Reunion for Rodeo Family

When we think of family reunions, most of us would probaby picture outdoor picnics and games, but...  More »

When we think of family reunions, most of us would probaby picture outdoor picnics and games, but for the Elsheres EL-SURES, a current family gathering involves spurs, chaps, and hopefully, an 8 second ride. Dan Erdmann has their story. (Music: "Rodeo" by Garth Brooks) (Natural Sound: "Good Job") (Dan Erdmann, KX News) The roar of the crowd is something the Elshere family has become accustomed to. But one thing brothers J.J. and Ryan, and cousin, Cole seldom experience is being able to compete in the same rodeo arena. (J.J. Elshere, Brother) "This is the first time, Cole, he's just on his permit this year and he made it, and it's pretty neat to have all three of us here at the same time." (Cole Elshere, Cousin) "I guess we kind of had it figured out awhile back, that we'd all make it, so that was kind of my dream to make it when them two guys are still here." (Ryan Elshere, Brother) "We're at a lot of the same rodeos throughout the year, but for the families to be able to come, it's pretty fun." (Dan Erdmann, KX News) In order to qualify for Minot's Badlands Prorodeo Circuit Finals, all three had to place in the top 12 for money winners in circuit rodeos- a pretty impressive accomplishment among hundreds of saddle bronc riders. As the South Dakota trio competes throughout the weekend, their families get to enjoy a somewhat rare reunion. (Ryan Elshere, Brother) "They get along so good, and they kinda like being around each other so, it kinda makes it fun for everybody to come up and have a little vacation." (J.J. Elshere, Brother) "They get to hang out and play, and when they come here, they all get into the rodeo and watching it and all that, and just like hanging out with each other." (Dan Erdmann, KX News) The Elsheres are no strangers to the rodeo either. Ryan is the oldest at 33 and he and 29-year-old J.J. have been riding all their lives. J.J.'s currently ranked 3rd in the Pro Rodeo saddle bronc world standings. 20-year-old Cole will be making his first ever ride in Minot, but says luckily, he's got plenty of experience beside him. (Cole Elshere, Cousin) "They're my biggest coaches, so it helps traveling with them and getting instruction and learning how to do stuff." (Ryan Elshere, Brother) "We're all our best critics, so we try to help each other as much as we can, and if somebody's a little bit off, well the next guy's right there to help him out and get him back on track." (Dan Erdmann, KX News) That support runs strong between these three and you can bet it trails all the way down to the youngest of their children. They say having their families behind them is a blessing, but don't be fooled, there is a competitive side to these cowboys as well. (J.J. Elshere, Brother) "You know, we all want everybody to do good, but everybody wants to win." (Ryan Elshere, Brother) "We want everybody to win, but only one guy can." (Cole Elshere, Cousin) "Just try to do my best and hope they do their best too, I guess." (Dan Erdmann, KX News) Dan Erdmann, KX News. If you'd like to catch the Elshere family in action, you can stop by the Minot Y's Men's Rodeo this weekend at the State Fair Center in Minot.  « Less