MISSOULA — After his strong performance in the barebacks on Friday night at the Missoula Stampede rodeo, a reporter approached Richmond Champion.
Hoping to interview the Stevensville cowboy alongside his friend and fellow bareback competitor Caleb Bennett of Corvallis, the reporter inquired.
“We’re not really friends,” Champion humorously replied with a smile as big as Montana.
Competing in the fast-paced world of the Pro Rodeo Cowboys Association involves lots of traveling, often not so glamorous. Young competitors from around the world chase the same buckles and big paychecks.
The fact that two of the top 34 bareback riders in the world live just 15 minutes apart in the Bitterroot Valley, travel together, support each other, and continue to excel in their 30s is quite remarkable.
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“We spend so much time together during the season that we usually take those two months in the offseason off from each other,” Champion jokingly remarked. “In the winter, we go fishing, have lunch, play golf if we can.
“I probably spend more time with him than my wife most summers, so it’s time for a break.”
Champion, 31, is currently ranked 12th in the PRCA with three wins this year and close to $1.8 million in career earnings. Married to Paige Lawrence, a pairs figure skater for Canada, and an eight-time qualifier for the Wrangler NFR.
Bennett, 35, holds the 34th spot in the PRCA with $1.9 million in career earnings and 10 Wrangler NFR qualifications. The Utah native is also married and has three wins this year.
Despite the successes, both cowboys know that success is fleeting, but friendships last.
“It’s everything. It’s the biggest thing,” Bennett, who sat out Friday due to a separated shoulder, said about his bond with Champion. “Richie and I have worked well together for years.
“We started traveling together in 2017. You’re practically married to the person you’re traveling with, so you have to get along, enjoy similar activities on off days, and have the same goals and end results in mind.”
One reason why Champion and Bennett get along so well is their mutual respect for each other’s skills in the arena.
“It doesn’t work if you’re traveling with someone who doesn’t want to compete at your level,” Bennett mentioned. “You’re only as good as the people you compete against and travel with. His mindset is a gold buckle, just like mine.
“Every day, we’re working mentally and physically to improve, poking fun at each other to become better. It’s essential to have a good partner in crime on the long, grueling road.”
Champion is happy with his performance this summer and looks forward to the upcoming month. Bennett aims to win more to secure a spot in the NFR.
“But I’m excited to hit the road next week, team up with Richie, and grind it out,” Bennett added. “It hasn’t been the best year for me due to injuries, but before the shoulder, I felt great.
Champion’s score of 84.5 on Guardian Angel should earn him some prize money. Shane Steiner of Texas has the top score of 86 heading into Saturday’s final round.
This story will be updated
Bill Speltz is Missoulian sports editor. Contact him at bill.speltz@406mtsports.com or on Twitter @billspeltz
