International Equestrian Center Employee Colton Snyder Returns to Chase Gold at the 45th Annual Ramona Rodeo

When visitors see Colton Snyder working around the International Equestrian Center, they know him as the lead maintenance worker who helps keep the facility in top shape. But when the 45th Annual Ramona Rodeo comes to town, Snyder trades tractors and tools for a bull rope as he pursues one of rodeo's toughest challenges.

Snyder, 26, has been the lead maintenance worker at the International Equestrian Center for nearly three years. Whether he's grooming arenas, maintaining the grounds, repairing water lines, or operating heavy equipment, he enjoys being part of the team.

"My favorite thing about my job is the people I work with," Snyder said.

Outside of work, Snyder has spent the last five years building a reputation in the rodeo arena. He is expected to compete in bull riding at this year's Ramona Rodeo and hopes to draw a spot on Saturday night.

Bull riding is considered one of the most dangerous events in rodeo. Riders must stay aboard a spinning, bucking bull for eight seconds using only one hand to hold onto the bull rope. Their free hand cannot touch the bull or themselves during the ride. If they make the full eight seconds without committing a foul, the ride qualifies for a score.

Snyder has competed at the Ramona Rodeo twice, in 2023 and 2024. An injury sidelined him last year, making this year's return especially meaningful. He also competes in Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association (PRCA) rodeos, jackpot events, and other competitions whenever he has the opportunity.

To prepare, Snyder practices several times each week at Rancho El Borracho in Campo, where local riders gather to sharpen their skills on practice bulls. He has also trained at world champion bull rider Gary Leffew's Bull Riding School in Texas.

Like many bull riders, Snyder has paid the price for pursuing the sport. Throughout his career he has suffered broken wrists, bruised ribs, a separated shoulder, a split shin, concussions, and other injuries.

"It's pretty much like the last gladiator sport that is still around," Snyder said. "It's man versus beast."

Despite the risks, Snyder continues to climb into the chute because of the challenge.

"I like it. It's a different challenge," he said. "It's more of a mental game and getting over the fear."

Although he has yet to win his first championship buckle, Snyder remains determined to earn one. For him, the buckle represents more than a prize, it symbolizes years of hard work, perseverance, and dedication.

As the 45th Annual Ramona Rodeo gets underway, local fans will have the opportunity to cheer on one of their own. Whether he's maintaining the International Equestrian Center during the week or climbing aboard a bull under the rodeo lights, Snyder continues to represent the hardworking western spirit that makes Ramona's rodeo community so special.



 Photos Courtesy of Colton Snyder