Finding a place to belong at Cal Farley’s Boys Ranch came for Elijah when he got involved in rodeo activities. The 2023 rodeo is his fourth, and he’s done various events such as roping, saddle bronc riding, and steers.
“I get a big adrenaline kick out of it. Yes, I might get nervous beforehand, but then that adrenaline kicks in,” he said. “I think it’s normal to be nervous at the start of a ride, but by the halfway point, I’m really enjoying it. Afterward, I don’t even remember what happened because it all goes so fast. That’s the crazy part.”
Elijah said besides being involved in an activity, participating in rodeo also has other benefits.
“There’s free food. It’s hot out there, and I like a good snow cone on those days,” he said.
Elijah said having a daily routine has been good for him because he knows what to expect each day for the most part. That routine also gives him assurance that his siblings at the ranch, Malakye and Marlie, are also doing well.
“I like that it’s so normal. I get up, go workout, go eat lunch and go to work,” he said. “I’m just really glad we didn’t have to split up. If I want to talk to them, I can.”
Marlie participates in the rodeo as a funnyman, also known as a rodeo clown.
“It’s so fun to see her out there. She used to be big on rodeo, but then she got a little scared. I’m just happy she’s out there trying something and putting effort into it,” Elijah said. “My whole family comes to the rodeo and comes back there to see us. It’s so nice that even though we don’t do the same thing, they can come see us both at the rodeo.”