s still a force to be reckoned with.

Despite posting the best time in steer wrestling, Bray was critical of his own performance, admitting that he rushed his run and tried to throw the steer too quickly. Even though he missed getting a solid grip on the steer’s nose, he was still able to finish the job and secure the lead.

“You don’t ever want to off-horn one, but when you feel like you’re a little behind in timing, you’ve just got one chance to do what you can,” Bray explained. “I’m trying to win first every time.”

This mentality has been a key to Bray’s success throughout his career. He’s stayed in good physical shape and focused on his competitive spirit, even after taking time off from the demanding life of a full-time ProRodeo cowboy.

The Role of Neelly and Family Support

Bray’s wife, Neelly, is more than just a supportive partner; she is also a valuable teammate in the arena. Not only does she compete in breakaway roping herself, but she also serves as the hazer for Bray and other competitors.

The hazer is responsible for keeping the steer in line, ensuring a smoother run for the bulldogger. Bray has high praise for Neelly, calling her one of the best hazers he’s ever had.

“Neelly is as good a hazer as I’ve ever had,” Bray said. “I know she’s going to give it everything she’s got every time.”

With the support of his family, Bray continues to compete, sharing the experience with his wife and kids while pursuing the thrill of the sport.

He loves the camaraderie and time spent with others in the rodeo community, especially the friends he’s made over the years in Big Spring, a place he’s cherished for decades.

The Road Ahead for Bray Armes

While Bray Armes may have missed the chance for a fourth consecutive NFR appearance in 2015, he’s not ready to walk away from the sport just yet. He remains passionate about rodeo and is determined to compete, fueled by the memories of his past successes and the competitive drive that still burns within him.

His return to the Big Spring Cowboy Reunion and Rodeo is proof that, even after years away from the spotlight, athletes like Bray can still achieve greatness.

As he continues to compete and share the sport with his family, Bray hopes to pass on his love for rodeo to his children and set a lasting example for them to follow.

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