Red Dirt Diaries: 3-Year-Old Rides In Mutton Busting Competition

All rodeos aren't just about the bull riders. Sometimes the start of a legendary career begins when the sheep are brought out.

Yukon’s Adler Bradford, 3, enjoys the simple pleasures in life.

“These are my old boots,” said Adler. And then he showed News 9’s Karl Torp his motorized John Deer truck.

But it’s a different ride that has Adler feeling taller than is 3 ft. 3 in. frame.

“I think we maybe showed him a video before we went and said, ‘Hey would you want to try this?’” said Adler’s mom.

The young cowboy had never ridden a sheep, just the families Great Dane.

“He'd stay on for about a good two to three seconds and then he’d tumble off there,” said Adler’s dad.

Weeks ago though, when the Bradford’s arrived at the Yukon FFA Rodeo, Adler was ready clinch wool but mom was biting her nails.

“Some of them had helmets on and we didn't take a helmet,” said Adler’s mom.

Then, the carnage came. Youngster after youngster went from a fist full of wool to a face full of dirt.

Finally, the gates opened for Adler.

The sheep took off like a Bah out of you know where!

“It was definitely the fastest one out of the group I think,” said Adler’s dad.

He maybe knee high to a grasshopper, but Adler stayed up the whole time.

“Did you close your eyes?” asked News 9’s Karl Torp.

"No I had to see where I was going,” responded Adler.

Adler won the 12 and under “Mutton Bustin Competition” at just 3-years-old.

And he’s got the proof.

“I got a belt buckle,” said Adler.

He also got $150 in prize money!

Karl asked if he’d be getting some new boots with all his money. Adler said no, he’s already got boots.

Refreshing to see fame hasn't gone to his head.

When asked if he’d ride in the competition again, he responded with a “ya!”

That's the cowboy way!