Successful season leads to CFR

By Melissa Piche Times Contributor

For professional bull rider Edgar Durazo, finishing fifth at the Canadian Finals Rodeo (CFR) this year was more than just a strong result – it was a moment of reflection, perseverance, and gratitude.

“Every time that I qualify for the Canadian Finals, it’s supposed to be an accomplishment for any rodeo athlete,” Durazo said. “Being able to be competing at the highest level every year is just a blessing.”

Durazo, originally from Moctezuma Sonora, Mexico, has called Speargrass home for the past seven years. Competing among Canada’s top bull riders, the finals proved to be a difficult task.

“The first four rounds were hard,” he recalled. “The first two bulls I had new spurs that didn’t work for me. I lost my hold twice. Then I missed my rope in the next two rounds. Everything is for a reason, even if you don’t see it at the moment.”

It all came together in the final round, where Durazo rode a bull named Dark Mark for an impressive 89 points. 

“Coming into the last round, I just sat back, relaxed, and prayed – asked the Lord to give me strength,” he said. “I just let it all out on the last round and I rode a tough bull. It was a big relief and a great feeling right after.”

Durazo explained that preparation and instinct go hand in hand when it comes to bull riding. 

“You prepare in your mind for how the bull usually bucks,” he said. “But when the gate opens, you just go, one jump at a time.”

The 34-year-old rider credits his late father for inspiring his career. 

“My dad rode a little when he was in university in Mexico,” Durazo said. “He never pushed me or my brothers to do it, but when I wanted to ride, he never said no. He showed me everything. He was my biggest supporter.”

After his father’s passing, Durazo said his wife became his strongest source of encouragement. 

“Now my wife is the one that helps me through every obstacle,” he said. “It’s a family thing.”

Durazo isn’t slowing down. He’ll compete next at the Maple Leaf Circuit Finals in Regina this November, an event that could lead to another appearance at the National Finals Rodeo Open in Colorado Springs next summer. 

“I’m in first place for the circuit again,” he noted. “That’s the goal to keep riding at the biggest stages as long as I can.”

As for advice to young riders, Durazo’s message is simple and heartfelt: “If you really love it, never give up,” he said. “Just keep working and never stop. Rodeo teaches you a lot, not just about riding, but about life.”