Thursday night’s opening Lakeland Rodeo Association finals performance began much like it does every year, as the stands were filled with people ready to watch a weekend of rodeo action. But those in attendance on Thursday night also had the privilege of witnessing the announcement of the annual Cowboy of the Year buckle, and this year’s announcement once again received loud applause from the crowd.
Pickup man Lee Trach crossed the first floor in the arena to humbly receive the award, following a heartfelt letter being read out loud by rodeo announcer Tim Edge, written by last year’s Cowboy of the Year, Troy Fischer of Mayerthorpe.
The letter spoke about the many characteristics and attributes of a true cowboy.
“It’s someone that can take a horse that no one ever wanted, be able to get along with that horse, to build trust and understanding of that horse so it too can become that cowboy’s favourite mount,” wrote Fischer, adding, “A guy who can see a situation before it happens, and quickly and calmly react to it actually changing the course of action.”
Simple characteristics, such as being “happy and kind,” are also important, along with being a good neighbour, one “we would all like to live next door to.”
Fischer noted that although he has many championships he is proud of, at the end of the day, the only things that are really important to him are the friends he has, and the memories he’s made along the way.
But, the LRA finals in 2015 were a special time for him, receiving the Cowboy of the Year buckle, and having his name added to a list of people that includes many people he looks up to – people who are dedicated to preserving the past and rich heritage.
Fischer noted in his letter that this year’s recipient of the Cowboy of the Year buckle has all the qualities that he had previously stated.
“He’s a class act guy . . . He remembers horses as good as anyone,” said Fischer, when speaking of Trach, adding, “He’s faced and overcome great adversity in life, having beaten cancer and had a heart attack.”
Trach’s goal throughout life was to be a pickup man, “and what a great one he has become,” said Fischer’s letter.
As Trach walked across the arena’s dirt floor to receive the award, he received loud applause from those in the stands.
“I feel very honoured, yet humbled,” said Trach. “All I ever wanted to be was a cowboy, and maybe this gets me a little closer.”
He thanked those involved and encouraged other to follow their dreams.
And as summed up in Fischer’s letter, “A true professional, both inside the arena and out.”
