In the world of professional bull riding, few names have risen as swiftly and impressively as Clayton Sellars. Hailing from Fruitland Park, Florida, Sellars’ journey from a ranch in the Sunshine State to the electrifying arenas of rodeo’s biggest stages is a testament to his dedication, resilience, and unyielding passion for the sport.
Early Life and Introduction to Rodeo
Born into a family deeply rooted in ranching and cowboy traditions, Sellars was immersed in the cowboy lifestyle from a young age. His father, Brady, was a former bull rider, and the family’s daily life revolved around cattle and horses. This environment naturally steered young Clayton toward rodeo. At just seven years old, he began his rodeo journey with mutton bustin’, riding sheep at local events. This early exposure ignited a passion that would shape his future.
Reflecting on his upbringing, Sellars shared, “I was born into it, lived in it, decided I enjoyed it, and kept doing it. My dad is a cattleman, and my uncle and grandpa are cowboys, so I just grew up as a cowboy kid.”
Transition to Professional Rodeo
As Sellars honed his skills, his talent became evident. He competed in high school rodeo events, qualifying for the National High School Finals Rodeo three times. His prowess earned him a rodeo scholarship to Western Texas College in Snyder, Texas, where he further developed his craft and qualified for the College National Finals Rodeo in 2017 and 2018, finishing as the reserve champion bull rider in 2018.
In 2017, Sellars took a significant step by joining the Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association (PRCA). His rookie year in 2018 was marked by notable successes, including winning the RAM Rodeo Permit Standings and narrowly missing a qualification for the National Finals Rodeo (NFR) by just a few spots. Undeterred, he returned in 2019 with renewed determination, securing his spot at the NFR and making history as the first bull rider from Florida to compete at the event since 1965.
Challenges and Resilience
The path to success in professional bull riding is fraught with challenges, and Sellars’ journey was no exception. In 2022, he ventured into the Professional Bull Riders (PBR) circuit, seeking new opportunities and experiences. However, an early-season injury sidelined him for a significant portion of the year. During his recovery, Sellars reflected on his career trajectory and realized his deep-rooted affinity for the PRCA’s family-oriented atmosphere. Upon regaining his health, he made a triumphant return to the PRCA in 2023, amassing over $77,000 in just three months and finishing 24th in the world standings.
Triumph at the 2024 San Angelo Xtreme Bulls
One of the standout moments in Sellars’ career came in April 2024 at the San Angelo Xtreme Bulls event in Texas. Demonstrating exceptional skill and composure, he was the only competitor to successfully ride both of his bulls. In the long round, he scored 84.5 points on New Star Rodeo’s Smorgasboard, securing a tie for sixth place. He then delivered a stellar 88.5-point ride on Pete Carr Pro Rodeo’s Time Bomb in the short round, clinching the event title and earning close to $15,000.
Reflecting on his performance, Sellars stated, “I knew if I stayed on him, I had a really, really good chance to win the whole event, so that was kind of my mindset, just keep your hand shut and do everything you can no matter what.”
Personal Life and Future Aspirations
Beyond the rodeo arena, Sellars’ life has seen joyous milestones. In 2022, he married Billie Holman, sister of NFR saddle bronc rider Lefty Holman. Their union further intertwined him with the rodeo community, as Billie is also related to other notable rodeo athletes. The couple welcomed their son, Poncho Pete, in August 2024, marking a new chapter in Sellars’ life.
With a renewed focus and a growing family, Sellars has set his sights on clinching a world championship title. As of mid-2024, he ranked third in the world standings, showcasing consistent performances and a steadfast commitment to his craft. His journey from a young boy on a Florida ranch to a top contender in professional bull riding exemplifies the spirit of resilience and dedication inherent in the sport.
As the rodeo world looks ahead, all eyes are on Clayton Sellars, anticipating the heights he will reach and the legacy he will undoubtedly forge in the annals of professional bull riding.