Gary Leffew is renowned not only for his skills in bull riding but also as a mentor in the rodeo world. As the 1970 World Champion Bull Rider and a Hall of Famer, Leffew’s influence continues to shape the western scene today.
Growing up on a California ranch, Leffew’s early years were marked by his friendships with members of the Hells Angels Motorcycle Club. Despite his father’s warnings about the dangers of motorcycles, Leffew found his true passion in bull riding during a visit to the Clovis Rodeo with his biker friends. It was there that he first rode the NFR bucking bull, Ice Man, sparking his lifelong dedication to the sport.
Leffew recalls the advice of an experienced rider: “Get on every bull you can as often as you can and put out 110% every time.” This mantra drove Leffew to rigorously practice for the next year, laying the foundation for a legendary career. He made his first NFR appearance in 1966, competing against icons like George Paul and Freckles Brown.
In 1968, Leffew experienced a significant shift in his mindset. He began to harness the power of visualization, which boosted his confidence as he prepared for competitions. This change was evident when he competed in Denver, exuding confidence and finishing as the runner-up for the championship. This experience highlighted the critical role of mental preparation in rodeo.
Leffew’s career saw him consistently challenging and being challenged by some of the greatest bull riders in history. His determination paid off when he achieved his goal of riding ten bulls at the NFR, ultimately winning both the World Championship and the average title.
