Oklahoman wins rodeo rookie award

By Jennifer Pierce, NEWS 9

An Oklahoma high schooler is making a name for himself in the rodeo world.

Ryan Dirteater, 18, placed second in the International Finals Rodeo bull riding competition and won the rookie of the year.

Only the best in roping, racing and riding competed in the 38^th rodeo competition this week at State Fairgrounds Arena. Dirteater has been dreaming of the rodeo since he could barely talk.

"Ryan's first words were I'm gonna ride bulls," his mother, Melitha Dirteater said. "That's all he ever said. He watched videos all the time."

 He also watched the people around him.

"I've just been around it a lot," the high school student said. "My dad did it and had some unless who did it and I rode when I was little."

Dirteater said his family members are his biggest fans. They said they're proud of his performance and his latest title as International Finals Rodeo Rookie of the Year.

"It feels good," he said. "That was my goal, trying to win rookie. I did it so now I'll go after my bigger goals."

Dirteater's next goal is to ride in a Professional Bull Riders' rodeo. He may get the chance in July when Tulsa hosts the competition.