Rodeo is a testament to the Western lifestyle, which incorporates family, community, passion and tradition. Whether a first-time audience member, a returning fan, a child living their dream of competing in their favorite event, or a seasoned competitor, rodeo creates cherished memories for all. It is an experience that captivates those who have the privilege of being a part of it.
All rodeos have their own unique origin story. One that holds the utmost importance for its community and fosters a sense of unity, remembrance and family is the Jake Eary Memorial Rodeo, held in Spring Creek, Nevada.
The rodeo honors a cowboy as true as they come—a boy with a deep passion for the sport, and, more importantly, a love for the people in his life. This memorial rodeo, held May 30 through June 1, holds a place for everyone in the family. Jake touched the hearts of every person he encountered, just as the Jake Eary Memorial Rodeo does for both competitors and audience members.
Jacob “Jake” Eary was born on October 13, 2001, to Jess and Carrie Eary in Winnemucca, Nevada. He spent the majority of his life at the Bullhead Ranch outside of Paradise Valley, Nevada, where he always offered a helping hand with ranch work.
Before his second-grade year, Eary and his family moved to Spring Creek, Nevada. He lived his life to the fullest playing in the Police Athletic League (PAL) Basketball League, competing in junior rodeos, telling stories, and making countless friends along the way. Eary tragically passed on Friday November 26, 2010, at 9 years old during a sledding accident.
Jake dreamed of being a bull rider when he was older. He had a passionate imagination that drove his love for rodeo.
“Many times, I would catch him riding the arm of the couch playing PBR bull rider,” said his mother, Carrie Eary. “He would get off his bull, go over, face the wall, and have his interview with whoever was interviewing him.”
According to Carrie, Jake was her goofball. He loved rodeo but loved visiting and telling stories even more. When he was in the peewee age group, his family would have to go find him to do an event. Whether it was wooing the little girls or conversing with the old-timers, building connections came naturally for Jake.
Carrie recalled a memorable moment when Jake won the buckle over his brother, Daniel Eary. Daniel was renowned for taking home the saddles and buckles. During a winter roping series in 2010, several months before he passed, Jake took home the win.
“He wasn’t even trying,” Eary said. By simply swinging his rope, he proudly took home the buckle.
Carrie explained that the first Jake Eary Memorial Rodeo was held in 2011 with about 250 contestants entered. It was the contestant’s admiration for the rodeo that led to its annual continuation, averaging about 400 contestants every year.
“I believe they love the concept of it. I believe that they love what the memorial fund does for around the state, whether it’s the rodeo clubs, junior rodeos or 4H that we donate to,” Eary said.
The memorial rodeo has events for the whole family to attend. According to Carrie, kids who have started in the peewee age group have evolved to become sponsors and competitors in the open events.
“That’s pretty big in the rodeo world if you can bring your whole family and everybody gets to do something.” Carrie continues, “I believe that’s where Jake’s rodeo has continued to be what it is—because everybody is included.”
This year, dummy roping and stick horse riding have been added to the rodeo, creating opportunities for children with disabilities to experience the joy of rodeo.
A unique aspect of the event is its inclusive and family-oriented environment. Carrie said, “For the last five years, we have not charged a gate admission to get in to watch the rodeo.” She continues, “A family of five or six can come and enjoy something without breaking the pocketbook.”
Saddles, buckles and saddle bags are awarded to winners of the rodeo, labeled with Jake’s name on it. It is a special and unique reminder of his influence.
“I can honestly say that we have either awarded a first-time buckle or first-time saddle at every single rodeo,” Carrie said. “Because it has Jake’s name on it, they will always remember it as their first buckle or their first saddle,” she explains.
The Jake Eary Memorial rodeo’s influence and impact go far beyond the successes in the arena. Every win is a tribute to Jake. Families, communities and friends join together every year to honor Jake through an event centered around friendship and the Western industry. Jake’s story will always be remembered, along with new memories created in honor of him each year.
