Ruiz Conquers Sheep in Sonora Bank Mutton Bustin'

SAN ANGELO, TX — The Sonora Bank Mutton Bustin’ event at every rodeo is a popular part of the performance. At the San Angelo rodeo, the contestants must be older than 4 years old and weigh less than 50 pounds.

The child “saddles up” on a sheep that runs out into the arena. Announcer Boyd Palhamus scores each ride. Generally, the contestant that holds on and atop (or on the side or hanging below) the sheep the longest will win that night’s performance, like what happened during the third performance held Saturday, Feb. 1, 2020. That is when John Luke Ruiz, who attends Fannin Elementary, wowed the arena audience with a score of 89 points.

After the ride, 6-year-old Ruiz said this was his second time he has competed in the Sonora Bank Mutton Bustin’. He said when he is older he wants to be a steer wrestler.